Tune In by Jennifer Buchanan

Book Review Feb 03, 2021

My review

4/5 stars

Music has always played a big part in my life, it brings joy and energy to any day, and is a great way of processing emotion. I came across this book on social media and the premise seemed really intriguing. I knew that music can have an impact on your mood, but the idea of using it intentionally piqued my curiosity.

The book is a collection of theory, case studies and exercises. The theory is interesting enough, but it's really bought to life by the case studies. There are plenty of them dotted through the book, and they provide a great deal of heart when reading. The stories of these fascinating people really strike a chord as you read through them, and help to put things into context in a real world setting; it's easy to understand the value of the therapy when you can see it in someone's actual life.

The journal-style exercises to help the reader implement music into their own lives intentionally are simple enough to follow, if given the right time and attention, but I would have appreciated a bit more of a breakdown and input, as it can feel daunting to start something like that with an empty page.

Overall, this is a fantastic read about the importance of music for our mental, emotional and physical wellbeing. It's worth spending some time on, especially if music already adds value to your life, it will help you understand how to deepen that value.

*I received a free copy of this book through Book Tasters in exchange for an honest review.

Book blurb

Combining powerful professional stories, cutting-edge clinical research, and straightforward strategies and exercises that have immediate take-home value, Tune In is an accessible and perspective-shifting read unlike any other that’s been written to date by a music therapist. Tune In provides a roadmap to the incredible ways in which music can help us feel better connected and find wellbeing – even (or especially!) in the darkest and most stressful of times.

Intended to help readers from all walks of life learn how to use music to reduce stress, boost morale, and restore health – and when to access a music therapist for optimum benefit.

“Music can and does save healthcare dollars, but its effects go far deeper than its monetary value,” says Buchanan.

“Tune In is about people and the music-based practices that have worked for them, and gives actual strategies to use at home and at the office. The goal is simple: I want you to feel better, empowered, and uplifted through music!”

A useful, enlightening and ear-opening read, Tune In explores:

The “triggering” power of music – to emotional states both good and bad – and how to use this information to your advantage; Intentional listening: how to find the right tunes, and employ them at the right time in the right way; What music therapy is, and how working with a music therapist can change your perspective, wellbeing, and life; Simple, personalized strategies and exercises to get the most out of music.