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14 of 14 found the following review helpful:
 Solid attempt at explaining a complex topic... Aug 16, 2002
By Carlos N. Velez
"carlos_n_velez"
Of the music notation guides I've seen, this one is hands down the best. By carefully reading and studying the first three chapters alone, you'll be able to read a lot of basic music in standard notation. However, in trying to keep the book brief & witty, a lot of helpful detail is left out. For example, in the chapter on intervals, there is no explanation of the nomenclature. Why is a Perfect Fifth called a Perfect Fifth, for example? I think a little more detail would help in some areas without detracting from the intention of the book. In other areas, a few more examples (e.g., explaining the intervals with a key other that C major) may help. In order to get the most out of this book, readers will have to come up with their own exercises & study methods. I'm a guitarist, so I've been taking simple tunes & hymns and converting them (on paper) from standard notation to tablature, thus helping me learn where the various notes are located on the fretboard. The author does not make any suggestions for how to actually learn this material, so readers will have to be somewhat creative. It's not a book to be read and put down...think of it more as an outline or study guide. Overall, I like the book very much. A little more detail, coupled with suggestions for exercises, would have made for a 5 star rating. Be prepared for a lot of memorization, and taking a lot of things for granted.
2 of 2 found the following review helpful:
 Great resource for beginners in music theory Jun 14, 2010
By Jonas Aras
"Audio Pro"
I often recommend this book for those who want to build a good foundation for basic music theory. It's concise and easy to grasp.
7 of 10 found the following review helpful:
A great price for priceless knowledge Nov 01, 2000
By Ryan Johnson
I am a self taught musician, who wants to learn as much as possible about music. This book is an awesome, affordable way to gain the knowledge. Dave Stewart uses a some what humurous approach, without messing up the integrety of the book. I enjoyed every second and I learned so much from reading. I recommend this book to anyone interested in furthering their knowledge of music.
Great little guide Apr 25, 2011
By S. Duggan
"Momwithahook Reads"
This was a gift to my husband - he needed something to review in order to write down his songs in tablature. He really liked how it the author presented the lessons - A fun read - as well as educational.
Reading and Writing Music Mar 22, 2011
By vincent oglesby
I've listened to Dave Stewart/Jeff Berlin while with the Bill Bruford band.
Dave's not only an amazing pianist/musician., but an outstanding Educator( In my opinion).
He presents the material in his book with a witty sense of humor., and keeps the reader focused., without being intimidating.
I'm a bassist.., but this book is for every instumentalist.
This is my second copy., i borrowed my first to someone and never got it back.
I definitely recommend it.
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