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Music Books

Discover a world of sound with our selection of Music books! Whether you're just looking to learn a new piece or instrument, or simply just more about music in general, our Music collection has something for everyone. Unleash your inner musician with our selection of sheet music, in-depth guides and bibliographies. Perfect for aspiring musicians, music lovers, and anyone eager to dive into a world of tunes and harmonies.


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Sex Pistols: 90 Days at EMI
Brian Southall | Bobcat Books

Sex Pistols: 90 Days at EMI

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 3.64

$15.90

If you're someone who gets excited by tales of music industry shake-ups and punk rock rebellion, then "Sex Pistols: 90 Days at EMI" is your backstage pass. It's not just a glimpse into the chaotic world of the British punk scene, but a masterclass in the gritty business maneuvers that turned notoriety into cash. The narrative is a vibrant patchwork of uproars, strategies, and punk ethos that keeps turning the pages for you.
Ac/Dc: Maximum Rock & Roll - The Ultimate Story of the World's Greatest Rock-and-Roll Band
Arnaud Durieux, Murray Engleheart  | It Books

Ac/Dc: Maximum Rock & Roll - The Ultimate Story of the World's Greatest Rock-and-Roll Band

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$8.90

71% off est. retail
If you've ever been head-banging to "Back in Black" or felt the visceral pull of "Thunderstruck," this AC/DC biography is your backstage pass to the raucous world of a legendary band. It's a vivid tale that doesn't shy away from the grit and sweat that fueled their rise to rock immortality. This book will make you feel like you're part of the AC/DC family, giving you an all-access, unfiltered dive into their tumultuous and electrifying journey.
Rock She Wrote
Ann Powers, Evelyn McDonnell  | Plexus Publishing

Rock She Wrote

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.04

$11.90

56% off est. retail
"Rock She Wrote" offers a nuanced look at rock music through the lenses of women who have both shaped and critiqued its culture. If you're curious about the untold stories and the powerful insights of the female perspective in an industry often dominated by men, this collection of articles and essays will resonate with you. It's a celebration of women's contributions that challenges the status quo and enriches our understanding of music history.
Acid for the Children: A Memoir
Flea | Headline

Acid for the Children: A Memoir

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$9.90

54% off est. retail
If you are a fan of the Red Hot Chili Peppers or just love music, this autobiography by Flea will give you an inside look at his personal and professional journey. The book is filled with raw emotion, humor, and insight into the life of one of the greatest bassists of all time.
The Grand Tradition: Seventy Years of Singing on Record
J.B. Steane | Gerald Duckworth & Co Ltd

The Grand Tradition: Seventy Years of Singing on Record

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 4.67

$14.90

If the evolution of operatic and vocal performances through the lens of recording history intrigues you, "The Grand Tradition" is right up your alley. J. B. Steane dives deep into the artistry and technical development of singing on record over seventy years, making it a treasure trove for students of music and long-time opera lovers alike. The book's meticulous research offers a fascinating journey through a unique aspect of music history.
The Last Party: Britpop, Blair and the Demise of English Rock
John Harris | Harper Perennial

The Last Party: Britpop, Blair and the Demise of English Rock

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.08

$12.90

If you find yourself reminiscing about the '90s with a mixtape in hand or just curious about how politics can dance with pop culture, "The Last Party" is your backstage pass. John Harris doesn't just recount the heady days of Britpop; he immerses you in the zeitgeist of an era where music was a pulsing heartbeat of the UK's cultural renaissance. This book might just reignite your passion for vinyl records and vintage tees while giving you a thought-provoking narrative about the complex relationship between rock 'n' roll and political power.
1968: The Year That Rocked the World
Mark Kurlansky | Vintage

1968: The Year That Rocked the World

$7.90

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$7.90

If you're intrigued by how singular years can act as pivot points in history, "1968: The Year That Rocked the World" could fascinate you. Kurlansky masterfully weaves the tales of political upheavals, cultural revolutions, and influential personalities into a narrative that not only recounts the events but also analyzes their long-lasting impact. It's a read that acts as a time machine, giving you a front-row seat to the drama, inspirations, and aspirations of a year that still echoes in today's society.
Duende: A Journey in Search of Flamenco
Jason Webster | Black Swan

