Songs without Words (Complete) (Alfred Masterwork Edition) [Plastic Comb] Review

I always like the layout and look of the Schirmer editions, but I ended up returning this one in favor of an urtext edition because it was so heavily edited.It seemed that nearly every measure had some editorital addition, and while I don't mind a little bit of commentary to clear up a phrasing or dynamic issue, this was really over the top.

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Product Description:
These 48 pieces were composed over a period of two decades, beginning in 1832, and published in eight groups of six each. Many of these songs were dedicated to the women in Mendelssohn's life and reflect the sunniest qualities of his melodiousness, spontaneity and invention. Maurice Hinson has skillfully researched and edited these works back to their original form and provides a very informative introduction, which includes many detailed suggestions for a stylistic interpretation and performance, as well as biographical information on the composer's life.

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Hammond Organ Complete [Paperback] Review

I thought there were no Hammond methods, but somehow I found this one, and it's a good starting point for neophytes of the B-3 and drawbar organs. Don't expect it to disclose all the techniques you heard on Jimmy Smith's records, but it can be really useful as a reference book. The addition of the CD is absolutely essential: a good feature from the author.
It's a fairly good catalogue of riffs, although I wish it focused a lot more on funk and jazzy riffs (there are some good examples, however -but not enough nor representative) than on poppy ballads and clichés.
Anyway,at least it can lend some help to us forgotten organists and lovers of the Hammond!

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Product Description:
The secret to creating funky sizzles and classic Hammond sounds is mastering the combined use of the drawbars, expression pedal, and the Leslie speaker speed switch. Sound intimidating? It doesn't have to be! This hands-on guide takes you step-by-step through the techniques of playing the drawbar organ, one skill at a time. You'll learn to: play gospel, RandB, jazz, blues, funk and rock; achieve fantastic special effects; understand all the parts of the organ and how to use them; and much more. The accompanying CD includes 21 exercises, plus performance demos of 8 songs, with minus-organ versions so you can jam along!"A fantastic introduction to all aspects of playing the B3 organ. Definitely worth checking out."- John Medeski

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The Württenburg Sonatas (Kalmus Edition) [Paperback] Review

I really like this book. Within 2 weeks I got through the book (with training everyday for about 15 min) and I got the confidence, that I am capable of learning this instrument all by myself. It has some interesting melodies after the first couple of pages !!!

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Product Description:
No Description provided.

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Twelve Very Easy and Melodious Studies, Op. 63 (Kalmus Edition) [Paperback] Review

Out of all the musical forms he could have chosen, Streabbog wrote all of the pieces in this book are in the ternary form.All of the melodies are in four-measure blocks, and there is almost no counterpoint.Variety of harmony is also lacking.Pungent dissonances such as diminished sevenths and augmented sixths are non-existent.

Burgmuller and Clementi win by a wide margin.

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Product Description:
A collection of easy piano studies by Louis Streabbog.

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Sleigh Ride and Other Christmas Songs & Carols [Paperback] Review

I thought this product was the same collection of music we had as a kid... but no.:(Anyway, the collection still has a lot of good songs in it, but I didn't realize that the "Big Note Piano" on the corner meant simplified.It's definitely beginner music (intermediate and advanced players will be rather bored).

I guess they don't make the full collection anymore.It's too bad.I'm looking for some old Christmas songs that were only in this book.

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Product Description:
Thirty-nine big note piano arrangements. Includes: Angels We Have Heard on High * The First Noel * Jingle Bells * Jolly Old St. Nicholas * O Holy Night * Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town * We Wish You a Merry Christmas.

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It's Easy To Play Classical Themes [Paperback] Review

I was expecting this to be a child's classical book because of the kid on the cover and the word "Easy" in the title. What I got was a book at a different level than the one visually suggested on the cover. But that's okay. I needed music a bit more challenging than what I had in my beginner's arsenal. I accepted the fact that this wasn't what I expected. It's actually better. I am at the beginner-crossover into intermediate level, which means I'm not ready for books that say "intermediate" but "beginner" is way too easy. I brought this book to my piano teacher who liked it. As she played some of the selections from the book I recognized songs I knew and liked. Anyhow I have been using this book and it's challenging for me but I like the music in it so it's motivation to finish a piece to move on to another. It had a pretty decent selection. The Table of Contents wasn't listed on Amazon so I'll tell you what's inside:
Debussy-Clair De LuneSchumann-DreamingChopin-Fantasie ImpromptuMendelssohn-Fingal's CaveBrahms-Hungarian Dance N.6Liszt-LiebestraumSchubert-Marche MilitaireRubinstein-Melody in FGrieg-MorningDvorak-New World Symph.Beethoven-9th Synph. Grieg-ConcertoBorodin-Polovtsian DancesTchaikovsky-R&JSchubert-RosamundeSchubert-SerenadeSchumann-Slumber SongGrieg-Solveig's SongBeethoven-Son. Pathetique Tchaikovsky-Swan Lake, Synph. N.5, Synph. PathetiqueMcDowell-To a Wild RoseSchubert-Unfinished Synph.Chopin-ValseDalibes-Valse De CoppeliaSmetana-Vltava
I would definitely recommend this book if it sounds like you're at the same level I am. Good luck with your choice!

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Product Description:
Easy-to-read, simplified arrangements of 27 popular classical masterpieces by Tchaikovsky, Grieg, Beethoven, and other great composers.

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The Professional Touch [Paperback] Review

I buy lots of printed music, particularly piano arrangements, and I'd give this one an eight out of ten. Arrangements are full and moderately sophisticated without being ball busters. The book is good value for the price although I would have liked to have seen maybe 1/2 dozen more titles and maybe some more obscure tunes in the mix. The accompanying CD is an amazingly flat rendering of the tunes and you shouldn't have to work too hard to make them sound better than that - maybe that was the intention and, if so, it has succeeded.

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Product Description:
Piano veteran Lou Stein has been admired for his swinging, sophisticated, style on recordings with musical greats Charlie Parker, Percy Faith, Jackie Gleason, Bobby Hackett, Benny Goodman, Lester Young, Coleman Hawkins, and others. Here are some of his favorite standards in wonderful, playable arrangements for his fans to play and enjoy on their own. All songs are performed on the CD which accompanies the book so players can hear exactly how they should sound. Titles are: Over the Rainbow * Our Love Is Here to Stay * Fools Rush In * Someone to Watch Over Me * Wrap Your Troubles in Dreams * More Than You* Know * Embraceable You * As Time Goes By * Alone Together * Stormy Weather * Indiana.

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Piano Music of Louis Moreau Gottschalk: 26 Complete Pieces from Original Editions [Paperback] Review

Gottschalk is a name few mention when talking about great composers, but he is equal to many who have much more name recognition.His virtuosity at the piano over-shadowed how good a composer he was.Calling him the "American Chopin" is not an exagerration.The book has some great works, but is missing a few of his masterpieces, namely "Radieuse', "La Scintilla" and the "Battle Cry of Freedom".

