Halo Sheet Music

From Option to Opening : aguide to Producing Plays Off Broadway - Revised and Updated [Paperback] Review

2011-11-20T16:51:00.000-05:00

I run a small (very small) Not-For-Profit (intentionally) Theater Group. It was with great interest that I discovered this little book on how the big boys do it in New York. It confirmed (beyond any doubt) that I don't want to go compete in the New York market.

Other than that, it was a fascinating look behind the scenes at what a producer has to go through to get a play on stage Off Broadway. I had assumed that it was just a bit bigger operation than what we go through. WRONG!

First surprise - Off Broadway is not just a theater that isn't on Broadway, there's a fairly complex definition of even what that means. Then there's the legal aspects. If you want to raise front money to investigate putting on a show, the law says that you can only ask four people. You can accept money from more than four, but you can only ask four.

I don't ever plan to go do a show in New York, but this book made fascinating reading.

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Product Description:
For the potential, as well as the professional, producer and for writers, actors, directors, and investors, this book is for anyone wanting or needing to understand the process of producing Off Broadway plays from start to finish. Written in crisp, clear, nonlegal language that the layman can easily understand, every page reflects the experience and expertise of Farber, a well-known and highly respected theatrical attorney. The book contains detailed information on how to: option a property, raise money, obtain a theater, deal with the cast and other personnel, the art of negotiation, partnerships and co-production agreements, and much more. Especially useful are the updated and expanded appendixes, which include all new budgets and actual examples of today's commonly used legal forms and contracts.

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Guitar TAB: Easy Jewish Folk Songs (Book & CD) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-20T12:15:00.000-05:00

Great collection of well known Jewish songs, in tab and music notation, easy to read, big font, and fun to learn

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Product Description:
A wonderful collection of 20 popular, beautiful and fun-to-play songs for beginning to intermediate guitar students.The melody, an easy strumming pattern, chord diagrams and complete lyrics are provided with each song, so students can choose to either play the melody or strum to accompany themselves as they sing.Large-sized music, TAB and diagrams make the songs easy to read, even for beginners.The 48-page book also contains a review of music reading, tablature and chord diagrams.This handy songbook is the perfect tool for guitar teachers seeking fun musical activities to keep their students happy and involved with music making.

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Just Classic Rock Real Book (Just Real Books Series) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-20T04:46:00.000-05:00

A nice fake book with some decent songs.I keep it handy for jam sessions with new players and for those nights when I'm sitting in with a new band.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Just Classic Rock Real Book (Just Real Books Series) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Over 215 "Classic Rock" songs from the 60's, 70's and 80's.Arranged in fakebook style with lyrics. Includes a complete artist index, complete discograph. All critical riffs and figures are included plus a full color classic album art section. Contents:AFTER MIDNIGHT
AFTER THE GOLD RUSH
AIN'T TALKIN' `BOUT LOVE
ALL ALONG THE WATCHTOWER
ALL THE YOUNG DUDES
AMERICAN WOMEN
AND IT STONED ME
ANOTHER BRICK IN THE WALL (Part 2)
AQUALUNG
BABE, I'M GONNA LEAVE YOU
BABY BLUE
BAD COMPANY
BAD MOON RISING
BAD TO THE BONE
BAD, BAD LEROY BROWN
BEAT GOES ON, THE
BIG LOVE
BIG YELLOW TAXI
BLEED TO LOVE HER
BORN ON THE BAYOU
BOTH SIDES NOW
BOX OF RAIN
BRIDGE OF SIGHS
BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATER
BROKEN ARROW
BURNIN' SKY
BURNING DOWN THE HOUSE
CALIFORNIA
CALL ME
CAN'T FIND MY WAY HOME
CARAVAN
CASEY JONES
CAT'S IN THE CRADLE
CHAIN, THE 36. CHANGES 37. CHEAP SUNGLASSES
CHINA GROVE
CINNAMON GIRL
COCAINE
COMFORTABLY NUMB
COPPERLINE
COUNTRY GIRL
CRAZY LOVE
CROSS-EYED MARY
DANCING IN THE DARK
DANCING WITH MYSELF
DANNY'S SONG
DAY AFTER DAY
DEAR MR. FANTASY
DIRTY DEEDS DONE DIRT CHEAP
DO YOU WANT TO KNOW A SECRET
DON'T COME AROUND HERE NO MORE
DON'T STOP BELIEVIN'
DOWN ON THE CORNER
DRIVE
EIGHT MILES HIGH
EUROPA (EARTH'S CRY HEAVEN'S SMILE)
EVERYBODY HURTS
EYES WITHOUT A FACE
FACE IN THE CROWD, A
FAITHFULLY
FAME
FEEL LIKE MAKIN' LOVE
FIRE
FOR WHAT IT'S WORTH
FOREVER YOUNG
FORTUNATE SON
FOUNTAIN OF SORROW
FRIEND OF THE DEVIL
GIMME ALL YOUR LOVIN
GIMME SOME LOVIN'
GO YOUR OWN WAY
GOLDEN YEARS
GOOD TIMES ROLL
GOT ME UNDER PRESSURE
GREEN RIVER
HARVEST MOON
HAVE A CIGAR
HAVE YOU EVER SEEN THE RAIN?
HEART OF GOLD
HELP ME
HERE COME THOSE TEARS AGAIN
HORSE WITH NO NAME, A
HOT FOR TEACHER
HOTEL CALIFORNIA
HOUSE OF THE RISING SUN
HUNGRY HEART
I CAN'T TELL YOU WHY
I GOT YOU BABE
I GOTTA GET A MESSAGE TO YOU
I KNOW YOU RIDER
I STARTED A JOKE
I WANNA BE SEDATED
I WON'T BACK DOWN
I'D LOVE TO CHANGE THE WORLD
I'M A MAN
I'M ON FIRE
IN-A-GADDA-DA-VIDA
INTO THE MYSTIC
JAMIE'S CRYIN'
JOHN BARLEYCORN
JUMP
JUST WHAT I NEEDED
KNOCKIN' ON HEAVEN'S DOOR
LEGS
LIFE IN THE FAST LANE
LISTEN TO THE MUSIC
LOCOMOTIVE BREATH
LONG DISTANCE RUN AROUND
LONG TRAIN RUNNIN'
LOSING MY RELIGION
LOVE SONG, A
LOW SPARK OF HIGH HEELED BOYS, THE
LYIN' EYES
MAMA TOLD ME NOT TO COME
MAN ON THE MOON
MARGARITAVILLE
MEXICO
MILLWORKER
MINUTE BY MINUTE
MONEY
MOONDANCE
MORE THAN A FEELING
MR. TAMBOURINE MAN
MY BEST FRIENDS GIRL
MY HOMETOWN
NEEDLE AND THE DAMAGE DONE
NEVER GOING BACK AGAIN
NIGHT THEY DROVE OLD DIXIE DOWN, THE
NO MATTER WHAT
OHIO
OLD MAN
ONE IS THE LONELIEST NUMBER
ONE OF THESE NIGHTS
ONE WAY OR ANOTHER
ONLY WOMEN BLEED
OPEN ARMS
OWNER OF A LONELY HEART
PANAMA
PEACEFUL EASY FEELING
PEOPLE GET READY
PERSONALITY CRISIS
PINK CADILLAC
PRETENDER (THE)
PROUD MARY
PSYCHO KILLER
REBEL YELL
ROAD, THE
ROCK & ROLL BAND
ROCK & ROLL PART 2
ROCK ME ON THE WATER
ROCK 'N' ROLL HIGH SCHOOL
ROCK STEADY
ROUNDABOUT
RUNNIN' DOWN A DREAM
RUNNIN' WITH THE DEVIL
RUNNING ON EMPTY
SCARBOROUGH FAIR/CANTICLE
SEA OF JOY
SENTIMENTAL LADY
SEPARATE WAYS
SHARP DRESSED MAN
SHE'S NOT THERE
SHEENA IS A PUNK ROCKER
SHELTER FROM THE STORM
SHINY HAPPY PEOPLE
SHOOTING STAR
SISTER GOLDEN HAIR
SLOW RIDE
SMOKIN' IN THE BOYS ROOM
SOUNDS OF SILENCE, THE
SOUTHERN MAN
SPOONFUL
STAGE FRIGHT
STILL CRAZY AFTER ALL THESE YEARS
STOP DRAGGIN' MY HEART AROUND
STREETS OF PHILADELPHIA
SUFFRAGETTE CITY
SUNSHINE OF YOUR LOVE
TAKE IT EASY
TAKE IT TO THE LIMIT
TAKIN' IT TO THE STREETS
TALES OF BRAVE ULYSSES
TAXI
TEACHER
TELL HER NO
TENTH AVENUE FREEZE-OUT
TEQUILA SUNRISE
THESE EYES
TIME OF THE SEASON
TIMES THEY ARE A-CHANGIN', THE
TIN MAN
TONIGHT SHE COMES
TRASH
TURN TURN TURN
UNCLE JOHN'S BAND
UNFAITHFUL SERVANT
UP ON CRIPPLE CREEK
VENTURA HIGHWAY
WAITING, THE
WELCOME TO MY NGIHTMARE
WEREWOLVES OF LONDON
WHAT A FOOL BELIEVES
WHITE ROOM
WHITE WEDDING (Part 1)
WHITER SHADE OF PALE, A
WHOLE LOTTA LOVE
WHO'S CRYING NOW
WHY DON'T WE GET DRUNK
WILD NIGHT
WILLIE & THE HAND JIVE
WISH YOU WERE HERE
WOODSTOCK
YOU CAN LEAVE YOUR HAT ON
YOU GOT LUCKY

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Guitar Note Speller (Shearer series) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-19T14:05:00.000-05:00

This note speller does an extremely good job of teaching the student to read music on the treble staff, and the position of the notes on the first position of the guitar (the first four frets). The book is meant to be used in conjunction with Shearer's "Classic Guitar Technique" series, so if you are looking to learn higher positions on the fingerboard then you will find that information in volume 2.