Duende: A Journey in Search of Flamenco

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$8.90

If you're feeling stuck in a routine, "Duende" might just be the escape you need. Jason Webster takes you on a riveting journey through Spain, rich with the raw passion and jeopardy of flamenco. It's more than a travel memoir; it's a story of self-discovery, love, and the pursuit of ecstasy that could spark a fire in your own life.
Stephen Fry's Incomplete & Utter History of Classical Music
Stephen Fry, Tim Lihoreau  | Boxtree

Stephen Fry's Incomplete & Utter History of Classical Music

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$8.90

Stephen Fry's distinctive voice will be your guide in "Stephen Fry's Incomplete & Utter History of Classical Music." His engaging approach interweaves historical tidbits with a humorous touch, making the vast landscape of classical music accessible and entertaining. Imagine classical music coming alive as Fry takes you from the Middle Ages to the Romantic era, giving you both a laugh and a lesson.
Riverdance: The Story
Sam Smyth | Trafalgar Square

Riverdance: The Story

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$8.90

"Riverdance" captures the exuberance of Irish culture. The dynamic intertwining of dance with life's rhythms will resonate if you're moved by the arts deeply rooted in tradition. Smyth's account of a contemporary phenomenon grounded in age-old customs offers a spirited, immersive cultural journey.
Learn to Play Fingerstyle Solos for Ukulele
Mark Kailana Nelson | Mel Bay Pubns

Learn to Play Fingerstyle Solos for Ukulele

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$9.90

If you're ready to elevate your ukulele game beyond simple strumming, "Learn to Play Fingerstyle Solos for Ukulele" could be your next step. It's perfect for intermediate players aspiring to produce more sophisticated sounds. The variety of songs and progressive difficulty can enrich your repertoire beautifully, while the included CD is a great learning tool to hear and emulate nuanced techniques.
Eric Nisenson | St Martins Pr

Blue: The Murder of Jazz

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$8.90

If you're a fan of jazz or curious about the challenges facing the music industry, "Blue" by Eric Nisenson is an insightful read that does more than just scratch the surface. It delves into the heart of the problems that jazz, a once-thriving art form, encounters in the modern era. The author's passionate analysis might resonate with you, especially if you're interested in the interplay between culture, commerce, and authenticity.
Martin T. Williams | Oxford University Press

Jazz Changes

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$12.90

If you've ever tapped your foot to a rhythm or been captivated by the soulful storytelling of a saxophone, "Jazz Changes" is your backstage pass to the jazz scene. Martin Williams's vibrant prose will transport you across decades of musical innovation, offering intimate glimpses into the lives of legends. It's more than a book; it's a timeless medley of the moments that have shaped jazz.
Unsung Voices: Opera and Musical Narrative in the Nineteenth Century
Carolyn Abbate | Princeton University Press

Unsung Voices: Opera and Musical Narrative in the Nineteenth Century

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$15.90

If you've ever found yourself enchanted by the depth and drama of opera or captivated by the swelling movements of a symphony, "Unsung Voices" might strike a chord with you. Carolyn Abbate invites us into the rich polyphonic tapestry of 19th-century music, breathing life into the concepts and critiques of operatic and instrumental storytelling. It's a read that promises to deepen your appreciation for musical expression beyond the surface melodies.
Piano Pieces the Whole World Plays
Albert Ernest Weir | Music Sales America

Piano Pieces the Whole World Plays

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$15.90

If you're passionate about piano music, diving into "Piano Pieces the Whole World Plays" is like discovering a treasure trove of classical gems. The joy of this collection lies in its breadth and authenticity, offering you original, unabridged editions. You'll find yourself in the company of the greats, from Bach to Beethoven, enveloped in the timeless narratives woven by their notes. Whether you're a player or a connoisseur of classical works, this compilation is a musical journey you'll want to embark on again and again.
Neapolitan Songs
Music Sales Corporation | Music Sales America

