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The Laws of Brainjo: The Art & Science of Molding a Musical Mind
"The Laws of Brainjo is the best explanation of the theory of skill building and the best presentation of a well-organized, practical method that can help the reader develop into a better musician than anything else I have ever encountered...Independent of where you are in your musical journey, this book will help you get to the next level." - Dan Miller, Bluegrass Unlimited Review About The Laws of Brainjo Anyone can learn to play music, and learn to play it well. Being able to play music is not about talent. It's not about aptitude. Being able to play music is not about the brain you have, but the brain you build. Each and every one of us has been gifted with a fully customizable brain, one we can mold to learn anything, at any age. Yet, it doesn't come with a manual for how to make the most of that gift. Success or failures in learning to play music - or anything else - is driven by how we learn. More specifically, it is driven by how well we engage our brain's remarkable ability to change itself. The Laws of Brainjo is a compilation of articles about the fundamental principles of learning, an owner's manual for molding a musical mind. They are also the principles embedded into the Brainjo Method, a neuroscience-based system of instruction for learning to play music, at any age. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Josh Turknett, MD, is a board-certified neurologist, best-selling author, musician, Founder of Brainjo and creator of the Brainjo Method of instruction. He also currently serves as Chief Medical Officer and Learning Engineer for humanOS, Head of Cognitive Enhancement for Nourish Balance Thrive, and President of Physicians for Ancestral Health. He hosts the Intelligence Unshackled podcast, a show about developing and unleashing human potential through improving the health and function of the brain. He is a frequent public speaker on topics including accelerated learning, neuroplasticity, brain health, and cognitive optimization in the workplace.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 3, 2020
149 people are currently reading
154 people want to read
About the author
Josh Turknett
6 books13 followersHusband, father, neurologist, musician, reader, and writer, among other things.
I love my work as a neurologist, including helping those with neurological illness lead better lives in any way I can. Towards this end, I wrote my first book - The Migraine Miracle - which was published in December of 2013.
More info about the me and the book can be found at www.mymigrainemiracle.com
Thanks for stopping by!
I love my work as a neurologist, including helping those with neurological illness lead better lives in any way I can. Towards this end, I wrote my first book - The Migraine Miracle - which was published in December of 2013.
More info about the me and the book can be found at www.mymigrainemiracle.com
Thanks for stopping by!
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
April 28, 2020
The author is a neurologist as well as a banjo player and teacher. He describes the ways in which learning and playing a musical instrument changes your brain (for the better, of course.)
There are some good insights here, as well as a lot of sound advice about learning and keeping what you've learned accessible. How to practice, how to "memorize" a tune, how to improve your techniques or relearn the correct way when you've started out wrong, all are covered.
Overall, an excellent and accessible book for anyone interested in music learning or teaching. Not just for the banjo by any means.
There are some good insights here, as well as a lot of sound advice about learning and keeping what you've learned accessible. How to practice, how to "memorize" a tune, how to improve your techniques or relearn the correct way when you've started out wrong, all are covered.
Overall, an excellent and accessible book for anyone interested in music learning or teaching. Not just for the banjo by any means.
January 23, 2023
In very understandable chapters (originally written as a series of articles) neuroscientist and banjo player Turknett breaks down the learning process and debunks myths about talent versus effort. His approach to learning can be applied to everything, so don't let the banjo scare you away (insert banjo joke here).
"But, for me, it's ultimately about more than learning music. I believe that, based on what we've learned about the brain in recent decades, most people are capable of far more than they realize. But realizing that remarkable potential first requires shedding the beliefs that constrain it."
One interesting take-away: To reach the much vaunted 10,000 hours of practice needed to achieve (ah-hem) greatness, if you practice two hours every single day, it would take thirteen years and eight months. For those of us who have exceeded that time period by a goodly amount and are still mired in mediocrity, we should have read this book before we even picked up our instruments!
"But, for me, it's ultimately about more than learning music. I believe that, based on what we've learned about the brain in recent decades, most people are capable of far more than they realize. But realizing that remarkable potential first requires shedding the beliefs that constrain it."
