The Wonder of Sound: How the Power of Music Healed Me
£25.00
In his autobiography, star oboist Albrecht Mayer describes his extraordinary journey from an insecure childhood to the pinnacle of the music world.
For as a child Albrecht stuttered terribly, until his authoritarian father (a paediatrician) one day gave him an oboe with the edict that he learn it. Before long Albrecht was enchanting his listeners with his playing, and this ‘oboe therapy’ eventually led to his being cured. Albrecht gives a very personal account of the obstacles he faced, the people who helped him along the way, and of performing with the most famous musicians in the world’s greatest concert halls. But despite all his success, he has never forgotten the stigma of stuttering and the happiness of having found his true place in the world in spite of his impairment.
This is the deeply touching biography of a man who has experienced the healing power of music and today embodies it with great charisma.
A limited number of autographed copies are available. See image. Please indicate on your order if you would like one of these.
Hardback. Published 3 June 2025.Â
Description
For us musicians there is nothing more important than sound and Albrecht’s sound is simply sublime. As his colleague and friend I loved this ‘backstage’ look into his journey about the trials and tribulations of creating that perfect Albrecht Mayer sound.
Sarah Willis, French horn, Berlin Philharmonic OrchestraEver since I first heard him play, I have admired Albrecht Mayer as a great oboist. I am delighted that his thoughts and experiences are now being made available to an English-speaking readership.
Kirill Petrenko, Chief Conductor, Berlin Philharmonic OrchestraÂ
1 review for The Wonder of Sound: How the Power of Music Healed Me
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Helen –
Amazon Review
5.0 out of 5 stars An honest and engrossing insight into the author’s formative years
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 7 June 2025
This is a honest clearly written and deeply moving account of Albrecht’s early life. I can relate only too well to the adverse impact of an authoritarian Father. Well Done Albrecht for turning your life around and channelling your energies into producing such exquisite music that brings joy to so many of us. You are a true inspiration in so many ways.