Dick Weissman Knihy

Celebrates the American music tradition with a collection of popular songs across music genres that include background information, lyrics, and instrument accompaniments for each song.

"The quickest, easiest, most enjoyable method for learning to play the banjo ... Alfred's Basic 5-string Banjo Method 1 provides a new approach to learning banjo that features clear, well-paced instruction. Learning to play has neve been easier or more fun than with Alfred's Basic Methods - the best choice for today's beginning banjo students. Book 1 features: How to hold your banjo ; Tuning your banjo ; Right- and left-hand techniques ; Instructions on how to read TAB (tablature) ; Chords and strum patterns ; Tablature for every song ; Photos and diagrams ; Available CD [not included with book] includes 60 minutes of recordings performed by Dick Weissman that demonstrate all the exercises and songs in the book."--Back cover

This book presents a selection of original 5-string banjo tunes that can be played by the beginning student familiar with basic chords in G tuning. The authorintroduces a variety of styles and banjo techniques including hammer-ons, pull- offs, string bending and slides - all in standard notation and banjo tab. Banjochords are shown in diagram format and suggested chord changes for an accompaniment instrument are provided. With the exception of three frailingpieces, all selections employ the up-picking right-hand technique. Audio download available online.

This book of original pieces is intended to give the beginning fiddler an immediate grasp of the fundamentals of fiddling in an instructive yet enjoyable way. The authors assume that the student is capable of reading music in the first position in various keys. Rare in fiddle notation, a tablature system is included with suggested fingerings below each line of music. Melodies are shown with chord symbols for guitar, banjo, or piano accompaniment. Includes access to online audio.

This comprehensive encyclopedia covers nearly every musical style, providing detailed insights and information on various genres. It serves as an extensive resource for music enthusiasts, educators, and students, although it notably excludes jazz, focusing instead on a wide range of other musical traditions and innovations.

The book explores the concept of non-jazz improvisation, stemming from Dick Weissman's experiences in music school. It highlights the challenges faced by musicians, including jazz players, who struggle to improvise beyond their familiar styles. Additionally, it showcases the versatility of the guitar through fingerstyle and flatpicking techniques, emphasizing its adaptability across genres. The content includes various guitar tunings and provides examples in both traditional and tablature notation, making it accessible for musicians looking to expand their improvisational skills.

Focusing on the creation and application of chords, this book guides musicians through building simple major chords to more complex variations like ninth and altered chords. It covers techniques for composing chord progressions, including passing chords and voice leading, while exploring their use across different musical styles from early jazz to contemporary music. Although geared towards pianists, its principles are accessible to any musician familiar with the grand staff, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of chords and progressions.

Focusing on the essentials of building a sustainable career in the music industry, this book provides a thorough overview of the field, enriched with real-world experiences. It features updated career profiles and case studies that reflect contemporary changes, such as the rise of streaming and the DIY approach. Highly accessible, it serves as an ideal introduction for those looking to comprehend the relationship between musical talent and earning a living in today's dynamic music landscape.

Building on his 2006 book, Which Side Are You On?, Dick Weissman's A New History of American and Canadian Folk Music presents a provocative discussion of the history, evolution, and current status of folk music in the United States and Canada. North American folk music achieved a high level of popular acceptance in the late 1950s. When it was replaced by various forms of rock music, it became a more specialized musical niche, fragmenting into a proliferation of musical styles. In the pop-folk revival of the 1960s, artists were celebrated or rejected for popularizing the music to a mass audience. In particular the music seemed to embrace a quest for authenticity, which has led to endless explorations of what is or is not faithful to the original concept of traditional music. This book examines the history of folk music into the 21st century and how it evolved from an agrarian style as it became increasingly urbanized. Scholar-performer Dick Weissman, himself a veteran of the popularization wars, is uniquely qualified to examine the many controversies and musical evolutions of the music, including a detailed discussion of the quest for authenticity, and how various musicians, critics, and fans have defined that pursuit.

Focusing on essential strategies for overcoming obstacles, this guide offers practical advice for breaking free from limitations and achieving personal goals. It emphasizes actionable steps, motivational insights, and real-life examples to inspire readers. The content is designed to empower individuals to take control of their lives and foster resilience, making it an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their personal growth and development.