2 comments about Guide To Teaching Woodwinds (5th Edition).

1. I was able to use this for my woodwind studies, and at a fraction of the cost!



2. Classic text with not many changes over the years.
   
   Newest edition (5th) is 1989. The second newest is the 4th edition of 1985.
   
   I have even looked at 2nd Edition of 1974! I haven't done a page-by-page comparison, but it looks very much the same as well.
   
   Ok, so maybe you don't need an appendix with "Phonograph Recordings" (!)

1 comments about Essential Elements 2000, Book 1 Plus DVD: Bb Tenor Saxophone.

1. The "Essential Elements 2000: A Comprehensive Band Method" is a great book for a young person who is learning an instrument for the first time. There is a fingering chart in the back of the book to make looking up fingerings quick and easy. The book starts off very basic with the parts of the instrument. The easiest notes to play and finger are presented first with exercises to practice them. This book comes with a play-along CD. This CD includes all solo exercises.

   Hal Leonard also offers (though not through Amazon) band sets for band directors. They are simple arrangements of music that correlate with the book. They are great for the first concert.

   There is an older version of this book called "Essential Elements: A Comprehensive Band Method". The book is purple and has many of the same features as this one, but the CDs have to purchased separately.

5 comments about The Devil's Horn: The Story of the Saxophone, from Noisy Novelty to King of Cool.

1. A great book about the history of the Saxophone. Was recommended to me by others.



2. Michael Segell's book on the story of the instrument I play, the saxophone, is a real page-turner, like a good novel that you can't put down. Unlike other tomes on the saxophone, Segell has taken more of a chatty, non-academic approach and interspersed between the fascinating study and interviews with some of the greats on the saxophone, is his own story of learning to play himself. This adds an extra dimension to the study and Segell comes across like your best friend, you really care how his playing is going and you feel by the end of the book that you know him personally.
   
   Segell's section on the trials and tribulations of Adolphe Sax, although much already known by this reviewer is nevertheless interesting and comes across like a report in a newspaper, getting to the nitty gritty of the atempted murder of Sax.
   
   I have no hesitation in recommnending this book to my fellow musicians.



3. A fabulously enjoyable read! Terrific research and journalism!
   
   If I may suggest... anyone who finds this book flawed should presently consider completing their union with Sigurd Rascher and Marcel Mule in body and spirit.
   
   Great job, Mr. Segell! Thank you!



4. I bought a hardcover book a few years ago and read it during my holiday. I now bought it as a gift to surprise a sick colleage.
   It's a book that is written in a flexibel style and holds a lot of historic facts that I did not yet now....... a must have !



5. This is the best book I've read yet, concerning the actual saxophone and its characteristics. It's full of useful, original, amusing points and pieces, guaranteed to educate, inform and encourage the playing reader.

5 comments about Universal Method for Saxophone.

1. This is a great thing for students who have a hard time finding something to practice site reading with. As a student myself, I find myself excelling at improvisation only because I have all of the recourses at hand to do so. I used to faulter a little with my sight reading a while ago, but this new book has really helped me. I have already recommended it to many friends; I also recommend it to you!



2. This is an excellent book for the serious saxophone student. It covers all the major technical aspects of playing the saxophone in the normal range of Bb below to F above the staff: scales and arpeggios, breath control (if you follow the breath marks in the early exercises), phrasing, mastering the low range, mastering the high range, intervals, trills and embellishments, difficult fingering combinations, alternate fingerings, time signatures and syncopation, and all the keys(although the majority of exercises are in the common keys,especially C). The problem is the book is made up of mostly dry technical studies. No popular or folk tunes. No simplified classical themes or classic etudes. Just a few operatic arias, classical airs, and concert pieces for the intermediate/advanced player and beyond (maybe 60 out of 290 pages of music). That's why I think it's only for the serious student. Also, it's probably too difficult for most beginners with no experience learning on their own without a teacher.



3. Some interesting exercises and etudes. However the book is very dated. This book has not changed since 1929. I have an original 1929 version and the new book is an exact copy. The saxophone has evolved since 1929, and so should this book.
   
   There is no mention of any of modern saxophone technique. For example the book still refers to an archaic saxophone with right hand low Bb,B and C#keys, there are even has exercises based on this ancient key system. No modern saxophone have these keys. I have never seen a sax with these keys, although the idea is interesting.
   
   The book covers only your basic scales, major, and melodic minor. There is no mention of pentatonics, altered scales, whole tone, harmonics, multiphonics, altissimo etc.
   
   This is not a bad book to have in your collection, but you will need more than this Universal Method to become the next Michael Brecker.
   