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Product Description:
Features 26 pieces (including covers) by early-19th-century American genius: "Bamboula," "The Banjo," other Creole, Negro-based material, through elegant salon music.

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Mozart 6 Viennese Sonatinas (Kalmus Edition) [Paperback] Review

This is an excellent book for piano study, the book came in mint condition, easy to read, and the fingering is also included unlike some other books I have previously orderd. I highly recommend the Kalmus classic edition to any young pianist.

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Product Description:
No Description provided.

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At the Organ With Virgil Fox [Paperback] Review

Virgil Fox was one of the greatest. His stylistic editions are a joy to explore. I suggest getting all the recordings of his you can.

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Product Description:
A performer's edition of the most often performed organ works of the renowned Virgil Fox. This collection includes his markings, registrations and performance hints. 29 pieces are included ranging from chorale settings, Christmas music, transcriptions of choral and orchestral works to an exciting arrangement of 'The Star-Spangled Banner.'

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All the Way... A Decade of Song (Popular Matching Folios) [Paperback] Review

I loved the sheet music in this book! It took all of Celine's 'greatest hit's' and put them in one book! I got this bok before I got the other sheet music books of hers and I was glad I did!!

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Product Description:
All the songs from Celine Dion's greatest hits album, expertly arranged by the world-renowned leader in piano arranging, Dan Coates. This book is an industry first: Celine Dion's music has never been available before for easy piano. Titles are: The Power of Love
* If You Asked Me To
* Beauty and the Beast
* Because You Loved Me (Theme from Up Close and Personal)
* It's All Coming Back to Me Now
* Love Can Move Mountains
* To Love You More
* My Heart Will Go On (Love Theme from Titanic)
* I'm Your Angel (Duet with R. Kelly)
* That's the Way It Is
* If These Walls Could Talk
* The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face
* All the Way
* Then You Look at Me
* I Want You to Need Me
* Live.

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Islamey and Other Favorite Russian Piano Works [Paperback] Review

The book contains many favorites of all time such as Prokofiev's Toccata Op.11.Notes are blurry in some passages, but are usually adequate.It was a great tool to discover composers and sheet music, but more so to rediscover and enhance one's musical interest.I recommend this book to absolutely anyone willing to enjoy life.

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Product Description:
Celebrated title piece plus such all-time favorites as Rubinstein's "Melodie in F," Moussorgsky's "Hopak of the Young Ukrainians," Scriabin‘s Nocturne in D Flat, Op. 9, No. 2; Rachmaninoff's Prelude in C-sharp Minor, Op. 3, No. 2; Tchaikovsky's "Chant sans paroles"; and many more. Authoritative editions.


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Selections from a Dave Brubeck Christmas [Paperback] Review

Exactly as described and exactly what our grandson disabled with spina bifida wanted to give his Piano Playing Dad for Christmas. They both love jazz and Dave Brubeck.It is so nice to be able to find what I want on Amazon.com and have it delivered in a timely manner!

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Product Description:
Dave Brubeck, the genius of jazz, provides us with his distinctive renditions of Christmastime favorites. Titles are: Away in a Manger * Cantos Para Pedir las Posadas * "Homecoming" Jingle Bells * Joy to the World * O Tannenbaum * Silent Night * To Us Is Given * What Child Is This (Greensleeves) * Winter Wonderland.

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Complete Preludes and Fugues for Organ [Paperback] Review

As other reviewers have mentioned, the term "complete" does not mean that every prelude and fugue by Bach is contained.Here is a complete list of its contents:

Prelude and Fugue, C Major (BWV 531; BG XV, 81)
Prelude and Fugue, D Major (BWV 532; BG XV, 88)
Prelude and Fugue, E Minor (BWV 533; BG XV, 100)
Prelude and Fugue, F Minor (BWV 534; BG XV, 104)
Prelude and Fugue, G Minor (BWV 535; BG XV, 112)
Prelude and Fugue, A Major (BWV 536; BG XV, 120)
Prelude and Fugue, D Minor (BWV 539; BG XV, 148)
Prelude and Fugue, G Major (BWV 541; BG XV, 169)
Prelude and Fugue, A Minor (BWV 543; BG XV, 189)
Prelude and Fugue, B Minor (BWV 544; BG XV, 199)
Prelude and Fugue, C Major (BWV 545; BG XV, 212)
Prelude and Fugue, C Minor (BWV 546; BG XV, 218)
Prelude and Fugue, C Major (BWV 547; BG XV, 228)
Prelude and Fugue, E Minor (BWV 548; BG XV, 236)
Prelude and Fugue, C Minor (BWV 549; BG XXXVIII, 3)
Prelude and Fugue, G Major (BWV 550; BG XXXVIII, 9)
Prelude and Fugue, A Minor (BWV 551; BG XXXVIII, 17)
Eight Short Preludes and Fugues (possibly spurious)
1. C Major (BWV 553; BG XXXVIII, 23)
2. D Minor (BWV 554; BG XXXVIII, 27)
3. E Minor (BWV 555; BG XXXVIII, 30)
4. F Major (BWV 556; BG XXXVIII, 33)
5. G Major (BWV 557; BG XXXVIII, 36)
6. G Minor (BWV 558; BG XXXVIII, 39)
7. A Minor (BWV 559; BG XXXVIII, 42)
8. B-flat Major (BWV 560; BG XXXVIII, 45)

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Product Description:
This volume reproduces all 25 of Bach's complete sets of preludes and fugues (i.e. compositions written as pairs), from the authoritative Bach-Gesellschaft edition. Organists and music lovers can enjoy Bach's beautiful compositions in one convenient edition-ideal for reading, study and performance. Table of contents.


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Yamaha YPT-300AD Full-Size 61-Key Touch-Sensitive Keyboard Review

This is the best keyboard with 61 keys.I should know because I tested practically all of them.Also, all the stores the specialize in music instruments carry Yamaha keyboards. No other.That was a pretty good sign to me when I went to the music stores here in Maryland and saw nothing but Yamaha.This keyboard has the best piano sound out of Casio, Sharper Image and Radio Shack.Radio Shack would come in second.It has more voices then the others.Don't be turned off by it not having a power adapter because that seems to be the industry standard.Casio and Radio Shack also charge more for you to buy a power adapter.Definitely buy this one ahead of Casio. If you're turned off by the price, then get a radio shack one.You won't lose much quality with the sound.

