Pop Piano Solos (Piano Solo Songbook) [Paperback] Review

These are some nice arrangements of popular hits.There aren't words, but the melodies are still audible.This book is great for background/dinner music.Includes lovely pieces like Michael Buble's 'Home' and Rascal Flatts' 'Bless the Broken Road.'The arrangements are for late intermediate/early advanced pianists.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Pop Piano Solos (Piano Solo Songbook) [Paperback]

Product Description:
26 hit songs arranged for piano, including: Breathe (Faith Hill) * Don't Know Why (Norah Jones) * (Everything I Do) I Do It for You (Bryan Adams) * Fallin' (Alicia Keys) * I Believe I Can Fly (R. Kelly) * I'll Be (Edwin McCain) * Listen to Your Heart (D.H.T.) * A Thousand Miles (Vanessa Carlton) * Walking in Memphis (Marc Cohn) * You Raise Me Up (Josh Groban) * and more.

Buy cheap Pop Piano Solos (Piano Solo Songbook) [Paperback] now Get 22% OFF

David Lanz - Collection (Piano Solo Personality) [Paperback] Review

I have been taking piano lessons for over a year and I find these songs to be very fun to play.Don't be scared off by the "new age" label on David Lanz's music; if you love the piano you'll love what he conveys with his songs.I especially love playing "Dark Horse," "The Firedance Suite," and "Dancing on the Berlin Wall."These songs are mostly triplet based, so they are easy to learn and sound great.Even though I struggle with easy Mozart peices I find Lanz's songs captivating and a pleasure to learn.There are a good range of peices to learn in this book, from the tender "Return to the Heart," to the bombastic rhythm of "Dark Horse."A great book of music to have in your collection, whether you are at a level to see them as a challenge, or to play them easily.They are guaranteed to please.

Click Here to see more reviews about: David Lanz - Collection (Piano Solo Personality) [Paperback]

Product Description:
David Lanz - Collection

Buy cheap David Lanz - Collection (Piano Solo Personality) [Paperback] now Get 32% OFF

Sonatina Album: Piano Solo (Schirmer's Library of Musical Classics) [Paperback] Review

Sonatina album is great for teaching if you are a piano teacher. Most of the works are about intermediate level. Ideal for teaching students that finished grade 4 to help reinforce student's skills. This edition is clearly printed and carefully fingered.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sonatina Album: Piano Solo (Schirmer's Library of Musical Classics) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Contents: Kuhlau: Sonatinas Op. 20 (No. 1 in C, No. 2 in G, No. 3 in F), Sonatinas Op. 55 (No. 1 in C, No. 2 in G, No. 3 in C) * Clementi: Sonatinas Op. 36 (No. 1 in C, No. 2 in G, No. 3 in C, No. 4 in F, No. 5 in G, No. 6 in D) * Haydn: Sonatina in C * Mozart: Rondo in D, Sonata I in C * Beethoven: Rondo, Op. 51, No. 1 in C, Andante from Symphony No. 1, Sonatinas Op. 49 (No. 1 in G minor, No. 2 in G) * Dussek: Sonatina Op. 20, No. 1 in G * J.S. Bach: Prelude No. 1 in C * Haydn: Adagio in E, Andante grazioso in Bb, Allegro in F, Andante in C * Schubert: from Impromptu Op. 142, No. 3; Scherzo in Bb, Op. posth.; from Sonata in A, Op. 120 * Weber: Variation on "Vien qua Dorina bella" Op. 7 * Mendelssohn: Fantasia in A minor, Op. 16, No. 1.

Buy cheap Sonatina Album: Piano Solo (Schirmer's Library of Musical Classics) [Paperback] now

Jazz Piano Concepts and Techniques (Piano Method) [Paperback] Review

It may seem like this book will teach you how to play Jazz if you see the title "Jazz Piano Concepts & Technique".But its really a book that teaches you how to harmonize and play melodies that you see infake books ( fake books are books w/ songs inside that provide only themelody and the name of the chord ).The purpose of this book is to helpyou harmonize the chords in the right way and actually play the song justby seeing the melody and the chord name.This book doesn't teach youImprovising scales, modulation, or any skills needed to play jazz by ear orby feel and improv.Its a book that helps you harmonize chords. A goodbook though.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Jazz Piano Concepts and Techniques (Piano Method) [Paperback]

Product Description:
This book provides a step-by-step approach to learning basic piano realizations of jazz and pop tunes from lead sheets. Systems for voicing chords are presented from the most elementary to the advanced along with methods for practicing each system. Both the non-jazz and the advanced jazz player will benefit from the focus on: chords, chord voicings, harmony, melody and accompaniment, and styles.

Buy cheap Jazz Piano Concepts and Techniques (Piano Method) [Paperback] now Get 32% OFF

Taylor Swift - Fearless - Piano/Vocal/Guitar Artist Songbook Review

Good book for a moderately skilled musician.Includes guitar tabs and chords for beginners.Great

Click Here to see more reviews about: Taylor Swift - Fearless - Piano/Vocal/Guitar Artist Songbook

Product Description:
Grammy-nominee Taylor Swift is the top-selling artist of 2008, and the first in the history of Nielsen SoundScan to have two different titles in the Top 10 on the year-end album chart. Our matching folio to her latest chart-topper features the crossover hit single 'Love Story' and a dozen more: The Best Day * Breathe * Change * Fearless * Fifteen * Forever & Always * Hey Stephen * Tell Me Why * The Way I Loved You * White Horse * You Belong with Me * You're Not Sorry.

Buy cheap Taylor Swift - Fearless - Piano/Vocal/Guitar Artist Songbook now Get 19% OFF

Aladdin (Piano/Vocal/Guitar Songbook) [Paperback] Review

I know 7 songs might not seem like a lot, but these songs are all great and pretty good length. Disney is known for its magical songs that put you in a trance. Disney songs are known mainly to target kids, but also are so creative and musical that adults can't help but admire the beautiful works of the Disney classics. Aladdin was one of my favorite childhood movies, and the 90s was the best years for animated Disney movies hands down, and the music in these movies made them more even more memorable. Aladdin songs have an Arabian vibe to them, making them unique sounding. Friend Like Me is an up beat and cheerful song sung by Genie, prince Ali is more of a traditional sounding Arabian song with sort of a Disney vibe to it, and the most famous in this book, A Whole New World, is a slow duet between Jasmine and Aladdin. I think buying this book at full price new is a rip though, you're only getting 7 songs for $15, so if you can find this book for $5 or less, then buy it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Aladdin (Piano/Vocal/Guitar Songbook) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Matching folio to Disney's animated film featuring songs from Alan Menken, Howard Ashman and Tim Rice. 7 songs in all, including: One Jump Ahead * Prince Ali * Friend Like Me * A Whole New World * and more. Complete with full-color art from the movie.

Buy cheap Aladdin (Piano/Vocal/Guitar Songbook) [Paperback] now Get 25% OFF

The Art of the Piano: Its Performers, Literature, and Recordings Revised and Expanded Edition (Amadeus) [Paperback] Review

I find it interesting that none of the reviews already posted seem to be aware of the atrocious level of misspellings, typos, factual errors, omissions, and generally dismal production values of this book. Here are some examples: for misspellings, we have "Jorge Rolet" (for Bolet), "Emil Saver" (for Sauer), "Casadesis" (for Casadesus), "Cyziffra" (for Cziffra), "Rachmanimoff," Carlo Maria "Giuliani" (for Giulini), Sergio "Fiorento" (for Fiorentino), "Firku_n_y" (for Firkusny), "rhaphsodies," "allimand", Liszt's "Funeralilles", "Leschetizsky" (for Leschetizky), "Fienberg" (for Feinberg), "Relich" (for Pogorelich) and so on and on. CD labels fare no better: "Marsten" (for Marston), "Arbitor" (for Arbiter, not to forget "OUCH Arbitor" on page 591), "Stradivarious", et cetera.