   The title Universal Saxophone method may have been appropriate in 1929, it is certainly not appropriate for the year 2006.



4. Starts with a short but very good introduction into music reading. Good saxo use introduction (again quite short). And dedicates the rest of the book on musical partitures of learning and practicing exersises.



5. First, this is really not a teaching method on it's own, it should be used along with one and with a good teacher. This was a state of the art book a few generations ago, and though it's out of date it still has a lot to offer the serious student. Aimed at the serious classical musician- if you master the material in this book you can play just about anything. Not perfect, but it hasn't been replaced.

1 comments about Technique of the Saxophone - Volume 2: Chord Studies.

1. Technique of Saxophone: Chord Studies is the second volume of three for the saxophone. I have all three, the first being Scale Studies, and the third forcusing on Rhythm Studies. I have enjoyed using all three books and have found them to be extremely helpful. I have noticed an improvement in my reading skills as well as my improvisation technique which I have struggled with for years. I highly recommend all three volumes.

5 comments about The First Man in Rome.

1. For those who feel the politics of today are bound to destroy the world: read this first book in McCullough's Roman Republic series and get some perspective! Everything old is new again? You bet! A friend in the military said this was recommended reading from an Army strategics trainer due to the detailed maneuvers of the Roman Army. I am a pacifist but I was completely engaged with the Army maneuvers as well as the political intrigue and personalities inhabiting these ancient names. I heard McCullough, at a book reading many years ago, describe her process for this series: she spent 13 years researching by reading as many texts & letters surviving from this era in the original languages. That way she could get a better feel for the people who wrote them, catching the nuance of how they described people, places and events. We reap the benefit of her passion! Don't be intimidated by the long Latin names; you get used to seeing them & so long as you're not trying to read it aloud, it's not too hard. If you do wish to get the actual pronunciations, she provides phonetic information in the appendices.



2. This is one of those books that is slow to begin, bogged down with long names and heavy politics, but absolutely brimming with wonderful scenes and credible dialogue. If you can get past the first chapter, you will be well rewarded by being transported to ancient Rome. Colleen McCullough's genius is in recreating a time and place two thousand years in the past and actually making it interesting! If you enjoy Roman politics or history, you will probably become a huge fan of this series.



3. First off, the book is the first in a huge series of huge, mind blowing, history based novels on Rome. Information is poured into you mind like water is poured into the oceans of the Earth. Characters plot, armies stomp into battle, wealth is collected and power is grasped. This is soap opera, but on an epic scale that boggles the reader. And it hooks you. Once you finish the first book you must go to the second. You may refuse to at first. You may say, No, I don't need to read the rest of the series. But you will anyway. It is like a drug, calling out to you.
   The glossary is amazing enough and, as a lover of history, I can't say enough about how well it seems to fit true history. To a point. Some of the characters are fictional and, of course, we don't really know half of what was said. But Rome is a great civilization to write about because they left A LOT of records behind. Colleen McCullough pointed wisely when deciding to do novels on Rome. If you enjoyed HBO's ROME, you should love this one also.



4. After more than 40 years of reading, my selection for my favorite books ever are the "Rome" series of books by McCullough. The First Man in Rome is the beginning of this series, and may be my favorite book ever, although the Grass Crown, which is the second book in the series may be even better. It's painful to have to decide. The words compulsive and fascinating are simply too flat and characterless to do justice to this series. If I was ever stranded on a desert island with only one thing to read for the rest of my life it would be this series of novels, they are simply that good. One of my very real epiphanies in reading this was how similar the politics of Rome were to our politics today. I think anyone reading this will be similarly struck and it is not hard to envision dropping the Roman senate down in Washington and not seeing any real change in our daily lives. The headlines would all be the same, the debates as sharp, the slandering and pandering, the demonizations, and the partisanship and bickering would go on without the slightest flicker of disruption!
   
   I first read these books about seven years ago, and then read them all over again last year when the last installment came out. After I finished reading them the second time I nearly started over again at the beginning for a third go round, but decided instead to go and read other works relating to Rome and some works of the ancients themselves, including Caesar and Cicero.
   
   These novels cover the period of Rome from about 110 BC to roughly 40 BC, a period of great change and upheaval for the republic that eventually led to the empire (sounds a bit like the star wars series, doesn't it? I think George cribbed a lot of notes from Roman history). This first novel deals with Gaius Marius and his rise to incredible power even though he was not one of Rome's "inner circle of elite". Gaius was a military innovator and was responsible for some sweeping changes in the legions that improved their deadly efficacy and transformed the nature of what it meant to be a legionaire; from gentleman farmer to professional soldier. The new legion structure was actually similar in many respects to our military organization today.
   
