"PRAISEWORTHY MUSIC AND SPIRITUAL MOMENTS," by David Glen Hatch, Cedar Fort, $22.99, 198 pages (nf)

“Praiseworthy Music and Spiritual Moments” by David Glen Hatch is an inspiring book that tells why music is one of God's greatest gifts to mankind.

Hatch is an internationally trained concert pianist and primarily plays music written by classical musicians like Beethoven, Liszt and Bach.

Each chapter explains one specific benefit of music. The chapters range from various topics — from “The Power of Music to Unite” to “The Power of Music to Uplift.” Complementing each chapter are numerous stories and quotes from several musical prodigies.

Having performed on many continents, Hatch writes of the universal language of music. At a performance in Poland, Hatch states that learning the background of Chopin motivated the performers to give a powerful and meaningful concert later that evening. The author also emphasizes the soothing power of world music, which also has an inherent ability to speak of a nation’s traditions and history.

After winning several teaching awards for his efforts, Hatch continues to educate aspiring musicians with this book. In order to achieve musical excellence, Hatch states that a person must be passionate, disciplined, confident, humble and creative. Though in reference to budding musicians, these values can be applied to any person seeking a satisfying and fulfilling life.

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Several times throughout the book, Hatch, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, mentions spiritual characteristics of music. Appealing to those of all faiths, "Praiseworthy Music and Spiritual Moments" states that music is a way to praise God and feel of his spirit.

One of the most striking parts of the book are Hatch's short biographies of world-famous composers. He includes several lesser-known musicians like Johannes Brahms and Joseph Haydn. He includes small details about each composer, providing an intimate view into their lives.

Overall, “Praiseworthy Music and Spiritual Moments” is a book that reads like a symphony. Readers can almost hear the music in the background as they learn of the joys of music.

Shelby Scoffield is a graduate of Brigham Young University and a graduate student at California State University, Stanislaus.

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