Classical Guitar: Technique & Musicianship

Serious about playing classical guitar? Well, you're going to want to invest in a good nail file and some No. 500 sandpaper in order to get those rounded nails necessary for gracefully playing complicated arpeggios. Instructor Frederic Hand does a fine job of introducing viewers to the basics of classical guitar playing, from comfortably holding the guitar to practicing both the rest stroke and the free stroke while learning invaluable tips for using the right and left hands. Reasonably good camerawork offers split-screen instruction during a number of Hand originals (such as the beautiful "A Celtic Tale"), as well as a few other classically-inspired pieces. Hand is a wonderful teacher, gently guiding viewers through the basics, while communicating a tremendous love for his vocation. And if pupils feel the process is a little too demanding at times, Hand is quick to remind them to relax: "muscles have their own rate of learning." A wonderful introduction to classical guitar. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (R. Pitman)