Factual errors on the part of Dubal: Sauer did not record Chopin's B Minor Sonata. Egon Petri did not record Busoni's Toccata. Glenn Gould's last recital was not in Chicago in March 1964, but in Los Angeles the following month. Gould recorded 22, not 18, Beethoven Sonatas. Wanda Landowska was born in 1879, not 1877. Kathleen Dale, not Kathleen Long, is author of "Nineteenth-Century Piano Music." Shostakovich did not dedicate his Preludes and Fugues to Nikolayeva, nor did he record all 24 of them. Adam Harasiewicz did not record the complete works of Chopin. Persichetti wrote 12, not 11, piano sonatas. Liebermann's "Gargoyles" consist of four, not three, pieces. Rachmaninoff recorded seven, not "49," takes of his Midsummer Night's Dream Scherzo transcription. There is no Richter recording of Prokofiev's Sonata No.3 (he never played the piece). Rubinstein did not record Liszt's Hungarian Rhapsody No.3. Louis Kentner did not play all the Beethoven sonatas at his U.S. debut; he played them here four years later. Shall I go on?

The book omits, without explanation, all piano four-hand and two-piano music as well as chamber music involving the piano. Those seeking information on this repertoire will be out of luck. Dubal lists timings for the Beethoven sonatas, but does not say whose timings, or explain why these are the only works thus treated. He may provide descriptions of Bach's 48 Preludes and Fugues, but he provides no specific listings for the French Suites, English Suites, or Partitas, nor for any of the dozens of Haydn Sonatas. He ignores the piano works of Clara Schumann and Fanny Mendelssohn. Only one of Mozart's 17 variation sets is listed. He omits Couperin and Rameau, believing incorrectly that their keyboard works are"seldom played or recorded" by pianists.

Dubal's listings of recordings, quite apart from questionable inclusions and omissions, also swarm with inaccuracies such as incorrect record labels and ambiguous CD or LP availability.

Omissions in the section devoted to pianists are numerous. If you are looking for information concerning Joseph Villa, Werner Haas, Seta Tanyel, Gilbert Kalish, Piers Lane, Geoffrey Tozer, Germaine Thyssens-Valentin, Konstantin Scherbakov or Steven Osborne--all of whomare represented on many current CDs--you'll find nothing here.

Dubal's own amateurish sketches of some 53 pianists and composers, in place of actual photographs, are hideous in the extreme and should not have even been considered for inclusion.

Apparently neither the author nor anyone else connected to the book's production had either the expertise or the concern to insure a minimal standard of fact-checking or typographical accuracy. The sheer quantity of blunders eliminates any credibility the book might have for reference purposes. All concerned should be ashamed.

Donald Manildi

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Art of the Piano: Its Performers, Literature, and Recordings Revised and Expanded Edition (Amadeus) [Paperback]



Buy cheap The Art of the Piano: Its Performers, Literature, and Recordings Revised and Expanded Edition (Amadeus) [Paperback] now Get 27% OFF

Bastien Piano Technic Primer Level Book Review

The books in these series are the best on the market. After taking piano lessons for 8 years from these books and now teaching piano students from these books as well, there isn't any series of piano techniques book that comes close to this series. Concepts are logically introduced and age appropriate, excersices are fun and a great review of learned skills and the illustrations really keep the little bitties interest (in what could be a very boring lesson!).Also if you are helping your child and have never played piano before you can follow along at home, unlike some other piano books they are easy to follow no matter what skill level. I HIGHLY recommend the entire series!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Bastien Piano Technic Primer Level Book

Product Description:
Bastien Piano Basics is an exciting and comprehensive series for piano study designed to get the young student off to the right start. The learning sequence is carefully graded to assure steady progress in all areas. Technic contains a variety of exercises to develop hand and finger coordination, and to develop ease, control and facility at the keyboard. The student should allow time each day for technic practice. These exercises may be played as warm-ups before beginning to practice pieces.

Buy cheap Bastien Piano Technic Primer Level Book now

Big Blue Book of Intermediate Piano Solos - Volume 2 (Piano/Vocal/Guitar Songbook) [Paperback] Review

I couldn't wait to get this book. It's wonderful. I'm really enjoying practicing the songs. I look forward to more of this type of piano book in the future.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Big Blue Book of Intermediate Piano Solos - Volume 2 (Piano/Vocal/Guitar Songbook) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Now from Word Music's top arrangers comes this great sequel to the bestselling Big Blue Book (00309713). This piano solo songbook is packed with nearly 60 popular PandW songs, classic hymns, and seasonal favorites. Each song is specifically arranged for pianists at the intermediate level, chord symbols are included and the key signatures go no higher than 3 sharps or 4 flats. Songs include: Above All * Forever * Lord Have Mercy * Mary, Did You Know? * No Greater Love * There Is None Like You * and many more.

Buy cheap Big Blue Book of Intermediate Piano Solos - Volume 2 (Piano/Vocal/Guitar Songbook) [Paperback] now Get 32% OFF

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (Piano/Vocal/Chords) [Paperback] Review

It's books like this that made me wish I had the natural talent for music, or had at least studied and practiced hard enough to develop talent. The motion picture score that Howard Shore composed for The Lord of the Rings trilogy is absolutely brilliant, and while nothing can match his magnificent orchestra, there is something unique and incredible about hearing the same music played on a simple piano -- coming from your very own fingers.
The front cover is one of the promotional posters (NOT the DVD cover as was the case with the other two piano books from the trilogy) showing Saruman from the back commanding his 10,000 Uruk-hai. If you look on the right, although it is geographically incorrect, you can see Edoras in Rohan in the distance. Inside the book are forty pages, eight of which are movie pictures. Once again, there are some gruesome orcs pictured inside, in case you have little hobbits around the house that might get scared.
The music includes:
- Gollum's Song, the end-credits song of the movie. Not very enjoyable to play, I'd say...it's a rather mournful and melancholy song.
- Evenstar, which is all-Elvish, but surprisingly doesn't provide the translation. Shouldn't be too hard to dig one up on the internet, however. The tune is pretty, the background for Aragorn's dream/vision of Arwen in The Two Towers.
- Isengard Unleashed, which begins as the soundtrack score does, with the lament for Haldir upon his untimely death in the battle for Helm's Deep. Then it moves on to the score for the Ents as they march to war. This is probably the longest in the book, maybe of all three books. Afterwards, they give the translation of the war song of the Ents.
- Breath of Life, the quiet but stirring tune/song that you hear when Aragorn lies wounded after a battle, and receives another vision/dream of Arwen that gives him a (let's all say it together now) "breath of life". Elvish lyrics, English translation at the end.
- Forth Eorlingas, my favorite one (at least to HEAR), the tune that shows the rousing of the remaining soldiers at Helm's Deep, their death plunge out the causeway, and Gandalf's near-biblical arrival to the rescue. The second-best in this book, in my opinion.
- Rohan, which was an absolutely necessary piece to include in this book. It's short, *almost* simple enough for a beginner like me to pick my way through, and beyond gorgeous. It begins with the noble theme for Éowyn, and peaks into the majestic score for the kingdom of Rohan. This one alone is worth getting the book for.
This book makes an excellent addition to your piano library, or an excellent gift for your musically-inclined hobbit-heads. Go for it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (Piano/Vocal/Chords) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Featuring the music of Academy Award-winning composer Howard Shore, this new Two Towers folio includes eight pages of magnificent full-color photosfrom the motion picture and P/V/C arrangements of the soaring soundtrack -- all printed on high-quality antique paperstock. The titles are: The Riders of Rohan * Evenstar * Breath of Life * Forth Eorlingas * Isengard Unleashed * Gollum's Song.