One interesting take-away: To reach the much vaunted 10,000 hours of practice needed to achieve (ah-hem) greatness, if you practice two hours every single day, it would take thirteen years and eight months. For those of us who have exceeded that time period by a goodly amount and are still mired in mediocrity, we should have read this book before we even picked up our instruments!
July 8, 2021
Drawn from a series of articles that he previously published in the Banjo Newsletter, Josh Turknett offers some helpful ideas about beginning and improving one's banjo playing (as he says, much of his text also applies to other instruments). He argues that good practice techniques are essential, and he suggests some ways of getting more bang for the buck out of practice sessions. Talent, he claims, is overrated; more important is laying down a foundation of good techniques. Failures should be regarded as feedback, to be welcomed rather than feared. And as many others besides Turknett have emphasized, being able to play slowly and accurately is a necessary precondition for playing well at higher tempos.
Turknett's comments about musical notation are especially interesting. While recognizing that musical notation (tablature for most banjo players) has its place, he prefers the aural tradition. When a person learns a tune from notation, the brain creates a connection between visual markings on a page and the movement of the player's hands. In contrast, when a tune is learned by ear, the brain establishes a connection between the sound of the tune and the movement of one's hands. Not only is the latter much easier to remember; it's vital for successful participation in a jam session. The goal would be to develop the ability to play any tune that one can hear in one's head, and to improvise as well.
Turknett suggests some ways of breaking bad habits by establishing better ones, and he presents some good ideas on how to improve one's ability to play by ear. It's not clear, however, that those who continue to learn their tunes from tab will be able to transition away from it to purely aural memories by using Turknett's recommended procedures.
The author, a neuroscientist, perhaps naturally cloaks much of his advice in the language of his profession, but this seems mostly to be a marketing gimmick. After all, instead of saying that a particular practice routine establishes an automatic neural network in the brain, you could say that it establishes a firm habit. Earl Scruggs managed to convey that notion in his classic instruction book published 50 years ago, and Scruggs did not hold a medical degree.
If you are a devotee of musical instruction books, you probably won't find much new in this one, but it doesn't hurt to be reminded of the important basics more than once, and to have them collected all in one place. Since this book is a useful reference, however, the absence of both a table of contents and an index is lamentable.
Turknett's comments about musical notation are especially interesting. While recognizing that musical notation (tablature for most banjo players) has its place, he prefers the aural tradition. When a person learns a tune from notation, the brain creates a connection between visual markings on a page and the movement of the player's hands. In contrast, when a tune is learned by ear, the brain establishes a connection between the sound of the tune and the movement of one's hands. Not only is the latter much easier to remember; it's vital for successful participation in a jam session. The goal would be to develop the ability to play any tune that one can hear in one's head, and to improvise as well.
Turknett suggests some ways of breaking bad habits by establishing better ones, and he presents some good ideas on how to improve one's ability to play by ear. It's not clear, however, that those who continue to learn their tunes from tab will be able to transition away from it to purely aural memories by using Turknett's recommended procedures.
The author, a neuroscientist, perhaps naturally cloaks much of his advice in the language of his profession, but this seems mostly to be a marketing gimmick. After all, instead of saying that a particular practice routine establishes an automatic neural network in the brain, you could say that it establishes a firm habit. Earl Scruggs managed to convey that notion in his classic instruction book published 50 years ago, and Scruggs did not hold a medical degree.
If you are a devotee of musical instruction books, you probably won't find much new in this one, but it doesn't hurt to be reminded of the important basics more than once, and to have them collected all in one place. Since this book is a useful reference, however, the absence of both a table of contents and an index is lamentable.
February 8, 2021
I had to read this book because it combines two subjects of great personal interest, the brain and the banjo. Moreover, it promised clarity with regard to my obstacles in learning the latter. This book has delivered. Whereas most teachers and teaching materials found online demonstrate what skills are necessary, none tell *how* to efficiently learn them. With few exceptions—outside of college or profession—I feel inspired to re-read the text and take notes to ensure the prescribed learning methods are followed.
I would have given this book a five start rating for content had it been sufficiently edited. In addition to typos, the flow seems more like a collection of blog posts rather than an elegantly constructed book.
