Stewart Gordon has enjoyed a long and distinguished career as a pianist, teacher, editor, composer, and author. His books and video tapes are widely used in university classrooms. His new edition of the thirty-two Beethoven piano sonatas is attracting wide attention for its scholarly research. He is currently a Professor of Keyboard Studies at the Thornton School of Music of the University of Southern California.

"It is the best book I have read on the topic and is full of wisdom and insights ... The book is a very effective and informative work manual and would be an ideal text for students at tertiary institutions." -- Andrew Lorenz, AUSTA National Journal Reviews

"This is profound writing at its very best." -- Andrew Lorenz, AUSTA Stringendo

"This is one of those rare volumes that should occupy an honored place on the book shelves of every serious student and teacher of classical music. Beginning with a broad based definition of performance as an integral part of the human experience, Mastering the Art of Performance: A Primer for Musicians, goes on to deal with the psychological, physical, practical, cultural and even spiritual dilemmas and opportunities familiar to everyone who aspires to a high standard of musical performace...The style and organization of Gordon's book is exemplary because it is astute without being academic, popular without being insipid, and practical without being Philistine."--American Music Teacher

"Within my long musical memory, this is the first knowledgeable book concerning the many details and challenges that confront today's performers in their quest for a fulfilling musical life. Mastering the Art of Performance is an essential book for every musician who aspires to be skilled in the complexities of a musical career. With fascinating and thought-provoking experiences, Stewart Gordon has presented a valuable and astute message for all dedicated performers."--Earl Wild, pianist

"Have you always wanted to avoid performance pitfalls? This detailed, comprehensive, and erudite book is written by an experienced performer and teacher who wants to help you do just that. Every musician and teacher should have it in easy reach; I recommend it."--Marni Nixon, soprano, actress, educator

"Here is solid and proven advice for all who are interested in performance, from a sterling musician who is well-known to the musical world. Get this book, follow its advice, and your life as a performer will be happier and enhanced immeasurably!"--Maurice Hinson, Senior Professor of Piano, School of Church Music and Worship, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky

"In Mastering the Art of Performance, Stewart Gordon brilliantly addresses all the challenges we face before, during, and after a concert performance. The solutions in this book offer extraordinary tools that should uplift, enrich, and offer great confidence to all who wish to transcend and command the stage!"--Norman Krieger, concert pianist

"Stewart Gordon, one of America's premiere concert pianists and teachers, has compressed decades of artistic and pedagogical wisdom into this concise, clear, and significant book, which addresses universal challenges encountered by all performers who strive towards ownership of their musical art. This book is a treasure trove of wise counsel that will find its place in my teaching studio forthwith."--George I. Shirley, The Joseph Edgar Maddy Distinguished University Professor of Music (Voice), and Director, Vocal Arts Division, School of Music, The University of Michigan