Buy cheap The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (Piano/Vocal/Chords) [Paperback] now Get 15% OFF

All About Piano: A Fun and Simple Guide to Playing Piano [Paperback] Review

Choosing a great tutorial type/how-to book on musical instruments is definitely not easy. They are just way too many out there. I myself never touched the piano until I was 21. So, fuelled by excitement of youth, I painstakingly went through virtually every piano how-to books in a big Music Library in my town (the books are filed under the sub-category QP for those living in Australia). Bad mistake, but for someone who was clueless about piano-playing and couldn't afford long term tuition, free books seem to be the only way.

I didn't stop when I found this book. But now that I'm playing gigs (after 3 years of study and massive determination) and no longer a beginner =), I realized among all beginners' how-to books, this is one of the few stand-outs.

"All about piano" does live up to its name, strictly on beginners' level. Not only it tells you how to play, enough to work out a lead sheet, it also tells you the world of piano playing. If you look at the contents of the book by clicking "Search inside this book", you'll notice this book also tells you major players from classical period to modern time; different styles of playing; how to get a gig; and how to buy and care for your piano. All provided, so you can choose the level of intensity of your study.

The other major plus of this book is the CD, which tells you exactly how you suppose to sound as you progress. And lastly from the typography and layout point of views, it is pleasing to the eye and the amount of pictures are just right.

Had someone given me this when I was 21, it would've saved me a lot of time and energy.

Next stop, if you think jazz piano is for you, I strongly recommend "The Jazz Piano Book" by Mark Levine.

This is a totally subjective review, but my principle is that I share what works for me and I hope you learn from my mistakes.

Click Here to see more reviews about: All About Piano: A Fun and Simple Guide to Playing Piano [Paperback]

Product Description:
Have you struggled through tedious lessons and boring instruction books in your desire to learn to play the piano? If you wish there was a fun and engaging way to motivate you in your piano playing quest, then this is it: All About Piano is for you. Whether it's learning to read music, playing by ear, improvising, or all of the above, this enjoyable guide will help you to finally start playing your favorite songs in many different styles. Plus, learn interesting tid-bits on piano makes and models, care and maintenance, other keyboard instruments, and other fun stuff about the piano. This fun-filled, easy-to-use guide includes: * An introduction to pianos and keyboard instruments * Step-by-step music reading instruction * How to play by ear and improvise * Background on various styles of music, including dozens of favorite songs * Performing tips. Over 40 popular songs, including: All My Loving (The Beatles) * Can You Feel the Love Tonight (Elton John) * Fur Elise (Beethoven) * Imagine (John Lennon) * Linus and Lucy (Vince Guaraldi) * Wonderful Tonight (Eric Clapton) * Your Cheatin' Heart (Hank Williams) * and more. The CD includes 70 tracks for demo and play-along.

Buy cheap All About Piano: A Fun and Simple Guide to Playing Piano [Paperback] now Get 32% OFF

John W. Schaum Piano Course: E-The Violet Book [Paperback] Review

All of John W. Schaum's books in this course are wonderful!The E book is more advanced music, as the course is designed.I grew up on John W. Schaum's course and am so ecstatically happy that I can still use that course to teach my students!

Click Here to see more reviews about: John W. Schaum Piano Course: E-The Violet Book [Paperback]

Product Description:
A time-honored tradition just got better! The JOHN W. SCHAUM PIANO COURSE has been revised with 100 percent new engravings and typesetting, color highlighting for concept emphasis, updated song titles and lyrics, and full-color illustrations. Other products available from the best-selling John W. Schaum collection: * John W. Schaum Piano Course (level Pre-A or Green through H or Grey) * Schaum Pop Favorites (level Pre-A or Green through C Purple) * After the H Book (Volume I & II) * Adult Piano Course (Book I-III) * Pop Piano Course (Book I-IV) * Popular Piano Pieces (level Pre-A or Green through D or Orange) * Schaum Christmas (level Green through Orange) * John W. Schaum Solo Piano Albums (For the Young Student) * additional supplementary books

Buy cheap John W. Schaum Piano Course: E-The Violet Book [Paperback] now

Alfred's Basic Piano Library: Prep Course Theory Book Level B [Paperback] Review

I've been using this system (Alfred's Prep Course) with young and adult beginners alike. It's my preferred system!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Alfred's Basic Piano Library: Prep Course Theory Book Level B [Paperback]

Product Description:
Designed to coordinate page-by-page with the Lesson Books. Contains enjoyable games and quizzes that reinforce the principles presented in the Lesson Books. Students can increase their musical understanding while they are away from the keyboard.

Buy cheap Alfred's Basic Piano Library: Prep Course Theory Book Level B [Paperback] now

Piano Lessons Book 5 - Book/CD Pack: Hal Leonard Student Piano Library (Educational Piano Library) [Paperback] Review

Our son has been taking piano lessons for a little over a year now, and has worked his way through each of these books, and has found them to be very helpful.Both of his instructors have highly recommended this series, and he seems to be benefiting from them.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Piano Lessons Book 5 - Book/CD Pack: Hal Leonard Student Piano Library (Educational Piano Library) [Paperback]

Product Description:
In Piano Lessons Book 5, students are introduced to sixteenth notes in various rhythm patterns. The wide variety of student selections includes 3 folk, 4 jazz, 13 classical, and 8 contemporary original pieces. Scales (in both 8th and 16th-note patterns) with their cadences are presented in five major and five minor keys. Root, 1st inversion, 2nd inversion, and open position chords for each key center are also introduced. This package includes both a Piano Lessons Book and a CD featuring wonderful tracks to accompany the student during practice or performance.

Buy cheap Piano Lessons Book 5 - Book/CD Pack: Hal Leonard Student Piano Library (Educational Piano Library) [Paperback] now

Mannheim Steamroller - Fresh Aire I (Piano Solo Personality) [Paperback] Review

The first version of "Fresh Aire I" I bought was two bound books of copied hand written music. I don't think Chip Davis realized how much the music would take off. Although I've (long ago) bought a new book (that is a little easier to read) I'll never give up the first books. 2 of our Grandchildren beg to hear "Chocolate Fudge" over and over again and I love to play songs like "Sonata". Our son never took piano lessons but he played and played until he had several songs memorized. All of the Fresh Aire Music gives us great enjoyment. With our young Granddaughter taking piano lessons there are now 3 generations using and loving this music!!!!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Mannheim Steamroller - Fresh Aire I (Piano Solo Personality) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Mannheim Steamroller - Fresh Aire I

Buy cheap Mannheim Steamroller - Fresh Aire I (Piano Solo Personality) [Paperback] now Get 15% OFF

Piano Music of Robert Schumann, Series I [Paperback] Review

If this book had only existed when I was a music performance major, it would have made my life complete.
The music is printed in an easy to read format, not harsh or glaring on the eyes, and features some of Robert Schumann's most treasured, ingenious works."Carnaval," "Davidsbundler," and more...those two alone are worth the price paid for the entire volume.
I highly recommend classical pianists of all ages and abilities to purchase this and get to know Schumann's music.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Piano Music of Robert Schumann, Series I [Paperback]

Product Description:
Major compositions from period 1830-39; Papillons, Toccata, Grosse Sonate No. 1, Phantasiestucke, Arabeske, Blumenstuck, and nine other works. Reprinted from Breitkopf and Härtel edition.


