MSCI

You can't go wrong his books! They're straight and to the point, but easy enough for the beginners. I play seven different instruments, all self taught and the guitar is the hardest instrument that I have ever tried to master. This man's books have made that goal a lot easier. If you don't to spend a lot of money on lessons, then just buy his books and practice, practice, practice! Did you know that most musicians out there are self taught? It's true and I'm living proof!!!

I had been checking music stores and the net for a good chord reference material. I found plenty of those 10000 or a million chords books, which seems to be very useful for professional musicians, but unfortunately were too complicated for such a beginner and "weekend" guitar player like me.

Then I found this booklet, which was 8 pages long, but it seemed quite complete and very simply to follow and understand.

We basically have chord diagrams with four types of A chords, four types of E chords, four types of D chords, etc... We have the most common and used 48 chords, and an interesting aspect is that it always tells you which chords go well with other chords.

It means that you can learn the chords by simply copying the diagrams and then create your chord progression for a song you want to compose. A very useful tool to compose your first songs for acoustic or electric guitar.

There is also a guide for chord progressions, in case you don't even want to create your own and just want to follow instructions and learn new things.

I am sure there must be more complete books around, but if you basically want to learn a few more chords, learn about chord progressions and maybe compose your first songs, this cheap booklet is almost a must.

This booklet is rightly priced, it contains valuable info and is presented in a simply to understand format. Maybe later I will go for a more complete book on chords, with all those thousands of chords, but right now I am very happy with my choice!

This is a very handy chord reference guide to have available for a quick check on a chord you are practicing. It also includes a chord combination chart so that you can start arranging your own chord progressions.

This is a great book that provides clear and concise insight into the life of Arthur Alexander. The story behind the singer, the songwriter and a true influence behind some of the greatest figures of rock and roll. This story should be made into a movie so everyone can learn about this unsung hero. Richard Younger has researched Arthur's life, the people he affected directly, and the soul of this talented man. READ THIS BOOK AND LEARN THE STORY OF A MAN WHO DESERVES TO BE RECOGNIZED AND REMEMBERED!!!

After being a fan of Arthur Alexander in the early sixties he seemed to drop out of sight, occassional records but very little else seemed to appear, this book puts the record straight and fills in all those gaps. It also goes a long way to answering the reasons that he did not make it to the position in the music scene that his undoubted talent deserved. The book is very well written by Richard Younger who obviously felt very deeply about the subject, he deals with the problems that AA encountered in his music career and his private life. It was sad that at the very time that AA was begining to make a comeback and he was again showing the talent that was always there he was taken from us. He had become religious during the last few years and this seemed to have a calming effect on him and I am sure that he would have again had big selling records. Thank you Richard for an insight into the life of Arthur Alexander through the highs and lows.

Arthur Alexander was always a mystery man - till now! Richard Younger's biography of one of the most distinctive and influential black singers of the 60s sheds sympathetic illumination upon the life, the music - and the demons - of this woefully underrated singer/songwriter (the only writer to have songs cut by The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan). AA's hugely-satisfying vocals married to his distinctive soul-country arrangements (his reputation was founded on just four 1962 Dot-label singles) emerged moments before the UK beat boom swept the globe and was crucial in its influence on the Beatles and the Stones. Younger's book explains how it all came about, taking us on a roller-coaster ride through AA's life of musical and personal extremes. With a series of revealing interviews he transports us to the heart of the Alabama music scene and charts Arthur's role in the foundation of the Muscle Shoals/Fame recording empires. Whether you're a long-term Alexander devotee, a soul music buff, or simply a Sixties survivor, then you'll find this unputdown-able tome a tonic that'll have you listening with a fresh ear to those perennial Alexander classics.

I'll admit it -- I'm biased toward Carl Perkins. I lived several years in his hometown of Jackson, TN and met him many times. Having those experiences, I was curious how this book would portray Mr. Perkins. After reading this book, I have more respect for Mr. Perkins. True, he wasn't perfect (who is?), but he had reason to be bitter about his career and his life, instead he never gave up. He pulled himself up after each setback and kept on striving. When you think about it, what would be the alternative? He was not only a great musician, but an active humanitarian. His work with children and their causes is nearly as impressive as his musical career, yet most people don't know of this. I went to Carl Perkins' funeral, and in the little city of Jackson, TN you would have thought time stood still. This book will give you the feeling of getting to know a true American success story . . .

