SKU: MB.95393M

ISBN 9780786690107. 8.75 x 11.75 inches.

The over 425 reels, jigs, set-tunes, waltzes, marches, strathspeys, and airs transcribed from the playing of traditional fiddlers in this collection, represent a large portion of the current Island repertoire. It is believed that over 100 of these tunes have never been in print previously. Even the titles that have appeared in print before, feature new and intriguing details. Because each tune is a transcription of a specific performance by an individual player, many subtleties of style--such as ornamentation, double stops, and slursâ??are included. Also included are each playerâ??s melodic idiosyncrasiesâ??called twists in local parlance. You will find living, breathing versions of tunes filled with the vitality of a people whose great love for their music is expressed in every bow-stroke. Includes access to online audio.

SKU: MB.99402M

ISBN 9780786686285. 8.75 x 11.75 inches.

The book is designed to make the personal aspects of traditional Irish fiddle playing, improvisation and interpretation, accessible to novice players. Drawing on his experience writing out reels, jigs and other tunes for new players at a North London session and teaching fiddle, the author conveys what to do with tunes to make them your own. The first part of the book discusses such subjects as the language of traditional music, posture, bowing, and effective practice, with a detailed analysis of left and right hand technique. The second section is a selection of tunes that demonstrate the ideas in the first part. The aim of the book is to allow the player to look more closely at their technique while also improving accuracy and speed. A recording adds an extra dimension to the learning experience. Includes access to online audio.