Music has the power to influence and inspire, or to manipulate and control. It can be a wonderful means of expression, or a potent and addictive drug. This book studies the use and abuse of music. Many common issues and questions are covered in this wide-ranging and stimulating book.

Dave Clemo a well-known Christian musician, had this to say in an email recommending Christian books on music...

I discovered this book by chance and I must admit it makes uncomfortable reading the first time through. The author is a professional musician and committed Christian.

The book is subtitled ‘the use and abuse of music’ and is split into three parts. Part one deals with the nature of music, part two is titled ‘music, the world and the church’ and part three is called ‘the Christian alternative’. It is a well-written, well thought-out book and the author both knows and cares about his subject.

Hundreds of books have been written on the subject, many from a Christian viewpoint. But many of the most fundamental questions remain unanswered. For example: What exactly is music? What is actually happening to you as you listen to music? How does it affect you? Why does it affect you? Then there are moral questions. Is this effect good or bad, or can it be both, or is it neither? Is music in any sense a moral issue or an issue of conscience? (quoted from the introduction)

I found this book immensely challenging. I believe every person involved in music ministry in the Church should read it from cover to cover (twice). If you are offended by what is written, you may need to ask yourself why. I’m saddened when I think of the many Christians I’ve met over the last few years who were involved in music ministry and have since left the church. Had they or their pastors read this book then much of the damage and hurt that has been caused would have been avoided. Excellent.

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