4 comments about The Remixer's Bible: Build Better Beats.

1. I really enjoyed reading Fracis Preve's "The Remixer's Bible". He keeps it light and fun while still giving you a ton of tricks and insight into remixing and sound design. I would recommend this book for beginners to experts. I also really like the history lessons around certain sounds and the gear that was used to make it. I also like the format of the book as its broken up into lots of smaller sections that you can read and then try out.



2. Back in 1999, I started playing with loop sequencing and over the years have assembled a few dozen tracks. I most recently started getting hardware to support my music endeavours, and I stumbled across this book in a bookstore. When I flipped through it, I knew this would be the one as it covered all of the aspects of remixing and editing. Going in depth, arguably its best chapters are on sound design and mixing. I have discovered a new language, and now I can go back to all of my computer music magazines and actually understand what they are talking about. Knowing how to visualize what you are doing to sound made all the difference for me and now I can program my own synths.
   
   The other aspect I really liked about this book was that the tips from real musicians were particularly englightening. Seeing how deep these other musicians go to get their sound inspired me to become more flexible in my approach to writing music.
   
   Definitely a great buy.



3. I was glad to actually come across a book that was catered towards people who had a bit of experience with making beats. Most of these sorts of books are always for people who want to start from scratch. It's not like it's a book for experts and beginners can't pick this up, infact it could be useful to most. People with a lot of experience could find something in there worth the buy, and people who are relatively new to the world of remixing, (but really it caters to beat making in general) or have some experience under their belt, should be able to find a whole lot of useful information.
   
   As cheesy as the title might be, this book is quality.



4. I purchased this thinking it was going to go farther with insider tips but it is basically the abridged version of the dance music manual and the guy just puts little side sections of what the bigger names have to say and they really don't say to much!!! I wish I would've not even wasted my money!!!!!!!!!

5 comments about How To Play Popular Piano In 10 Easy Lessons (Fireside Books (Fireside)).

1. I feel that though the book makes learning seem easy, there is still a lot of work to be done by the individual to learn the piano. It does however break learning into easy steps, and is a great tool for the person who would like to take a more laissez faire attitude to learning, or who cant afford a teacher just yet.
   
   It has also helped me rekindle my interest in playing. Nice idea indeed.



2. My first venture into piano lessons and I have enjoyed it. Using basic chords I was playing nice sounding music in no time; not the one finger tunes. I recommend this to anyone who wants to play the piano and sound good from the start.



3. a good introduction to playing a piano.easy to follow but got a bit to techinal at the end as if the writer wanted to finish the book .



4. Easy and usefull. Just the essential for an absolute begginer explained in a plane manner.



5. Just what I`ve been looking for. A not so intense and fun
   way to learn how to play piano and take advantage of all
   those great Fake Books available.

4 comments about Modern Reading Text in 4/4 For All Instruments.

1. This is a great book for bass players, as well as, drummers. It gives progressively challenging rhythm reading exercises. It gives examples using quarter-notes, eight-notes, tied rhythms, dotted rhythms, 16th-notes, etc. It presents a rhythm in a variety of ways that allow the user to see how the same musical sound can written in different ways. It is very mathmatical in its presentation. Although I was initially intimidated by the material, by working steadily,I have been able to build my confidence handling this type of material. Highly recommended.



2. Bellson and Breines have accomplished what few authors on rhythmic perception are able to do: they have managed to combine a comprehensive overview of the most commonly-occuring notations in jazz, popular and Latin music repertoire with a sense of poetic lyricism, even if the book is based on only one note. The text is systematically laid-out, progressing from simple to difficult within all possible subdivisions of 4/4, yet maintains a constant sense of swing and realistic momentum. Every line of notation easily translates into melody and there are constant surprises; there was a tremendous amount of thought and love put into this work, and every imaginable kind of notation for the same rhythm is included in the text. Makes for excellent and challenging, not to mention inspiring exploration. Thank you Louis and Gil. Bravo!



3. If you're a musician who has to worry about rhythm (which is everyone) this book is a must-read. I'm a guitarist and this has helped my rhythm playing more than any high-priced book, video or lesson out there. Louis Bellson's book forced me to view rhythm in a disciplined manner. Even after working through only 5 or 6 pages, the book paid for itself. It's got enough exercises to keep me busy for a lifetime.

   Its cover may give the appearance of a sterile high-school drum major's book, but don't let its cheesy orange color (or very low price, for that matter) fool you. This is a serious rhythm book, guaranteed to help you establish a groove, make your music funkier (if that's what you're going for), and give your internal clock a well-deserved workout.




