Some people solve their midlife crises by buying a motorcycle — Jasper Rees decided to face down his childhood enemy: the French horn. Now available in paperback, Rees’ account takes us from band camp to the concert hall and back again. Along the way, we visit with players from biblical times through to the guy who played with the Beatles’ Sergeant Pepper band. The horn is notorious for betraying even lifelong players, but Rees’ efforts are inspiring.

Rees visited Studio 360 last spring — and he brought his horn: