Dan Miller Flatpicker's Guide to Irish Music PDF. Tim May and Dan Miller's book and audio CD The Flatpicker's Guide to Irish Music introduces the flatpicking guitar player to ten common Irish tunes and the theory and technique of Irish rhythm. The first part of the book discusses the theory and technique of Irish guitar rhythm, to include right hand technique, chord substitutions, and bass movement within chords. In a typical Irish session, the lead instruments will all play the melody simultaneously and the rhythm guitar player will improvise the chord changes behind the melody. In the second part of the book each of the ten tunes presented include a study the melody of the tune, variations on the melody, standard chords for the tune, and chord substitution variations. The tunes presented cover 3/4, 4/4, 6/8, and 9/8 time signatures and a variety of typical embellishments that are common to Irish music. The concept of modes is also addressed as the tunes that are presented include tunes played in the Ionian, Aeolian, and Dorian modes. Additional rhythm ideas that include harmonized scale rhythm, Drop D rhythm, and DADGAD chords are also presented.
Irish Tunes:
- Julia Delaney
- Maid Behind the Bar
- Old Grey Cat
- Rickett's Hornpipe
- Silver Spear
- Star of the County Down
- Star of Munster
- Swallow Tail Jig
- The Butterfly
- Killavil Reel
Format: PDF + CD Audio tracks (Mp3). 120 pages
Thanks
Thank you Fender63 for review.
The Dan Miller/Tim May flatpicking books are arguably the best methods for learning this style. And while their Flatpicker's Guide to Irish Music deviates from the more familiar bluegrass/old-timey styles of flatpicking, it is perhaps the best example of just how good these guys are. The accents and unique ornaments of Celtic music are all delved into, as well as the very different approach to rhythm guitar. In addition, their arrangements, while avoiding being generic, are very straightforward, allowing students to develop their own styles, rather than simply copying someone else's signature licks. Great selection of tunes as well. Highly recommended for serious flatpickers.