Buy cheap Piano Music of Robert Schumann, Series I [Paperback] now Get 32% OFF

David Lanz - Solos for New Age Piano (Piano Solo Personality) [Paperback] Review

Not much in terms of a review to add.I'm just a beginner, and, well, the notes look right:) But I would like to add a list of songs featured, as Amazon has left that out of the description...
This book features the songs:
Behind the Waterfall,Courage of the Wind,Cristofori's Dream,Dream Field,Faces of the Forest,Farewell Amparo,Heartsounds,Leaves on the Seine,Nightfall,Song for Monet,Spiral Dance,Summer's Child,Valencia

Click Here to see more reviews about: David Lanz - Solos for New Age Piano (Piano Solo Personality) [Paperback]

Product Description:
David Lanz - Solos for New Age Piano

Buy cheap David Lanz - Solos for New Age Piano (Piano Solo Personality) [Paperback] now Get 15% OFF

Yamaha YPG 235 76-Key Portable Grand Piano Keyboard Review

After having played the Yamaha YPG-535 88-key Portable Grand Piano Keyboard in a showroom and loving it, I was torn, wondering what all I would be missing out on if I went with the more economically priced YPG-235. I now own the 235 and it appears as if I am missing out on twelve keys. That is, I am not experiencing even an ounce of buyer's remorse after opting for the cheaper 235. This is a lovely keyboard with more beautiful voices than I will ever know what to do with and extremely user friendly functionality. Of course, my opinion should be taken with a grain of salt as I will be the first to admit that my experience with other products of this variety is extremely limited. As such, it might be best to say that, for a novice, one could not ask for a better instrument for the price.

So what is the difference between the 235 and the 535? Based on my previous comparative shopping, I have come up with a few differences. First is the obvious fact that the 535 possesses 88 keys, while the 235 has 76. The 535 also includes a stand, sustain pedal, and power adapter, which must be purchased separately for the 235. While I am unaware of the specifics, the 535 also has greater storage capacity and capability as well as a few more voices. Beyond these definitive differences, having now played both models, the 535 also wins out with regard to aesthetics in that it looks and feels to be of a slightly higher quality, from its display to the apparent craftsmanship in assembly.

Why buy the YPG-235? If price is not an issue, go ahead and get he 535, it is a beautiful instrument. However, for those on a budget or for those who simply do not need 88 keys, purchase the 235. Like the 535, the 235 possesses piano style Graded Soft Touch (GST) keys, which are not exactly weighted but occupy that perfect gap between pure synth keys and weighted. The feel is perfect for one who is used to standard synth-style keyboard keys yet longs for a little more control without sacrificing playability. The 235, like the 535, also features USB connectivity and general MIDI compatibility, as well as almost all of the same high quality voices, which separate both the 535 and the 235 from many other models in their price brackets (besides the pianos, the multitude of stringed instrument voices are amazingly realistic). While it is unfortunate that Yamaha decided to not include a power adapter with the 235, the Yamaha Survival Kit D - Accessory Kit for Yamaha YPG-235 & YPG-235 Keyboards which includes a power adaptor, extended warranty, and a couple of other low quality extras can be purchased relatively cheaply. In my opinion, the YPG-235 offers the buyer more bang for their comparative buck. Again, the 235 sounds great, feels great and is hard to beat for the price!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha YPG 235 76-Key Portable Grand Piano Keyboard

Product Description:
If youre looking for a reasonably priced piano replacement, look no further than the YPG-235. It is the music student or professional musicians answer to I need more keys! and many music teachers encourage new students to get a keyboard that will grow with their needs. It features 76 non-weighted keys that not only look like piano keys but have a Graded Soft Touch (GST) action with different levels of resistance, making it easier for a budding musician to move to an acoustic or digital piano

Buy cheap Yamaha YPG 235 76-Key Portable Grand Piano Keyboard now Get 35% OFF

Chopin: An Introduction to his Piano Works (Book & CD) [Paperback] Review

This doesn't try to be really challanging, but it does give tons of good pieces to start with.I'd say it's a good way to get to know our friend Chopin and his music.It has a pretty even mix of various music styles from Preludes to a Polonaise or two.In general the pieces get harder as you progress through the book (as is usual).The volume is clean and does contain some suggestions on how to play some tricky parts.However, these suggestions are written in the book with the lightest of font which can make reading them a chore (the darkness varies to show what was written by Chopin and what is simply suggested).As I said before: it's a good beginning book which will prepare you for some more comprehensive volumes.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Chopin: An Introduction to his Piano Works (Book & CD) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Known as a "pianist's composer," Chopin's love, passion and devotion to piano music resulted in over 200 compositions. This collection contains the more accessible pieces which still have vivid melodies and lush harmonies.

Buy cheap Chopin: An Introduction to his Piano Works (Book & CD) [Paperback] now Get 15% OFF

Bill Evans - Piano Interpretations: Piano Transcriptions (Artist Transcriptions) [Paperback] Review

If you love Evans and want to play his compositions or compositions incorporating his style, this is an excellent book. While I like to work out my own improvisations, understanding and adopting his chord voicings is always a rewarding experience. This book places the chord symbols above them to create an intriguing learning experience. Studying Evans this way is always inspirational.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Bill Evans - Piano Interpretations: Piano Transcriptions (Artist Transcriptions) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Perhaps the single-most influential pianist in the history of jazz, Bill Evans' compositions are studied by pianists and non-pianists alike. This folio features faithful solo piano transcriptions of his performances of seven tunes: Come Rain or Come Shine * Israel * It Might as Well Be Spring * Make Someone Happy * Nardis * A Sleepin' Bee * With a Song in My Heart. Also includes a biography and a discography.

Buy cheap Bill Evans - Piano Interpretations: Piano Transcriptions (Artist Transcriptions) [Paperback] now Get 32% OFF

Music from ""The Star Wars Trilogy: Special Edition""" (Easy Piano) [Paperback] Review

