On the eve of his fortieth birthday, renowned cognitive scientist Gary Marcus decided to fulfil a lifelong dream and learn to play the guitar. He had tried many times before – failing miserably. This time, he decided to use the tools of his “trade” to see if he might suceed. On his quest he jams with twelve-year-olds and takes master classes with guitar gods. A groundbreaking exploration of the allure of music, Guitar Zero is also an empowering case for the mind’s ability to grow throughout life.
An entertaining account of the frustrations of a wannabe guitar hero and an intriguing enquiry into the science of learning... Compelling. - New Scientist
Guitar Zero is a refreshing alternation between the nitty-gritty details of learning rock-guitar licks and Mr Marcus's survey of the relevant scientific literature on learning and the brain. For those who look forward, in retirement, to honoring the lifelong yearnings they have neglected, Guitar Zero is good news. - Norman Doidge, Wall Street Journal
Science and story are woven together with abnormal skill, and fascinating information comes non-stop... With a likeable narrator and beautifully precise writing, this is one of the best science books and best music books you'll read this year. - The Word
[Guitar Zero] looks far more deeply into the ways our brains rewire themselves and find ways to compensate for certain gaps or deficits in our abilities. In the process of demonstrating these, Marcus sounds an encouraging note (pun intended) for older readers who have always wanted to do something but have never had time. - Los Angeles Times
This enjoyable blend of music appreciation, science and personal exploration commands a new respect for how the brain and body responds to the promise, and shock, of the new.
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Kirkus Reviews Gary Marcus, one of the deepest thinkers in cognitive science, has given us an entertaining and enlightening memoir, filled with insight about music, learning, and the human mind. - Steven Pinker, Professor of Psychology at Harvard University and author of The Better Angels of Our Nature
I enjoyed Guitar Zero immensely. Marcus has not only intensified the process itself, but simplified the definition of one's dedication to it. - Pat Martino, four-time Grammy nominee
Marcus is one of the smartest psychologists around, a deep thinker and an eloquent writer, and the story he tells is informed by the best science of perception and learning and evolution; talent and effort, genius and frustration and success. If you have ever dreamt of becoming a musician, you simply must read Guitar Zero.
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Paul Bloom, Professor of Psychology at Yale University and author of
How Pleasure Works A delightfully inspiring, charming, and detailed musical journey that explodes myths of human limitation, while revealing that the fountain of youth very well may be made of wood and played on six strings. - Richard Barone, musician and author of Frontman: Surviving the Rock Star Myth
Captivating and filled with insight, Guitar Zero is a look at the challenge of personal reinvention by Gary Marcus, one of our leading psychologists. Whether you are a music lover or not, if you care about reaching your own potential, you should read this book.
Dr Drew Pinsky, Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Southern California and Host of Celebrity Rehab
'Armed with his intellectual firepower and the latest research on music tuition, learning and practice, [Marcus] indeed goes from zero to hero.' THES
'An entertaining account of the frustrations of a wannabe guitar hero and an intriguing inquiry into the science of learning... Compelling.' --New Scientist
'An easy read... If this book had a chorus, it would scream: There s still hope! ' --BBC Focus
'Delightful.' -- Norman Doidge, author of The Brain That Changes Itself
