For something so familiar, music can be a giant mystery, to the point where musicians seem more like magicians than everyday people. In fact, anyone can make and share music. Computers come with recording programs, and anyone can post their own music to websites like MySpace and YouTube. All that's needed is a little know-how. Learn to Speak Music helps young readers learn this universal language by revealing every nook and cranny of how it's made. Rather than just a guide to instruments and theory, it explores every aspect of the pop music world, from songwriting and artwork to promotion and setting up a practice space. Author John Crossingham, a veteran of the indie rock scene, brings in the expert opinions of other musicians to give insider's advice on choosing and buying an instrument, finding the right bandmates, setting up gigs, overcoming stage fright, emulating high-priced studio techniques at home, and much more. Also featured is a guide to shooting a music video from MTVA-nominated director Christopher Mills.
JOHN CROSSINGHAM has spent most of his life playing music and writing words. A veteran of numerous bands, including Broken Social Scene and Raising The Fawn, he has toured much of the world, played on Conan, Letterman, and the Junos, and has released several albums and EPs. He has also written and edited dozens of children's books, as well as written about music for FASHION and Chart magazines. He lives in Toronto. JEFF KULAK is an Edmonton-born, Montreal-based designer-illustrator. From his studio, a converted room in a former nunnery, he creates art for books, magazines, album covers, and event posters.