4. Bold words, eh?
   
   The book has virtually no text, just a page of explanation in the beginning. (One instruction, to play music in straight and swung eighths, is vital for jazz musicians.) There is only 1 note in the text, the bass clef "e." You use the exercises in the book to develop your sense of pulse and sub-division of the beat.
   
   I had 2 degrees and a teaching certificate in music before I ever found this book. By the time I'd finished the first 14 pages, my understanding and ability to play time was virtualy mastered.
   
   The magic of this book is the hidden organization. I learned in education classes the value of "sequential learning" and "one complexity at a time." This book applies those principles in a masterful way. Every possible placement of quarter notes and rests are explored, line by line, in a sequential fashion. (Rest on beat 2, rest on beat 3, rest on beat 4, rest on beat 1, then 2 rests, 3 rests and so on.)
   
   After quarter notes, the same thing is done with eighths and sixteenths, including ties. Dotted rhythms are explored. By the time you've finished the section, you have encountered every single possible rhythm.
   
   I have my students count and then play these examples. It is a discipline and can be tiresome, but make it a game for yourself. If you want to learn to read music better, this is one "must have" book.

5 comments about The Soul of Tone: Celebrating 60 Years of Fender Amps (Book & CD).

1. I think that Amazon needs to stop bothering me to write these reviews. Even though they know that my knowledge in this field is considered by many to be the final word in all things amplified. And even though the last review that they finally got me to write was disputed by the latest Russian experts, absurdly claiming that my "thoughts on atom/electron sequencing can only be pulled out of a wizard's sleeve". Enough said. This claim is not only false but void of any reliable rebuilding process. Finally, the review...
   
   I didn't start with Fender amps. I learned the hard way, which is why I know what I'm talking about. So thanks and praise to Leo for coming up with great ideas -- so good that all people even Russians can do now is to try and copy it. That's how good it is. I've experimented a lot, tried all sorts of amps, but I don't change there things 'round no more. I found what I'm looking for.



2. Buy this book - treasure it - read it thoroughly over and over again - you will learn so much.
   Listen to the CD by Greg Koch - amazing!
   If you love Fender - and their history, you CANNOT do better than buy this beautifully produced book.
   Tom Wheeler is an authority - along with Richard R. Smith, they are the world leaders when it comes to anything Fender.
   This is a book for life - fantastic illustrations - and a wonderful companion to The Stratocaster Chronicles.
   Obviously written with intelligence and insight - this is THE reference on the subject - and what a subject!
   Fender made/makes the finest sounding guitar amplifiers in the world.
   I've got 3 different models here in my study that range from 45 to 50 years old - and still going strong as ever, being played in the bedroom - or pubs and clubs....they sound fabulous.
   Tom Wheeler knows what he's talking about - a writer of the very highest integrity. I highly recommend this wonderful book.
   Bob Hewitt UK [...]



3. If you are a fan of the Fender sound, and curious about the origins of Leo Fender, the Fender company and the legendary Fender guitar amplifiers then this book is for you. Its the first coffee table sized book I've ever had that is more than wonderful photos. Its a book I enjoy reading a great deal. There is a lot of detail, enough to keep a amplifier technician, or someone who doesn't care about the details of how they get the sound happy. There are lots of delicious quotes and images about those that prefer to use the Fender amp in their performances. Examples are Dick Dale, Buddy Guy, B. B. King, to Keith Richards. If those names aren't familiar to you, well it might not be a book for you. This is a book about influences and origins. Its not afraid to expose the mystery behind the curtain, but also to expose the inconsistencies of the Fender company.
   
   Then there is the disc that provide you with the ability to hear and compare the sound of a wide variety of amplifiers under very similar conditions. This provides those seeking to develop a tone all their own through a Fender guitar amplifier. It doesn't denigrate other vendors, and has comments and interviews by many of the other legends and current boutique makers in the guitar amplification arena.
   
   If you want to know about Fender amplification, this might be the only book you ever need.



4. I've been playing for 37 years. Great tone has always been a never ending quest. Some gear sounds thin, some tinny, or boomy, too fuzzy, or brittle, even dull. But some appliances produce sounds that are awesome. This book is about several of those savage appliances--vintage Fender amps. This book and its 2 accompanying CDs are wonderful; I've learned so much and I've been very entertained.
   
   Great read.