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Product Description:
The purpose of this book is to simplify the process of learning the positions of the notes in music and on the guitar fingerboard.

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Nicole C. Mullen - Everyday People (Personality) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-19T13:05:00.000-05:00

Everyday people is a great song. A wonderful cd with lots of great songs. My favorite is "I will be free."

Click Here to see more reviews about: Nicole C. Mullen - Everyday People (Personality) [Paperback]

Product Description:
This Grammy-nominated Gospel Album of the Year includes 14 tracks: Bye Bye Brianna * Deity * Every Nation * Everyday People * I Am * Music of My Heart * Without You * and more.

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Classic Praise: 10 Master Pieces for Solo Piano (Sacred Folio) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-19T11:09:00.000-05:00

This is one of the greatest books on the market for advanced solos of Praise Music.I've used it for preludes for church and weddings and received many compliments.Many of the pieces are ethereal and elevate one to the true meaning of the lyrics.

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Product Description:
This is the first book in Word Music's brand new Solo Piano Artist series, with arrangements designed especially for more advanced pianists who want challenging performance pieces to add to their repertoire. The creator of this folio, Larry Dalton, is a popular Steinway(TM) concert artist, who travels and performs extensively throughout the world. His heart for worship is captured in these exquisite solo arrangements of well-known praise and worship melodies - some older, some more recent - but all destined to become classics in church music. Songs include: Above All * As the Deer * Knowing You * Lord, Have Mercy * Open the Eyes of My Heart * Shout to the Lord * The Heart of Worship * There Is None Like You * You Are My All in All * You Are Worthy of My Praise.

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Songs, 1896-1914 [Paperback] Review

2011-11-19T10:48:00.000-05:00

This is a wonderful collection of many of the most important art songs by Maurice Ravel. While not all of his art songs are contained here, it contains all of his early works in the genre for a very affordable price. A very nice addition to any music lover's library.Ravel: Songs

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Product Description:
Ravel's greatest songs and song cycles-among them Sheherazade, Five Greek Folk Songs and Three Poems by Stephane Mallarme-edited and introduced by the world's leading Ravel scholar, Arbie Orenstein. Reprinted from authoritative French editions and provided with new English translations.

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Falstaff: Vocal Score (G. Schirmer Opera Score Editions) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-18T10:31:00.000-05:00

Verdi's two Comedies philosophically, and emotionally, frame his long career. While writing Il Giorno di Regno, his first comedy, and only his second opera, the rather naive young Verdi lost his first wife and theirchildren in a fire. Needless to say, the opera wasn't very funny, and theaudience booed it off the stage. Verdi quit Opera...he thought for good.However, his self-imposed exile didn't last long, and Verdi eventuallywrote several of Opera's greatest masterpieces. He also loved Giuseppina,first as his paramour, eventually as his second wife, became one ofEurope's most generous philanthropists, and admired his great rival RichardWagner, who referred to Verdi simply as "pig." Arrigo Boito, agenius in his own right (if you don't believe it, get a good recording ofMefistofele), testified in Italian newspapers that Verdi's "oldways" of writing Opera were permanently invalidated by Wagner. Yet oneday, eight years after Verdi had retired for the second time, Boito, thegreat Verdi hater, came to Sant' Agata, hat in hand, to ask Verdi tocompose music for two Shakespearean music dramas he had written. The secondof those music dramas, Falstaff, was to be Verdi's second comedy, and hislast opera. Falstaff is a towering monument to artistic collaboration. Init, Verdi, Boito, and Shakespeare tell us that life is a great cosmic joke,and, since we cannot escape being its brunt, we might as well laugh along.Dover republished an early Ricordi edition of Falstaff. Ricordi is, simplyput, the most useful publisher of late romantic Italian opera, especiallyof Verdi and Puccini. The scholarship is top notch, making this Doveredition quite a useful volume. The book itself is, as always, well craftedand easy to read. The score may be too large, and the book too small, tomake this volume useful for the podium, but at home, in front of thestereo, it's invaluable. Falstaff is one of the west's great example's ofexistentialism expressed in artistic form. If you are not familiar withthis opera, I strongly recommend you buy this score, and a good recordingto go with it, and knock yourself out.

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Product Description:
Italian/English. Translated by Ducloux.

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500 Hymns For Instruments: Book D, Trombones, String Bass (Lillenas Publications) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-18T08:36:00.000-05:00

We have a small mixed ensemble at our church and this series works well for us.

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Product Description:
Comprehensive compilation of hymns and Gospel songs published for instruments.

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The Twelve Plays of Christmas (Applause Books) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-18T04:46:00.000-05:00

From Dylan Thomas and Charles Dickens to modern versions of comedies and classic Christmas presentations, Twelve Plays Of Christmas packs in a range of Christmas plays complete with plots, stage directions and instructions, and reviews of Christmas play specifics. An intriguing, play-packed collection which will delight both actors and those developing Christmas pageants.

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Product Description:
Here is a joyous pageant of plays by masters through the ages - including Dylan Thomas, Charles Dickens, Thornton Wilder, Langston Hughes, and Hans Christian Andersen - ready to be produced, along with "The Traditional Christmas Pageant" and "The Second ShepherdÕs Play" in a modernized text and a lively version of "St. George and the Dragon." Comedies like "A Visit from St. Nicholas," "Amahl and the Night Visitors," "KringleÕs Window" and "A Partridge in a Pear Tree" stand beside more serious works such as "A ChildÕs Christmas in Wales," "Black Nativity," "Scrooge and Marley," "The Match GirlÕs Gift" and "The Long Christmas Dinner," called by critic John Gassner "...the most beautiful one-act play in English prose."
Lowel Swortzell, himself the author of a number of popular Christmas plays, has brought together these delightful works, which are ideally suited for performances in the classroom, sanctuary, or theatre. Ranging from the traditional to the contemporary, they also can be enjoyed for themselves as holiday reading that reminds us how Christmas has inspired great writers to their highest dramatic achievements.

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Easy Songs for Ukulele: Play the Melodies of 20 Pop, Folk, Country, and Blues Songs (Hal Leonard Ukulele Method) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-18T02:51:00.000-05:00

I like this book.It's a good compliment to the excellent Hal Leonard Ukulele Method books and I liked the songs choices.I got exactly what I ordered with this book.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Easy Songs for Ukulele: Play the Melodies of 20 Pop, Folk, Country, and Blues Songs (Hal Leonard Ukulele Method) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Play along with your favorite tunes from the Beatles, Elvis, Johnny Cash, Woody Guthrie, Simon and Garfunkel, and more! The songs are presented in the order of difficulty, beginning with simple rhythms and melodies and ending with chords and notes up the neck. You can also strum and sing along using the provided lyrics and ukulele chord diagrams. The audio CD features every song played with guitar accompaniment, so you can hear how each song sounds and then play along when you're ready. Songs include: I Walk the Line * Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da * Tom Dooley * We Shall Overcome * Your Cheatin' Heart * and more.

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Sam Cooke Portrait of a Legend, 1951-1964 [Paperback] Review

2011-11-17T15:30:00.000-05:00

very well done book about Sam Cooke&His Progressions on Piano,Vocals&Guitar.you can see the way He went about putting His songs together&the structuring progress.Sam Cooke is truly One of the Greatest Musical Talents that has Ever graced the world with Music Making&Creativity.

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Product Description:
Arranged for Piano/Guitar with Lyrics. Sam Cooke was the most important soul singer in history and the inventor of soul music. Even today, his music endures with cover recordings by artists from all genres of the recording industry. His legacy continues with this album-matching folio containing songs spanning more than a decade. Titles include: Another Saturday Night * Bring It on Home to Me * Chain Gang * Cupid * Everybody Loves to Cha Cha Cha * (Ain't That) Good News * Having a Party * Jesus Gave Me Water * Meet Me at Mary's Place * Only Sixteen * Twisting the Night Away * (What A) Wonderful World * You Send Me * You're Nobody 'Til Somebody Loves You.

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Play Flute Today!: Songbook (Play Today!) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-17T05:10:00.000-05:00

Nice introduction, good information on the necessary fingering, and all you need to set up and get started for the first time. Also works well as a low level refresher.

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Product Description:
This companion songbook to the Play Flute Today! method books features 10 great songs: Colors of the Wind ¥ Forrest Gump - Main Title (Feather Theme) ¥ The Man from Snowy River (Main Title Theme) ¥ My Favorite Things ¥ My Heart Will Go On ¥ Raiders March ¥ Star Trek¨ - The Motion Picture ¥ Twist and Shout ¥ We Will Rock You ¥ Yesterday.

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John Simon on Theatre: Criticism 1974-2003 (John Simon On--) [Hardcover] Review

2011-11-17T03:47:00.000-05:00

John Simon is, along with Robert Brustein and Stanley Kauffmann, one of America's three greatest drama critics, and my personal favorite.I've learned an enormous amount from him over the years, and so will you.

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Product Description:

This provocative collection and major publishing event brings together the critical highlights of the well-known New York cultural critic John Simon. Covering a span of more than three decades, it includes previously published work from New York, the Huds

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Thelonious Monk Fake Book: C Edition (Fake Books) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-17T02:19:00.000-05:00

The description of the book does not include that it is a B flat edition.

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Product Description:
The music of Thelonious Monk is among the most requested of any jazz composer, but accurate lead sheets and sources have never been widely available - until now. This folio has 70 of the master composer/pianist's most familiar pieces, as well as a number of obscure and unrecorded tunes, in easy-to-read versions. Includes counterlines and ensemble parts for many pieces, as well as bass-lines and piano voicings where applicable. Also includes a biography, a glossary, and a definitive discography of the compositions in the book. Titles include: Ask Me Now * Bemsha Swing * Blue Monk * Blue Sphere * Boo Boo's Birthday * Bright Mississippi * Brilliant Corners * Bye-Ya * Crepuscule With Nellie * Criss Cross * 52nd Street Theme * Functional * Gallop's Gallop * Hackensack * I Mean You * In Walked Bud * Jackie-ing * Let's Cool One * Little Rootie Tootie * Misterioso * Monk's Mood * Nutty * Off Minor * Pannonica * Played Twice * Rhythm-a-ning * 'Round Midnight * Ruby, My Dear * Straight No Chaser * Thelonious * Well You Needn't * and 39 more.

