Mel Bay presents The American Fiddle Method, Vol. 1 [Paperback]

Brian Wicklund (Author)

Book Description

Series: American Fiddle Method | Publication Date: December 12, 2002

Destined to become a classic, this method provides the beginner with the elements needed to become a proficient fiddler. Based on many years of teaching experience, the author introduces the concepts and techniques that yields solid results. This method encourages creativity in the student by including variations to the tunes and illustrating how they can serve as a basis for improvisation. To assist in the development of ensemble skills, chords and lyrics, basic music theory, and demonstrations of such skills as backup and lead playing are included in this profusely- illustrated book. This book is beneficial for both fiddle students and classical Suzuki violin students. A CD for listening and play-along captures the excitement of the music and aids instruction. This set also includes the companion DVD, in which the author guides you through the basic skills of learning the fiddle and shares his pointers and shortcuts to help you learn faster and more efficiently.

Product Details

• Paperback: 60 pages
• Publisher: Mel Bay Publications, Inc. (December 12, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0786668652
• ISBN-13: 978-0786668656
• Product Dimensions: 11.6 x 8.8 x 0.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #589,552 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Helped me learn to jam, August 23, 2007

By 

Steven M. Hug "Rod Hug" (Santa Rosa, CA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Mel Bay presents The American Fiddle Method, Vol. 1 (Paperback)

I have been playing the fiddle for 7 years. The hardest thing for me is learning to jam with other musicians. AMF, Vol 1 was a big help in this regard. The first nine tunes were especially helpful because they are easy to memorize, easy to play in tune, and have a nice rhythm. These tunes are also familiar to other musicians in the bluegrass jam that I attend.

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Get up to speed fast and have fun doing it, December 29, 2007

By 

Thomas W. Francis (Hudson WI) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Mel Bay presents The American Fiddle Method, Vol. 1 (Paperback)

As an adult student, I found this book incredibly productive. This book does a great job getting you up to speed with easy melodies and a solid foundation to build further advanced skills you will use forever. You will learn to read music at the same time. A valuable asset. This book will start you building an Old-time standards repertoire, another asset. The music is broken down to two A parts and two B parts. I learned about muscle memory and how your brain wires finger motion. Amazing stuff.
I have purchased the second book and I am very much enjoying a profound sense of achievement. The CD's work wonderful as a reference to keep you in check. Highly recommended along with a good fiddle teacher.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Enjoying the book, March 16, 2006

By 

CV (Alabama) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Mel Bay presents The American Fiddle Method, Vol. 1 (Paperback)

Have been playing about 3 mo. Songs are easy to learn and DVD is very helpful.