The Language of the Masters studies ten artists: Armando Peraza, Tito Puente, Ray Barretto, Manny Oquendo, Tata Guines, Guillermo Barreto, Johnny Rodriguez, Yeyito, Mongo Santamaria, and Orestes Vilato, plus a Giovanni Hildago transcription. The book includes: three transcribed, classic solos from each one of the ten featured artists' recordings; a written etude summarizing the essence of each percussionist's stye; play-along tracks for each etude-first with the solo performed and then with accompaniment only, so you can practice the etude yourself; Michael Spiro's 16-page written overview of how to study these transcriptions and incorporate them into your own playing. This book is the first serious study of the masters of Latin percussion, giving them the respect and attention they deserve. Getting inside the minds of these artists will help you find your own voice as you become more fluent in the language of Latin percussion improvisation!
