SKU: MB.30091

ISBN 9781513466378. 8.75 x 11.75 inches.

Appalachian fiddle music, based on the musical traditions of the people who settled in the mountainous regions of the southeastern United States, is widely-known and played throughout North America and parts of Europe because of its complex rhythms, its catchy melodies, and its often-ancient-sounding stylistic qualities. The authors explore the lives and music of 43 of the classic Appalachian fiddlers who were active during the first half of the 20th century. Some of them were recorded commercially in the 1920s, such as Gid Tanner, Fiddlin? John Carson, and Charlie Bowman. Some were recorded by folklorists from the Library of Congress, such as William Stepp, Emmett Lundy, and Marion Reece. Others were recorded informally by family members and visitors, such as John Salyer, Emma Lee Dickerson, and Manco Sneed. All of them played throughout most of their lives and influenced the growth and stylistic elements of fiddle music in their regions. Each fiddler has been given a chapter with a biography, several tune transcriptions, and tune histories. To show the richness of the music, the authors make a special effort to show the musical elements in detail, but also acknowledge that nothing can take the place of listening. Many of the classic recordings used in this book can be found on the web, allowing you to hear and read the music together.

SKU: CF.BF150

ISBN 9781491162101. UPC: 680160920846.

Learning to play chamber music is an important milestone in the music student’s journey. Playing with a teacher or friend helps develop rhythmic independence, intonation, listening skills, and sense of pulse that are vital to playing in an ensemble. These progressive duets offer beginning and developing players the opportunity to play along with others, or with the helpful support of the teacher in a lesson. Each duet adds new techniques and challenges that align with the natural advancement of lessons, moving from easy rhythms and keys to staccato bow strokes, slurs, accidentals (low or extended finger patterns), and more complex or independent rhythms. While the melody remains in the top line, musicians can alternate playing the melody as all efforts have been made to keep both parts at a similar difficulty level. This book features familiar melodies for the holidays, including sacred and secular Christmas songs, music for Hanukkah, and folk tunes from many countries. Appropriate for caroling, recitals, or chamber holiday concerts, there are 30 festive selections of different tempi, styles, and keys for variety, while remaining in string-friendly ranges. Each duet is one page or less in length, ensuring an immediate sense of success for young players. Put new skills into practice while celebrating the season.