Whether you’re a casual Spotify listener or a certified audiophile, here are six BC-published books we think any music lovers will find fascinating. And since music is important in all stages of life, we’ve included three children’s books that underscore the cultural, creative, and emotional power of the art form.
The Schubert Treatment by Claire Oppert (Greystone Books)
As art therapist Claire Oppert would have it, alternative forms of therapy are effective and important, and they’re on the rise. Born into a family of doctors and artists, Oppert has worked to combine science and art and uses her talent as a cellist to affect the lives of her patients. From her work with autistic youth to adults in palliative care, Oppert shares stories from throughout her career that demonstrate the power of music to heal.
Out now
Have Bassoon, Will Travel by George Zukerman (Ronsdale Press)
The stories of a classical bassoonist with the adventurous streak of a rock musician. Thoroughly committed to the touring lifestyle (until age 94!), and to ushering the often overlooked bassoon into the spotlight, George Zukerman’s memoir is ultimately about a life devoted to a love for music and performance above all else. Described as both the Pablo Casals and the Eddie Van Halen of the bassoon, Zukerman’s spunk and fervour are apparent in his writing, which faithfully reflects the passion of the life it recounts.
Out now
Chambersonic by Oana Avasilichioaei (Talonbooks)
Chambersonic is a composition of poetry, essay, music and audio that comes together to create something that truly transcends the page to create its own space and world. Oana Avasilichioaei is an experienced poet, translator, and a varied composer of music from ambient soundscapes to opera, and in Chambersonic, she brings together her various talents to experiment with the limits of genre and medium. For anyone interested in the idea of witnessing their favourite forms encounter each other in new ways.
Out now
The Three Sisters by Paul Yee and Shaoli Wang (Tradewind Books)
This magical story with mythic qualities tells the story of three sisters who use their musical gifts to combat an evil and violent emperor and save the day. Paul Yee creates his own folktale set in historical China which validates the therapeutic and communicative qualities of music and introduces readers to Chinese words and concepts. Lovers of Tomie dePaola will appreciate the similarly rich illustration style paired with a folkish narrative.
Out now
What Inspires by Alison Hughes and Ellen Rooney (Orca Book Publishers)
Three children discover the natural beats and rhythms of the world around them in this book about the power of creativity and play. Lovers of timeless, whimsical illustration replete with detail will enjoy the visual journey that involves images of musical instruments, mythical creatures and wonder-filled landscapes. Encourage the belief in the importance of creativity in all its forms with this music-forward picture book!
Out now
Teachings of the Drum by Ren Louie (Medicine Wheel Publishing)
This rhyming story of a Nuu-chah-nulth boy and his drum highlights the ways in which music and instruments can connect us to culture. When Ren is gifted a handmade drum by his mother, he learns the ways and songs of his family by singing and using the drum. The importance of tradition and history in relation to music is an important theme in this illustrated book for children.
Out now