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Product Description:
An affordable 61-key portable keyboard that also doubles as a personal music teacher, the YPT-300AD has it all: 482 instrument voices, 106 accompaniment styles, General MIDI compatibility, and such bonus functions as Yamaha's Education Suite 5 and Portable Grand. The combined features are great for beginners, but also come in handy for music hobbyists who value reliability and versatility in a portable keyboard.
New players will particularly delight in the Yamaha Education Suite (Y.E.S.), which features 102 built-in songs separated into left- and right-hand parts for easier lesson planning. Y.E.S. also offers three keyboard lessons for each hand, including Listen & Learn, which breaks down the melody or rhythm of a selected song; Timing mode, which lets you play the melody or chord by pressing any key with the correct timing; and Waiting mode; which stops the playback of the song until you find the correct note. Finally, Y.E.S. monitors your practice progress, gives you feedback, and teaches you how to play chords by referencing its sizable chord dictionary.
The YPT-300AD offers a number of non-lesson features as well. Yamaha digitally sampled its world-renowned grand pianos and transferred the rich, full tones to the YPT-300AD, so you can enjoy the warmth and clarity of a grand piano sound with the push of a single button. Other General MIDI-compatible voices include trumpets, violins, drums, guitars, bass, drum kits, and even a choir. All told, players can access as man as 482 General MIDI voices, putting a virtual orchestra at your fingertips.
The auto-accompaniment feature is another favorite. Select from the 106 accompaniment styles, and the keyboard will create a backup band to follow you throughout the song. Best of all, you have complete freedom to match different styles. Want to find out how Mozart would sound as a disco star? Go for it. The voices and accompaniment styles are diverse and interesting thanks to the 32-note polyphony, which ensures that the keyboard can play back 32 different parts or sounds at once (including 16-part multi-timbre)--enough for even the most demanding piece.
Playback versatility is always a concern with entry-level portable keyboards, but the YPT-300AD excels in this area as well thanks to its touch-sensitive keys and digital signal processing (DSP) options. The touch-sensitive keys add passion to your playing by responding to the pressure from your fingers. A heavier touch creates a louder response, while a lighter touch gives a softer tone. As a result, your keyboard will respond like an acoustic piano--the more expressive the playing, the more passionate the tune. The DSP, meanwhile, helps simulate the experience of playing in a variety of locales, from a small room to a large concert hall (Carnegie Hall, anyone?). The DSP modes include nine reverb effects and four chorus effects.
And even though music is its milieu, the YPT-300AD also offers a sound effects kit, with such options as laughter, applause, and screams. Almost 50 effects are at your command, making you a de facto sound effects technician. And thanks to the five-song memory and easy-to-use two-track recorder, you can wear the engineer's hat as well.
Finally, the Yamaha YPT-300AD lets you take advantage of the Internet on a whole new level. The unit includes built-in Flash ROM capability and MIDI in/out connections for synching up with your PC. Once Internet enabled, you can pick and choose songs to download into the Flash ROM memory, then learn to play them via the Yamaha Education Suite. And there's no scrolling through menus or fussing with confusing interfaces. Simply press the PC button and you're on your way.
Additional features include a large backlit LCD display that shows the musical staff and chords as you play, genuine ported stereo speakers with separate amplifiers, a built-in metronome, a sustain pedal jack, and headphone output for private practice. The YPT-300AD measures 37.25 by 5.06 by 14.62 inches (W x H x D) and is backed by a one-year warranty on parts and 90-day warranty on labor.
What's in the Box
YPT-300AD keyboard, AC adapter, music rest, user's manual.

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A Month of Sundays: Christmas (Alfred's Sacred Performer Collections) [Paperback] Review

This book is full of absolutely wonderful, creative arrangements of some of your all time favorite sacred Christmas songs. Quite tangible for the professional player with an impressive sound for your audience. A must have for professional or advanced pianists.

I would warn the amateur or hobbiest, these might be a bit of a stretch for you. They do require practice, this would not be a sit down and read it book. True, some are easier than others but it might be more than a hobbiest or amateur would be looking for. I also recommend Christmas: The Best Christmas Hits from the Holiday Season, also by Jan Sansborn in the Popular Performer series- these are non-sacred Christmas hits. Also, amazing and well written.

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Product Description:
This extraordinary collection includes favorite carols arranged in a variety of styles. The pieces are grouped into four prelude-offertory-postlude combinations (one for each Sunday of the month). The arrangements are fresh and unique, conveying the spirit of the Christmas season. The CD, recorded by Sanborn, provides lively and highly musical performances. Titles: Away in a Manger Bring a Torch, Jeanette, IsabellaGo, Tell It on The MountainGod Rest Ye Merry, GentlemenGood Christian Friends, RejoiceInfant Holy, Infant LowlyJoy to the WorldNo Longer a BabyO Come, O Come, EmmanuelO Holy NightO Little Town of BethlehemWhile Shepherds Watched Their Flocks

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Meet the Great Composers: Book 2 (Learning Link) [Paperback] Review

Granted, if you paid for the book and CD, you should get them both. However, this is a valuable resource and interesting workbook for all ages just by itself. It contains many pictures, short histories of the composers and a puzzle or game about each one. Children and adults like this and I have used this for teaching for years.

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Product Description:
Each unit on a famous composer takes approximately 20 minutes to complete and can be used in group teaching, home school or as an assignment for individual upper elementary or middle school students. The Classroom Kit contains the book and CD combo and reproducible activity sheets. The companion repertoire book contains simplified arrangements of famous themes.

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Basic Keyboard Workout Pocket Reference Book (The Basic Series) [Paperback] Review

great book but is a little confusing as tests have music genre that is not explained in book so if you are new to music it would confuse you also not all the book lessons are on cd but you probably need 2 cds to do that, other than that it is awesome, glad i brought it and its a great price. I would reccommend this book as an extra to lessons cheers hope this helped

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Product Description:
This is an invaluable guide containing everything you need to know about playing keyboards, including quotes and tips from key figures in the piano world on choosing your kit, hand technique, different music styles, auditions and recording live in the studio. In short it's all you need to know to get the sound you want out of those ivories.

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Selected Songs for Solo Voice and Piano [Paperback] Review

At such a low price, this is an excellent collection of some of the best Lieder from this era. Organized by opus, it is a great reference book for scholars, historians, theorists, singers, teachers, and song enthusiasts alike.

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Product Description:
Over 100 of Schumann's greatest lieder, set to poems by Heine, Goethe, Byron, others. Breitkopf & Härtel edition.


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Pianists Picture Chords (Music Sales America) [Paperback] Review

I play the piano and it is difficult to find certain chords. With this book,the search is over! This book has helped quite a bit!

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Product Description:
A guide to the most useful chords in every key. Easy-to-read photos and diagrams.

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Mozart 21 of His Most Popular Pieces: Alfred Masterwork Edition [Paperback] Review

The Alfred Masterworks Editions are my favorite piano music books. I've been playing the piano for about 20 years, and these are the best series of books I've used. They have very good, clear notations, the arrangements are really well presented and put together, the fingering recommendations are the best I've seen (with the little numbers by the notes), and the biographical information and performance recommendations are a nice touch.

I only wish they had more books in the series.

This Mozart book is a good starter for someone who hasn't played Mozart before, and is looking to get better acquainted with his music.