What a story!! This should be a must read for all of us who get to feeling sorry for ourslves. Carl Perkins came from abject poverty,a racially discriminating South,was known as "white trash",wrote one of rock n rolls seminal tunes,was on the brink of superstardom,lost it all,became a sideman to another Sun records stablemate,delved into the pit of addiction,rose again,had alot of his early work recorded by a group known as the Beatles,played with the likes of Eric Clapton,loved performing with his own family,lived his life humbly,nursed somewhat of a grudge against Sam Phillips,Jerry Lee Lewis,and Elvis,made peace with himself,and left behind the legacy of a man who had seen the beast within and had conquered it.
This is a must read for anyone who has any interest in music,or for that matter,the sociology of the South during the late 1940's and 1950's. It is also ,quite simply,one of the most inspiring books that I've ever read,Thank You, Carl Perkins!

Much has been made of the tragic events in Carl Perkins' life, but in the end his values and personal strength stood him in much better stead than most of his Sun contemporaries (see Escott and Hawkin's book on Sun Records). Pretty good for a kid who, with his brothers, were so poor that they were skinny from undernourishment as children. This book follows Carl from childhood until near the end (he passed away shortly after publication). The section on the Tennessee tonk scene in the 40's and 50's and "tush hogs" is especially colorful.

This is hands down one of the best books about music I've ever read. This should be circulated in ever high school and college throughout the U.S. and beyond!

I am so glad to see jzmckay's excellent review of this book, posted here. He said many of the things that I feel about this book.

I have studied music, including theory, for thirty years, and nothing has expanded my understanding (and perception!) of music as much as the information in this book.

I have studied music with the author of this book -- he's a great writer about music and an even better teacher! I know that this work is the result of a lifetime of profound consideration of what is at the very heart of the musical experience, and of why music affects us as it does. W. A. Mathieu's highly intelligent exposition is a great gift to all who wish to deepen their understanding of music.

I would like to express my personal thanks to the author for this book, which has enhanced my sensitivity to music.

As an undergraduate music major interested in music theory, I happened upon this book by accident while browsing through the theory section of the music library looking for a good book on harmony. All I can say is that the book impressed me so much that I ordered my own copy three days later.

What impressed me so much? Well, for more than a year now I've been trying to sift through music theory texts (as well as acoustics and other math-heavy texts) trying to understand why music sounds good. Why did music develop the way it did? Why did tonality and other parts of classical music break apart in the early twentieth century? Is it purely explicable by artistic means, or is there something about the physical world of acoustics (or psychoacoustics) that effected the development of Western music?

My search led me to the area of tuning, in particular, and to numerous other areas of musical acoustics and theory. In any case, this book explains the basics of everything that I've distilled out of scores of books. Most theorists and general musicians have no clue about how music really works--it took me a full year of reading to get some clue. But, this book presents the basics in such a way that the beginner feels at home, but also puts everything together for an advanced reader in such an incredible way that all I could say was, "Why didn't I find this book last year? It puts together everything I've learned in 18 months to produce the theory that I always knew had to exist!"

Mathieu has written a different kind of music theory book, and one that more theorists should read. He systematically derives Western harmony, starting from simple improvised melodies against a drone, and ending with a theory that encompasses jazz theory as well as traditional tonal harmony. Along the way, you learn more than you ever need to know about the tuning problems that led to modern equal temperament (and without the endless mathematics that scares many musicians away).

But, more importantly, you learn to sing intervals--in tune and pure. The beginning (and most important part) of "Harmonic Experience" is about singing--it is about FEELING why music makes sense to our ears, and slowly figuring out how that evolved into modern Western music.

I recommend this book to three groups:

(1) People who want to know why and how music works (i.e., beginners in music theory) - you won't be able to digest everything in this book in one gulp, but, studied along with traditional harmony, this book will enrich your understanding of music in so many ways. It's written at a level that anyone with the ability to read music and play keyboard a little will understand.

(2) More advanced musicians who have some theory background - if music theory always turned you off, or if you ever wanted to understand more of the "why" rather than the "how" that most harmony courses focus on, this is the book for you.

(3) Music theorists - Even if you have a Ph.D. in music theory, I think you can learn something from this book. There are a few places where the author goes a little far out in his way of explaining things, but you often have to do that when presenting an alternative viewpoint. WARNING: this book may change the way you think about theory. I'm not saying this is a new Bible for theorists--but I think it addresses issues that are not adequately considered in current theoretical research. It provides a fresh perspective in a simple, constructive way. Also, it provides a new set of analytical tools based on some already used in theory--but the background the book gives allows you to use the tools in new ways. It is not so much a new theory as it is a new basis for theory and a new way of THINKING about theory.

