MUSICIAN is a book for all musicians, and anyone who loves music. For the neophyte, Wilensky demystifies the process of becoming a "real" musician. For the typical late-night club musician he provides a list of reasons and ways to advance. For the fortunate elite among you, he shares his insights on how to capture and maintain the elusive creative fire that separates the journeyman from the virtuoso. For the general reader, the author includes humorous stories and anecdotes from the Wild Wild West that is the music business. From nurturing young musicians to helping professionals cultivate their own identity, Wilensky examines familiar territory with a fresh perspective, and illuminates subjects that are rarely discussed. MUSICIAN addresses not only how to survive, but how to flourish in the music world. It provides specific examples of how to find work, how to listen and practice, how to get along with other musicians, how to promote yourself, how to survive and utilize competition and criticism, and how to deal with stage fright. It suggests what record companies can and cannot do for you, what you can learn, buy and sell using the Internet, which books to read and what equipment to buy, when to lay low or pursue non-musical activities, and why musicality is next to godliness. In "Tales From the Trenches" Wilensky recounts war-stories about his early career faux pas that will assist you in avoiding similar mistakes. MUSICIAN even includes helpful hints on how to manage your money, stay healthy, and succeed in romance In addition to having experienced many career and artistic peaks and valleys, Wilensky has an enduring love for all types of music and musicians. His passion for music and life are evident throughout this book. MUSICIAN will be a valuable addition to your library - an entertaining reference book for musicians and civilians alike.