This book contains 14 songs from the "Star Wars: Special Edition" trilogy (Episodes IV-VI).For those who truly enjoy the "Star Wars" music and have a desire to play it, this book isworth having.I specifically bought the book for piano playing, so I wishit would have been formatted in a piano solo edition.Despite this, mostof the pieces play very well on the piano.
The first section containspieces from "Star Wars: A New Hope."These are as follows:"Star Wars (Main Theme)," "Cantina Band," "Ben'sDeath/TIE Fighter Attack," "Princess Leia's Theme," and"The Throne Room."Of those probably the main theme is theeasiest to play, but I still enjoyed it."The Throne Room"sounds very majestic on the piano, and I'm glad it was included.
Thesecond section is from "The Empire Strikes Back" and includes:"Han Solo and the Princess," "The Imperial March,""Yoda's Theme," and "May the Force be With You."The"Han Solo and the Princess" theme can be reasonably grasped by anovice player, and it sounds very nice on the piano.The same can be saidfor "Yoda's Theme."
The third section is from "Return ofthe Jedi" and includes: "Luke and Leia," "Parade of theEwoks," "The Emperor Arrives," "VictoryCelebration," and "Jedi Rocks."Of those I particularlyliked "The Emperor Arrives" and "VictoryCelebration."
This book has 60 pages of music plus a few pages ofphotos and a fold-out poster.I could have done without the pictures andposter if it meant having a couple of more songs in there for the sameprice (I hope the publishers read this).But their inclusion was notexcessive (as I have seen with other movie music books).
I enjoyed thisbook very much.Of course, these pieces are not nearly as memorable on thepiano as were the original soundtracks, but for piano-playing "StarWars" enthusiasts, the book is worth buying.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Music from ""The Star Wars Trilogy: Special Edition""" (Easy Piano) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Music from the most popular films of all time. This book contains rare full-color photos from the revised editions of all three films. Titles are: Cantina Band * Princess Leia's Theme * Star Wars (Main Theme) * The Throne Room * The Imperial March * Ewok Celebration * Luke and Leia * Victory Celebration. Arranged for easy piano by Dan Coates.

Buy cheap Music from ""The Star Wars Trilogy: Special Edition""" (Easy Piano) [Paperback] now Get 20% OFF

Pride & Prejudice - Music from the Motion Picture Soundtrack - Piano Solo Songbook Review

If you enjoy the music fom Pride & Prejudice you will love this piano book!!! If you, a friend, a family, etc. is not advanced in piano playing I would advise you to wait on getting this book, but if not... go for it! The songs are:
1. "Dawn" with occasional sharps, naturals, and flats.
2. "Stars and Butterflies" with mostly sharps
3. "The Living Sculputures of Pemberly" with two flats
4. "Meryton Hall" one sharp
5. "Georgiana" three sharps
6. "Arrival at Netherfield" occasional sharps and naturals
7. "Liz on top of the World" two flats
8. "Leaving Netherfield" two flats
9. "Another Dance" two flats
10. "The Secret Life of Daydreams" two flats
11. "Darcy's Letter" three flats
12. "Mrs. Darcy" occasional flats, sharps, and naturals

Overall, this book is positively miraculous in everyway! I hope you will enjoy if you get it! Thank you.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Pride & Prejudice - Music from the Motion Picture Soundtrack - Piano Solo Songbook

Product Description:
12 piano pieces from the 2006 Oscar-nominated film, including: Another DanceDarcy's LetterGeorgianaLeaving NetherfieldLiz on Top of the WorldMeryton TownhallThe Secret Life of DaydreamsStars and Butterfliesand more.

Buy cheap Pride & Prejudice - Music from the Motion Picture Soundtrack - Piano Solo Songbook now Get 10% OFF

Yanni - In My Time (Piano Solos) [Paperback] Review

This is a must-have for all pianists who love Yanni! Each piece is emotionally moving and ingeniously intricate, though not so intricate as to be impossibly difficult. There are only one or two typos that most people would miss, but they never detract from the integrity of the piece. "In The Morning Light" is exceptionally beautiful, and is not that difficult. "Until The Last Moment" is another excellent piece, although it is the most difficult in the entire book. I could keep on listing my favorites, but that list would include pretty much every song in the book. YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!!!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yanni - In My Time (Piano Solos) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Piano solo arrangements of 11 songs from the album: Before I Go * Enchantment * The End of August * Felitsa * In the Mirror * In the Morning Light * One Man's Dream * Only a Memory * To Take..To Hold * Until the Last Moment * Whispers in the Dark.

Buy cheap Yanni - In My Time (Piano Solos) [Paperback] now Get 32% OFF

BEATLES PIANO DUETS 2ND EDITION [Paperback] Review

Great arrangements at early intermediate to intermediate level.Also playable on two pedal harps or one pedal and an advanced lever harpist.

Click Here to see more reviews about: BEATLES PIANO DUETS 2ND EDITION [Paperback]

Product Description:
Features 8 intermediate level arrangements for 1 piano/4 hands: Because ¥ Eleanor Rigby ¥ Let It Be ¥ MaxwellÕs Silver Hammer ¥ Penny Lane ¥ Something ¥ When IÕm Sixty-Four ¥ With a Little Help from My Friends.

Buy cheap BEATLES PIANO DUETS 2ND EDITION [Paperback] now Get 20% OFF

The Best of Billy Joel (Easy Piano Personality) [Paperback] Review

If you are an early intermediate or better pianist who likes Billy Joel's music this may be a great book for you.It contains complete arrangements of the following songs:
And So It Goes, Baby Grand, Honesty, An Innocent Man, Just The Way You Are, Movin' Out (Anthony's Song), My Life, New York State Of Mind, Piano Man, The River Of Dreams, Shameless, She's Always A Woman, She's Got A Way, This Is The Time, Uptown Girl, We Didn't Start The Fire
The songs are arranged as piano solos with no lyrics. So if you are a singer, get something like "Billy Joel - Greatest Hits Vol. 1 & 2" which has many of the same songs.
This is not a transcription book. The emphasis here is on an acceptable solo piano arrangement.While not copying Joel licks etc. they do approximate his style and spirit for each piece as best can be done while supporting the melody and chords in an intermediate arrangement. They are intermediate, but on the easier side. They sound fine played as is. The ones I've played are in the same key as the recording.So what's nice is they provide a good foundation for further embellishment, arranging and/or improvising or even some play along.It would have been handy if chord symbols were included.
I enjoyed what I've played so far, however, if you are really looking to play like Billy get his "Billy Joel - The Keyboard Book".It has actual transcriptions."The Keyboard Book" is a great book but harder to play as piano solo, which the book reviewed here does a good job of.
There are 2 versions of this book one for easy piano, one for intermediate.This review is for the intermediate version.

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Best of Billy Joel (Easy Piano Personality) [Paperback]

Product Description:
An excellent collection of 21 of Joel's best, including: And So It Goes * It's Still Rock and Roll to Me * Just the Way You Are * The Longest Time * My Life * Piano Man * We Didn't Start the Fire * and more.

Buy cheap The Best of Billy Joel (Easy Piano Personality) [Paperback] now Get 25% OFF

Complete Lyric Pieces for Piano [Paperback] Review

I have enjoyed flipping through the book and playing pieces at random. The pieces are so beautiful and unique. Some of them are easier to play than others, but most of them could be played at first sight. It's a great addition to my classical sheet music collection.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Complete Lyric Pieces for Piano [Paperback]

Product Description:
All 66 works from the ten sets of little mood pictures created for piano by the Norwegian composer from 1867 to 1901, reprinted from the authoritative C. F. Peters edition. Technically uncomplicated and reasonably easy to master, these popular works have been favorites of generations of pianists, both amateur and professional.


Buy cheap Complete Lyric Pieces for Piano [Paperback] now Get 32% OFF

Hank Williams Complete (Piano/Vocal/Guitar Artist Songbook) [Paperback] Review

This is a very impressive collection of practically everything written by Hank Williams, and exactly what I needed (with chord diagrams). My only complaint is that there are Hank classics not written by him that are not included in this anthology; such as, "Lovesick Blues", "Settin' The Woods on Fire", and "Half As Much". It also doesn't include Hank's "(I Heard That) Lonesome Whistle". But it seems EVERYTHING else is here - and it's wonderful this music book was released! (Five Stars if the mentioned songs were included!)