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Rockin' Bass Drum [Paperback] Review

2011-11-16T15:19:00.000-05:00

When it is time to learn to work that bass drum off the beat, then it is time to get this book!

Lombardo gives a number of two-bar patterns (many of which could easliy be called funk beats) involving bass, snare, hi-hat (on the 2 & 4) and ride.Below each pattern, he gives you the same two bars with just the ride and the bass, allowing you to focus on playing the bass off the eigth-note ride.the patterns become progressively harder, and your right foot become progressively better (and faster).

This was the 2nd "full kit" book I worked out of, and it did me wonders.If you are a beginner, it will do wonders for you as well!

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Product Description:
Written in two volumes, these books include 2- and 4-bar rock and jazz-rock beats designed for the modern drummer. Both books are designed to develop the drummer's skill in coordinating their hands and feet. The books also offer the drummer a repertoire of exciting rhythmic patterns.

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Just Another Day in the Park Review

2011-11-16T12:24:00.000-05:00

For anyone not familiar with Karl Perazzo and Raul Rekow, they are the super-hot, super-talented and super-natural percussionists currently working with Santana...and these guys really shine on this wonderful DVD. Although this cannot be considered a concert DVD(it was shot at a studio with no audience), it is equal parts of exciting ensemble music, burning solos and instructional material. The whole band plays with much inspiration and passion, but the real stars of this production are the guys "hitting" things. I had actually seen other footage of Karl and Raul, along with seeing them live with Santana, but I hadn't grasped how talented these men were! I literally sat through this DVD with a smile glued to my face---totally amazed with the facility of each player. It is quite apparent that Karl and Raul have spent a "lifetime" studying the 'Masters' and developing their own styles, while still remaining authentic to the roots and heritage associated with Latin music. And the drummer...WOW! Horacio 'El Negro' Hernandez is "other-worldly" with some of the amazing techniques seen here---he is also credited within the drumming community as being THE drummer who introduced the left-foot Clave pattern to the States. I can't think of a better drummer they could have gotten to accompany their 'Vision' for this production. Besides all the percussionists taking extended "mind-blowing" solos throughout, they briefly explain and breakdown exactly what(and why) each played during certain passages/solos. Lastly, although this DVD will certainly Thrill percussionists and drummers alike...you certainly don't have to be one to thoroughly enjoy this(just an appreciation for Good music executed by Great players). On the back of the DVD case, these guys explain how they are perpetual "students" of the art...well this release proves they are well on their way to 'Master' status! Strongly recommended along with Santana's 'Sacred Fire' DVD to see these explosive players in action.

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Product Description:
Santana's hot rhythm section (Karl Perazzo & Raul Rekow) is featured in this new DVD as they showcase their individual playing styles through killer performances and solos fromtheir first solo CD of the same title. Includes special guest appearances by Horacio "El Negro" Hernandez, Paquito Hechavarria and more.

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The Estelle Liebling Vocal Course: Mezzo-Soprano and Contralto (Vocal Method) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-16T08:19:00.000-05:00

I love this book! It has fabulous exercises for strengthening the voice. I notice an improvement in my voice in only a few days of practice!I love that it has music for the exercises and not just the vocal line. The only thing I wish it had were descriptions of what techniques you are working on for each exercise. While this book focuses on classical training, it is great for other styles/genres as well. I'm actually a singer/songwriter and find that this helps me with my own music (I do not sing opera). I wholly recommend this book!

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Product Description:
A method that has long been highly regarded among teachers and students alike. Each of these books consists of 3 parts: Part I describes the vocal mechanism and its function briefly and in simple, non-technical language. Part II consists of basic, fundamental vocalises carefully selected to develop the specific voices for which the book is written. Part III presents the important elements of diction in the 5 languages most commonly used in singing: English, Italian, French, German and Spanish.

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Piano Practice Games Book 1: Hal Leonard Student Piano Library [Paperback] Review

2011-11-16T05:05:00.000-05:00

The book arrived shortly after I had ordered it and in a good condition. Thanks

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Product Description:
Piano Practice Games present imaginative ways to introduce pieces in Piano Lessons by coordinating technique, concepts, and creativity with the actual music in the lessons book. These preparation activites help focus learning, by 'playing with' each lesson piece aurally, visually, and physically. Whether used in individual or group lessons, Piano Practice Games are designed to make music. Many activities include accompaniments that can be added by the teacher or by using the CD/GM disk from the corresponding Piano Lessons book.

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SongXpress Play Their Songs Now! Green Day (DVD with Overpack) Review

2011-11-15T16:38:00.000-05:00

The DVD has a good selection of Green Day songs, and the instructor does a good job of breaking down the guitar parts.There are also chord diagrams and tablature displayed on the screen, which makes it even easier to follow along.

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Product Description:
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The Guitar Scale Book [Paperback] Review

2011-11-15T14:24:00.000-05:00

I once owned this book and then lost it when I moved. Afraid I'd never find its kind again. Unquestionably the best scale book I've ever come across. And that's saying a lot since I've been playing for a quarter of a century, have used dozens of instructional books over the years and have yet to find its equal. This book not only covers all fingering positions, it also provides chord progressions for the creatively challenged and all modes to boot. I encourage any serious guitar player to buy this instructional marvel. Unlike a lot or scale books out there, this one doesn't get bogged down with explanations; it simply provides all positions, suggests fingerings but also offers an alternate diagram for those who want to use their own fingerings. A must have.

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Product Description:
Features over 25 of the most popular scales and modes used today. Each scale is shown in all 12 keys in both music notation and guitar fingerings. Special diagrams are included for the student to create his or her own guitar fingerings. Major, minor, rock pentatonics, jazz and modal scales are covered.

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Learning Bluegrass Dobro Review

2011-11-15T04:55:00.000-05:00

This lesson is a great guide to all the basics you will need to learn to play the dobro.Begins with tuning (G-B-D-G-B-D) and some basic G scales; with advice on holding the bar properly and what type of finger picks to use.There are strums, slides, rhythmic chops, and a few riffs, as well as hammer-ons and pull-offs.The songs (Wildwood Flower, Sailor's Hornpipe, Fireball Mail, and Wayfaring Stranger) showcase all the techniques you will learn. Video lessons don't get any better than this.

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Product Description:
Here is a hands-on Dobro course that will teach you to play your favorite bluegrass and country tunes in no time - even if you've never played before! Jam-packed with information, this 90-minute DVD utilizes close-ups, split screens and easy-to-follow instruction to make it easy for you to learn.
Cindy Cashdollar, one of the shining stars of the Dobro and lap steel world, helps you develop accuracy and good intonation, and increases your depth of musical knowledge. She details essential techniques such as right hand rolls, rhythm picking, crosspicking, tone control, hammer-ons and pull-offs, damping, chord building, and how the scales and chords fit together to form major and minor melodies. Cindy even discusses Dobro construction and maintenance to give you a full understanding of your instrument.
To help you put all this information together, Cindy teaches four all-time favorite country tunes, each one illustrating a different technique, key or style to prepare you for further Dobro adventures.
Songs: "Wildwood Flower," "Fireball Mail," "Sailor's Hornpipe," "Wayfaring Stranger."

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40 O'Carolan Tunes for All Harps (Midmarch Arts Books) [Spiral-bound] Review

2011-11-15T03:36:00.000-05:00

Sylvia Wood's book on 40 Carolan pieces is an excellent book for harpers of any skill level.The book gives easy and advanced versions for each piece.Fingering suggestions are also given.The melodies themselves are beautiful.Carolan pieces are subtle and tricky, but are worth every moment to master.

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Product Description:
Arranged for beginning and advanced harpers, this book contains 40 of the best tunes by OÕCarolan, the most famous of the Irish harpers and composerswho lived from 1670-1738.Each of the 40 tunes has two arrangements:an easy play version and a more difficult version.Each tune includes chord indications that can be used by harpers or other instrumentalists.

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Southern Banjo Styles #1 Clawhammer Varieties & more Review

2011-11-14T12:34:00.000-05:00

I've never written a review before, but feel compelled to since no one else has. This is the first in a 3-DVD set that Mike Seeger made to teach the banjo styles psresented on his Grammy-nominated CD, Southern Banjo Sounds. Included here are early styles that Seeger learned from older traditional banjo players, including rare right-hand techniques learned from African American players Lucious Smith and Josh Thomas. Songs in both up-picking and down-picking (stroke, frailing, rapping, clawhammer, etc.) styles are taught, with each piece performed through at full tempo, then broken down into small sections and played through slowly. Especially noteworthy is Seeger's ability to play very slowly, yet retain musicality.

Production values on these DVDs is excellent, with exceptional sound and picture quality, camera work and editing. I've found these DVDs to be invaluable in learning to play some banjo styles I'd found inscrutable before. Highly recommended.

The other two DVDs can be found here Southern Banjo Styles #2-Early 2- and 3- Finger Picking and here Southern Banjo Styles #3- Holcomb,Mainer,McGee,Bluegrass Influences & more.