   This is a grand book, with characters that seem more alive and more real, than many flesh and blood people we deal with in our daily lives. The character development McCullough achieves is nothing short of mind-bending and indeed may make you a pickier reader in the future. I whole-heartedly recommend this book, and the entire series, to any reader. It is difficult to pick a favorite out of the series, and I don't think I could, but I really, really enjoyed this first novel as much as any of them.
   
   One cautionary note, since some of my friends are ancient history buffs, is that while the known "facts" in McCullough's series are extremely accurate and she did an incredible amount of research for these books (will someone give her an honorary doctorate please?), people's personalities and their daily lives between the big, recorded facts of history are not as well established. I love McCullough's impression and interpretation and I think few could gainsay her much in her works. Her Caesar and Sulla though may get more favorable treatment from her than other commentators and novelists might elect to award. That, however is one of the greatest things about these books: after the compulsive reading is over comes the compulsive conversations, the debating with friends about this or that, and the further exploration of one of the most facinating periods in history.



5. This is simply the best book I have ever read. I was fascinated about Rome and have read 7 books about Rome prior to this one, and this trumps them all! I am enjoying the rest of the series currently and recommend this series for anyone (like myself) who is travelling to Rome in the future. Amazing charachter development and drama. Amazing story. As far as historical accuracy, everytime I independently check the facts, I find that the book is right on. This is a great(and fun) way to lean about the Roman founders and history.

4 comments about Mel Bay Presents Jazz Saxophone Licks, Phrases and Patterns.

1. The exercise in this book are commonly heard phrases that can be played over standard chord sequences. As practice material they are great and the explanations are simple and enlightening. This is a good book for developing dexterity and a feel for the keys and scales. Improvising is much more than repeated practiced licks but working through this book will give a player some chops to fall back on as well as a wider understaning of what is possible.



2. All of Arnie Berle's books present the info in a clear, concise and logical way. I recommend you get your hands on as many of them as you can, while you can, especially if you're learning on your own. Any aspiring jazz musician can't have too many pattern books, and this one is a gem. 'Improvisation For The Contemporary Musician' and 'Encyclopedia of Scales, Modes and Melodic Patterns' also by Arnie are also highly recommended.



3. This is a great book to get ideas for Jazz licks. Excellent, not just for the saxophone, but other instruments in the same register can benefit from the instruction in this book. For me, coming from a classical music background, I'm using it with my violin to learn Jazz Violin and improvisation skills. This is quite a challenge, to say the least! These licks are very easy to learn, and not ridiculously difficult, which is what beginners to Jazz music really need.
   
   I really like the book and always have it on my music stand.



4. The books arrived earlier than expected (just in time for Christmas) and we're a big hit. Thanx!!!

5 comments about Dragons of a Lost Star (The War of Souls, Volume II).

1. It is a good rounded book that "tries" to keep you guessing, tries because it isn't as unpredictable as you would think. Most people said they couldnt figure who "The One God" is but there so many clues left with in these pages and it tells you at the end. I just happaned to figure it out way before then, but I guess that I picked up on all the signs. Its a good sequal to the one before this because it carries on where the first one left off (Dragons of the fallen sun I beleive it was called). I think if you are into these types of books you will enjoy this book. I have to admit that I started reading these simply because my brother recommended them. I think he was right to do so as I found my self enjoing these books. I looked up some more and it seems like there are way to many to even try to collect, but I will try. Wait a minute, why did I review this with out reviewing the first in the series first?
   
   I might want to get on that some time.



2. Let me preface this by saying that I am a Dragonlance fanatic that owns every book. This trilogy has brought back the return of the gods of Krynn, which is a terrific decision by Weis and Hickman, and one that was somewhat overdue.
   It is also, in my opinion, the best set of books since the Raistlin chronicles. Every book built towards the ending superbly, and I would recomend this trilogy as one of the best in the series.
   The storyline gained momentum throughout and seldom had lulls of needless filler. It is also good to see the exchange from the heroes of the lance to the next characters that come to the forefront in the war of souls.I love the lance heroes but think that every avenue had been explored to further thier story, but that being said I would never wish that they be written out of future novels.
   I became engrossed in the story and finished this book very quickly. I cannot wait to read the third book to see how the story plays out.



