Book Review: Travels with Stephen by Stephen Gunzenhauser

“This book is a collection of forty years in the music business. It is filled with stories told over drinks, to hotels and restaurants experienced throughout travels in Eastern Europe. Conducting on national Television for the Philadelphia Phillies, to rehearsing an orchestra on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, to interviews on QVC and HSN, to running a 10k for the Delaware Symphony, the diversity of experiences make for an entertaining read.”

Goodreads blurb for Travels with Stephen

Review:

“The Most Famous Unknown Conductor.” 

Right from the subtitle I wanted to learn more about Stephen Gunzenhauser. In this memoir, he discusses his life, career, and background in music. I consider myself a casual fan of classical music and I attend the symphony on occasion so I was curious to learn more from an inside point of view. 

Complete with pictures, the structure of the book is a chronological timeline of Stephen Gunzenhauser’s life. He offers a unique look at the music industry, specifically live orchestras. Though I already had an interest in this topic to begin with, I believe others who are less inclined would also find the subject interesting as it is presented in a way that isn’t at all intimidating. There are many recognizable names as well, which for me, added to my curiosity. 

As interesting as I found the book to be, I also found the pacing to be quicker than I would have liked. In a way, most of the sections felt like shorthand. I would have enjoyed spending more time on some of the stories. At the same time, I was grateful that everything stayed on track and that the narration was cohesive. 

Aside from taking a look at Stephen Gunzenhauser’s life, the book also serves as a glimpse at the era of the mid-20th century. This includes letter scans from people such as Robert F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan, Fred Rogers, etc. as well as general moments of history mentioned in passing. I found these to be intriguing additions. But, of course, nothing tops the discussion of music — be it the industry itself or different pieces of music. It was difficult not to set the book down and build a playlist. 

Perhaps needless to say, Stephen Gunzenhauser has had an impressive career and has led an interesting life. I’m glad he took the time to share his stories.

Thanks to Discovery for inviting me to receive a free digital copy to read and review!

Likes & Dislikes:

What I liked:

• Provides and interesting perspective of the music industry.
• Easy to read.

What I didn’t like:

• Too fast a pace.

Afterthoughts:

Thanks again to Reedsy Discovery for inviting me to read and review this book!

Where to buy the book: