survive the dismal and sometimes cruel times, without losing track of his goal to become a musician like his father. It is a story of ambition, coincidence, fate, resilience, and overall a positive attitude towards change and progress, which leads this young man on the right path. He tells about encounters with famous musicians during 40 years of touring the world with his orchestra, and recalls anecdotes about both failures and moments of great success, at home as well as abroad. Most importantly, however, there is the feeling of music uniting and reconciling the nations of this world, with Japan being a cornerstone in his vita. Finally, it is also a story about post-war Germany on her way to overcome her guilt and accept responsibility by fostering peace and understanding among the people of this world through music. In hindsight, it becomes clear that also many famous pieces of music of the 20th century ¿ Shostakovich in his 10th Symphony, for example, or Richard Strauss, for that matter ¿ grapple with the conflicts of the 20th century. Rudolf Weinsheimer keeps the reader close to his life experiences, be they professional or private, he is honest and outspoken at times, yet always human, and also philosophical when it comes to the unexpected turns life can take.