Mandolin Primer (Book & audio CD) : Book Review

If you're a beginner looking to learn how to play the mandolin, the "Mandolin Primer" by Bert Casey is a fantastic guide. This book covers all the essential elements of mandolin playing, from basic techniques to chord progressions and popular songs.

What sets this primer apart is Casey's clear and concise writing style. He provides instructions that are easy to follow and understand, ensuring that readers can grasp the concepts without feeling overwhelmed. The book starts from the very beginning, teaching readers how to properly hold and tune the instrument. As you progress through the book, Casey gradually introduces more advanced techniques, building upon the foundation laid in earlier chapters.

One of the standout features of the "Mandolin Primer" is the inclusion of various exercises and practice songs. These practical applications allow readers to put their newly acquired skills to use and reinforce their learning. To make the learning experience even better, the book also includes online audio examples that can be accessed by readers. This provides a helpful auditory component that complements the written instructions.

In addition to technique and practical skills, Casey also delves into musical theory and explores different styles of playing the mandolin. This well-rounded approach gives readers a deeper understanding of the instrument and helps them develop their own unique playing style. Whether you're interested in bluegrass, folk, or other genres, this primer has you covered.

Overall, the "Mandolin Primer" by Bert Casey is an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning the mandolin. Its comprehensive coverage of techniques, practical applications, and musical theory make it suitable for beginners and those with some experience alike. With this book as your guide, you'll be on your way to becoming a skilled mandolin player in no time.

What are readers saying?

"Mandolin Primer" by Bert Casey is highly acclaimed in the field of mandolin instruction, thanks to its overwhelmingly positive reception from readers.

Readers consistently praise Bert Casey's teaching style, describing it as clear, concise, and engaging. The step-by-step approach in the book is particularly appreciated, as beginners find it easy to follow along. From tuning to basic chords, strumming, picking techniques, and reading tablature, the book covers a wide range of topics.

The book's comprehensive nature is also highly regarded by reviewers. It covers all the essential aspects of learning to play the mandolin, progressing from basic techniques to more complex concepts. This structured learning experience allows readers to build their skills progressively.

Many readers find the inclusion of exercises in the book to be invaluable. These exercises help reinforce the techniques learned and make learning the more challenging aspects of mandolin playing more manageable.

Bert Casey's use of illustrations and diagrams is consistently praised by reviewers. These visuals greatly aid in understanding the techniques being taught, whether it's finger placement, chords, or picking patterns.

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