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Product Description:
Some of Mozart's most popular works are contained in this volume, including the "Fantasia in D Minor," the "Sonata in C Major" (first movement) and the "Turkish March" from the Sonata in A Major. Other selections include intermediate-level transcriptions from operas and orchestral works. Arranged in the order of difficulty, each piece is prefaced by a short description. A biographical sketch of the composer is also provided.

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Lasting Impressions [Paperback] Review

I really like this book of music. I always turn to it whenever I want to play something a little different than the standard classics. I never tire of it.

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Product Description:
Lasting Impressions is a collection of original pieces written in a variety of major and the corresponding relative minor keys.For early intermediate to intermediate pianists, this book offers teachers the opportunity to reinforce clearly the relationship between major and relative minor keys.

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Alesis MICRON Analog Modeling Synthesizer Review

I have been looking at analog modelling synthesizers since the illustrious Nord Lead blew the synth industry away. There have been many to follow, but I can honestly say the Alesis Micron gives you the most bang for the buck. There are more features on this little keyboard than I have seen on any other VA synth coming anywhere near the price.

500 patches of sounds (with room for 400 more to program) running the gamut of analog textures (don't believe some reviewers not finding soft and warm patches.. they are definitely there right out of the box) including sub-bass tones, warm strings, punchy basses, sweet analog drums and much more in between. The patches are separated by category (lead, bass, drums, pads, etc) and each category can be punched in on the fly.

You have three oscillators per voice (including variable waveshapes and FM) which gives the synth a really fat sound as well as two low frequency ocsillators for warmth. Doing quick modulation and filtering changes can be done with two programmable slider controls. There is also a pitch bend wheel that lights up when you use it. Programming can be pretty intuitive if you learn the shortcut method that makes the keys buttons to select parameters (essentially 37 extra buttons for editing).

I have compared the Micron with other VA synths like Korg's VA synths (MS2000, MicroKorg, Electribe), the Roland 303, the Novation Bass Station and can honestly tell you the Alesis Micron can go toe to toe against all of them and many times come out ahead in both sound and functionality.

The synth also includes a master dual effects processer and a single drive effects processor per patch (something most VA synths don't even include). Not the greatest effects processing in the world, but far from inferior. Essentially the effects help give your sounds some nice ambience. You also get a 40 band vocoder for vocal effects (more robust then the Korg VA synth vocoders) You are limited to 8-voice polyphony, but the synth is 32-part multitimbral.

The Micron also has a built in step and phrase sequencer that includes over 400 patterns preset with drum parts, synth parts and combinations of both along with room for hundreds of your own. The phrase sequencer is really easy to use with one button record and looping. A third type of sequencer you have is a pretty versatile arpeggiator.

Bottom line is if you are looking for synth that is affordable yet has an expansive set of analog sounds (and by that I mean a digital synth that utilizes analog modelling) this is it. If you are doing electronic dance music this synth is perfect for you. You won't find a better value for the money. Sure there are better products out there (Nord is still the tops in my book), but when it comes down to it the Micron will give you professional sounding analog synth sounds and the ability to make some killer patches.

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Product Description:
Offering a virtually limitless sonic palette, the Alesis MICRON eight-voice analog-modeling synthesizer produces a big sound despite its small size. Whether you use a synth to accompany you on stage or in the studio or you prefer to work with the hundreds of preset Alesis sounds or create your own, the MICRON is a great musical companion.


The MICRON may be small in size, but it produces a big sound (see larger image).

It offers 8 voices, each with 3 oscillators, 2 multimode filters, 3 envelope generators, 2 LFOs, sample and hold, and tracking generator (see larger image).
The MICRON has two multi-mode filters, three envelope generators, and two LFOs: the full spectrum of synthesis components for shaping and creating sonorities and textures. For stage and studio-ready quality, the MICRON has 24-bit audio outputs and inputs via balanced connections.
Each of the MICRON's voices contains two filters, and each filter can be one of the following different types, each with its own character and sonic flavor: Bypass, Low Pass: ob 2-pole, tb 3-pole, mg 4-pole, rp 4-pole, jp 4-pole, al 8-pole; Band Pass: ob 2-pole, al 6-pole, octave dual, band limit; High Pass: ob 2-pole, op 4-pole; three Vocal Formants, four Comb Filters, Phase Warp, Frequency, Resonance, Key Tracking, Envelope Amount, Offset, and Absolute.

Key Features

Analog modeling synth engine
Eight voices, each with three oscillators
Up to eight multi-timbral parts with stereo effects
Two multimode filters, three envelope generators, two LFOs, sample and hold, tracking generator
Dynamic real-time and step sequencers, arpeggiator, and drum machine/rhythm sequencer
Stereo bus effects including reverbs and delays
24-bit 1/4-inch balanced stereo analog outputs and inputs
37-key synth-action keyboard with velocity sensitivity
More than 600 preset sounds

Specifications

Synthesis: analog modeling (subtractive), noise generator, FM
Polyphony: up to 8 voices
Timbrality: up to 8 parts
Oscillators: 3 per voice with continuously variable waveshapes, sync, linear and exponential FM, Ring Mod, routable modulation matrix per voice.
Filters: 2 multi-mode resonating filters per voice with 16 filter types
Modulation: 2 LFOs with multiple wave shapes, sample and hold, tracking generator, freely routable modulation matrix per voice
Effects: 4 drive effects, 1 per part; master effects
Sequencing: step sequencer, arpeggiator, drum machine/rhythm sequencer, and phrase sequencer
Program memory: up to 1,000 programs and multi-timbral setups
Velocity sensitive: Yes
Keyboard: 37-key, synth action
External control: MIDI in/out/thru
Inputs: 2 balanced 1/4-inch TRS, mic
Outputs: 2 balanced 1/4-inch TRS, 1/4-inch TRS headphone
Pedal Inputs: Assignable expression pedal, sustain pedal

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Clavia Nord Electro 2 61-Key Stage Piano/Organ Review

For the gigging keyboardist, the Electro 61 falls somewhere between a Godsend and a no-brainer.It's hard to avoid hyperbole when discussing this instrument, but anyone who has toted a Hammond rig and a Wurlie and a controller and peripherals and every other blasted thing will get my drift.For 29 years, I've been condemned to driving a cargo van full of vintage keys which weren't designed to leave the living room in the first place.I've herniated myself in the process, and was almost killed in a rear-end collision that flipped my 'B' upside down.I have made every effort to 'scale down' -- Korg CX3, Micro B, Roland VK7, Oberheim, Hammond XM3, and oddball stuff.All of the aforementioned fell woefully short of Hammond heaven, and of course, didn't offer any EP features or anything else.

The buzz about the Nord was intriguing, so I checked one out at a local store.Typically, the young, cooler-than-thou clerk could barely get the thing to power up, and I was pretty much left to navigate on my own.But five minutes on the Electro made me a believer (of COURSE I ordered one online -- any dope on the floor of a music store who can't get a keyboard that produces five sounds to work doesn't get his commission from me).