Neapolitan Songs

$17.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$17.90

If you're someone who appreciates culture and the undying charm of Italian cities, "Neapolitan Songs" is a melody for the soul. It's not just a book; it feels like a journey through the heart of Naples, with each page resonating with the city's rich musical heritage. It's an evocation of a place where every street corner and every note tells a story.
The History of Rock in Fifty Guitars
Bruce Wexler | The History Press

The History of Rock in Fifty Guitars

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 2.86

$11.90

If the electrifying riffs of rock icons like Jimi Hendrix give you goosebumps, you'll appreciate "The History of Rock in Fifty Guitars." This book not only dives into the technical evolution of guitars but also the legendary figures who wielded them. It's a vivid backstage pass to the craft and charisma that guitars lent to rock over seven thrilling decades.
In Search of a Concrete Music
Christine North, Pierre Schaeffer, John Dack  | University Of California Press

In Search of a Concrete Music

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.21

$10.90

If you're fascinated by the intersection of technology and composition, reading Schaeffer's "In Search of a Concrete Music" is like unlocking a treasure chest. This is a seminal text that offers deep insights into the very fabric of modern sound creation. It’s not just for avant-garde composers; DJs, producers, and anyone intrigued by the evolution of musicological thought will find Schaeffer's exploration both groundbreaking and incredibly relevant.
Audio Culture: Readings in Modern Music
Daniel Warner, Christoph Cox  | Continuum

Audio Culture: Readings in Modern Music

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$10.90

If you're curious about how music touches our lives beyond just being a playlist staple, "Audio Culture" is a treasure trove. Imagine sitting in on conversations with some of the most innovative minds in modern music. This book doesn't just recount history; it dives into the avant-garde, the thoughts that shape what we hear and how we hear it. Whether you're a musician, a student of musicology, or simply interested in the cultural impact of music, this collection will tune your mind to new frequencies.
Music - Crash Course Series
Johannes Rademacher | Barrons Educational Series Inc

Music - Crash Course Series

$4.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$4.90

Whether you're a devoted audiophile or simply curious about the cultural tapestry of our world, this Crash Course in music history is like a time machine for your ears. It deftly weaves centuries of auditory innovation into a comprehensive narrative that celebrates the diversity and depth of our shared sonic heritage. Reading this could be your first step in exploring the vast world of music or enhancing your appreciation for the tunes you already love.
These Music Exams
Clara Taylor

These Music Exams

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$12.90

If you're feeling the pressure of music exams, you're not alone. Clara Taylor's "These Music Exams" might be just what you need to ease the tension. The book provides insight and tips for musicians at any level, offering a comforting perspective that blends humor with practical advice. Consider it your backstage pass to acing those nerve-wracking performances.
Teaching Piano: A Comprehensive Guide and Reference Book for the Instructor
Denes Agay | Music Sales Amer

Teaching Piano: A Comprehensive Guide and Reference Book for the Instructor

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$9.90

As someone who's passionate about imparting the gift of music, you'll find "Teaching Piano" by Denes Agay to be an invaluable companion. Its detailed charts and glossaries provide you with a structured roadmap for lessons, while the extensive index makes it easy to navigate. It's the kind of book that transforms good piano teachers into great ones, equipping you with the know-how to inspire and elevate your students' musical journeys.
101 Hymn Stories
Kenneth W. Osbeck | Kregel Publications

101 Hymn Stories

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$13.90

If you find solace in the hymns sung at church and wonder about the stories that gave birth to these timeless pieces, "101 Hymn Stories" by Kenneth W. Osbeck is for you. It's a journey through history, devotion, and the transformative power of music, offering insights that could deepen your experience during worship and personal reflection. Each hymn story is a testament to faith and the human condition, resonating with believers who cherish spiritual heritage and the art of worship through song.
Ravel: The Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers
David Burnett James | Omnibus Pr & Schirmer Trade Books

