Fretboard Logic III Applications: Creative and Analytical [Paperback]

Bill Edwards (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: February 7, 1993

Applications, Creative and Analytical is the part of Fretboard Logic where music theory is introduced in integrated into the unique characteristics of the instrument. After the necessary foundations are established in Volumes I and II, the guitarist now has the requisite skill set to start to tackle pitch and time relationships, and more importantly, to apply them in real world playing situations. A wide range of subjects are explained and presented in a non-linear format, which allows each player to study what is relevant to his or her needs, without wasting their time on areas in which they have no interest. Fretboard Logic offers a way to navigate the complexities of advanced music concepts without the boredom and frustration usually associated with learning these subjects on a guitar.

Editorial Reviews

Review

What a great book. You continue to exceed all my expectations & are worth every cent. --Allan Barsema

I received your Fretboard Logic SE and book III. I have been playing for 23 yrs and have had trouble along the way with scales and modes. I have had at least 10 different guitar instructors who "tried" to show me. At the time I knew the scale forms (penatonics) but could not move forward from all the hype the instructors taught. From patterns, to numbers and being told modes are just emotions. Well I got your books for Christmas this year. I FINALLY GET IT!!!!! I have always wanted to play like my guitar heroes, Satriani, Vai etc., but just could not figure out what they were doing!!!! I have had your books literally for 5 days. I have studied and practiced for 8 hours each day. At the music store the other night some of the kids there wanted to know where i took lessons and I told them about your books. They asked if I am a teacher, at first I almost said no, but upon learning so much I am going to start teaching. Mr. Edwards you are the GENIUS of guitar. Thank you so much for making things easy and in layman's terms so there is no more confusion. ROCK ON. --Jimmy B Dayton

I have been meaning to write to you for some time now to let you know how incredibly valuable I have found Fretboard Logic I, II and III. I was a lazy guitar player for 20 years, and never really understood the fretboard properly despite playing most days. Your book conveys in such straightforward terms what I have always known was buried in there somewhere, but could never really get to. Your books have opened up musical worlds to me on the guitar and the journey thus far has been seriously thrilling rather than frustrating, which was my previous experience with theory. Fantastic work - the journey continues... Seriously, thanks! Max respect for your insights and logical presentation. Fretboard Logic is the Dharmaparda of guitar mechanics! --Scott Jackson

From the Publisher

Volume III expands exponentially on the foundations established in the first two books. Much broader in scope, it touches on a wide range of subjects without being superficial.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 184 pages
• Publisher: Bill Edwards Publishing Corp.; 4th edition (February 7, 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0962477028
• ISBN-13: 978-0962477027
• Product Dimensions: 9.7 x 8.4 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (12 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #91,686 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

65 of 73 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Useful in part, but might not be worth your while, November 30, 2002

By 

Ilia Asafiev (Maryland, USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Fretboard Logic III Applications: Creative and Analytical (Paperback)

On my high praise of Mr. Edward's approach (in my review of the first two volumes of this series), it may come as a bit of a surprise that I consider this - a continuation of the method - unworthy of the rest of it. However, there are several reasons for it, and few, if any, of them are the author's fault. His intent is to keep the series accessible to as wide an audience as possible.

The first two volumes, which I recommend in the combined anniversary edition, go through the organization of guitar as an instrument, with the promise of actual music coming into play at a later time. Well, this volume is where the music not introduced in the second volume comes in.

Applications - Creative and Analytical (ACaA) is not necessarily something to be read in sequence. Rather, it is something to refer to as an encyclopedia, upon need of certain elements. If you're anything like me, you may find that you will buy this book for 20 out of the 170 pages of it, and end up using the rest just to make yourself feel that you haven't wasted any money.

ACaA goes through the fundamentals of music theory in this book. He uses guitar, not piano, to expain them, which is a bonus, but learning, or re-learning, to read standard notation may be a bit of a drag. Not that it isn't worth it, but it's something that can be acquired in other sources. It's not that difficult.

Another thing ACaA covers are technical development exercises, particularly for lead playing. Again, something we can easily find elsewhere. Rhythmic and melodic exercises, same thing. In short, there is a lot of material that, unlike the stuff in the first two volumes, can be found in other places in a duplicate fashion - Mr. Edwards simply adjusts it to his teaching style.

ACaA also includes some original compositions by Mr. Edwards, which is a nice addition, but the analytical application takes away from the creative aspect - having the tool (the guitar), to discover the music for oneself and grow with it. I've seen bands with guitarists who have mastered this approach - their playing is quite bland, with very little spark to it. In other words, this third volume is insufficient to make one a great guitarist, not just a great guitar player.

There is a very useful section on chord progressions, from which any player would benefit, and which all fans of volumes I and II will love. And to give credit where credit is due, there are many great pedagogical techniques in this volume, which are worth looking at, even if only academically. Also, there is a ton of great advice regarding learning techniques for everyone in this book, so don't write it off based on its negative aspects.

Also, on a negative note, there is a number of typographical errors in this book, which, unless you already know the concept being explained, might give you a little trouble.

To conclude, this book is something to consider. However, as Plato notes, be careful with logic - use it only once you've verified that the axioms of your system are true. I will use similar advice: use this book well, but don't limit yourself to it.

23 of 27 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Fretboard Logic should be an Easier Way to Learn Guitar!, November 6, 2002

By 

Arthur S. (Amarillo, Tx United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Fretboard Logic III Applications: Creative and Analytical (Paperback)

I had been struggling to learn guitar for years, that is until Fretboard Logic.I have both the Video and Volumes I & 2 and let me tell you I am playing G U I T A R NOW!

The moment I got the book and began pouring into it I was turned on. I figured out what I was doing wrong after just reading a few paragraphs of certain topics.

The way Bill (I kinda feel close to the guy now after hours of watching him on video) teach in the book and on video is very logical... that is, he makes it simple. Once you understand the fretboard, scales are no problem. But trying to learn scales without understanding the fretboard you are probably in for years of frustration; believe me, I know.

The C.A.G.E.D. system takes you all over the fretboard. Once you learn the forms and positions (which is simple) along with the CAGE system you are on your way. The rest is just mechanics and preference.

I am now playing with a band and getting great reviews from both the band members and the audience. BTW, I am lefthanded so I had to reverse a lot of figering shown on the video and was still able to do well, so I know you righthanded folks can.

My son, who just started playing bass 2 mths ago is learning at a fast pace. I ordered the Fretboard Logic video and book for Bass for him and he loves them.

I just wanted to give Bill his "props" and say to anyone who's trying to learn or get over the hump, Fretboard Logic is the way to go. I've wasted thousands of dollars on videos where the instructor seems more impressed with himself than trying to teach; and books where you are taught songs, scales, modes, etc, not application. Fretboard Logic is a godsend. If you are brand new to guitar I think you need to get books or videos that will teach you the basics; how to hold a guitar, a pick, etc. Don't spend a lot of money just get something that will familiarize you with the basics. Once you have the basics down, order Fretboard Logic (get the workbook that has both volumes in it I & 2). if you are a visual person like myself you may also want to order the video too.

Just wanted to spread the Love,
Peace

26 of 31 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars You Must Have This Series, July 14, 2001

By 

Thomas Brown (Corona, CA USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Fretboard Logic III Applications: Creative and Analytical (Paperback)

An excellent followup to an essential series on guitar. Edwards fills in all the gaps from intervals to chord progressions. I have found his suggestions useful in songwriting and breaking out of improvisational ruts. You really can't afford to be without this series if you are serious about guitar and music.