His engaging writing style and use of storytelling, descriptive analogies and simple diagrams contribute to a thorough and entertaining breakdown of these concepts. Levitin uses songs from many eras and genres in his explanations, his diverse choices allowing the reader a higher likelihood of finding a familiar song they can call to mind. As a musician and music educator, I am unable to read his analysis through the eyes of a non-musician so I must assume that these concepts are presented in easily understood terms for all. The author presents a fascinating analysis of musical concepts such as pitch, rhythm, timbre, harmony, melody, and key by illuminating the many complex ways our senses and brains turn sound into music, which he describes throughout the book as “organised sound.” Levitin states his book is written for the general reader. These questions are worthwhile pondering while reading Levitin’s book. The author himself asks, “What if I took a scholarly approach to studying music, and in analyzing it, stripped it of its mysteries? What if I became so knowledgeable about music that I no longer took pleasure from it?” (p.11) This blending of science with music, one of the great human arts and pleasures, raises questions as to the role science plays in our understanding of art and the creative process.

Levitin, a musician and neuroscientist, uses a blend of scientific research, personal anecdotes, and various real-world examples to describe to musicians and non-musicians alike how our brains respond to music and how it has evolved over time. This Is Your Brain On Music by Daniel Levitin This Is Your Brain on Music: The Science of a Human Obsession by Daniel Levitin is a fascinating and in-depth exploration into the neurological processes that make us love and connect with music. This Is Your Brain On Music by Daniel Levitin – Book Reviewįound in: Miscellany & Merriment, Reviews By Rebecca Harding

Levitin this is your brain on music