I would have given this book a five start rating for content had it been sufficiently edited. In addition to typos, the flow seems more like a collection of blog posts rather than an elegantly constructed book.
March 24, 2021
A great read on how to learn music more efficiently. An encouraging method based on neuroscience research and many good pieces of advice. It made me realize how important it is to develop your musical ear and not be solely focused on motor skill training in the beginning (as I must admit I am guilty of), otherwise you risk never developing the ability to express musical thoughts freely. The advice translates well to guitar or other instruments. Now I must work on my visualization skills and musical memory! I would recommend it highly.
February 4, 2026
“The confidence that being a musician has nothing to do with the brain you have, and everything to do with the brain you build.”
Dr. Josh Turknett, a neuroscientist, teaches us how to practice effectively, reduce stage fright, memorize tunes easily, play by ear, stay motivated when learning progresses slowly and my favorite, how to attain knowledge of things we don’t know that we don’t know.
Although the book is written for learning banjo, the advice given easily applies to learning any instrument.
Dr. Josh Turknett, a neuroscientist, teaches us how to practice effectively, reduce stage fright, memorize tunes easily, play by ear, stay motivated when learning progresses slowly and my favorite, how to attain knowledge of things we don’t know that we don’t know.
Although the book is written for learning banjo, the advice given easily applies to learning any instrument.
July 29, 2021
Terrific & quick read. The author does a nice job sharing his observations and strategies for learning. In his context, the banjo, although most of what he has to say extends well to learning other instruments & to a great effect, pretty much any skill you might want to learn.
It's well written, thoughtful, and very accessible. My hobby is learning how to play different instruments & the book resonated.
It's well written, thoughtful, and very accessible. My hobby is learning how to play different instruments & the book resonated.
July 13, 2024
This is an incredible book that gives all of us a way to achieve our musical goals through a process of training the brain. It was both inspiring and motivating for me when I was reading it. As a matter of fact, I may just start rereading it again. There is so much information and it is written in a very understandable and enjoyable prose. I was sad when I came to the last page. I thought to myself, this can't be the end!
I would highly recommend this book for anyone struggling to achieve any goal, be it golf, guitar, tennis, etc.
I would highly recommend this book for anyone struggling to achieve any goal, be it golf, guitar, tennis, etc.
August 6, 2024
Pensei dar 4 estrelas pois por vezes é um pouco repetitivo, sobretudo nos últimos capítulos, mas a verdade é que superou bastante as minhas expectativas e é uma excelente ajuda. Tem imensas dicas que um bom professor de música também dá aos seus alunos e ajuda a aplicar tencnicas dificeis como visualizar a tocar sem o instrumento e conseguir manter memorizadas várias músicas, além de ter uma abordagem também "psicologica" de como encarar e tentar superar desafios de aprendizagem. Excelente livro!
March 29, 2024
This is a great book.
The book combines music, wanting to play music with the science regarding how we learn best and how the process improves our health. I am working on my third instrument and wanting to play well. As a senior citizen we would think doing so now, is silly. It is not, thanks for writing this book. Oboe is not banjo - Dr. Turknett is talking about music, the brain and how they work together.
The book combines music, wanting to play music with the science regarding how we learn best and how the process improves our health. I am working on my third instrument and wanting to play well. As a senior citizen we would think doing so now, is silly. It is not, thanks for writing this book. Oboe is not banjo - Dr. Turknett is talking about music, the brain and how they work together.
July 31, 2024
This is an interesting book on learning by a neurologist. The author gives insights into how to develop neural networks connecting your senses to outcomes on your banjo. Understanding how we develop neural networks is really helpful in charting a path toward improving in any skill, not just playing music. I come back to reading the book once in a while to remind myself of the ideas in the book related to practice tricks that may not be easy to follow.
November 16, 2021
Best book for learning
Whoever reads this book, and practices the things that are in it, will see their skill, knowledge, and abilities increase also. This not only pertains to learning a musical instrument, but many other things in life. I know, I know; it sounds far fetched. Test it.