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Product Description:
The banjo inspired a great variety of playing styles in theSouth during the nineteenth and early twentieth century. On this in-depthDVD lesson and demonstration, Mike Seeger presents a survey of thosestyles, teaching each of them to help you develop a full range ofrepertoire and traditional techniques.
This is the first of a 3-volume series covering virtually all of the majorbanjo styles and techniques, as well as a look at some of the types ofbanjos that have been played throughout its history in America. Volume 1focuses on a family of styles generally considered to be of African originand variously known as clawhammer, frailing, rapping, drop-thumb anddown-picking. Each video section features a song or tune with briefinformation as to its style and source, a complete performance of thepiece, and detailed split-screen instruction on how to play it. You'll alsosee a close-up view of each of the nine banjos used.
Mike teaches a wonderful variety of songs that you'll soon be adding toyour repertoire: "Soon in the Morning, Babe" an African American clawhammerpicking style from Mississippi with gourd banjo; Josh Thomas's "Roustabout"an African American accompaniment technique from Virginia; "Jim Crack Corn"an irregular-accent clawhammer style; "Battle in the Horseshoe" a basicclawhammer tune; "Darling Cora" using Kentucky multi-finger brushtechnique; "Devil's Dream" in North Carolina up-pick, up-&-down-strokestyle; "Little Birdie" using two-finger Kentucky up-pick, down-strokestyle; Around the World, in a three-finger up-pick down-stroke style; and"Whoopin' Up Cattle" a clawhammer piece on a double-drone-string banjo.
The pieces on this DVD encompass a wide range of difficulty. Some will beeasy enough for a near-beginner to be able to play, and an advancedintermediate player will quickly be able to master these pieces and greatlybenefit from Mike's program.
The material presented here is based on Mike Seeger's Grammy-nominatedSmithsonian CD "Southern Banjo Sounds."

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Fab Four FAQ: Everything Left to Know About the Beatles . and More! (Faq Series) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-14T11:53:00.000-05:00

Not strictly an "FAQ," as the title suggests, but better, because authors Shea & Rodriguez have unearthed Beatles-related information that practically NO ONE would even think to ask about. Great fun, with loads of insider details, insights, and surprises. Separate chapters encompasslive performances, unreleased tracks, variant recordings, original (and unused) song titles, uncredited Beatle studio help on the records of others, the Beatles' in-studio collaborators, unusual cover versions of Beatles songs, the boys' movie careers, wives & girlfriends, and much more. And all told, mind you, via extraordinary research and lively prose. This is NOT a mere list book, but a smart, essential addition to your Beatles collection. Pleasing foreword by Byrds founding member Chris Hillman; and a charmingly personal afterword by Apple songwriter/recording artist Jackie Lomax. Plus dozens of unusual photos, drawings, and other epehemera.

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Product Description:
40 years after the release of the iconic Â°Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club BandÂ°, the Beatles continue to captivate music fans of all ages. There's something always more to discuss about the Fab Four. What were their greatest live performances? Their worst moments? Stories still unknown by most music fans, trends still unseen, history still uninterpreted are all revealed in Â°Fab Four FAQÂ°. Pop culture authors Stuart Shea and Rob Rodriguez provide must-know fan trivia and offer obscure Beatles facts and stories in an easy-to-read, provocative format that will start as many arguments as will end them. With more than sixty chapters of stories, history, observation, and opinion, Â°Fab Four FAQÂ° lays bare the whys and wherefores that made the Beatles so great, giving credit where credit is due and maybe bursting some bubbles along the way.

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Johnny Cash 2nd Edition E-Z Play Today 55 (E-Z Play Today, 55) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-14T05:17:00.000-05:00

I bought this because I'm starting to learn to play an acoustic guitar.This music is written for organs, pianos and electric keyboards but it's so easy to read, I can use the same notes.It has all the lyrics of the songs too.This song book would be great for people who have a hard time seeing notes.... these are nice and big.I love Johnny Cash and June Carter's music and to be about to start with something so simple like this, is great.

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Product Description:
28 songs, including:Folsom Prison Blues * I Walk The Line * Five Feet High And Rising * Don't Take Your Guns To Town * Daddy Sang Bass * Ragged Old Flag * San Quentin * Orange Blossom Special * Long Black Veil * Ring Of Fire * John Henry * One Piece At A Time.

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Popular Hits Book 1 - Book/GM Disk Pack: Hal Leonard Student Piano Library Adult Piano Method (Educational Piano Library) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-14T04:14:00.000-05:00

This book follows book 1 of the Hal Leonard Adult Piano Method but can be used as a supplementary book for any piano method.The authors have picked 12 pop hits - both old and new - and arranged them for solo piano.The CD or MIDI disk also has fun accompaniments for each piece.Songs include 'My Heart Will Go On,' 'Y.M.C.A.,' 'Fun, Fun, Fun,' and 'Strangers in the Night.'The arrangements are basic enough to improve/add on to if you wish.The authors also offer a suggested order for learning the songs.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Popular Hits Book 1 - Book/GM Disk Pack: Hal Leonard Student Piano Library Adult Piano Method (Educational Piano Library) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Exciting supplementary material featuring brand-new arrangements of standard favorites. Includes: American Pie * Circle of Life * Fun, Fun, Fun * La Vie En Rose * Let It Be Me * Murder, She Wrote * My Heart Will Go On * Sing * Strangers in the Night * Y.M.C.A. * The Way You Look Tonight.Exciting supplementary material featuring brand-new arrangements of standard favorites. Includes: American Pie * Circle of Life * Fun, Fun, Fun * La Vie En Rose * Let It Be Me * Murder, She Wrote * My Heart Will Go On * Sing * Strangers in the Night * Y.M.C.A. * The Way You Look Tonight.

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Dennis Chambers: Serious Moves Review

2011-11-13T14:55:00.000-05:00

DC can really play. That is what this video should be called. For the life of me, I never will get it why in these drum instructional videos why the interviewer is always some geeky guy who asks benign questions. Please someone read this. Get a name drummer (Weckl, Gadd, anyone but what is on the video)in a different genre of music to interview the guy so they can ask questions that may be a little more, I don't know, interesting. His playing is fantastic. It is amazing to see him so fast on those big drums. This, like his other video, is not long for educational purposes but you will learn how he does what he does. Pulling it off at that speed, that's a different story. Good luck gentlemen. Definitely a must have for all drummers dvd collections. Sound and video work are excellent.

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Product Description:
Dennis is one of the funkiest, most electrifying drummers in today's music. On this DVD, in performance with a great band and solo, he displays his virtuosity and creativity. Several bass and drum grooves are isolated and taught. Dennis also discusses and demonstrates various soloing ideas and utilizes them in a phenomenal open solo.

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Billy Sheehan - Bass Secrets (Japanese) [Hardcover] Review

2011-11-13T09:19:00.000-05:00

This video is actually the Part 2 of the Billy Sheehan's instructional series with Wolf Marshall(guitarist).He breaks it down into detail of his 3 finger picking techniques, harmonics, modes, arppeggios, tapping, and many other useful techniques in a slow and fast version.he does explain a little about slapping tecniques, but not thoroughly simply because he doesn't use that approach much to his music style.Towards the end he demonstrates "Addicted to that Rush solo part", and then later jam along with Pat Torpey (Mr. Big Drummer) with 2 of their old hits , " Rock-n-Roll Over, and Merciless," which both of these songs bass tablatures are enclosed with the video case as well.I find it very benefitical to learn the simple (yet complexed) three finger picking techniques by building speed and dexterity.I've been playing bass for years now and have transformed to using fingers vice guitar pick.Billy explains alot of Pros and Cons not just practices, but also on stage performance and how to set your gears correctly.If you want to get the real deal, try to get the Part 1 of the video (sold separately) because you can also see his precious Talas days bootleg performance and many more instructionals stuffs!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Billy Sheehan - Bass Secrets (Japanese) [Hardcover]

Product Description:
This bass instructional video hosted by master guitarist Wolf Marshall includes performances of: Addicted to That Rush + NV43345 + Rock 'N' Roll Over + Merciless. Includes booklet. 83 minutes. This is a Japanese edition.

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Creating a Character: A Physical Approach to Acting (Applause Books) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-13T07:15:00.000-05:00

Once the voice has done its job, how does the body go on from there?How can we make our characters as real as we can?Every actor asks these questions of themself, but there's one question that Yakim asks about every character--Who are they?Boiled down?In two words, even?This book defines the different types of characters as basic archetypes, or "selves":The Vulnerable Self, The Trusting Self, The Instinctive Self.It then goes on to list ways of developing these Selves from a purely physical standpoint.
I have only used parts of this book in developing some of my characters, and already, I feel more confident about my presence on stage.I believe myself now, and that's the hardest audience to convince.

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Product Description:
For over 20 years, Moni Yakim has taught his unique blend of physical training and emotional exploration to a generation of American actors that include Meryl Streep, Sigourney Weaver, and Kevin Kline. Now, for the first time, his acting process is available to every actor and theater professional.

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Yuletide Treasures : 20 Christmas Miniatures for Solo Piano (Lillenas Publications) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-13T04:24:00.000-05:00

I'm officially a new Jolene Boyd fan!Great "shorts" for preludes, small offertories, or just special Christmas mood music.The songs are sight readable for the seasoned pianist and learnable for newer instramentalists.All songs are two pages or less and have a nice jazzy feel.Quality arrangements!

Song list:Angels from the Realms of Glory, Angels We Have Heard on High, Away in a Manger, Deck the Halls, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Hark! the Herald Angels Sing, Here We Come A-Caroling, It Came upon the Midnight Clear, Jingle Bell Lullaby, Joy to the World, O Christmas Tree, O Come All Ye Faithful, O Come Little Children, O Come O Come Emmanuel, O Little Town of Bethlehem, Silent Night, The First Noel, We Three Kings, What Child is This?, and While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks.

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Product Description:
Christmas favorites - fun to play, shorter arrangements especially useful for offertories or 'traveling music' in Yuletide concerts.

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Modern School: Snare Drum (Morris Goldenberg Classics) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-12T13:08:00.000-05:00

Best concert snare drum method book around.I learned from this book 35 years ago, and am teaching from it now.It includes an excellent section on how to play triangle, cymbals, tambourine, etc., including orchestral excerpts for these instruments.

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Product Description:
"The Goldenberg book" has been used for generations for orchestral mallet players to develop their skills. As well as studies and etudes, this book includes excerpts of major orchestral repertoire for keyboard percussion instruments. This edition, edited by Tony Cirone, includes phrasings that were inherent in the music but not specifically written out. Stickings were also addressed; the original stickings are in upper case letters, and the added stickings are in lower case. This book is the primary source for keyboard percussion players to learn technique and orchestral repertoire.

