Lindsey Stirling

First encountered Lindsey when I saw she was doing a book reading in my hometown (which is also her hometown), the title catchy (pirates!) and the goofy look she has on the book cover. Had low expectations for this book expecting something bordering on vapid and whatever the opposite of grounded is but willing to check out the book.

Now I'm writing this review as I listen to Lindsey on Youtube (I like her covers). Lindsey Stirling is an electronic and dancing violinist and also a grounded goof, and I mean that in the dearest way possible. She has conversed with Taylor Swift and wears Forever 21 clothing. I appreciated her candor about her battle with anorexia and delighted in her chapter with "escapades" with drugs and alcohol.

If you are Lindsey Stirling fan, you will love this book and love her even more.

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This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: The Only Pirate at the Party

The Only Pirate at the Party is the inspiring story of Lindsey Stirling. While some of her hurdles in the music industry are well known, she’ll also reveal internal struggles she’s overcome in her journey to success. Readers will watch as she transforms throughout the book, forging her path in the music industry. She’s not your average performer. The sincerity and humor she brings to this memoir are heartwarming.

Lindsey Stirling’s music is just as unique as her personality. Readers will have a chance to see her journey through childhood and the family driven relationships that helped cement her values. She is a genuine down to earth person and reading about how deeply she cares for those close to her is enlightening. If you are part of her tour crew, you are treated like family. And there are plenty of stories within this memoir that will make you laugh at the antics on tour.

But along the way, there will also be the occasional people who spark insecurity and doubt in her mind. And there will also be some surprising reveals about fellow performers who look down on Lindsey Stirling. Some even put her into challenging situations that made her question her worth as a musician. It angered me how petty certain individuals could be. Music is such a unique experience to listeners and there is such a wide variety available. It doesn’t matter what genre of music is played, not everyone has to play a certain way. Music allows people to embrace their creativity and be who they are through their songs.

If you enjoy memoirs or are a fan of Lindsey Stirling’s music, grab a copy of this book. This is a quick and entertaining read, filled with memorable moments. And if you have the chance, grab the audiobook version of The Only Pirate at the Party. Lindsey Stirling herself narrates and brings an added depth of emotion to each chapter.… (more)

Last week (August 2016) I attended a short course. One session was spent on the difference between pop and classical music. At first it seems easy to tell the difference, but the point the teacher made was that sometimes it's not that easy. For example most people would classify Lindsey Stirling's music as Pop, but she says attendance at her performances include people of all ages, (and they are well behaved) which is more typical of classical music.

On Marketing"After a year of talking people into buying gels they would never use, Michelle and I both realized this was not our future." Page 219 (Isn't marketing wonderful.)

The Glamour Job"I occasionally get tired and cranky and think about how nice it would be to have a normal work week with weekends and vacation days again. Its times like these that I've learned: even dream job feel like work some days." Page 220

"Up to this point, most of the book has been full of sunshine and rainbows, because let's face it, I grew up well. Good parents, good friends, good neighbors, good schools, good opportunities. But we all have something. I don't want to draw too much attention to my something, because it's not a badge of honor. I'm not proud of it, and I don't feel like a stronger or better person for having gone through it. On the contrary, it rendered me weak and crippled for years, and it cost me much more than I ever gained. It's a part of my past not a part of who I essentially am as a person.... I had an eating disorder." Page 86

"Once upon a time I thought I blew the greatest moment of my life. I no longer believe that is possible. Life is kind and full of great moments, but I think the greatest moment of my life is always ahead of me." Page 253

Her outlook on Life"Maybe my best isn't as good as someone else's, but for a lot of people, my best is enough. Most important, for me, it's enough." Page 242

It has been over a year since I watched one of her videos, but reading this book has made me want to go on YouTube and watch her performing.… (more)