The Power of Practice: How Music and Yoga Transformed the Life and Work of Yehudi Menuhin

Kristin Wendland is Professor of Pedagogy in the Department of Music.

The Power of Practice showcases the pioneering achievements of renowned violinist Yehudi Menuhin (1916-99) and how both disciplines transformed his life and practice. Menuhin's contributions as a performer, teacher, and humanitarian are celebrated around the world. Less well known, however, is Menuhin's devotion to the practice of yoga and his close friendship with the renowned yogi B. K. S. Iyengar (1918–2014), whose guidance profoundly influenced Menuhin as both a musician and a philanthropist. Menuhin applied his understanding of Iyengar's teachings to his philosophy of musical practice, creating new ways to approach the teaching of violin technique. He also took broader lessons from yoga to inform his approach to interacting with the larger world as a cultural ambassador and influential artist. Through the lens of the life and work of the celebrated violinist and devoted yogi, this book uncovers deep connections between music and yoga. It shows how the practice of both disciplines can profoundly transform our world into a better place.

“Beautifully written by a musician and practicing yogi, this book is both scholarly and easy to read while providing a comprehensive and detailed overview of a musician’s life, well lived and greatly enhanced by an active yoga practice and the study of yoga philosophy.” Lesley McAllister, Baylor University School of Music

“A highly readable account of Iyengar and his teachings’ lasting impact on Menuhin and Menuhin’s legacy.” Suzanne Newcombe, The Open University