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Come, Thou Fount: Timeless Hymns for Today's Church (Lillenas Publications) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-12T07:19:00.000-05:00

On the positive side, I LOVE the "Revive Us Again" arrangement in this collection.The 2 Christmas arrangements
look great as well, but that is the extent of what I really like in this collection.I am a huge Lavaway Riley fan, having just discovered him recently.I purchased the "All that Thrills My Soul" book and LOVE it.Possibly since it's more advanced.I'm still looking for the "Blessed Redeemer" arrangement that someone spoke of in an earlier review.I think this collection is great for the beginner/moderate pianist.The Revive Us Again arrangement is slightly more advanced, and more in tune with the "All that Thrills" collection.Still a Great Book for offertories.I try to do a new offertory every Sunday, and Mr. Riley's arrangements have definitely helped me a great deal !

Click Here to see more reviews about: Come, Thou Fount: Timeless Hymns for Today's Church (Lillenas Publications) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Artistic and creative arrangements of some of the most beloved hymns of the church.

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Play Along with The Canadian Brass - Horn: Book/CD (Brass Ensemble) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-12T03:43:00.000-05:00

My son is a horn player and enjoys practicing with the CD play along part much more than playing alone.The CD provides a track to hear the part expertly performed then allows the player to "play along" with the horn part removed.This is a better way to learn music by playing recognizable songs and playing with expert musicians.

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Product Description:
This superb collection lets you play along with The Canadian Brass on 15 intermediate-level pieces.

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Gospel Rhythm and Blues: Hymns and Spirituals for Piano (Lillenas Publications) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-12T02:47:00.000-05:00

Bill Wolaver is one of my favorite piano arrangers.His talents are multitude.And one of the strongest is his ability to write jazz, gospel, and blues music.This book shows his talents to the maximum.

The arrangements are not simple; the are not "sit down and just sight-read the music" arrangements -- at least, not at performance quality.But they create exactly the right atmosphere for the individual song that he is arranging.

Bill has quite a musical gift, and I'm glad that he's using at least a portion of it to write down his arrangements so that others may play and enjoy them, as well.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Gospel Rhythm and Blues: Hymns and Spirituals for Piano (Lillenas Publications) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Ten piano solos based on hymns, Gospel songs, and spirituals, featuring the influence of jazz, Gospel, andrhythm and blues.

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The Peggy Lee Songbook (Piano/Vocal/Guitar Artist Songbook) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-11T12:18:00.000-05:00

Peggy Lee recorded and wrote so many great standards and this is a great collection of sheet music for them."Johnny Guitar" was especially hard to find, so I'm glad I was able to get it here along with so many others.Easy to read and the book stays open on the piano which I appreciate!

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Product Description:
18 of her greatest hits, including: Fever * Is That All There Is * Just One of Those Things * Mr. Wonderful * Why Don't You Do Right * and more. Includes photos and an extensive introduction.

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Der Rosenkavalier in Full Score (German Edition) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-11T08:21:00.000-05:00

This publisher offers full orchestral scores of several of Strauss' operas in full size for moderate prices, because they are copies from old editions.
The printing of this score of Der Rosenkavalier, certainlyhis most popular opera, is excellent, the edition is reliable.
Meanwhile there may be one or two other cheap editions of this score,but not at this size.

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Product Description:
Great operatic masterpiece reprinted complete and unabridged from rare, limited and numbered full-score edition (for solo voice, chorus and orchestra), approved by Strauss. Published by Adolph Furstner, Paris and Berlin, 1910. First inexpensive, high-quality edition.

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The Misanthrope and Other French Classics (Paperback) (Eric Bentley's Dramatic Repertoire ; V. 3) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-11T03:47:00.000-05:00

Bentley is a great reference for the study of old plays from Italy, France, and Spain.If you're looking to see what plays had their hay-day several hundred years ago, this is a great place to start.

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Misanthrope and Other French Classics (Paperback) (Eric Bentley's Dramatic Repertoire ; V. 3) [Paperback]

Product Description:
The complete play scripts to: The Misanthrope by Moliere, English version by Richard Wilbur; Phaedra by Racine, English version by Robert Lowell; The Cid by Corneille, English version by James Schevill; and FigaroÃ-s Marriage by Beaumarchais, English version by Jacques Barzun.

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Popular Piano Solos - Grade 2: Pop Hits, Broadway, Movies and More! John Thompson's Modern Course for the Piano Series (Willis) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-11T02:51:00.000-05:00

Willis' 'Popular Piano Solos' series fits perfectly with John Thompson's Modern Course piano method and works with pretty much any other method.These books are also available with CD, for interesting accompaniments.

The arrangements are accessible, becoming more difficult as the book progresses.After each title, the corresponding Thompson method page numbers are given.Includes fun, lively pieces like 'Sway (Quien Sera),' and 'Raider's Theme' from Indian Jones.Large engravings make the music easy to see, and Baumgartner includes helpful fingerings.

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Product Description:
11 songs that can be used on their own, or as a supplement to John Thompson's Modern Course for the Piano or any other method. Includes: The Addams Family Theme * Alley Cat * Do-Re-Mi * I Could Have Danced All Night * The Masterpiece * Memory * My Heart Will Go On * Nadia's Theme * Raiders March * Sway * A Time for Us.

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Mazurkas [Paperback] Review

2011-11-10T16:22:00.000-05:00

This book is based on FR. Kistner Leipzig edition. Editor is Chopin's pupil Carl Mikuli foreword dated 1879, 30 years after chopin's death.
There are many other editions of Mazurkas which I personally prefer to this available but I rate this book as a important reference to learn what the composer was intended. The editor Carl Mikuli was Chopin's piano pupil and many times he witnessed the performance of composer himself which were only to those of close to him. (Chopin did only a handful of public concerts and recitals in his life) However, intimate accounts of how his (Chopin)fingers were shaped during the passages could only be used as a sentimental knowledges which has little use for today's performance standard.
Nonetheless, we could keep in mind that what composer himself tried to express and teach his students his music as a great way to express our feeling through these beautiful works. Many Mazurkas have only a few pages and many could be played by begining students.
There are discussions of how the Mazurkas should be played, outside this book but Mikuli himself did not address this matter. (Where should the Mazurka's accents have to be placed--and there is a accounts of Chopin and Meyerbeer arguing reported by other pupil von Lenz who was taking lessons of Mazurka.)
Convenient package of 1 book with this inexpensive price, with the cover portlait by Eugene Delacroix, also Chopin's close friend is a great buy for the piano students of all levels.

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Product Description:
Features 51 best-loved compositions, reproduced directly from the authoritative Kistner edition edited by Carl Mikuli, a pupil of Chopin. Editor's Foreword, 1879.

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Intros, Endings and Turnarounds for Guitar: Essential Phrases for All Styles (Guitar Educational) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-10T11:24:00.000-05:00

I decided to review this book upon noticing the ratty condition of my copy as compared to the rest of my instructional library.It has value for all levels and so it's something I love returning to as I gain experience.There is nothing like a good intro or ending.They are classified by style which makes them especially valuable.Take example the old classic western "El Paso".By applying Turners intro's and endings in D you can have your very own, personalized styling that will sound unique and appropriate to lovers of the song.

My favorites however are the turnarounds.Most of us are introduced to guitar with individual chords, then progressions.Toss in a Turner turnaround and you have 80% of a song.Add and intro and ending and you've written a whole new one!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Intros, Endings and Turnarounds for Guitar: Essential Phrases for All Styles (Guitar Educational) [Paperback]

Product Description:
In this book/CD pack, Dale Turner, the West Coast Editor of GuitarOne magazine, teaches invaluable intros, endings and turnarounds that all the pros know and use, in jazz, blues, rock and country styles. The book includes examples in standard notation and tab, and the CD features 99 demonstration tracks.

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Jerry Donahue's Telemaster Guitar [Paperback] Review

2011-11-10T07:54:00.000-05:00

I bought this book with the intention of learning behind the nut bending. Jerry hits on that, plus other good stuff. The lessons are a little choppy. You can tell they were taken from the video tape, and spliced in. But overall a good investment for country guitar players.

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Product Description:
Jerry covers: licks and endings, behind-the-nut bends, Jerry's favorite licks from his classic recordings, parallel motion bends, banjo-style intros and endings, diminished runs, right-hand picking techniques, and chicken picking. Complete transcriptions of "The Beak" and "Mixed Emotions" in standard notation and tab.

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The Mikado Vocal Score (Dover Vocal Scores) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-10T05:18:00.000-05:00

As a performer, the most important asset of a score is legibility and freedom from errors. This PV is superb in that it is very legible and corrects errors from prior PV's.It is also inexpensive enough that a performer need not fear guilty about writing in the margins or breaking the binding.While not a critical edition, it has everything that a performer would want in a PV, and I would unhesitatingly recommend it over ANY other PV presently on the market, even those which have been "authenticated".

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Product Description:
(New Edition by Carl Simpson and Ephraim Hammett Jones, with a new piano reduction by Ephraim Hammett Jones.) This enduringly popular operetta is a bona fide classic that has delighted audiences since its debut in 1885. An appealing Japanese background adds a graceful charm to the romantic satire, while showcasing Sullivan's winsome melodies and Gilbert's satiric verses. Inexpensive, an exact match with the full score, it is indispensable to soloists, chorus members, and rehearsal pianists.

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Charlie Parker - Omnibook: For B-flat Instruments (Criterion) [Plastic Comb] Review

2011-11-09T12:28:00.000-05:00

Even as a Classical musician, I find great joy in this book.Yes, saxophonists would do better to get the E-flat edition, since that was Parker's axe and everything works better.As a trumpeter, of course I'm using the B-flat edition, which sits very well for trumpet.In fact, the range requirements are so reasonable that long practice sessions on this music at the end of the day are not overly tiring.This book is a window into Parker's genius, and a welcome diversion from repetitive exercises or square etude books, because the music is very challenging and complex.Enjoy.