Click Here to see more reviews about: Hank Williams Complete (Piano/Vocal/Guitar Artist Songbook) [Paperback]

Product Description:
This comprehensive compilation contains every song written by country music legend Hank Williams. Includes 128 in all: Cold, Cold Heart * Hey, Good Lookin' * Honky Tonkin' * I Ain't Got Nothing but Time * I Can't Help It (If I'm Still in Love with You) * I Saw the Light * I'm a Long Gone Daddy * I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry * Jambalaya (On the Bayou) * Jesus Is Calling * A Mansion on the Hill * My Son Calls Another Man Daddy * There's a Tear in My Beer * Your Cheatin' Heart * many more! Also includes a biography.

Buy cheap Hank Williams Complete (Piano/Vocal/Guitar Artist Songbook) [Paperback] now Get 32% OFF

Piano Music of Bela Bartok, Series II [Paperback] Review

As this edition contains many pieces for beginners and intermediates, it is a valuable introduction to the tonal world of Bela Bartok.Would be good for recital pieces for students or just to sight read through for more advanced pupils.Some of the pieces sound much more difficult than they are!Highly recommended!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Piano Music of Bela Bartok, Series II [Paperback]

Product Description:
Second in the Archive Edition incorporating composer's corrections. 85 short pieces: For Children, 2 Elegies, Sonatina, other folk-inspired keyboard work. Translations.

Buy cheap Piano Music of Bela Bartok, Series II [Paperback] now Get 36% OFF

Great Pianists on Piano Playing: Godowsky, Hofmann, Lhevinne, Paderewski and 24 Other Legendary Performers (Great Pianists: In Their Own Words) [Paperback] Review

If you play the piano with a passion, read this book. It gives many insights into how pianists from the golden age of pianism gave life to music on the keyboard. Hofman, Rubinstein, Paderewski,Sauer, Busoni, Bauer, Godowsky are just some of the greats. You can gauge for yourself how piano playing is expressed in terms of an art and a science. Not just body but mind too. Advice like not over-reliance on the metronome. Use your musical ear. You would have to read the book a couple of times before you find some common threads. They sure are golden threads to spin your music. Enjoy.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Great Pianists on Piano Playing: Godowsky, Hofmann, Lhevinne, Paderewski and 24 Other Legendary Performers (Great Pianists: In Their Own Words) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Great pianists discusstopics ranging from piano technique and musical development to becoming a virtuoso. Included are Busoni's "Important Details in Piano Study," Rachmaninoff's "Essentials of Artistic Playing," Paderewski's "Breadth in Musical Art," and much more. 2 Introductory Essays. Artist Biographies. Artists' Study Questions. 27 halftones.


Buy cheap Great Pianists on Piano Playing: Godowsky, Hofmann, Lhevinne, Paderewski and 24 Other Legendary Performers (Great Pianists: In Their Own Words) [Paperback] now Get 32% OFF

John W. Schaum Piano Course: D - The Orange Book [Paperback] Review

The Schaum piano course is wonderful!I am just thrilled that I can still access that particular course for my students of today, since it is the very course that I started with in the 1950's!The D Book has some very fun and challenging pieces, as well as education that befits that particular progression in study.

Click Here to see more reviews about: John W. Schaum Piano Course: D - The Orange Book [Paperback]

Product Description:
A time-honored tradition just got better! The JOHN W. SCHAUM PIANO COURSE has been newly revised with 100 percent new engravings and typesetting, color highlighting for concept emphasis, updated song titles and lyrics, and full-color illustrations. Other products available from the best-selling John W. Schaum collection: * John W. Schaum Piano Course (level Pre-A or Green through H or Grey) * Schaum Pop Favorites (level Pre-A or Green through C or Purple) * After the H Book (Volume I & II) * Adult Piano Course (Book I-III) * Pop Piano Course (Book I-IV) * Popular Piano Pieces (level Pre-A or Green through D or Orange) * Schaum Christmas (level Green through Orange) * John W. Schaum Solo Piano Albums (For the Young Student) * additional supplementary books

Buy cheap John W. Schaum Piano Course: D - The Orange Book [Paperback] now

Post-Bop Jazz Piano - The Complete Guide with CD!: Hal Leonard Keyboard Style Series [Paperback] Review

As a jazz enthusiast, this book was something new that went beyond all other jazz teaching books that I have come across.It has given me a new outlook on the jazz of the 1950's.Left-hand voicings, two-hand voicings, scales, tonality, modality are just some of the main ideas that this book goes through.One thing that really caught my eye, is the in depth look at the impression Bill Evans, Herbie Hancock, McCoy Tyner, Chick Corea, and Keith Jarrett use in their music.The book is a great option for those looking to expand their jazz knowledge and incorporate their own style.The book moves quickly but provides the information that is important for those of us looking to play.It comes with a very handy CD which allows to hear what it's supposed to sound like. I highly recommend this book.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Post-Bop Jazz Piano - The Complete Guide with CD: Hal Leonard Keyboard Style Series [Paperback]

Product Description:
This comprehensive book and CD package will teach you the basic skills you need to play post bop jazz piano. From comping to soloing, you'll learn the theory, the tools, and the tricks used by the pros. The accompanying CD features many of the examples in the book performed either solo or with a full band. THE HAL LEONARD KEYBOARD STYLE SERIES provides focused lessons that contain valuable how-to insight, essential playing tips, and beneficial information for all players. Comprehensive treatment is given to each subject, complete with a companion CD.

Buy cheap Post-Bop Jazz Piano - The Complete Guide with CD: Hal Leonard Keyboard Style Series [Paperback] now Get 25% OFF

Carpenters Anthology (Piano/Vocal/Guitar Artist Songbook) [Paperback] Review

Perfect for any Carpenters lover.Merry Christmas Darling is not in Karen's original key, but if you don't mind transposing, it's great!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Carpenters Anthology (Piano/Vocal/Guitar Artist Songbook) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Features 43 of the best songs from this beloved sibling duo, including classics such as: Bless the Beasts and Children * (They Long to Be) Close to You * For All We Know * Goodbye to Love * Hurting Each Other * I Just Fall in Love Again * I Won't Last a Day Without You * It's Going to Take Some Time * Let Me Be the One * Merry Christmas, Darling * Please Mr. Postman * Rainy Days and Mondays * Sing * Solitaire * Superstar * There's a Kind of Hush (All Over the World) * This Masquerade * Ticket to Ride * Top of the World * We've Only Just Begun * When I Fall in Love * Yesterday Once More * and more. Includes two tables on contents: one alphabetically by song title, and one chronologically by album.

Buy cheap Carpenters Anthology (Piano/Vocal/Guitar Artist Songbook) [Paperback] now Get 32% OFF

The Best of Yanni (Piano Solo Personality) [Paperback] Review

I would have to say that is book is very good. Some of the songs are just very good others are not. But overall great. This book is like for level 3 or 4 piano it is less difficult than Yanni's In My Time piano. But In My Time is more piano like with is also more difficult. This book is more for melodic. Most of Yanni's song are left hand are the same not identical but it has the same variation, but of course some part are truely unbelieveable you can play it over and over and never get tired. I would recommend this book thenget the In My Time because it sightly harder. Happy Playing the Piano!!

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Best of Yanni (Piano Solo Personality) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Solo arrangements of 11 songs: Almost a Whisper * First Touch * Marching Season * The Mermaid * Nostalgia * The Rain Must Fall * Reflections of Passion * Secret Vows * Swept Away * True Nature * A Word in Private.

