Thanks in part to the popularity of video games such as Guitar Hero and Rock Band, guitars seem to be everywhere these days, and as a guitarist myself, I'm tickled by the sight of kids grabbing a fake axe and virtually rocking out. Naturally, some of those gamers will want to try the real thing—which, unfortunately, doesn't automatically include easy-to-master riffs, adoring crowds, and band mates who play in tune and on time. For those youngsters ready to put their fingers on six strings instead of five buttons, this two-volume series offers a great introduction. Getting Started begins with the basics as Grammy-winner Marcy Marxer and Pete Kennedy (joined by teen Jake and ‘tween Emily) quickly demonstrate how even beginners can plunk along to the basic structure of most rock and blues songs using only the lowest two strings. As the program progresses, the single-string approach is buttressed with matching chords, and before long the kids are sounding like a bona fide garage band. Really Playing ups the riffage ante with the mighty and ubiquitous barre chord, necessary for those ear-pounding power chords, and introduces young viewers to the pentatonic scale—a five-note vocabulary shared among guitarists ranging from rockers to bluegrassers. DVD extras on both volumes (series price: $34.95) include backing tracks for kids to practice soloing to their heart's content. Highly recommended. Aud: I, J, P. (C. Block)
Electric Guitar for Kids: Getting Started; Electric Guitar for Kids: Really Playing
(2007) 70 min. DVD: $19.95 (booklet included). Homespun Tapes. PPR. ISBN: 978-1-59773-229-1. Volume 23, Issue 6
Electric Guitar for Kids: Getting Started; Electric Guitar for Kids: Really Playing
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