In general, if you are a musician and want to understand why music is structured the way it is, this will start you off on the right track.

I am Balinese and live in Ubud, about 10 minutes walk from where Colin McPhee stayed, when he came to Bali in 1931. My aunt worked for him.

He heard a record of gamelan music in New York and couldn't wait to get to Bali to listen to the real thing.

He stayed in Bali for almost 8 years and set about documenting gamelan music. Much of his research was carried out in a village near Ubud where my Villas are. There are still old people in the village who remember him.

His book is beautifully written and tells stories of his adventures and life in the village and his encounters with the local Balinese. It's not necessary to understand technical music matters to enjoy this book - it is totally accessible.

Highly recommended.

It's a very interesting book in regards to what I have actually read. It seems to have accounts on Balinese culture. I found it enjoyable and interesting to read because it not only talks about Balinese culture but about the conflict and clashes within the village like the little dancer named Sampih and his dance teacher Nyoman Kaler.

Colin McPhee conveys many interesting things like when bad luck happened in his home in Sayan and how they had to do a purification ceremony in regards to dispel the demons, witches and evil spirits. His wanderings in Bali to record music and study their music like the rare gamelan angklung and gamelan selonding from Tenganan who were the Bali Aga. Colin McPhee was drawn to the scintallinating sounds and metallic shimmer from the gamelan. At times there are humours accounts of what goes on between him and his friends that happen in the village or when they are touring around Bali. I found it enjoyable because, he seemed to have fitted in well with the Balinese people without too much problems compared with other writers before them spoke of barbarity and the animal like behaviour of the Balinese at certain functions. He writes with passion about what goes on and how things have changed with the colonial rule of the Dutch. The loss of autonomy by the Rajas who were reduced to poverty at times and how their obessions with cockfighting led to their ruin. Yet in times of despair and hardship they are always humble to him.

Overall the book contains a few photographs of his friends and colleagues. I found it wonderful and intriguing and as well as captiviting at times which he covers so many topics like the temple functions like Galungan, Wayang Kulit (Shadow Plays), the music club etc... This book you will grow to love like the book written by Miguel Corrovabias "Island of Bali".

Ever since I visited Bali in 1997, I've been hooked on anything Bali--gamelan music, the wayang puppets, the masks, the smell of kretek ( I don't smoke) and incense, frangipani flowers,... even the sputtering sound of motorcycles! I got my hands on all the National Geographic issues on Bali I could lay my hands on in second-hand bookshops .

When I found this book, I was almost certain I wasn't going to be disappointed. I was right. Consider, for instance, the blurb at the back of the book: "The graveryard, moreover, was a natural meeeting-place for witches and sorcerers, for every village had its suspects, owneres of books of spells that enabled the reader to change himself into a leyak--a ball of fire, a giant rat, or even a riderless motor cycle that travelled backwards. In this magic state sorcerers were indeed dangerous; they could send a man out of his wits or bring him to a lingering death."

Written by a musician, it doesn't fare so badly as a literary read. It captures the magic, mysticism, and soul of a place. A Bali experience is a sensory overload. Colin McPhee happily immersed himself in it and did a very impressive job.

Finally! A book that really helped us! My band and I read all the other books. Went to the seminars. Paid the lawyers. But this book has opened our eyes, sharpened our pencils and got us going. Our songs are 'way stronger, and now we have a major deal on the table.
Put your egos away and listen to this lady. She knows her stuff. This book will change your life and career, too.

How To Be A Hit Songwriter: Polishing And Marketing Your Lyrics And Music offers practical creative and career advice from an Emmy-nominated songwriter Molly-Ann Leikin. From rewriting without overwriting, to coping with rejection, to meeting deadlines, to developing business smarts, and so much more, How To Be A Hit Songwriter is a definitive, down-to-earth, accessibly written, "must-read" instructional reference guide for all aspiring song writers and composers of popular music.

'Been in the game for 12 years getting no place. Moved to Nashville, hang out, thought I was doing stuff right. But I kept hearing what I didn't want to hear - my songs weren't quite there. 'Been too stubborn to accept that. Then I read Leiken's book and read what all those publishers said. Okay- I'll give it another shot, doing it their way. Thanks, Mollie. Good to know you're out there

"I see the rhythm. I see the rhythm of our beginnings. I feel the pulse of a people and a land in harmony. I hear the legends told by the drum, the beats of our beliefs, the music of our ancient history..." From its roots in Africa and slave songs, to the birth of the blues, ragtime, swing, jazz, and gospel, to rhythm and blues, rock and roll, hip hop, funk, and rap, Toyomi Igus and Michele Wood trace the history of African American music. Ms Igus' lyrical free verse, rich in imagery and magic, is powerful and evocative as it swirls creatively around the page, and is complemented by Ms Wood's stunning illustrations, full of emotion and drama that captures both the feel of the music and the times. Each two page spread also includes a brief description of the musical style, and a marvelous timeline that sets that musical period in its larger, historical context. Perfect for youngsters 10 and older, I See The Rhythm is an inspiring feast for the eyes and ears that celebrates African American music and brings it to life on the page, and is a terrific introduction that shouldn't be missed.