Here goes (note -- run this guy stereo, even if ya have to buy a little PA to do so): the Hammond end of things is simply exquisite.I did a little EQ stuff (the Electro features EQ and presence knobs on the dashboard.What a concept!You know, you can actually tweak your sound during performance...), rolled back the key click, and entered my own registrations.Fat, juicy, and soulful.Big, even in the high harmonics.Not a trace of cheese.Outlandish chorus.Completely persuasive percussion.The best Leslie ever, and I don't mean 'pretty good.'It sounds like the real deal.I personally don't have an issue with the 'draw-buttons' and I like controlling the Leslie speed via footswitch.The last thing I want is another broken bakelite switch hanging pitifully on my 'board.

Rhodes: ya want Richard Tee?Yassah."Just the Way You Are?" (you'll actually want to play the old warhorse) -- roger roger.Steely Dan ala Victor Feldman and/or "Nightfly" stuff?Yes jones.Through the Electro, younger players might actually discover what a Rhodes really sounds like.Twenty years of screaching over-cranked synth knockoffs did the Rhodes sound no favors.

Wurlie: intitially, I couldn't find one quite 'mean' enough, but five minutes with 'presence' did the trick.Early Ray, in a big way.A little tremolo and it's Mussel Sholes central.Just like my 200.Plays like it too.Light, but CONFIDENT feeling.

Clavs: good grief.Perfect.

CP80:Back in the day, I wanted one desperately.But, of course, like every thing else back in the day, I coudn't afford one.Now I OWN one.I LOVE it.Newbies probably won't 'get' the CP80, but us old timers will have our fun.

Piano: contrary to most opinions, I think the piano is very good.I don't like it as well as my Kurweil 1200 Pro I, but it's entirely usable.I re-EQed it, rolling off some of the not-so-pleasant highs.Prior to a gig recently, I played some standards using the piano sound.I was testing the waters to see if the relatively short keyboard and on-board piano would work for jobbing.Absolutely.It won't cut stride, but an Evans-esque approach is A-OK.

Conclusion: the Electro 61 is hands-down the most impressive and exciting 'keyboard' I've ever owned, and I have had a ton of stuff.Unlike a synth, it is designed for the player to make music on it.In that sense, it is a bonafide musical instrument.

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Product Description:
The Nord Electro 2 is the next big step in the development of the Nord Electro series of stage keyboards. Among the features of the Electro 2 you'll find the new Mega Clavinet sound which offers all the filter and pick-up variations of the original Clavinet D6! This means that you'll be able to access no less than 60 + 4 different Clavinet D6 sounds in the Electro 2!Thanks to the remade piano sample playback engine, the polyphony for the piano sounds is now greatly enhanced. The new piano sample playback engine also made it possible for Nord to digitally model the sounds you get when you release keys on a piano instrument. For example, the Clavinet and the Wurlitzer have very characteristic key release sounds. In Nord Electro 2 this is very faithfully modeled. The new sample playback engine also allows for playback of stereo pianos. In the new factory sound library Clavia has included a great new Acoustic Grand piano - in stereo. The Electro 2 also features great new vintage-style effects in the Effects section. Nord has also beefed up the Overdrive distortion to sound more like an overdriven tube amplifier.Nord Electro 2 fully supports USB download of Nord Electro piano samples. Now you will be able to download new piano instrument samples using Nord's specially developed Electro Tool sample dump program for Mac and PC! Additional piano sounds are available on the CD-R that comes with the Nord Electro 2 and also for download at www.clavia.se - free of charge! More...

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Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone: Selected Themes from the Motion Picture [Paperback] Review

This music is great.It's also kind of dificult. My favorite song is Harry's Wondrous World

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Product Description:
...this folio featuring the hit music by John Williams from the blockbuster film also includes color photos from the motion picture and more!

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Jagged Little Pill (Piano/Vocal/Guitar Artist Songbook) [Paperback] Review

The person who says this is sheet music is wrong.If you look in the upper left corner you will see the Guitar Recorded Verison this is what this is.If that person bought this item he should have retured it.I think he just messed up because their is a sheet music version.As always Hal's books are the best most correct of all tab books!

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Product Description:
Matching folio to her runaway hit, including: You Oughta Know
* All I Really Want
* Hand in My Pocket
* Ironic and more.

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The Artistry of George Shearing [Paperback] Review

This is truly one of the best artistry edition from WB , if you like The Artistry of Bill Evans 1& 2, then this is absolutly better stuff. Tuff but for real this also related to one album of Shearing(Piano) from concord Jazz, so you can learn what it should hear,,,worth more I think than Oscar Peterson note for note,,,especially shearing song book.

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Product Description:
Bob Hinz has included some top standards and some originals in this great folio of solo piano transcriptions of jazz piano legend George Shearing. Amust for all jazz fans.

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David Carr Glover / Technic, Level 3" [Paperback] Review

When I ordered this book, the name said "Lessons, Level 3" and the picture actually showed the 'lesson' book, not the 'technic' book.While the Technic book is OK, it's not a substitute for the Lesson book 3.It appears that this picture has been updated, but it is still being called "Lesson, Book 3" in the description.I hope no one else is confused by this as I was.

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Product Description:
This TECHNIC book is correlated page by page with LESSONS and other supplementary materials recommended for this level. It may also be used with other methods of piano study. Supplementary materials correlated with LESSONS, Level 3 from the DAVID CARR GLOVER METHOD FOR PIANO: Sight Reading and Ear Training, Theory, Technic, and Performance.

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Yamaha Survival Kit D Review

Bought this for a Yamaha YPG-225 portable piano.The one good feature of the kit is the Yamaha PD5 power supply which is remarkably heavy for its small size and has a 6' foot cord from the transformer to wall socket and another thinner 6' foot cord from the transformer to the piano for a total of 12 feet - something you will appreciate.

The foot switch for sustain is a cheaply made plastic switch; you can buy a much better Yamaha foot peddle for about $30.The Koss headphones sound okay but are now somewhat broken after one day because of the cheap plastic headband.

The video will show you how to hook up your power supply, how to use the headphones and foot switch - totally useless with no instructional value.It will not show you how to navigate or operate you keyboard.

The software is a collection of very old shareware of dubious value with "lite" versions that require purchase for the "full feature" version.None where Yamaha products.

This entire package is a real disappointment save for the power supply.The kit is obviously very old judging by its outdated software package.My recommendation is to buy the power supply and a better foot peddle seperately.

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Product Description:
Includes Yamaha Electronic Keyboard Power Adapter PA5D Yamaha Footswitch Stereo Headphones 2 Year Extended Warranty Survival Kit CD-ROM.