Buy cheap The Best of Yanni (Piano Solo Personality) [Paperback] now Get 32% OFF

The Best of Enya (Easy Piano Series)/306039 [Paperback] Review

This Book is awesome.If you do not have the best piano skills but can play a little you will be able to play it.But, if you are an excellent piano player you will still enjoy it and be able to play it.My sister and I both got this book.She is more advanced than I am but we both enjoy playing out of it.If you are looking for some fun piano music to play this would be an excellent choice!

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Best of Enya (Easy Piano Series)/306039 [Paperback]

Product Description:
12 songs: Afer Ventus * Book of Days * Caribbean Blue * The Celts * Fairytale * No Holly for Miss Quinn * On Your Shore * Orinoco Flow * Shepherd Moons * Storms in Africa * To Go Beyond * Watermark.

Buy cheap The Best of Enya (Easy Piano Series)/306039 [Paperback] now Get 32% OFF

The Simon and Garfunkel Collection ( Piano/ Vocal/ Chord Songbook) (Paul Simon/Simon & Garfunkel) [Paperback] Review

The music, words and chords to songs written by Paul Simon and made famous by Simon and Garfunkel. The book contains the songs:

A Hazy Shade of Winter
America
At The Zoo
Bookends
Bridge Over Troubled Water
Cecilia
El Condor Pasa (If I Could)
Homeward Bound
I Am A Rock
Keep The Customer Satisfied
Mrs. Robinson
Old Friends
Scarborough Fair (Canticle)
Song For The Asking
The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy)
The Boxer
The Sound Of Silence
Wednesday Morning 3 A.M.

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Simon and Garfunkel Collection ( Piano/ Vocal/ Chord Songbook) (Paul Simon/Simon & Garfunkel) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Includes: A Hazy Shade of Winter, America, At The Zoo, Bookends, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Cecilia, Homeward Bound, Keep the Customer Satisfies, Mrs. Robinson, Song for the Asking, 59th Street Bridge Song (Feeling Groovy), Wednesday Morning 3 A.M. and more.

Buy cheap The Simon and Garfunkel Collection ( Piano/ Vocal/ Chord Songbook) (Paul Simon/Simon & Garfunkel) [Paperback] now Get 34% OFF

Twilight - The Score - Music from the Motion Picture - Piano Solo Songbook Review

Very easy to play and each songs brings you back to the film setting. Very memorable.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Twilight - The Score - Music from the Motion Picture - Piano Solo Songbook

Product Description:
Based on Stephenie Meyer's popular vampire-romance novels, the movie Twilight is taking huge bites out of box office receipts across the country! Composer Carter Burwell is highly regarded for his scores for the Coen brothers movies. Here are piano solo arrangements of music he composed for this film, including the achingly beautiful 'Bella's Lullaby' and ten more pieces: Dinner with His Family - Edward at Her Bed - I Dreamt of Edward - I Would Be the Meal - In Place of Someone You Love - The Lion Fell in Love with the Lamb - Phascination Phase - Stuck Here like Mom - Tracking - Who Are They?.

Buy cheap Twilight - The Score - Music from the Motion Picture - Piano Solo Songbook now

Pischna: Technical Studies - Sixty Progressive Exercises for the Piano (Schirmer's Library Of Musical Classics, Vol. 792) [Paperback] Review

I bought this book to give my piano technique a tune up and I've noticed overall that my playing is smoother and clearer.I would recommend a book like this over Czerny since there's no halfhearted attempt to make these exercises a piece of music and you just get straight to the finger calisthenics. Most of the "pieces" (usually just a measure or two) have to be transposed to all 12 keys, which exercises not just fingers, but also the ear and brain.I wouldn't call the exercises fun or easy, but going through them daily has benefited me and has made some of my difficulties with my regular rep disappear.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Pischna: Technical Studies - Sixty Progressive Exercises for the Piano (Schirmer's Library Of Musical Classics, Vol. 792) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Comprised of 60 challenging and musically satisfying exercises, this book accentuates dynamics, rhythm and sensitivity to tempo. With a steady progression of difficulty, these rigorous studies also strengthen the hand, build greater flexibility and enhance finger dexterity. The exercises are transposed and written out in every key. Notations for fingering, dynamics and tempo have been included by the editor.--This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

Buy cheap Pischna: Technical Studies - Sixty Progressive Exercises for the Piano (Schirmer's Library Of Musical Classics, Vol. 792) [Paperback] now

Latin Jazz: Jazz Piano Solos Series [Paperback] Review

This book is absolutely wonderful! I am an 18-year-old piano student and I have been classically trained for 10 years. These arrangements were perfect for me because I needed a large amount of quality jazz songs to play in a hotel lobby just before most people went to bed. These pieces are fabulous because they dont require all the attention from everyone in the room (many people like to read while listening), yet if someone wants to just sit and actively listen to what I'm playing, they have a lot of interesting melodies and chords that keep their attention locked and invested in the music. Often times, people will walk in the lobby and just stand and listen to the beautiful melodies these arrangements create before actually going to the desk and checking in. It's very rewarding for me to play this music because they speak to a huge audience, and I find that my listening audience will grow every time I pull the book out and start playing.
But Beyond the fact that the original melodies are wonderful, it's even amazing to me the great flexibility that the arranging allows. They are superb when plays them simply as they are and just marvels in what is written on the page, but if you like to changearound things and play them your own way, you have the freedom to move things around and put your own "feel" to the music. Even the different styles of songs in this book are very flexible and broad,too. Songs range from slightly melancholy, to pensive, to light and upbeat, all the way to a couple that are loud and boisterous. I can only find two songs in the entire book that written in a similar style and mood.
I dont want to lead you on that these pieces are just the sort that simply find a good groove and then uphold the same simple thing the whole time, either. These are good, melodious SONGS that anyone could make up lyrics to and singly along with if they wanted to.
But anyway, I just wanted to let it known how thankful I am to Hal Leonard and the arranger, Brent Edstrom, for putting together this book. I am SURE that anyone of medium to advanced piano skills will find this book creeping its way into their everyday, multipurpose repertoir for use at any gig, and that they will probably end up considering buying all the rest of the books in this series, as I'm doing too.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Latin Jazz: Jazz Piano Solos Series [Paperback]

Product Description:
17 Latin jazz classics, including: Adios (Perez Prado, Astor Piazzolla) * Brazil (Xavier Cugat, Django Reinhardt) * A Day in the Life of a Fool (Stan Getz, Paul Desmond) * Desafinado (Stan Getz, Antonio Carlos Jobim) * Mambo #5 (Perez Prado, Xavier Cugat) * Manteca (Dizzy Gillespie, Cal Tjader) * Mas Que Nada (Dizzy Gillespie) * Perfidia (Perez Prado, Nat King Cole) * Samba De Orfeu (Paul Desmond, Vince Guaraldi) * Triste (Antonio Carlos Jobim, Cal Tjader) * and more.

Buy cheap Latin Jazz: Jazz Piano Solos Series [Paperback] now Get 10% OFF

The Best Songs Ever: 71 All-Time Hits (Easy Piano Songbook) [Paperback] Review

If you're ready to advance beyond the EZ Play books, this is an excellent choice. The Easy Piano format gives you more notes and chords to bring an added depth to your music. Best of all, you'll find more complete songs here, not just the chorus or the 'familiar' part of a song that you find most frequently in EZ Play books.