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Product Description:
60 solos such as Moose the Mooch, Ornithology and Anthropology, transcribed by Jamey Aebersold and Ken Slone. A cross section of the music of Charlie Parker. Spiral-bound, with chord symbols, metronome markings, record information, and practice suggestions.

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Velocity Warm-Ups for Jazz Vibraphone [Paperback] Review

2011-11-09T08:26:00.000-05:00

Charles Dowd has done a fantastic job of organizing practical, every day, important warm ups, and technique builders into one excellent book.
This book is written for the vibraphone and I mention that because so many mallet technique books are "catch all" books meant for the marimba, xylophone, vibes etc.
I believe that in this book you'll find many useful ideas that will make a difference in your playing.

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Product Description:
Eighty-eight patterns for jazz improvisation. These technical exercises utilize jazz scales and modes which develop technique through practical harmonic concepts.

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Carole King - Tapestry - Piano/Vocal/Guitar Artist Songbook Review

2011-11-09T03:36:00.000-05:00

I have been listening to her "Tapestry" album for years, and always wondered if there was a piano/vocal book.I took a chance on this one, and I am more than pleased!The arrangements are about as exact as you can get to Carole's own playing. All the songs are included, but no extras.I love the album even more now, if that's possible.

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Product Description:
Matching folio to the classic album now available through Hal Leonard. Songs include: I Feel the Earth Move - It's Too Late - (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman - You've Got a Friend - and more.

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Jazz Guitar Sight-Reading [Paperback] Review

2011-11-09T02:22:00.000-05:00

Great book - Adam Levy presents exercises with many varied rhythms, feels etc. Mainly 8th note stuff, very accessible..and challenging. Comes with a Cd too. Starts off with rhythms, and they are realistic, not the corny examples found in so many books. It also has a duet section, plus at least 8 or so re-written 'standards'- so you can get the feel of the classics. Ive gotten alot out of this..probably the best book Ive bought this year (for reading) - Id also suggest buying the Parker omnibook after this, as it's a natural progression of sorts, albeit very challenging. If you're a 'tourist' in jazz guitar, this is the perfect book, it sets you up to play straight ahead pieces, without getting into unusable territory/material..Well worth the money spent.

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Product Description:
Etudes, studies and duets designed to enhance music reading skills, specifically written for the jazz player.Inlcudes an explanation of musical symbols and helpful suggestions to make sight-reading easy.

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The Big Klezmer Fake Book [Paperback] Review

2011-11-08T16:37:00.000-05:00

First, it's a great collection. My only quibble is with the editing, specifically for page turns. As a clarinetist and pianist, I have to stop and turn pages during at least a third of the tunes. I'd really like to save a trip to the copy shop. Also, Freylach no. 15 disappears at the bottom of page 24 and resurfaces at the top of page 38. What's with that? It's good to have all these tunes together, though. Well worth getting, but you may need to make a run to Kinko's.

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Product Description:
The leader in Jewish music, Tara Publications proudly presents The Big Klezmer Fake Book - the largest collection of Klezmer tunes ever, culled from more than 10 Tara music editions. It contains more than 175 selections, including Freylachs, Shers, Doinas, Serbas and more. Also features traditional Jewish wedding songs and dances, and Yiddish and Hassidic selections. Includes melody lines, chords, transliterations, a bibliography and a discography.--This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

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Sound Production for the Saxophone Review

2011-11-08T15:17:00.000-05:00

This DVD is essential for sax players of any level.Mr. Beasley's easy to follow instructions clearly dictate through words, diagrams, and real life examples how to produce a great sound on the saxophone.The amount of knowledge that is passed along in the DVD will give you years of experience in just a couple hours.I would advise beginners to get it so that they don't have to fix mistakes later on, and advise veterans to watch it to fix the little specific things that might be keeping them from an even better sound.It is a great buy!

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Product Description:
For Beginning, Intermediate and Advanced Players Optimize your sound Improve your pitchPractical solutions for sound problemsUnify registers For alto, soprano, and tenor saxophone

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A Performer Prepares: A Guide to Song Preparation for Actors, Singers and Dancers (Applause Acting Series) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-08T07:37:00.000-05:00

If you have anxiety about performing, David Craig will give you so much else to think about, that problem is solved.

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Product Description:
A Performer Prepares is a 13-part master class on how to perform on any stage from bleak rehearsal room to the Palace Theatre. The class covers the basic Broadway song numbers, from show ballad to showstopper. With precise, logical steps and dynamic and entertaining dialogues between himself and his students, David Craig takes anyone with the desire to shine from an audition to final curtain call. These lessons on the pages recreate as closely as possible the unique interpersonal dyamic of Craig's legendary coaching encounters in New York, Los Angeles and across the country.

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Practical Method of Italian Singing : New Edition - Mezzo Soprano (Alto) or Baritone [Paperback] Review

2011-11-08T06:25:00.000-05:00

In Italy Vaccaj's volume is available in a Ricordi edition edited by Mr Battaglia, but I guess and hope the real content, meaning the wonderful little arias, is just the same.

First of all, unless you already have a clearly defined vocal range, I suggest you buy the edition for mezzo/baritone, whose range is really a medium one and is good for nearly every voice. Later on, you can buy the edition more suitable to your register.

This small booklet is small in size only.
A beloved textbook, it should be the basis for anyone wishing to train as a singer.
The short, apparently simple arias, are the masterpiece of a genius didactitian: every note, every interval, every sillable of the text is perfect and perfectly suited to educate the inexperienced singer. Those who despise the text as too simple should be ashamed of their musical skills: there is nothing simple here. The arias can be sung by beginners but to sing them properly you have to be a perfectly accomplished artist.
Once you have completed the course you will be able to declare yourself competent in singing.

Another fact is that the arias are beautiful. Vaccaj was not a great composer but he was a wonderful craftsman. All the short arias are small gems, very pleasing to the ear, with nice piano score.

Last but not least this method will be extremely useful to pianists too: technically it is not difficult but it is a wonderful way to learn how to accompany a singer, a very difficult skill.

I have been using this method for the last couple of months and I cannot get tired of it. You will have the most useful buy of your singing career for a couple of dollars. Do not miss it.

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Product Description:
This singing method is used by many teeachers as a tool for teaching proper Italian diction and singing style.

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On the Sensations of Tone [Paperback] Review

2011-11-07T16:44:00.000-05:00

Helmholtz's Sensations of Tone became an almost instant classic in the study of hearing when it was published in 1863.It combined the physics, physiology and psychological aspects of hearing in an attempt to explainthe origins of musical harmony and dissonance.Though not easy reading, itis accessible to the non-specialist.However it also provides an importanthistorical resource for the specialist and helps one to understand theorigins of so much of contemporary hearing research.Indeed, in many waysHelmholtz reads more like a contemporary than a long-past founding father. The appendices provided by the translator are helpful as well.Finally,the inexpensive paperback edition from Dover makes this book an excellentbargain.

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Product Description:
This masterly treatment of classical acoustics embodies the great physicist's lifetime of research, and presents his vast knowledge of the field in a clear, easy-to-follow account. Among the topics explored: physical phenomena, the physiology of hearing, the relation of musical phenomena to physics, and historical aspects of musical sound.

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Stones in His Pockets: A Play by Marie Jones with an Introduction by Mel Gussow (Applause Books) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-07T14:10:00.000-05:00

A small farming village in County Kerry, Ireland, where a new Hollywood film is being shot, serves as the setting for this hilarious and affecting comedy. Many of the local residents are working as extras for "forty smackaronies a day," including Charlie Conlon and Jake Quinn, both in their mid-thirties, through whose eyes we observe the lives of the real residents of Kerry, a world dramatically different from what is being recorded on film. For the director and crew of the film and for Caroline Giovanni, the American star, the daily takes and on-set activity are, unfortunately, the only reality. When Sean Harkin, a dream-filled, 17-year-old local boy with crushed hopes, is humiliated by the film crew, and, depressed, puts stones in his pockets and drowns himself, this wry and exuberant social commentary tackles important themes and achieves a universality and significance that are rare in comedy.

Winner of the Olivier Award in 2000, this play by Marie Jones features fourteen characters played by two actors, whose role changes occur instantaneously. These include, among others, the roles of the film's star, Caroline Giovanni; Mickey Riordan, a 70-year-old local man whose only claim to fame is that he was an extra in The Quiet Man; Clem, a British Director; Jock Campbell, a Scottish security man; and Dave, a Cockney crew member. Requiring a variety of accents and quick-change artistry, this is a daunting play for all but the most ambitious director and most versatile of actors. The two actors reflect moods that range from satiric amusement at the silliness of the film industry to righteous anger at the insensitivity of the film crew, from poignant understanding of Sean's dreams to the guilt-filled helplessness of the friend who witnessed Sean's death, and from Charlie's hopeless cynicism about the possibilities of getting his own script produced to Jake's infectious optimism about "taking on the real world."

As the village and the film crew come together at Sean's wake and funeral, the themes of real life vs. reel life, the importance of dreams and need to keep working for them, and the acknowledgment that genuine respect must underlie meaningful human relationships permeate the play but never intrude. This is a comedy, after all, and as Jake and Charlie come to new recognitions about themselves and think about their future lives, the audience is there with them, rooting for their success. Mary Whipple

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Product Description:
The Broadway sensation tells the tragicomedy story of a movie location shoot in Ireland, and the delightful, touching characters caught up in it."An inventive and riotously funny comedy." - Mike Kuchwara, Associated Press

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Wee Sing Fun 'n' Folk [Paperback] Review

2011-11-07T08:09:00.000-05:00

I originally bought the tapes and now getting the cd. I bought these for Girl Scouts. I had homemade song books from other leaders, but only knew the tunes to some of the songs. I bought this collection and several others. Used the songs for meetings, camp singalongs, and in the car. Girl Scouts sing their grace and the books have many of the old rounds that are used for sing grace.