Whoever reads this book, and practices the things that are in it, will see their skill, knowledge, and abilities increase also. This not only pertains to learning a musical instrument, but many other things in life. I know, I know; it sounds far fetched. Test it.
January 14, 2023
Mindful, deliberate practice grows your brain
Best book I have seen so far for adult learners of music, or adults returning to an instrument, with a focus on the brain science. For music lovers and those wanting to preserve neuroplasticity as we age. Tons of useful info even tho I play fiddle, not banjo. Highly recommended.
Best book I have seen so far for adult learners of music, or adults returning to an instrument, with a focus on the brain science. For music lovers and those wanting to preserve neuroplasticity as we age. Tons of useful info even tho I play fiddle, not banjo. Highly recommended.
January 29, 2023
Super interesting book on "building a musical mind." It was encouraging to read about the plasticity of the brain and have some hope for learning new skills that I wish I'd learned as a kid. I wish there were mores specifics about practicing but I guess Turknett still needs to sell subscriptions to his music classes.
June 6, 2020
An excellent book, highly recommended.
I had hit a plateau after 6 years of playing so the last year has been a real drag. This book has given me the kick up the arse I needed to start playing by ear and singing out loud. A different approach is all that was needed. Thanks Josh
I had hit a plateau after 6 years of playing so the last year has been a real drag. This book has given me the kick up the arse I needed to start playing by ear and singing out loud. A different approach is all that was needed. Thanks Josh
June 19, 2022
one of the best music books I’ve ever read
Short easy read, but full of profound truths of music skill learning. Emphasizes ear training, listening critically, developing musicality, the things that really make for good musicianship. Highly recommended.
Short easy read, but full of profound truths of music skill learning. Emphasizes ear training, listening critically, developing musicality, the things that really make for good musicianship. Highly recommended.
Read
December 19, 2022This book is much more far-reaching than its title infers. It has changed the way I think and do practically everything. I am a senior citizen who was never successful at playing a stringed instrument, but now play regularly and happily!
July 19, 2023
This book gave me more useful tips about learning music (and the rationale behind the "laws") than I've had in a lifetime. I ran out of highlighter marking up the pages. Must reading for anyone who has the slightest inclination to take up, play, or quit an instrument.
December 7, 2023
fabulous
Lots to think about. Encouraged me to try the piano lessons provided at his website. The principles are thought provoking and hopefully life enhancing! Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge.
Lots to think about. Encouraged me to try the piano lessons provided at his website. The principles are thought provoking and hopefully life enhancing! Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge.
January 12, 2024
Wish I'd read this first
Great advice on how to begin learning an instrument so that you can eventually play by ear. Wish I'd read it before I started learning but it's not too late to utilize his method. Just gotta be willing to start over!
Great advice on how to begin learning an instrument so that you can eventually play by ear. Wish I'd read it before I started learning but it's not too late to utilize his method. Just gotta be willing to start over!
September 30, 2020
Read this in a mercenary way, skimming much of it and thereby, finished same day but there are useful tools and suggestions here that I'll go back and try out, with optimism.
November 21, 2020
Loved this book. Teaching myself the banjo and understanding how the brain learns just helps! Apply it to any form of of learning though.
June 7, 2021
Inspirational!
Greatly improved the way I practice and the way I think about learning. Fantastic resource for anyone looking for ways to improve their musical performance.
Greatly improved the way I practice and the way I think about learning. Fantastic resource for anyone looking for ways to improve their musical performance.
July 22, 2021
Totally absorbing
This book was recommended by a friend who is also learning to play the piano. Full of insight and inspiration! Thank you so much
This book was recommended by a friend who is also learning to play the piano. Full of insight and inspiration! Thank you so much
October 12, 2021
Great little book on the brain science behind learning things, specifically the banjo, however many of the ideas in this book would work for any musical instrument or other skills entirely.
May 16, 2023
Just what I needed
This book will help me become a better guitar
player. Answering questions about how to be come better at improvising
This book will help me become a better guitar
player. Answering questions about how to be come better at improvising
October 13, 2023
An excellent book on neuroscience and music practice! It would be five stars if I was a banjo player!
January 21, 2024
This is the best music student book that I have read. I highly recommend it.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews