Turn Around and Take a Bow!

A lovely fly on the wall set of stories about a great career in music and musical theatre. If I didn’t already have the book I’d be hoping Santa Claus would be bringing me a copy this year!

I have just finished reading this book, and I am amazed at what this very talented person has achieved in his life, to date. Mike was my accompanist for my FTCL at Music College, and I knew then that someone who had the ability to sight read Hindemith, as well as a reputation as a pianist, can only do well in the music business. It is one of those books that is hard to put down - so much activity on each page. One noticeable thing is that Mike has mentioned how he got that magic break in the music business - around the time that he was working with Fulham Music Theatre. Anyone who is going into the music business will be pleased to read this, as not many successful artists mention this sort of thing. Mike has given so much to the music industry, and there is hardly a living artist that he has not worked with. I congratulate Mike, as well as the publishers, on such a fabulous presentation!

I knew Mike many years ago and it was lovely to hear so much about his childhood, career and personal life. From Miss World to Royal Variety performances and from studio recordings to West End shows, Mike gives a great insight into his work within the music industry as well as many funny anecdotes from his experiences. For anyone who has an interest in live music this book is definitely worth a read.

Mike's love of family, music and life shines through this entire book and his honest, sincere and engaged writing style makes it a 'page-turner'. You feel you are right there with him. Having worked with Mike a long time ago (!), I had no idea of his family background and education and no detail of his journey. He speaks with humility throughout: be it with mentors, colleagues, musicians generally and the many performers he worked with and respected around the globe - as well as the diverse audiences and artists he inspired. His antics, escapades and the technical hitches he overcame are fascinating and make this book a very human autobiography, as well as one which enlightens any musician, theatre performer or theatre-goer about the flexibility, resilience, talent and professionalism needed to succeed as a top MD in musical theatre. The emphasis he places on communicating through song mirrors the communicator that is Mike. Humour, positivity and kindness abound. Brilliant book!

Well, I've just finished this truly amazing book! I felt exhausted reading the musical adventures that Mike has had in his life and the remarkable memory that he has of dates, names, places etc. How lucky for all the people who have worked with Mike as he is obviously an inspiration to all of them. One of the best reads I have had for a long time! Da iawn gwych Mike Dixon.