I remembered singing many of these songs. People tend to think of them as children's songs but they are not. They were originally sung by everybody. Folk song are our musically heritage. I like being able to pass some of that along to my children and others. This cd and book has many songs that are fun to sing.

Most kids like to sing. Most folk tunes are easy to sing, so everybody can singalong and enjoy.

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Product Description:
Experience the wonderful storytelling, vivid imagination, and uniquehumor of traditional folk music with this collection of classic songspassed down from generation to generation!

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Zen and the Art of Guitar: A Path to Guitar Mastery (Book and CD) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-07T07:41:00.000-05:00

Not only is this book a great read but it also has some of the most inventive musical exercises I have come across. Unlike the book Zen Guitar (which I also recommend) this book is a real "how to" study in letting go and letting it all hang out.Non guitar players will love the way the Zen process is presented.Guitar players will find the exercises challenging yet accesible.It's about time that someone wrote a book about Zen and guitar playing for the musicstand and not just the coffee table.The breathing exercises and meditations are clearly explained, the history of Zen is brief but informative but the musical ideas are what makes this a must own guitar players and a cool book for anyone who interested in getting more out of whatever they do.

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Product Description:
Join performer and teacher Jeff Peretz on a musical journey that will open your mind and improve your guitar playing in ways you've never dreamed of. Using the practice of skill cultivation, one of the principles at the heart of Zen philosophy, you'll discover ways to develop your powers of concentration, "let go" as a player, and become a complete guitarist. Along the way, you'll learn about the history of Zen; the application of Zen to rhythm, melody, and harmony; and new ways of thinking about familiar musical elements. You'll find Zen and the Art of Guitar a musical learning experience unlike any you've ever encountered.

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Recording & Production Techniques (Sound on Sound) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-06T16:50:00.000-05:00

I was a bit surprised about the lack of reviews for this book, because it is the ONLY book I ever reference when I run into a problem in the studio.And believe me, I own a lot of books on recording.
I bought this book in 1999 and have had no need to even look for other books on recording since.What makes this book so much better than the others is the quality of the information.Every sentence and tip in the recording section conveys a new useful point.There is absolutley no extraneous information here.All the techniques that I have learned from this book have worked like magic.Acoustic guitars and vocals have never sounded better.
The only downside of this book is the lack of a chapter on recording bass guitar.There is an entire chapter devoted to the future of ananlog tape, but absolutely nothing on recording bass guitar.Otherwise, the book is fantastic, and easily worth the [money] price.Happy recording...

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Product Description:
A revised an updated 2nd edition of the complete guide to music production. Secrets of the professional recording studio are revealed, from planning sessions right through to mastering.--This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

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Just Standards Real Book (Just Real Books) B-flat Edition [Plastic Comb] Review

2011-11-06T12:51:00.000-05:00

I already had long moments of fun by playing and replaying the standards in this book. It is written in a simple clear way and the choice is vast, even for a beginer like myself.

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Product Description:
The Just Standards Real Book contains 250 classic songs, from show tunes to jazz standards, that are the core required repertoire for musicians all over the world. Production teams in both the U.S. and U.K. took great care to ensure the accuracy and usability of each arrangement and original composer sources were consulted to ensure that the arrangements remained true to the composers' intention. Plus, useful and important chord substitutions are indicated for each arrangement, allowing the user to pick from the original chords or the more popular jazz versions. This book is extensively cross-referenced with appendices including: a complete composer index, a complete discography of suggested recorded versions for each song, a section on how to play from a fakebook, chord theory reference pages, and a section on how to create interesting chord substitutions. Comb bound, approx. 400 pages.

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Pacific Overtures: Vocal Score [Paperback] Review

2011-11-06T08:52:00.000-05:00

I don't tend to use the word "Masterpiece" very often because usually it's used with only "good" things. This is an Exception. "Pacific Overtures" appears to be the musical that Sondheim wrote to show the world exactly what he could do, to be a bit of a show off for his magnificent talent. The Score Succeeds in every way. The music paints pictures of the emotions it is trying to convey. The Lyrics, brilliantly written, add to the music perfectly creating an eerie feeling of completion. The Song that a previous reviewer describe as "one of his best songs ever" is a great example of the perfect melding of the music and lyrics. The Song, describing 3 british sailors attempting to lure a poor traditional Japanese girl (who they beleive is "one of them Geisha girls") to sleep with them, is Beautiful by just passing but listening deeply in the music you hear the subtle minor cords and the lyrics of growing desperation and crudness that underlay the truely unromantic and slightly disturbing scene. The music succefully attemps at utilizing, but never copies, tradional Japanese Music styles in order to create the approprtiate feel for the show (but not end up sounding pretensious).
As the story of the westernization of the japan Begins the Japanese influence is very prominent in the songs (especially "Is there no other way" and "poems"). But as the play progresses and Japan becomes more influenced the west, the Japanese music styles slowly dissapear. The number "Please Hello", describing 5 country representatives trying to persuade Japan to Trade with them (or they'll blow them up), is a humurous piece. Each Nation is represented by a certain style of music when they sing. America, rather normal indescriptive up beat music; Ductch, Funny little polka sounding; Russia, dark profound and luminous; France, follies Can-Can; and my personal favorite Britain which ingueniously parodies Gilbert and Sullivan's "I am the very pattern of a Modern Major-general".The Musical Ends With the song "Next". Many Say the song is rather inconsistant to the reast of the play but I think it works very well. It is a fast paced song depicting Japan as it hurtles itself into the mordern age. If preformed Correctly it can send tremendous shivers down your spine.
"Pacific Overtures" Was nominated for 8 tony's but only won 2. It was Robbed of it's tony for best score (loosing to A Chorus Line which, IS a fine show, does not come close to the artistic inegredy of Pacific Overtures).The Score is perhapes Sondheim most difficult, but to preform it is Very satisfying. Plus the songs are written all for men so some of these are great audition/festival peices. Like Many of Sondheim's shows, specificaly "follies",if you hear or see "pacific overtures" once you may not understand it's brilliance but after repeated listening/viewings you will to have a tremendous respect for it.
I Also recomend the Original Cast Recording of the show Available here on Amazon and, if you can find it, the Original Cast was taped and Subtitled and aired on Japanese TV it is EXTREMELY rare but if you can get a hold of it, it's worth every cent you pay for.

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Product Description:
Titles include: The Advantages of Floating in the Middle of the Sea * Four Black Dragons * Welcome to Kanagwa * Someone in a Tree * Lion Dance * Please Hello * A Bowler Hat * Pretty Lady * Next and more.

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The Graham Greene Film Reader: Reviews, Essays, Interviews and Film Stories (Applause Books) [Hardcover] Review

2011-11-06T03:44:00.000-05:00

Graham Greene writes reviews with the authority of someone who has actually written novels and films and his insights are more helpful than a dozen books on screenwriting.

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Product Description:
An anthology of reviews, essays, interviews and film stories by this legendary writer.

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High School Musical 2 Flute BK/CD (Hal Leonard Instrumental Play-Along) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-05T16:36:00.000-04:00

My sister is a huge HSM fan, so I got the flute music for both movies for her birthday.She was thrilled and hasn't stopped playing!

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Product Description:
Students will love playing along with 10 of their favorite songs from the summer blockbuster. Includes: All for One * Fabulous * Gotta Go My Own Way * I Don't Dance * What Time Is It * You Are the Music in Me * and more.

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Yngwie Malmsteen - Fire and Ice* (Guitar Recorded Version) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-05T09:44:00.000-04:00

Nothing to complain about.
It contains transcriptions of songs:
1) Perpetual
2) Dragonfly
3) Teaser
4) How Many Miles To Babylon
5) Cry No More
6) No Mercy
7) C'est La Vie
8) Leviathan
9) Fire And Ice
10) Forever Is A Long Time
11) I'm My Own Enemy
12) All I Want Is Everything
13) Golden Dawn
14) Final Curtain

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Product Description:
Matching folio to this release featuring 14 songs, including:All I Want Is Everything * C'est La Vie * Fire And Ice * I'm My Own Enemy * Leviathan * and more.

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Complete Concertos for Two or More Harpsichords in Full Score [Paperback] Review

2011-11-05T06:13:00.000-04:00

No more comments... this is part of Bach production! Fantastic and in an original format!

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Product Description:
Six concertos, BWV 1060 through 1065-three for 2 harpsichords, two for 3 harpsichords, and one for 4 harpsichords-among the first keyboard concertos ever written, still immensely popular for their rare and exuberant musical qualities. Reprinted in one volume from the authoritative Breitkopf & Härtel edition.

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The Simplified Fake Book (Fake Books) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-05T04:29:00.000-04:00

I have been teaching myself the piano for a year and with this book I actually sound like I know what I am doing!! Very fun, my family is impressed.

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Product Description:
The sequel to Your First Fake Book and The Easy Fake Book, this new collection includes 100 favorite songs all in the key of C, complete with lyrics and simplified chords that remain true to each tune. It also features convenient stay-open binding, introductions to make the arrangements sound more polished, and large, easy-to-read music notation that beginning or older players will love! The songs come from all musical genres - standards, rock, Broadway and the movies, love songs and more - and include: Bad, Bad Leroy Brown * Besame Mucho * Change the World * Could I Have This Dance * Crying * Danny Boy * Endless Love * Fever * Fire and Rain * Fly Me to the Moon * From a Distance * Heartbreak Hotel * I've Grown Accustomed to Her Face * It's a Small World * More * Piano Man * The Rainbow Connection * Sentimental Journey * So Far Away * Sunshine on My Shoulders * That's Amore * There's No Business like Show Business * A Time for Us * Twist and Shout * Unexpected Song * Yellow Submarine * You Are My Sunshine * You'll Be in My Heart * and many more!

