"The Gifted Listener" is a book for the music lover, who hasn't any musical skills. This small volume is about classical music and it's composers. It is simple and easy to read, with just enough detail, not to be confusing to the non-musician.
The author has a special insight into classical music, difficult even for a musician to understand.
In this small work a goodly amount of territory covering composers, their music and personal experiences in creative listening is covered. It is Sardo's opinion that listening is as creative as performing, regardless of age and background.
It is Michael Sardo's hope that "The Gifted Listener" will eventually be suggested reading in high school and Junior College musical appreciation classes. The author feels that his book should be considered for reading even in specialized secondary schools, which concentrate in all areas of performing arts. There are many excellent comprehensive music reference books on the market for serious students of music to study and read. What makes "The Gifted Listener" unique is the way that it treats musical listening in everyday language. The beauty of this book is that it makes classical music come alive, and at the same time is intimate to one's daily emotions. It is hoped that this book will encourage those that have not been touched with musical capability to continue on a joyful journey in creative listening, such as the author has traveled.