5. ..for tone enthusiasts. Great photos, great amps & great stories. Don't miss it, it'a a real very very sounding book!

No comments about Alfred's Basic Piano Library: Theory Book Level 1B (Alfred's Basic Piano Library).

3 comments about Sound in Motion: A Performer's Guide to Greater Musical Expression.

1. This book answers the question: "Why does one player's version sound more 'musical' than anothers's?"
   The answer is phrasing, an elusive quality to be sure. The author discusses note grouping, articulation choices, dynamics, and (to some degree) tonal production. Much of what he says comes from the Philadelphia tradition in woodwind playing, exemplified by the legendary teachers at the Curtis Institute. The information is applicable to all instruments.
   While much of the material can be had in bits and pieces from other sources, David McGill has put it all here, succinctly, and in an easy to read and logical narrative. He is a fine writer (and bassoonist) and will hopefully produce additional books...perhaps with an illustrative CD? hint. hint.
   This book should be a must for serious amateurs and performance majors alike.



2. David McGill has written a "must-read" book for all serious music students and professionals. I recommend it without reservation as a great investment to help anyone develop professionally mature musical expression; and also for any student to start to fathom the level of commitment and study required to be a great musical citizen.



3. Having studied with David McGill, I can honestly say with first-hand experience that he is a truly remarkable musician and teacher. As I read this book, I felt as I did in every one of my lessons. I know I left his studio each week better than I went in and I feel that I am now a wholly better musician because of his teachings. What I liked most, and what works so well in this book, too, was his clear and direct way of presenting information that made you feel like it was so obvious and you couldn't figure out why you hadn't thought of it before...I think any performer, whether a student or a seasoned veteran, can learn immensely from David's book and grow into a more thoughtful performer and a more valid interpreter of the music that we perform. Buy this book!

5 comments about Alfred's Basic Adult Piano Course: Lesson Book, Level 3 (Alfred's Basic Adult Piano Course).

1. This piano book is a great sequel to the other books Alfred has published for the advanced (and adult) piano player and learner. The books contain very good learning tips and examples of music and the knowledge of notes. I highly recommend this series. also for the variety of music pieces from well-known, semi-pop and classical.



2. Is the logical next step from Alfred's Adult Piano Course, Level 3. Easy to follow and understand. The series provides the gradual increase in exercises that help with piano playing skills.



3. I really enjoy studying Alfred's Basic Piano Course.
   I started playing piano rather late at age of 31.
   I finished part 1 and 2 and now having started with part 3, I recognize true progress. The music in this book really starts to sound like "true" piano works, using more pedal and finger acrobatics.
   I have been looking forward to this book for quite some time, since my piano teacher indicated, that this book contained my favorite "Mondschein Sonata". Although I have downloaded numerous copies of Beethoven's best know work, I am looking forward to reach the pages including this piece.
   This piece is included in a special part of the Book known as the "Ambitious section" containing well know classical masterpieces, which will require extra practice at a skill level compared to mine.
   The presence of such "ambitious section" really appeals me. Such chapter was not included in part 1 and 2 (although part 2 ended with the familiar "Canon in D" from Pachelbel).
   At time I just learnt playing the "Fandango" (3rd piece in the book), which is also very appealing. I really consider this book as a great asset to my study books and I will most likely enjoy every bit of it....Ohhh I love playing the piano ;-)



4. 
   This series is really for those that want to start at the beginning.
   
   Even those not familiar with reading notes, I recommend this series. I am still in book one, but moving steadily for the better and probalby finalizing by months end. Recommended to be used step by step with a lot of practice of the fingers and memorization of the a-to-g notes on the keyboard. Practice is the secret.
   
   Definetly recommended.
   
   Randall Croes



5. This was great to refresh my memory on piano lessons from years ago. It has been helpful and is well laid out. Loved the lessons and the music.

5 comments about Violin For Dummies (For Dummies (Sports & Hobbies)).

1. I am an adult who wanted to learn to play the violin without the expense of private lessons. So far, this book has been very easy to follow and the instructions are very clear. The CD is wonderful, it includes short videos and mp3 songs. I can play along with the songs and know that the notes are correct.
   My only compaint is that I found alot of the photos in the book hard to see. They are in black and white and the photos are far to dark.



2. Even though I am learning violin, I am not a dummy, and I do not like to be taught like one. There are much better book out there to learn how to play violin.



