Offers performers, teachers, and researchers, new perspectives and practical guidance for enhancing performance and managing the stress that typically accompanies performance situations. It draws together the findings of pioneering initiatives from across the arts and sciences.

A revolutionary new understanding of the mind is transforming the field of performance psychology, making it easier than ever before for musicians to bring out the best in themselves and make music as nature intended. Not only that, but it offers renewed hope for sufferers of anxiety, depression and a whole host of other psychological disorders.

The Gustavus Choir has long stood as the premiere choral ensemble on the campus of Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, Minnesota, USA. It is a tradition-rich group that binds its members across generations. Whether it be singing “Praise to the Lord,” or touring across the country, the choir has developed a lasting place on the choral landscape. Throughout its history, one common element has been a constant for the Gustavus Choir; the ensemble’s commitment to musical excellence. For seventy-five years, the members of The Gustavus Choir have lifted their voices in beauty and praise from the small campus on top of the hill. This internationally recognized choral ensemble has provided a heritage of choral music that is deeply rooted in the a cappella tradition. Commitment to Musical Excellence: A 75 Year History of The Gustavus Choir documents the development of The Gustavus Choir from the college’s earliest choral activities through the 75th anniversary celebration, noting the influence of F. Melius Christiansen and the Lutheran Choral School. The legacy of each of the choir’s six conductors is chronicled, including an in-depth look into their musical backgrounds and the indelible mark each has left on the choir. The book charts the development of the choir’s touring tradition, providing lists of literature performed and tour itineraries. It also explores the philosophy and mission of The Gustavus Choir, delving into the role of the ensemble within the Gustavus music department, the college, and the global community.

Driven by a passion for music, for excellence, and for fame, violin soloists are immersed from early childhood in high-pressure competitions, regular public appearances, and arduous daily practice. An in-depth study of nearly one hundred such children, Producing Excellence illuminates the process these young violinists undergo to become elite international soloists. A musician and a parent of a young violinist, sociologist Izabela Wagner offers an inside look at how her young subjects set out on the long road to becoming a soloist. The remarkable research she conducted—at rehearsals, lessons, and in other educational settings—enabled her to gain deep insight into what distinguishes these talented prodigies and their training. She notes, for instance, the importance of a family culture steeped in the values of the musical world. Indeed, more than half of these students come from a family of professional musicians and were raised in an atmosphere marked by the importance of instrumental practice, the vitality of music as a vocation, and especially the veneration of famous artists. Wagner also highlights the highly structured, rigorous training system of identifying, nurturing, and rewarding talent, even as she underscores the social, economic, and cultural factors that make success in this system possible. Offering an intimate portrait of the students, their parents, and their instructors, Producing Excellence sheds new light on the development of exceptional musical talent, as well as draw much larger conclusions as to “producing prodigy” in other competition-prone areas, such as sports, sciences, the professions, and other arts. Wagner’s insights make this book valuable for academics interested in the study of occupations, and her clear, lively writing is perfect for general readers curious about the ins and outs of training to be a violin soloist.

Excellence in Music is a 7-volume work. Each volume includes a workbook and 24 recorded lessons that can be accessed online without charge. When all seven volumes are completed, the student will have a 7-volume reference with over 600 pages. This course covers lessons in music history, practice tips, technique, sight singing, melodic, harmonic and rhythmic dictation, modes, performance tips and dealing with performance anxiety, composition, harmony, counterpoint, the lives and works of the great composers, musical style, musical form, analysis and more. All of this is in a sequential, easy to use format.