Physics Behind Music is an undergraduate textbook that presents physics concepts through the lens of music. The book covers vibrations, waves, acoustics and electronics applications, organized in short, easy-to-digest chapters.
Its unique approach emphasizes human perception, which is crucial in music and rarely considered in physics. The author effectively explains complex physics concepts in an accessible manner, requiring only basic algebra, plane geometry and simple graphs and functions.
The physics of music is illustrated through the use of vivid examples, such as the workings of wind instruments, acoustic absorbers, the cocktail room effect, microphones and electric guitar pickups. Each chapter includes problems and suggestions for extra reading to enhance understanding.
The end-of-chapter summaries and problems encourage readers to reflect and check their understanding. Physics Behind Music is a well-written and engaging textbook that would make an excellent addition to any physics or music classroom; it reflects the author's passion for both fields throughout.
Review by Marko Spasenović, Institute of Chemistry, Technology and Metallurgy, Belgrade, Serbia
The opinions expressed in the book review section are those of the reviewer and do not necessarily reflect those of OPN or its publisher, Optica (formerly OSA).