ebooks First Lessons in Bach Songbook: 28 Pieces (Schirmer Performance Editions) by From G. Schirmer; Inc. in Arts-Photography

Review

47 of 48 people found the following review helpful. Sometimes Books are the BestBy McBeanAs a beginner; Ive been trying to find just the right tool to teach me the violin; short of actually hiring a teacher.Ive used "Dummies" books for years; going back to the olden days when I got a copy of "The Internet for Dummies." Later I learned how to use Adobe Illustrator from a "Dummies" book and was able to complete a huge marketing project because of it.I subscribe to an online violin tutor program but find that Im constantly stopping and starting the videos. Plus; its difficult to go back to and find lessons that answer simple questionsThats why this "Dummies" book is so helpful. Everything is laid out chapter by chapter. Some can be skipped; depending on ones knowledge of music. For example; I play the guitar and clarinet; so basic information about music; notes and tempo arent needed. But; I know absolutely nothing about the violin so I need to learn every part of it; how to hold it; how to use the bow; and on and on. Also; clearly technical information is labeled so; if youre not a nerd; you can skip it.The good thing about a book is that you can mark important sections with sticky notes or simply use the table of contents or index. I go back and forth between the pages often; particularly to check diagrams. Ive never been able to do that well with electronic means; either websites or an e-book reader.Theres also an excellent online site that correlates with the lessons and tunes. Its well organized and complements both the listening and playing experiences.Once opened to a page; the binding allows the book to remain open. I dont need to put weights on each side. It stays open; which is exactly what you need while studying a page with your arms full of a violin and a bow.The only thing that I didnt like -- and this is probably just me -- is the corny jokes. I do love a good joke but some of these are just groaners. I suppose its the "Dummies" style and a way to make learning the violin less daunting; but I think some of the jokes were a stretch. Not worth taking off a star or even a quarter of a star though.Good luck. Go out there and make some beautiful music!0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Great for beginners!By Quantum SorcererGreat reference book!More than just playing. It covers care; and history; too.Typical; well written; Dummies guide. I feel like Im learning a lot.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. "Violin for Dummies" is a Life Changer!By wetzljoKatharine Rapoports "Violin for Dummies" is exactly what the title implies....a how-to guide for people who want to embark on an adventure that is out of their comfort zone. Although my childhood piano teacher told my parents to stop wasting their money on lessons for me; now that Im retired; I decided to try playing the violin. My first purchase was "Violin for Dummies"; to see if this was actually something I could accomplish. Surprize! Rapoports book gave me so much information; on basic music theory; on how to hold the violin and bow; how to read music; even on how to select a violin; that my confidence soared! The easy-to-play selections and the humorous approach;along with the play-along disc; gave me the confidence I needed to continue. Within a few weeks of purchasing/studying the book; I found a violin and an instructor. A year later; I am loving my new-found abilities; and looking forward to each day filled with music. "Violin for Dummies" was a Life Changer for me. Violin For Dummies; 2nd Edition