Musical Myths and Facts, Volume 1 (of 2)

This volume opens with a clear mission: to untangle the tangled legends that have long surrounded music and replace them with well‑researched facts. Written in an accessible, conversational tone, it moves from the curious coincidences of bell‑ringing to the folklore of musical fairies, offering readers a tour through topics such as Hindu traditions, the Wild Huntsman, and the strange superstitions attached to instruments. Throughout the text, short musical excerpts are provided, each linked to a midi file so listeners can hear the examples being discussed, and any accompanying lyrics appear alongside the notation.

The author takes care to point out occasional errors in earlier reference works, supplying concise explanations that enrich the reader’s understanding without overwhelming them. With its blend of cultural anecdotes, ethnological insights, and practical musical illustrations, the book serves both the casual enthusiast eager to debunk a myth and the more serious student looking for a reliable, well‑annotated guide to music’s many mysteries.