3. To the One God, its in you we thank for giving us Margaret and Tracy or should we look for another?
   Once again we explore another fine addition to the Dragonlance volumes. The War of Souls is a fascinating ride to the return of the old world.
   You will be thrilled to know that there is enough Tas in book 2 to keep you laughing and as always making sure nothing of your own has gone missing =)
   Mina has returned and is proclaming and conquering in the name of the One God. Who is this one God whom grants powers beyond imgaination. Who is the God that causes men to fear and follow this Mina? The One God is none other than...ah read em!



4. Dragons of a Lost Star was, as the title says, better than Harry Potter. It's many twists and turns make you instantly want to read more.
   
   I was a big fan of the "One God" and Mina during the beginning but the twist makes you want to scream at the book.
   
   Gerard and Tas are both a little different. Tas was put in the story to make it funny but I didn't like him at all, he was so stupid in his decisions. Gerard was Gerard. Nothing much more I can say, he was a Knight for both sides.
   
   The ending is so sudden it's hard to cope...



5. 
   
   
   ...HE will return..., May 10, 2001
   OH MY RAISTLIN!!!... I mean, OH MY GOD!!! (...sorry, I get those two confused sometimes...) I just came back from Borders and I am in shock! Why Laurana? Why have practically all of the original companions had to meet such tragic demises? Oh, and I don't want to get off on a rant here but now that "The One God" has been revealed, Raistlin will HAVE to come back and destroy this pathetic immortal; and NOT to "save the world" (I say that dripping with sarcasm) but to show that HE should be the one to rule Krynn. Keep those pompous dragons in line and show Mr. Dark Elf (Dalamar)how to REALLY bring magic back to Krynn. Well, I'm done ranting; I guess that I now have to wait A WHOLE YEAR to find out when the best character in all of Dragonlance's history will return in all his glory!!!... thank you.

5 comments about Technique of the Saxophone: Scale Studies.

1. This book is great because there are exercisers in every key signature which really makes you work. Working on all of the exercisers were very helpful to me because now a find it much easier to read in different keys. Very good book.



2. Joe was a wonderful human being. I studied with him at Berklee in the 80's. He was a great technician, and these are the same exercises that he used in his private lessons. These will definitely build your saxophone technique in all twelve keys, as well as improve your sight-reading. There's just about every conceivable kind of exercise in this book. when you've mastered this, go on to his second book: Chord Studies. You won't be sorry. Of course, they are rather challenging, so start slow, and build up your speed. Take a little at a time. Good luck!



3. I thought this would be a book with some explaining text, but it wasnt. So if you wanna practise scales and dont need any explaining text or input, history, etc, this is the one. If youre looking for a book explaining scales and want some more info, history, ways to learn to remember scales and so on, look for something else.



4. This is one of the finest books of it's kind that I've yet to see. Wonderfully done and should be in every players home.



5. This is a thorough scale text that I know I'll get a lot out of. Why only three stars? The book comes with a glued binding that makes it nearly impossible to leave opened on a music stand without either destroying the binding, or paying extra to have it re-bound locally.
   
   Publishers, PLEASE consider usability of your products when you re-print. Cheaper is not necessarily better!

4 comments about 101 Saxophone Tips: Stuff All the Pros Know and Use.

1. I gave it three stars because i found very usefull only half of the book. But for the price I'd say it's a good deal.



2. This book was both very useful and very enjoyable. I was a serious sax player for 20 years, quit playing almost completely for 30 years, and started to play seriously again after I retired (or quit my day job, whichever sounds better).
   
   There are tips about what to carry in your case, how to buy and maintain your horn, what your should practice, and more. This book contains stuff I knew, more stuff I had forgotten, and more that is new since I began playing again. There is a CD that shows examples and playalongs.
   
   This book is ideal for beginners and serious saxophonists. I recommend it heartily.



3. Interesting tips....
   
   Check out Larry Teal's book. Great for beginners and intermediate players.



4. This book is a bargain if you only use a few good tips that are shared. I've been playing alto for five years and got answers to questions I just couldn't get before. I studied under two real pro's but a lot of these tips were never discussed. The writer, Eric Morones, is a VERY accomplished saxophonist. I realized this when I bought his other book, 25 Great Sax Solos. He does all the sax work on that accompanying CD and he's PHENOMENAL. Knowing I was getting tips from this extremely talented musician made this 'Tips book' VERY valuable. Of course, not every tip is going to be an "ah-ha" experience, but buy the book if you're serious about being the best saxophonist you can be. Just five or six good tips is worth a lot more than the price of this book.
   
   I've gone back into this book a few times since I wrote the original review a few months ago. This book is GREAT! I have started using LOTS of great tips in this book. It's like having a seasoned Pro mentoring you in your practice. Following the guidance and advice in this book will make you a MUCH better saxophonist.