This is an excellent resource for the classroom. It depicts the history of African American music from Africa to rap/hip hop with vibrant art work matching the electric words! Wow!

This book is a great book to include in a public library, home library, or school library. This book can be incorporated in many areas of learning. The author does an excellent job discussing the historical and physical features of African American music. Reading the book is like going on a musical journey. Some of the music types discussed are; jazz, ragtime, blues, gospel, and bebop. Each music type is well described, and Michele has included in each musical description a timeline, important figures associated with the music, and sample lyrics. Michele Wood also includes an activity in the book. She has put a little girl in each scene, and the reader has to locate her. It is not always easy. The little girl represents Michele when she was growing up. I highly recommend this book to young and old. Michele Wood has done an excellent job writing an interesting and informative book.

a great visual journey into john lennon's life with plenty of intimate photographs

i bought this book after seeing the rave reviews it got, thinking it was a real reading book. turned out to be a HUGE, glossy pictorial account..... but it's just as good probably better. awesome rare photos and quotes by the man and friends, and packed full of priceless memories. get it.

All I can say is that this book is the best I've ever owned on any member of the Beatles. Jammed full of pictures and a detailed bio, this book is everything that you need to know about John Lennon's life, work, and social standings. I give it an A++++. Forwarded by Yoko Ono.

I learned to play the piano with Miss Claire Remembers from Watermark. This stuff is so easy to play and sounds so beautiful... and it is easy to memorize, I don't even need the book anymore.

The music in Shepherd Moons is easier to play than Memory of Trees. An advanced player could easily sightread the music; therefore, it is not a challenging book. However, the music is gorgeous and fun to play. I've been playing it every day since I bought the book last week.

This is a really good music book. Shepherd Moons is my favorite Enya album and now I have fun playing the music. I'velearned how to play No Holly For Miss Quinn very well. This music is at first hard to play(which shows how advanced her music is)but if you stretch your hands and practive often, you may be able to play very well.

Enya's music is very well arranged. The music often smoothly changes key majors and flows from measure to measure. People studying music theory will probably like to look at this book and see Enya's structure of music. Any critic of her music should get this book and see how well written her music is. It's very nicely done.

For the casual reader, the serious bookworm, and everybody in between - this should appeal to everyone who is interested or intruiged by the evolution of music with the Electric Bass. It all started here, and rock music as we know it would never be the same without the instrument pioneered 50 years ago by Leo Fender.

This book spans, in detail, the life (and death) of Fender basses... from the prominent Precision Bass, to the unique Jazz Bass, and even the concept 1970's 5-string short-scale bass which would never be seen again in the market. It will show you photographs of the Fender team in action... and much more.

In the back of the book, you will find descriptive explainations of the changes the basses underwent in the 50 years of existance... right down to the Tuning Keys, Bridges, and Decals.

This book is a treasure to me - if I ever lost it, I would buy another one without hesitation.

This book is the Vintage Fender Bass Handbook. The text and information is very easy to read and understand, most of it is in clearly captioned detailed photos. It covers all the models from the beginning to present, the book features co-author Albert Molinaro's unbelievable bass collection, the photos are worth the book price alone! This is really great if you are into Fender bases or vintage Fender guitars, and who isn't! Out of all my Guitar related books, this may be one of the easiest to View, Use and Enjoy! BUY IT - YOU WILL NOT BE SORRY!

Bass player, guitar guru or history junky, The Fender Bass is required reading. J Black and Albert Molinaro have put together a comprehensive and enjoyable journey into the evolution of the world's favorite bass. Hundreds of vivid color photos, vintage advertisements and behind the scene glimpses at Fender, chronicle each minute detail and nuance of the ever-changing bass. Close up photography, clear, detailed writing and precise index create a useable technical reference book as well as a delightful read.

This book cleverly walks through the past and present of this amazing and historically significant instrument. The Fender Bass is a must have for any bass player, guitarist or Fender fan. Buy it now.