Guitar for Seniors

Edward Gibney is the 88-year-old instructor for this aptly-named, gently-paced beginner's guide to playing nylon-string guitar. Rather than launching into a wow version of Nirvana's “Smells Like Teen Spirit” and teaching the how-to stuff later, Gibney starts with a discussion of motivation, self-discipline, and health (he cites several benefits of playing a musical instrument, including stress reduction, better sleep, and a general sense of well-being), before slowly and methodically leading viewers through a number of exercises aimed at loosening and strengthening the hands for maximum flexibility. Once the guitar instruction begins, Gibney starts with fundamental notes and picking patterns, building on them throughout, and revealing familiar melodies along the way. Considering the target audience, the slow pace here is appropriate (although a few demonstrations fly by relatively fast and may require viewers to stop and rewind). A solid guitar primer for seniors, this is recommended. Aud: P. (C. Block)