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Debussy Estampes (Kalmus Edition) [Paperback] Review

Walter Gieseking's Debussy was ideal and Kyoko Tabe is a marvelous pianist in the Gieseking tradition.Her Debussy, like the late master's, is imaginative, evocative, shimmering, sometimes mysterious, sometimes filled with delight. She is more than able to meet technical challenges and get inside the music.I suppose the question could come up--why not just stick with Gieseking himself, to which my response would be that I am always interested in hearing what other pianists have to say.Being under a great influence such as that of Gieseking is as it should be. Tabe is certainly a worthwhile and individual enough voice in her own right. Plus, even modern technology cannot do that much for the limitations of 1940's and early 1950's recorded sound.Chandos has given Tabe wonderful sound.

Actually, I am not sure that Gieseking's influence on Debussy pianism is really so widespread anymore.I've heard more than one performance of L'isle Joyeuse that made it sound like a straightforward showpiece--all display and no sense of exoticism or mystery. I also recently heard Thibaudet on the radio playing Gardens in the Rain and he made it sound like Liszt.I think Liszt is great and some of his music even looks ahead to impressionism, but still, Debussy should not sound like Liszt, even in music that calls for as much technical prowess as L'isle and Gardens. Coming back to Kyoko Tabe--I'm delighted to report that she gets it. She feels this music and her playing has a wonderful touch. This is how Debussy should be played and I highly recommend this CD.

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Product Description:
A collection of advanced piano pieces by Claude Debussy.

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Music for Little Mozarts: Deluxe Starter Kit [Paperback] Review

I am a mom that sings, but not a pianist.The price of piano lessons prevent us from having our kids take lessons at young ages.I looked at one of the lessons from a local studio and they said they use this series, so I ordered it.

I know how to play a little, and this book/cd/notecards, etc... is absolutely perfect for us.My 4-year-old son is learning at an amazing speed and he loves it.The cd that comes with it helped with the excitement.The dry-erase board that you can learn the letters of the keyboard with is wonderful because you can erase and don't have to use papers over and over.Plus, the little magnets that come with it are a great tool in getting them to understand that they can compose their own little measure or two, then I can play it for them.

I'm a huge fan and will be using this for my 2-year-old when she's old enough too, and I'll be ordering the next levels soon.

And we're saving TONS of money.I figure that once they are old enough out of these books, and are still interested and beyond my capabilities of teaching, we'll pay the high price of lessons.

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Product Description:
A student who begins lessons with the Deluxe Starter Kit will have the best chance at success in music lessons because the student has all the key components that provide a comprehensive learning experience and make the course come alive. The vinyl tote bag includes: Music Activity Board with marker, Beethoven Bear and Mozart Mouse, Music Lesson Book 1, Music Discovery Book 1, Music Workbook 1, a CD 2-disc set (for the Lesson and Discovery Books) and Flash Cards for Book 1.

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Casio CDP 100 Digital Piano Review

We purchased this item for my wife who is an acoomplished pianist. She has a grand piano and has played and taught piano (private and college level).
Reason for purchase, to have a portable item that could be used by us in churches or situations where a decent paino was not available. This unit is very portable. A little bulkier then the smaller keyboards but you do have the benefit of a standard piano keyboard.
She is happy with the tone quality and action of the keys. The Casio will definately handle most of the music that she would play.
She realizes that this does not compare to her grand piano but she admits that it is an excellent item for the money.
The only drawback is that it does not have a dedicated line to hook into an amplifier.An adapter has to be used on the headphones jack.
Definately a good buy.

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Product Description:
An instrument has been crafted that truly delivers the joy of playing the piano to anyone who has ever dreamed of learning to play. Authentic tones, carefull sampled from a concert grand piano mate with a Weighted Scaled Hammer Action to provide for a most realistic and satisfying musical experience. It comes with an adapter and a sustain pedal. Optional matching stand is available.

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The Steinway Collection: Paintings of Great Composers (Amadeus) [Hardcover] Review

This slim, handsome, coffee-table book containing artistic impressions of 12 great composers with rich explanatory essays is an invitation to indulgence. Famed music critic James Huneker was commissioned by Steinway and Sons to write the texts illuminating the 12 paintings by American artists of famous composers for the pianoforte (and other instruments). The paintings remain on display in the Steinway Collection in Steinway Hall in New York. This flawless edition brings both paintings and essays, containing jewels of truths about the lives of the composers, is an ideal contribution to the study or browsing list of armchair devotees of classical music. It is a long awaited resurrection. The museum quality paintings are dark, looming, mysterious, even overwhelming, florid with imagery pertaining to the composition or composer depicted. Because of the need for reduction and color reproduction, these works of art by artists such as A. I. Keller, N. C. Wyeth, John C. Johansen, and Ernest Blumenschein, to mention a few, are the next best things to standing directly before them at the Stineways and Sons gallery. Their intended scale is monolithic. The essays paired with the painting shine clear and true like a beacon over the last eighty -five years. They are clearly the work of an iconographer. There is such mastery of the descriptive phrase, the rhapsodic experience of epiphanies, such brilliantly faceted mirrorings of the composers' works, all paraded in solemn dignity alongside the magnificent paintings. Truly the collection is a treasure. It remains an archetype of style of music criticism. Perhaps the most familiar portrait is the one of Liszt, painted by John C. Johansen. An elderly sublime performer, "he dreams of his past triumphs; of the three women who filled his life - Caroline St. Criq, Countess d'Agoult and Princess Wittgenstein; of his trials, sorrows and ultimate peace in the arms of Mother Church...The weary wonder worker has, like Prospero, laid down his wand; the wizard Merlin is in the toils of Time. Ring down the curtain, the comedy is ended (p. 14)!" The Steinway Collection, Paintings of Great Composers, with Essays by James Huneker is an enthusiastically recommended addition to personal, academic, and community library collections.

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Product Description:
Music lovers will delight in the beautiful color paintings and eloquent prose portraits in The Steinway Collection: Paintings of Great Composers. Chopin, Wagner, Liszt, Beethoven, Berlioz, Mozart, Verdi, Mendelssohn, Handel, and Schubert are among the composers celebrated in this historic book, which was originally printed in 1919 as an in-house publication of Steinway and Sons but has never before been released to the public. The paintings by esteemed American artists and accompanying essays by the brilliant critic James Gibbons Huneker are intended, in Mr. Huneker's words, to "evoke musical visions; for music is visionary, notwithstanding its primal appeal to the ear." An introduction by acclaimed broadcaster and writer David Dubal, Juilliard professor of piano literature, gives the book historical perspective.

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Rihanna - A Girl like Me (Piano/Vocal/Guitar Artist Songbook) [Paperback] Review

I originally bought the book for the song Unfaithful, but as I've played the other songs, I can't believe how wonderfully they are arranged and how much I like them!This is a wonderful book for any Rihanna fan!