3. Katharine Rapoport brings a lot of experience to light in this book; designed for the very beginner through advanced. If you are trying to tackle violin pedagogy on your own maybe because you can't afford private lessons or maybe your schedule is not conducive for private lessons, or whatever reason; this book is a good place to start. The instruction is informative, structured, and relaxed in nature.



4. As a book about violin basics, this is OK. However as a book about learning to play the violin, it fails. There is an included disk containing both audio and video clips, but it is only good for the audio clips. The video did not work on my copy of Real Player. I finally learned that if I were to pay another $40 to Real Player I could look at the videos that I had purchased. While the line drawings in the book are good, the photographs are very difficult to make sense of. They are all black and white and they have not been well done. For this reason, I would not recommend this book. Spend your money elsewhere.



5. This thing is a life saver! I've always wanted to play the violin but new nothing about it or even how to read music. I bought a cheap violin here on amazon and this book helped me set it up, tune it and play a song...and i don't even know how to read music!!!! this thing is a great companion if you are just starting out. Even before i had my violin fully tuned i was sounding good...not at all with the screetching people think of when a person is starting out. This book rocks! plus super fast delivery...just a couple of days!!

5 comments about Chord Chemistry.

1. I give this book a 4 star rating and I take away the one star because I have difficulty reading the diagrams.



2. 
   This book is for any serious guitar player, and definitely should then be combined with Ted's "Modern Chord Progressions". This book has much info for any musician, on Harmonizations and Voice-Leading. His approach to guitar is simply superb. There are enough examples to intrigue for quite awhile.
   
   I first bought this book in the 1970's. Ted taught at Ernie Ball Guitars on Topanga Canyon Blvd in the 1960's, in Canoga Park. Friends and I lived there part time, as did many others. So, when the book came out I was an early beneficiary.
   
   "Modern Chord Progressions", lays off some of the Theory, and just gives page after page of often 4 chord change voicings (think 3-6-2-5 or maybe 1-6-2-b9 progressions of every flavour). These are presented in massive quantities of refined voicings for Jazz or Classical textured guitar chord melody.
   
   I long ago gave away my original copy, and then later gave away a few more copies. I bought one recently, and gave it away within days, and had to order it again. Giving this book to someone is like shining a light in the darkness.
   
   This is a really good book for guitarists that want to play more than the basic chords they find everywhere, and want it to all come together in a seriously beautiful way.
   
   I have recently seen a fan webpage dedicated to Ted Greene with some free online lessons and info about his life.
   
   K.O'Mara
   www.komaramusic.net



3. This book is a treasure trove of chord theory (and application). As such it should rate 5 stars. However, the book hasn't been edited since it's publication in 1971!
   That means hand-drawn chord diagrams, funky arrows, and hand-written notes (that occasionally may be impossible to read!).
   At the price charged, the publisher should have taken the time (and expense) to update the work with computer-drawn diagrams and better lay-out.
   The content is first class, but the poor lay-out lets it down.
   It's a 1971 book, where only the price have been brought up to date.



4. if you have the "heat" to learn the fretboard and "know" there is a way to digest it...this is your book..studied with Ted for a year..he gave me many additional "lesson" sheets that I still visit 25 years later..this book will "open your eyes" ... you will have many "now I get it" moments
   
   a deep hunger to lean this stuff is not required .. but it sure helps alot
   
   wolf



5. If you want to play well, this is it. You will learn not only chord structure, but how to build them (on the fly) and why you are doing so. Some basic music knowlage is helpfull. Warning: You have to WANT to LEARN to get the most from this book, however IT IS WORTH THE EFFORT! Ted Green's 'Modern Chord Progressions' is a nice companion. I have had an earlier copy scince the 70's and never found anything better. (Music theroy is not a bad thing )

5 comments about Schaum Note Spellers Book 1.

1. Book is helpful for teacher to have a material for their students to drill in note spelling, but it is not the best...



2. Great to help kids ( or adults) learn how to read music. As must for any piano program.



3. It's difficult to find notespeller books and was glad to find this one on Amazon. It's a great addition to the curriculum I am currently using for my piano students.



4. As an "older beginner" to the piano, I found this speller to be a very helpful work book.



5. As a piano teacher of over 20 years, this is one of my favorite tools to help get beginners solidly on the road to reading and recognizing the notes of the treble & bass clefs. It will be a little tedious for any child who is not a beginner, but for the rest, it will be a valuable tool to help them with this critical skill.
   
   It begins with the most basic recognition of the lines & spaces, then adds note names to them, and helps with drawing the clefs as well. Recommended!