For anyone eager to learn the art of playing the banjo, "Mel Bay Presents Southern Mountain Banjo" by Wayne Erbsen is a comprehensive guide that will undoubtedly enhance your skills. This book is a treasure trove of helpful tips, step-by-step instructions, and a wide array of traditional folk songs, making it suitable for both novice and intermediate players.
Erbsen begins by providing a concise history of the banjo, tracing its roots back to African and African-American music. From there, he delves into the basics of banjo playing, covering essential techniques such as picking, strumming, and fretting. The author's explanations are clear and easy to understand, making it accessible for readers to grasp the fundamentals.
One of the highlights of this book is the vast collection of popular songs from the southern mountain banjo tradition. Each song is accompanied by detailed tablature and chord diagrams, making it effortless for readers to learn and play. Whether you're interested in traditional folk tunes like "Cripple Creek" or well-known classics like "Old Joe Clark," you will find a diverse range of songs to suit your musical preferences.
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Erbsen's passion for the banjo resonates throughout the book, as he shares fascinating anecdotes and background stories about the songs and the musicians who played them. This personal touch adds depth and authenticity to the learning experience, transforming the book into more than just a technical instruction manual.
In conclusion, "Mel Bay Presents Southern Mountain Banjo" is an invaluable resource for banjo enthusiasts of all skill levels. Whether you're a beginner looking to master the basics or an experienced player wanting to expand your repertoire, this book has everything you need to become a skilled banjo player while appreciating the rich musical heritage of the southern mountains.
What are readers saying?
Wayne Erbsen's instructional book, "Mel Bay Presents Southern Mountain Banjo," has garnered mostly positive reviews. The book aims to guide readers in mastering the art of playing banjo in the Southern mountain style. Here is a summary of the feedback received:
Many readers appreciate the book's clear and concise instructions. The step-by-step approach is particularly helpful for beginners as it covers everything from how to hold the banjo correctly to playing various techniques and musical styles. The inclusion of illustrations and diagrams further enhances the learning experience.
Wayne Erbsen's writing style is praised by several reviewers, describing it as engaging and easy to follow. The author's passion for banjo and Southern mountain music shines through his words, inspiring and motivating readers to continue their learning journey.
The book's structure and organization are also commended, with readers finding it well-organized and easy to navigate through chapters. The inclusion of historical context and background information about the music is appreciated by some reviewers.
The book strikes a good balance between theory and practice, according to many readers. Explanations of banjo techniques are accompanied by musical examples and songs to learn and practice, allowing readers to apply what they have learned and progress in their banjo playing.
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