Ravel: The Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$8.90

If Elgar's music has ever stirred your soul, Burnett James' "Ravel" is a journey you'd enjoy taking. As England's late romantic gem, Elgar's symphonic narratives and ceremonial compositions not only defined an era but also became intrinsic to cultural heritage. Reading this, you'll get to revel in the stories behind the music that's likely graced many poignant moments in your life.
Weber: Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers
Anthony Friese-Greene | Omnibus Pr & Schirmer Trade Books

Weber: Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$15.90

If you're fascinated by the lives of classical composers and want to immerse yourself in the world of Carl Maria von Weber, this biography offers a meticulous exploration of his work and influence. It's more than just a history lesson; it's an invitation to understand the man behind the music that changed the Romantic era. With illustrations and engaging narrative, you'll find this book a harmonious blend of art and storytelling.
Contemporary Violinist
Julie Lyonn Lieberman | Julie Lyonn Music

Contemporary Violinist

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$13.90

If you're looking to enhance your violin skills with a focus on improvisation, "Contemporary Violinist" could be your perfect practice companion. It's like having a personal tutor pressed between pages, one equipped with a CD to ensure your auditory learning is as rich as your visual. With comprehensive exercises, you'll embrace the freedom of improvisation across various music genres, making your violin sing in new and exciting ways.
Love Lives of the Great Composers
Basil Howitt | Sound And Vision

Love Lives of the Great Composers

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 3.2

$18.90

If you're enthralled by classical music's masters, "Love Lives of the Great Composers" offers a different tune, focusing on their personal rather than professional lives. Basil Howitt's revealing anecdotes add rich, often scandalous layers to figures you thought you knew, turning notes and compositions into tales of passion and heartbreak. Ideal for music enthusiasts craving a backstage pass to history's musical geniuses.
The Violinist's Thumb and Other Lost Tales of Love, War, and Genius, as Written by Our Genetic Code
Sam Kean | Little, Brown And Company

The Violinist's Thumb and Other Lost Tales of Love, War, and Genius, as Written by Our Genetic Code

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$9.90

If you have ever been captivated by the quirks and idiosyncrasies that make us uniquely human, "The Violinist's Thumb" is a treasure trove that's both enlightening and wildly entertaining. Sam Kean takes you on a journey through our genetic code, revealing quirks and stories that are as fascinating as they are informative. It's like uncovering the secret stories of human history encoded in our DNA, all told with a narrative flair that makes complex science feel like an adventure.
Linda Simon | Reaktion Books

The Greatest Shows on Earth: A History of the Circus

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$12.90

If you've ever felt drawn to the vibrant clash of color, sound, and spectacle that is the circus, "The Greatest Shows on Earth" invites you on a grand historical tour. It’s not just a trip through the circus's glittering past; it's an exploration of cultural and artistic fascination. Perfect for those intrigued by the lore of acrobats, aerialists, and the ringmasters who have inspired generations, Linda Simon serves as your guide through the evolution of this fantastical world where the impossible becomes reality.
Bach: The Keyboard Works
Johann Sebastian Bach | Black Dog & Leventhal Publishers

Bach: The Keyboard Works

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$8.90

This gem is perfect for music aficionados and history buffs alike. Delving into Bach's detailed world, it will provide you not just with rich historical context, but also a deeper appreciation for the masterpieces created by this virtuoso. If you're eager to understand the brilliance behind Bach's polyphonic tunes, this book is your backstage pass.
The Usborne Story of Music
Eileen O'Brien, David Cuzik  | Usborne Pub Ltd

The Usborne Story of Music

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$8.90

If you carry a tune for uncovering the symphonies of the past, "The Usborne Story of Music" is your maestro. It elegantly orchestrates a voyage from ancient rhythms to contemporary beats, offering a time-travel experience. Whether you're a budding musician or a connoisseur of music history, this book will strike the right chord, enriching your understanding of music's transformative role through the ages.
Composer's World: Mozart
Wendy Thompson | Faber Music

