The Theory Handbook - Harp

by Mary Dunsford, Andy Fox (Editor), Kate Wesson (Photographer)

An excellent book aimed at adult learners of the harp who want help in reading the music too!A superb approach to the written aspects of music, designed to work alongside the learning of the instrument rather than separately from it.- Clear, easy to understand language that doesn't talk down to the student- Explanations that help you to truly understand how the music works, and how it all fits together- All topics covered are immediately made relevant to the harp- Progresses naturally and organically from the very basics, so that you don't miss a thingWith detailed photos showing technique, and more than a hundred examples that gradually build up your music knowledge, the book is an invaluable source of information for any beginner.It would also be perfect for the supportive parent of an aspiring young harpist, allowing you to have an understanding of what they are learning, and enabling you to help them with their own music reading.Although written in UK English, US terms are also consistently provided where appropriate (e.g. Crotchet = Quarter Note).

206 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 4, 2012

Reviews

[Judy Bullock · Rating 2 out of 5]

Confusing Nomenclature & Pattern Notation

Note and rest names used throughout may be confusing to those accustomed to American terminology, although the latter is sometimes mentioned. Pattern notations using symbols is totally confusing. More common approach uses numbers and/or words to depict repeating musical phrasing for counting out tricky passages. Quick Reference Guide at the end is really just a summary. It would have been helpful if he author had included a table of Major and Minor key signatures - or a Circle of Fifths chart - as well as a diagram of harp strings across 5 octaves indicating their name and identifying middle C. A corresponding grand staff showing bass clef notes (lettered) through treble clef (lettered) would have been tremendously helpful.