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Jerry Coker's Complete Method for Improvisation: For All Instruments (CD included) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-04T17:12:00.000-04:00

I am an intermediate jazz saxophonist actively trying to acquire improvisation skills. This book is well written, replete with appropriate examples, and has been very helpful to someone at my level. I recommend it highly for the advanced beginner/intermediate

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Product Description:
This uniquely organized method devotes a thorough chapter to each of the prevailing tune-types of jazz -- standard, bebop, modal, blues, contemporary, ballad and free form -- listing and discussing their characteristics and illustrating approaches to understanding and performing each type of tune. Includes CD.

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Jussi (Opera Biography) [Hardcover] Review

2011-11-04T11:42:00.000-04:00

In a world where most opera biographies are either useless, gushy fan magazines or vicious, gossipy garbage, this loving yet warts-and-all account of the life of the great Swedish tenor Jussi Bjorling (1911-1960) is a standout. Although the book is written primarily by his widow Anna-Lisa, there is additional, exhaustive research and editing by Andrew Farkas (who also co-authored an Enrico Caruso biography with Caruso's son). Many of Bjorling's colleagues are also interviewed, and reviews of both his live performances and opera recordings are extensively quoted. As a supplement, there is also a 58-page listing of Bjorling's performances (933 in opera and nearly twice as many concerts and recitals) at the end of the book. The cover shows Bjorling as Romeo in `Romeo et Juliette', perhaps his greatest role.
Anna-Lisa Bjorling, who was married to Jussi for 25 years, was herself a fine soprano who often partnered her husband in concert. As of this writing she is still alive at 92. Although Anna-Lisa clearly loved Jussi very deeply, she is still capable of being objective about him when required. She is a wonderful writer, providing vivid portraits not only of Jussi, herself, and their children, but just about everybody they ever came into contact with, as well as of life in Sweden in general. After reading this book, I felt like Jussi and Anna-Lisa were old friends.

Bjorling had not only what was probably the most beautiful tenor voice to ever come out of a human throat, but also a nearly perfect technique, a superb sense of style, and the ability to truly stir the souls of his listeners. While he had a reputation for being a very poor stage actor, this was at least occasionally exaggerated. Although Bjorling died tragically young at the age of 49 of heart failure, he had a magnificent and very long career which lasted 45 years, 32 as a tenor. He is probably the only opera singer whose recording career (which began when he was 9!) lasted from acoustic to electric to LP to stereo recordings. He made his stage debut at 19 as Don Ottavio at the Royal Opera, Stockholm, after having studied first with his father, his principal singing teacher, and then at the Royal Opera School with the Royal Opera's director, baritone John Forsell. His career expanded to Europe and the rest of the world very quickly. He made his Metropolitan Opera debut in 1938, and with the exception of the WWII years and several years in the 1950s due to fights with Rudolf Bing, he remained there until his death. He concentrated on about 10 or 15 Italian and French operatic roles, and was also an avid recitalist with several hundred songs in his `inventory'.
Unfortunately, Bjorling is nearly as famous in operatic circles for his alcoholism as for his glorious singing, and I think that is appalling. In fact, the one thing this book makes very clear is that although the disease was a tragedy for him personally and traumatic for his family, it had comparatively little effect on his actual career, at least outside Sweden. Working actually kept him from drinking. Anna-Lisa offers considerable proof that many of the stories about Jussi's drinking were exaggerations, gossip or outright lies, most tellingly in the true story of the cancellation of the `Un Ballo in Maschera' recording under Sir Georg Solti, which was a product of producer John Culshaw's malice. Nearly all his colleagues also defend him on this regard.As far as I'm concerned, the only people who have any right discussing Jussi's alcoholism are Anna-Lisa and his children, as they are the only ones who really had to deal with it. ....
Overall, Jussi comes across as a beautiful human being - simple, warmhearted and lovable, a wonderful husband and father, adored by almost everybody who worked with him or knew him. The book is full of stories about his kindness and generosity to colleagues. He was also an avid pike fisherman who loved westerns and was unbeatable at arm wrestling. He basically had only three serious flaws as a human being: impulsiveness that on occasion bordered on irrationality, stubbornness, and what Anna-Lisa calls, for lack of a better term, a deep inner restlessness - the inner demon that drove him to drink.
I only wish `Jussi' could have been longer. A year before it was published, I spoke with leading Bjorling authority Cantor Don Goldberg, one of the book's proofreaders. He told me that the first draft was 1100 pages. As the final copy is only 520 pages, I wonder what was cut besides the many laudatory comments from colleagues that were considered repetitive. I was surprised that there wasn't more information about Jussi's brothers once they reached adulthood, especially Gosta, who was so close to Jussi that they had an almost telepathic relationship. And while this book does full justice to such fundamental influences on Jussi's singing as his father, John Forsell (who emerges as quite a character!), and Tullio Voghera, I would have liked a bit more on Nils Grevilius, who conducted nearly every recording Jussi made before 1950. There is also virtually nothing about Hjordis Schymberg, the fine Swedish soprano who partnered Jussi over 100 times in Stockholm. More mention of his recordings besides the complete opera sets would have been welcome, although I am aware that his recordings are covered in the companion volume `A Jussi Bjorling Phonography'. Finally, while I am aware this would have added to the price of the book, there are so few color photos of Bjorling that I think they should have had one on the cover.
`Jussi' is essential reading for anyone with any interest in good music, let alone opera. It is the definitive biography of one of the most magnificent singers and human beings ever to appear on an opera or concert stage. If you haven't heard this man sing, remedy that immediately!

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Complete Acoustic Guitar Method [Paperback] Review

2011-11-04T07:29:00.000-04:00

This is a great teaching book with a lot of theory.I wish that I had gotten the one with a CD or DVD but it is still very helpful.I highly recommend it.Amazon makes it so easy to buy something.Thanks!

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Product Description:
Being unplugged doesn't mean you're without power. Develop the agility and strength that will give your performances power by making them appear effortless. All music in each 96-page book is shown in TAB and standard notation and recorded on the accompanying CD and/or DVD for demonstration and playing along.

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"Swing When You're Winning": (Piano/vocal/guitar) [Paperback] Review

2011-11-04T05:22:00.000-04:00

The best thing about this music book is the CD, which provides all the backing except the piano parts and vocals, so you too can swing like Robbie.

However, the standard needed is above the level of my daughter who this was purchased for!

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Product Description:
The multi-million selling pop superstar Robbie Williams takes a break from the mainstream with this album, presenting a collection including some of the greatest swing and big band hits, performed in Robbie's own charismatic style. This volume contains a well-arranged score for the alto saxophone for all of the tracks on the album and includes a CD with the backing tracks, perfect for practising at home or performing live.--This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

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Puccini - Il Trittico: Opera Vocal Score Series [Paperback] Review

2011-11-03T17:21:00.000-04:00

It is a perfect book for studying the piece. I would prefer to have the english translation below the italian text. Since the transaltion isn't a word for word-translation, sometimes it makes up it's own story, best of all would be not to have the english words at all, but I couldn't find any version of "Il trittico" in italian language only.

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This famous trilogy of Puccini one-act operas, Il tabarro, Suor Angelica and Gianni Schicchi, now appears in one complete opera vocal score.

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Changuito: A Master's Approach to the Timbales [Paperback] Review

2011-11-03T16:08:00.000-04:00

A very good book for the student of drumming, particularly timbales.The book is written with a music-reading student in mind, so if you can't read music, this won't help you.
However, if you can read music, this will be an invaluable tool to learn the rhythms that comprise much of Latin music (Cascara, Danzon, Mambo, Cha Cha Cha, Mozambique, Pilon, Timba Songo Laye, Conga, 6/8 rhythms).Plus you can learn terms like "abanico" and other terminology of Timbale playing.
Next time you groove with a Latin band, and someone yells "play a mambo, or go back down to Cascara", you'll be prepared to know what to do.
Great tool!Thanks Changuito and Chuck Silvermann

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Product Description:
This text and CD package teaches timbales as played by the master percussionist Changuito. Topics include set-up, tuning, the clave, fills, independence exercises, listening recommendations, and a glossary of terms. Various styles are studied such as Danzon, Abanico, Cha-Cha-Cha, Mambo, Pilon, Mozambique, Merengsongo, Conga, 6/8 Rhythms, Timba, Songo, Laye, and Afro-Cuban. Examples on the CD are performed by Changuito.

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Grieg Masterpieces for Solo Piano: 23 Works [Paperback] Review

2011-11-03T09:49:00.000-04:00

If you like Grieg's music, you'll love this book. Norwegian Dances, Valses-Caprices, excerpts from Peer Gynt, Moods, and even the wonderful Sonata in E minor are included in this very worthwhile edition. Buy it!!

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Product Description:
These popular works include the complete Four Norwegian Dances, Op. 35; four excerpts from Lyric Pieces (Erotik, March of the Trolls, Notturno, and Wedding Day at Troldhaugen); the complete From Holberg's Time, Op. 4 (Praeludium, Sarabande, Gavotte, Air, and Rigaudon); selections from Peer Gynt Suites Nos. 1 and 2 (Morning Mood, Ase's Death, Anitra's Dance, In the Hall of the Mountain King, and Solvejg's Song); and complete Sonata in E-minor, Op. 7. Authoritative scores.

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I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change: P/V/G Vocal Selections [Paperback] Review

2011-11-03T05:12:00.000-04:00

The production at Theatre at Old Town (San Diego) was fun, funny, fabulous, worth every cent, charming, and when it comes back (especially with the cast I saw!) I will definitely see it again.After all . . . 8 times was simply not enough!!

Don't miss this ... and listening to the CD brings it all back ... and allows me to sing-a-long!!

Gentle as you go ...

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Features 8 vocal selections from this hilarious off-Broadway send-up of "the relationship" that Variety calls, "Smartly conceived...(with) catchy tunes and witty lyrics." Songs include: Always a Bridesmaid * The Baby Song * I Can Live with That * I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change * I Will Be Loved Tonight * Marriage Tango * Shouldn't I Be Less in Love with You? * Tear Jerk.

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