Larry Little's Learn Keyboard On VCR, Volume 1; Larry Little's Learn To Sing On VCR, Volume 1

From the maker of Larry Little's Learn Guitar on VCR (reviewed in our December 1990 issue), these two programs offer introductions to tickling the ivories and the vocal cords. Both utilize the same format: the instructor covers the video table of contents, discusses how best to use the video medium, guides viewers through the basics of the subjects and closes with a generous number of exercises for the viewer to practice. In Larry Little's Learn Keyboard on VCR, Volume 1, pianist Troy Dexter shows viewers how to locate notes on the keyboard, make major and minor chords, play chord progressions and inversions, and the secret to sinking a 12-foot putt every time out (naw, I just wanted to see if you were paying attention). The second half of the program provides accompaniment exercises and teaches viewers three songs: "House of the Rising Sun," "Stand By Me," and "Proud Mary." The overhead view of the keyboard, with onscreen note lettering and "lighted" keys, is excellent.Larry Little's Learn to Sing on VCR, Volume 1 features Chris O'Connor, who shows viewers how to determine their vocal range, explains basic concepts relevant to good singing (including pitch, vibrato, and projection), and suggests several ideas for getting the best vocal performances. The majority of the tape is devoted to an extensive vocal warm-up and exercise guide, in which viewers gently stretch their vocal cords with "gargling," "tongue pull," "yawning," and other strangely named but effective voice exercises. Major partial scale and root/5th/triad singing exercises are also included. a fine workout for the aspiring performer. (And those who are worried about critical commentary from their families can always offer them a tough choice: "my scales or Michael Bolton.") While not as in-depth as Vocal Ease: Care and Exercise for the Singing Voice (reviewed in our June 1989 issue), this much newer program still provides a great start.Excellent programs which take advantage of the video medium's strengths, both of these tapes are highly recommended. Other new releases in the Larry Little series are: Larry Little's Learn Bass Guitar on VCR, Volume 2; Larry Little's Learn Drums on VCR, Volume 1, and Larry Little's Learn Harmonica on VCR, Volume 1. (R. Pitman)