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Product Description:
Matching folio to the hit sophomore release from Rihanna featuring 13 more dance hits and ballads, including: Break It Off * Dem Haters * Kisses Don't Lie * S.O.S. * Unfaithful * and more.

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Afro-Cuban Keyboard Grooves (Afro-Cuban Grooves) [Paperback] Review

I purchased thiscollection of Afro Cuban grooves because I visited Cuba, loved the sound of the music , wanted to play it but didn't understand the form. I absolutely love the book. The explanations are clear, and the Cd makes it so easy.Now, as a composer, I am inserting Cuban grooves in my music....great!

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Product Description:
This book will help any musician unlock the secrets of the Afro-Cuban rhythmic feel. By clearly demonstrating the underlying pattern called the Clave and the comping patterns called Tumbaos which are played over the Clave, every keyboard player can learn these fundamental Latin rhythms. (Matching bass book (EL9707CD) also available.) Includes accompanying CD.

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Sight Reading (Schaum Method Supplement) [Paperback] Review

Helpful with regular piano books to help teach sight reading. No note numbers or letters on it.

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Product Description:
The SCHAUM SIGHT READING Books are designed to provide intersesting material to increase the pupil's skill in reading. Finger numbers have been omitted so that the student may concentrate on NOTE READING without any distraction. Book 1 can be used as early as the Pre-A Grade level. Book 2 is Grade 1 or A Book degree of difficulty.

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2 Sonatas, Op. 49 (Alfred Masterwork Edition) [Paperback] Review

When Beethoven wrote for the music student, he set the same standards for himself as when he wrote for the professional.He obviously put a lot of effort into writing these two sonatas.If you wish to take these two compositions apart piece by piece, log in here:

[...]
Before you buy this work separately, however, consider buying the Sonatina Album instead.That way, you will get not only these two sonatas, but the Clementi sonatinas and many other tasty morsels.

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Product Description:
This edition will assist piano students in achieving a better, more stylistically correct interpretation of two of Beethoven's most popular piano sonatas. Sonata in G Minor, Op. 49, No. 1 and Sonata in G Major, Op. 49, No. 2 were originally published in 1805 and became best sellers. These late intermediate level sonatas have remained among Beethoven's most popular teaching pieces.

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The Source 2nd Edition [Plastic Comb] Review

This is the most logical and comprehensive way of approaching scales. I originally learned mine according to key (classical method). The Source is an approach that incorporates modes which bridges the understanding between classical and jazz. Well done!

Kathi

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Product Description:
The Source is an excellent addition to any musician's or teacher's library. It is also a very informative guide for people who are looking for a book with good, solid information regarding scales, chords, and how these two work together. The Source provides clear and complete right and left hand piano fingerings for scales, chords, and complete inversions. With over twenty different scales, each written in all twelve keys, The Source is the most complete collection of contemporary and traditional scales ever compiled into one book.

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Yamaha DVDMOTIFXS Motif XS Series DVD Review

I would recommend this DVD if you just bought the MOTIF XS without owning or playing the older model (ES).

It is arguable that everything in this DVD is in the manual.Technically, that it is true.However, this DVD approaches the concept from another prospective and sometimes it helps to look at the concept from different angles. I think both DVD and the manual compliment one another.

After you watch this DVD, you should visit motifator.comThere you will find more documents for advance usages as well as the forum.Yamaha personnel also frequent in the forum and are extremely helpful.

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Product Description:
The official Motif XS DVD runs at approximately 3 1/2 hours and takes you on a complete tour of the features, functionality, and just plain fun at your disposal with this 2007-released Motif XS workstation. The Motif XS is surprisingly different from its predecessors and this DVD reflects its considerably enhanced performance-orientated capability.When looking at the main Voice, Performance, Pattern & Song areas, in addition to the key button pushes and navigation the DVD demonstrates how each mode can be used ' and customized ' live. Using controllers, playing the multiple arpeggios, making use of the offsets, Play FX, and more are all covered in detail.Effects are Big News on the Motif XS and the DVD spends more than 35 minutes looking at what you've got and how to apply them in all the major modes.It's easy to overlook the (optional) sampling capability on an instrument as inherently 'big' as this but with sample memory safely installed, the delights of sample-based voice libraries, replacing drum voices in customized drum kits, recording guitar and more await. The DVD spends a good 40 minutes on these exciting possibilities.Motif XS's sequencer is powerful and, for many people, will cover all their recording needs. But this is not an either/or situation with computer-based DAWs. The DVD's final scene looks at how to hook up the bundled Cubase AI, along with how to transfer control (and indeed files) back and forth between the two worlds of 'computer' and 'musical instrument.'Written and presented by Yamaha Corporation of America's Athan Billias - one of the Motif series' prime shakers and movers since Day One - you could not be in better hands when it comes to discovering the world of the Motif XS.

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Folk Song Portraits [Paperback] Review

Excellent arrangements.Each folk song has two pages of bass clef for one player and two pages of treble clef for the partner player.I loved it so much I bought the Sacred Portriats by the same arranger.

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Product Description:
Charming duet arrangements of some of the world's greatest folk songs. Teachers will find these arrangements perfect for spicing up recitals and as supplementary material for group piano instruction in colleges and universities. Includes "Aura Lee," "Auprès de ma Blonde," "Barbra Allen," "Dear Evelina," "Mama Don't 'Low," "My Spanish Guitar," "Shenandoah" and "This Train."

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Gospel Classics (Book & CD) (Sacred Performer Collections) [Paperback] Review

I love Mark Hayes, but some of his stuff just isn't my style. This book is about 50% my style, and 50% not. However, the 50% that is my style is just incredible. None of the songs are bad, just some I just don't enjoy playing. The CD is great to listen to all the way through.

My favorites are Old Rugged Cross and How Great Thou Art. These are incredibly moving pieces.

For any advanced Mark Hayes fan, I highly recommend this book.

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Product Description:
Gospel Classics reflects the importance of hymns and gospel songs in the musical fabric of Mark Hayes's life. The skillful arranger has artistically 'breathed new life' into the well-known gospel songs included in this collection for advanced pianists. Church musicians and worshippers alike are certain to take great enjoyment in experiencing these fresh new settings and lush harmonies.

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Carmina Burana: Vocal Score (Schott) [Paperback] Review

This book has the full vocal score, well-printed, well laid-out.If you're doing Carmina, you want this score!Clear type, adequate size, good binding, and you can see what the other parts are doing, which really helps most choral singers.

Expensive, but worth it.Particularly if you're going to do Carmina maybe 5-10 times in your career.

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Product Description:

Piano reduction of the score with vocal parts.

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Acoustica Pianissimo Virtual Grand Piano Review

I searched for a long time for an affordable Piano software program. Not only is this affordable, but it has the best real piano tones that I have heard from any keyboard software. Absynth can't touch it. No it's not a soft synth. It's a soft grand piano. You can run it as a standalone (I use it with an M-audio 61es) and it will record two tracks which is a nice feature or you can use it as a VST plugin. It's very versatile. The program doesn't actually come on the disk. You are paying for the code key. Download the demo from Acoustica's site and activate it with your ser #. At least that's what I had to do. I love it. It's well worth the money.