Composer's World: Mozart

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$11.90

If you're curious about the man behind classics like "Eine kleine Nachtmusik," then "Composer's World: Mozart" will surely delight you. It's more than just a biography; it offers a visually engaging gateway to understand how Mozart's era shaped his music. Perfect for young readers and adults alike, this book intertwines history and melody on a rich, illustrative canvas.
Popular Piano Solos Book 8 Jazz
Various | Music Sales

Popular Piano Solos Book 8 Jazz

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$9.90

60% off est. retail
If you're passionate about jazz and want to dive deeper into playing piano, this book could be your backstage pass. It'll guide you through mastering popular jazz solos, challenging you to refine your technique while playing pieces that are recognized and loved. It's an immersive way to both enjoy and improve your musical craftsmanship.
Offenbach – The Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers
Peter Gammond | Omnibus Pr & Schirmer Trade Books

Offenbach – The Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90

If you're intrigued by the paradox of a composer whose work could simultaneously be seen as frivolous yet foundational, Offenbach's story is for you. Peter Gammond brings Offenbach's dichotomous life to the page with storytelling flair, blending his tuneful creations with his serious influence on the future of musical comedy. It shines a light on the life of a man whose work was adored by the very society he satirized, and whose legacy is ingrained in the fabric of musical theater. This illustrated biography could be a tuneful journey worth embarking on for anyone fascinated by music history or the complexities of artistic influence.
Sir Arthur Bliss - The Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers
John Sugden | Omnibus Pr & Schirmer Trade Books

Sir Arthur Bliss - The Illustrated Lives of the Great Composers

$15.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$15.90

If you're intrigued by the fusion of history and music, this biography of Sir Arthur Bliss offers a rich portrait not just of the man, but of the era that shaped him. As much as it's about personal letters and recollections, it's also about the social canvas of the time, making it a compelling read for anyone who appreciates a deep dive into a composer's world within the context of their historical backdrop.
1968: The Year That Rocked the World
Mark Kurlansky | Ballantine Books (ny)

1968: The Year That Rocked the World

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$11.90

52% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by history with a pulse, "1968: The Year That Rocked the World" might just be your next favorite read. Mark Kurlansky has a knack for bringing the vibrancy of historical events to life, and this book is no exception. It's a vivid time capsule that puts you right in the heart of a year where every corner of the globe seemed to be on the edge of monumental change.
The Soundtrack of My Life
Just Arrived
Anthony DeCurtis, Clive Davis  | Simon & Schuster

The Soundtrack of My Life

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$11.90

60% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the thought of delving into the heart of the music industry, Clive Davis's 'The Soundtrack Of My Life' might just be your backstage pass. This book is a must-read because it's not just about the hits and the stars; it's a personal narrative that weaves through the tapestry of modern music, as told by a man who's been a key player in shaping its course. For anyone fascinated by the stories behind the songs and the business of making musical legends, this memoir offers an intimate glimpse into a world few get to see.
Antonio Stradivari: His Life and Work
Just Arrived
Arthur Frederick Hill, William Henry Hill, Alfred Ebsworth Hill  | Dover Publications

Antonio Stradivari: His Life and Work

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$12.90

36% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intersection of music, history, and craftsmanship, "Antonio Stradivari" is a harmonious blend that hits all the right notes. It's a fascinating dive into the meticulous skills that positioned Stradivari's violins as unparalleled masterpieces. Reading it, you'll feel a step closer to understanding the enduring magic of these celebrated instruments.
Ocean of Sound: Ambient Sound and Radical Listening in the Age of Communication
Michel Faber, David Toop  | Serpent's Tail

Ocean of Sound: Ambient Sound and Radical Listening in the Age of Communication

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$10.90

52% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the fusion of history, culture, and the ambient sounds that shape our musical landscape, "Ocean of Sound" is a compelling read. David Toop takes you on an auditory adventure that will change the way you listen. It's perfect for those who enjoy music's transformative power and its interdisciplinary connections across time and space.

Dive into a World of Sounds

At Thryft, our Music collection spans everything from sheet music, instrument guides to biographies of key musicians. Dive into the world of classical compositions, contemporary pop developments, or the spontaneity of jazz improvisation. Explore our Music collection and enrich your understanding and appreciation of music.