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Product Description:
Acoustica's Pianissimo is a virtual instrument that uses a combination of sample playback and advanced physical modeling to create a stunning acoustic grand piano sound. Starting with 250MB of high quality samples of a Steinway Model D grand piano, the Pianissimo plug-in uses complex signal processing and programming to recreate the warmth, response, and playability of a real grand piano. This natural sound is then paired with a professional studio-quality reverb algorithm to add the depth and ambiance of a true acoustic space. Add in modeled sympathetic resonance, incidental mechanical hammer sounds, remarkable control over tone and velocity response, 256 voices of polyphony, and incredibly low CPU usage, and Pianissimo might just be the best sounding, most playable virtual piano you've experienced.The VSTi plug-in will operate in any DAW with support for virtual instruments in the VSTi format, including Mixcraft. The standalone version supports any MIDI device, and any WAV, ASIO, or WaveRT device. It allows for two-track recording, loading, and saving of standard MIDI Type 1 files, and supports mixing down to WAV, MP3, WMA, and Ogg Vorbis files.

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GForce M-Tron Pro Virtual Instrument, ¹ Review

I have always loved the sound of Mellotron in music from Genesis to Moody Blues. This instrument has its own unique sound that has never been emulated, since it had grown out of fashion. Being a Home Hobby music producer and recorder, I had read about the M-Tron Pro and the previous version and wrung my wrists, thinking whether I should take the plunge and add it to my plug-ins in my software.
I have used Xpand with its host of voices and was pretty stoked with it as well. I obtained the M-tron and after a brief learning curve, have really enjoyed it, and am using Xpand less and less.
Having never played the original analog Mellotron, I don't really know what may be missing.
But so far, with some tweaking I have produced some awesome retro, spacey effects to my tunes. Some of my frequent listeners tell me they really love how it sounds. I would recommend this to anyone who is currently in search of mellotron in their music.

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Product Description:
The M-Tron virtual instrument from GForce is an incredible emulation of the classic Mellotron popularized by artists such as The Beatles, Yes, David Bowie, Led Zeppelin, King Crimson, and The Moody Blues. This M-Tron set includes all of the additional tape banks that used to be available separately-giving you 2.5GB of real Mellotron samples, including strings, choir, flutes, brass, and more. The software works in standalone mode or host operation. Totally AuthenticThe Mellotron was one of the first sample-based keyboards. When pressed, each key on the original instrument moved a tape head onto a piece of tape that had a recording of that note playing a sound such as a violin. In order to replicate the original instrument's tone as closely as possible, GForce sampled each individual tape and coded them into the M-Tron for over 2.5GB total. As much a labor of love as the Mellotron itself, each key on the M-Tron plays an individual recording of the analogous tape from the original. As with the original synth, once the eight seconds of "tape" has been played, it is simply "re-wound." The lack of loop points give the instrument a unique playing characteristic in addition to it's already unique sound.Standalone or Host OperationYou can use the M-Tron soft synth by itself or as a plug-in from some of the most popular host applications, including Live 4, Cubase, Logic, GarageBand, SONAR, Digital Performer, ACID, and Pro Tools LE/TDM. Compatible formats include VST 2.0 (Mac/PC including VSTi), RTAS (Mac/PC) and Audio Units (Mac). In other words, you can integrate the virtual instrument with the rest of your studio and use it just about any way you want.

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Schumann: Scenes from Childhood, opus 15 (Book & CD) (Alfred CD Edition) [Paperback] Review

I gave one of the Schumann books and CDs to my granddaughter, age 10, and the other to my grandson, age 6. They have both enjoyed listening to them SO much. And my granddaughter, who plays the piano, is excited to have the written version of all the songs. I had no idea how these gifts would be received when I gave them for Christmas, but I can tell you that they are loved and listened to over and over. I highly recommend them!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Schumann: Scenes from Childhood, opus 15 (Book & CD) (Alfred CD Edition) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Contained in this charming edition are 13 pieces which capture the essence of youth as well as the vast array of emotion usually conveyed in Schumann's works. Editor Willard A. Palmer includes a review of the original autograph, explanation of phrasing and ornamentation and a useful tempo chart-all valuable information required for an accurate and precise performance.

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Treasury of Great Kids' Songs [Paperback] Review

Many of these songs are arranged too amateurish and single note like skip to my lou, take me out to the ballgame, and merrily we roll along. Other songs are fine like Batman, Pinky and the Brain, and Happy Birthday. I wish the songs were a little more professional like Hal Leonard books instead of simple single notes with a simple bass line. I like the song selection, and many rare songs are in this book, but it just is too simple to play half of them, and this book is good for beginners, but if you aren't a beginner, look into other books that use more advanced treble clefs. I mainly got this for the rare songs that aren't available in most other books.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Treasury of Great Kids' Songs [Paperback]

Product Description:
Over 50 titles! The songs in this book were carefully selected to bring hours of enjoyment to kids, parents, and teachers. This collection is unique in that the melodies are in suitable singing ranges for young children (or adults who do not consider themselves singers!). Another special feature is that, for each song, there are fun singing and moving games and other activities for teachers or parents to use to interact with their children. The piano arrangements are interesting but accessible to intermediate-level players. Appropriate for classroom and home use! Songs include: (Meet) The Flintstones
* I Believe I Can Fly
* The Lion Sleeps Tonight
* Over the Rainbow
* Pinky & the Brain
* Return to Pooh Corner
* Take Me Out to the Ball Game
* Talk to the Animals
* Yankee Doodle
* and more.

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61-KEY Portable Educational Keyboard Review

I purchased this keyboard from Amazon back in August.It has been a wonderful tool.It is loaded with a lot of features. My favorite include the auto transpose and auto cording.

It more than meets my beginner needs and will advance with me.

Click Here to see more reviews about: 61-KEY Portable Educational Keyboard

Product Description:
61 piano-size touch-sensitive keys489 instrument voicesPerformance assistantEasy song arrangerUses PA-3B or PA-3C power adapters or 6 D batteriesIncludes Yamaha Education Suitewith 9-step piano lesson and quick start DVD

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Complete Lyric Pieces for Piano [Paperback] Review

I have enjoyed flipping through the book and playing pieces at random. The pieces are so beautiful and unique. Some of them are easier to play than others, but most of them could be played at first sight. It's a great addition to my classical sheet music collection.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Complete Lyric Pieces for Piano [Paperback]

Product Description:
All 66 works from the ten sets of little mood pictures created for piano by the Norwegian composer from 1867 to 1901, reprinted from the authoritative C. F. Peters edition. Technically uncomplicated and reasonably easy to master, these popular works have been favorites of generations of pianists, both amateur and professional.


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