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Best Songs Ever: 71 All-Time Hits (Easy Piano Songbook) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Features 73 favorites arranged for easy piano: All I Ask of You * Born Free * Call Me Irresponsible * Can You Feel the Love Tonight * Chariots of Fire * Edelweiss * From a Distance * How Deep Is the Ocean * I'll Be Seeing You * Imagine * Longer * Mona Lisa * Moonglow * On the Street Where You Live * Save the Best for Last * September Song * Unchained Melody * The Way We Were * What a Wonderful World * When I Fall in Love * You Are the Sunshine of My Life * more.

Buy cheap The Best Songs Ever: 71 All-Time Hits (Easy Piano Songbook) [Paperback] now Get 32% OFF

Complete Piano Concertos in Full Score (Music Series) [Paperback] Review

This is an excellent book, the concertos are some of Beethoven's best in my opinion. I highly recommend the second movement of the fifth concerto. Excellent!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Complete Piano Concertos in Full Score (Music Series) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Full scores of 5 great Beethoven piano concertos, reproduced from the authoritative Breitkopf & Härtel edition, with all cadenzas as he wrote them. The works reveal the pianistic and orchestral mastery of Beethoven's early and middle periods as well as his innovative genius. New table of contents.


Buy cheap Complete Piano Concertos in Full Score (Music Series) [Paperback] now Get 34% OFF

The Fray How to Save a Life Easy Piano [Paperback] Review

Bought this mainly because of two songs: How to Save a Life and Cable Car (Over My Head). I wasn't disappointed with those two. The arrangements are great and in the right keys. So I was really looking forward to the book as a whole.

Problem, there are very few mentions of this on the first pages of the different songs, but quite a few of them have been transposed, which isn't so fun when you were planning on playing along. So a bit misleading, especially if they plan on catching people offguard in a bookstore where they can't test the keys, but still a good buy.

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Fray How to Save a Life Easy Piano [Paperback]

Product Description:
###############################################################################################################################################################################################################################################################

Buy cheap The Fray How to Save a Life Easy Piano [Paperback] now Get 32% OFF

Alfred's Basic Piano Course: Classic Themes (Alfred's Basic Piano Library, Level 4) [Paperback] Review

The Alfred series is one of the tried and true series that works with my piano students.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Alfred's Basic Piano Course: Classic Themes (Alfred's Basic Piano Library, Level 4) [Paperback]

Product Description:
These volumes contain easy-to-play arrangements of great classical melodies.The arrangements allow the music to be introduced to younger students.While designed to correlate with Alfred's Basic Piano Library, Classic Themes may be used with any piano method or instruction course.

Buy cheap Alfred's Basic Piano Course: Classic Themes (Alfred's Basic Piano Library, Level 4) [Paperback] now

Joy Of Piano Duets [Paperback] Review

These pieces are mostly quite easy to play, and so are suited to beginners, beginners at dueting, or people who just want some fun things to play with a friend that won't need too much work to get going.
The pieces are quite short, only a couple are longer than a page, and cover a big range of styles - themes from classics, folk songs and jazz. Also, Agay has made the bars line up for the Primo and Secondo parts (doesn't seem like much until you play a duet without that and have to write the bar numbers on each part).
Tunes include: Oh Come All Ye Faithful, The Harmonious Blacksmith, All The Pretty Little Horses, The Trout, Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, Fasination, and themes from classics and operas.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Joy Of Piano Duets [Paperback]

Product Description:
These familiar melodies for one piano, four hands are in arrangements equally easy for both players, with the melody alternating between the two. The collection includes Careless Love, Jamaica Farewell, and many more favorites.

Buy cheap Joy Of Piano Duets [Paperback] now Get 15% OFF

Newsies (Piano/Vocal/Guitar Songbook) [Paperback] Review

I've owned this book since it first came out, and it's a must for any true fan of the film. It includes some pictures from the movie as well as the music and lyrics for "Carrying The Banner," "Santa Fe," "My Lovey Dovey Baby," "The World Will Know," "Seize The Day," "King of New York," "High Times, Hard Times," and "Once And For All." It's helped me with more than one performance, and I even used it to compose Newsies ringtones for my cell phone.
On the down side, there ARE a few typos - from small things like spelling Spot's last name "Conlan" to more important transgressions like the complete lack of one chorus of "Carrying The Banner." Still, I've always found it well worth the money.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Newsies (Piano/Vocal/Guitar Songbook) [Paperback]

Product Description:
Matching folio to the exciting Disney musical featuring 8 songs. Also includes lovely full-color photos from the movie. Original songs by Alan Menken and Jack Feldman.

Buy cheap Newsies (Piano/Vocal/Guitar Songbook) [Paperback] now Get 32% OFF

David Carr Glover Method for Piano: Lessons, Primer" [Paperback] Review

I grew up using David Carr Glover books when I took piano lessons myself.I still love them for the simplicity and ease of use.I like the way this method book does NOT start on the black keys.It starts right in with real notes in middle C position.This way the students learn the notes and what they look like on the staff.Other methods use the black keys and finger numbers--children end up relying on the finger numbers instead of on what NOTE they're supposed to be playing.
I highly recommend the Glover method--I would also recommend if you use this book to add the Primer level Technic, Performance and Theory books for a well-rounded experience.

Click Here to see more reviews about: David Carr Glover Method for Piano: Lessons, Primer" [Paperback]

Product Description:
A sound approach to learning the piano, with emphasis on: reading music through interval and note recognition; clapping, singing and counting aloud for proper rhythmical performance; sight reading and ear training. Includes full-color illustrations. Also available from the DAVID CARR GLOVER METHOD FOR PIANO: Lessons, Performance, Technic, Sight Reading and Ear Training, and Christmas at the Piano for each level: Primer, One, Two , Three, and Four. Pre-Reading (Lessons and Theory) and other additional material are available as well.

Buy cheap David Carr Glover Method for Piano: Lessons, Primer" [Paperback] now

Complete Rags for Piano: Piano Solo [Paperback] Review

These rags are fun to play and sound great. They are of intermediate difficulty, but a few are more difficult.Some of them have interesting instructions for the performer, such as tongue clicking (like a snake), foot stomping, etc.The only gripe is that the binding makes the book hard to keep open.You have to get some sort of clasp to keep the pages from closing.It's maddening, when you're trying to read a passage, and the book closes.It can be overcome, though.Overall very fun, original, beautiful rags.Highly recommended!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Complete Rags for Piano: Piano Solo [Paperback]

Product Description:
This exciting new edition includes every piano rag written by William Bolcom and matches the recording by John Murphy. There are 22 compositions, including: Eubie's Lucky Day * Graceful Ghost Rag * The Poltergeist * Raggin' Rudi * Tabby Cat Walk * Knight Hubert * Glad Rag * and more. Features a foreword by the composer, a biography, many photos, and commentary by Bolcom throughout.

Buy cheap Complete Rags for Piano: Piano Solo [Paperback] now

Etudes For the Piano: Complete (Alfred Masterwork Edition) [Plastic Comb] Review

This edition is awesome. It has a plastic spiral that lets the book open and lay flat, and in comparison to books without it this feature is definitely better.

The measures are numbered and they are spaced evenly throughout the pages. There is no crowding of notes and footnotes are kept at the bottom. The font and note color is big and black too.

Overall this takes the cake because Chopin's Etudes are so difficult the edition must be as clear to understand as possible.

I only wish that Alfred publishing would make more complete editions like this of other artists such as Beethoven and Debussy. In any case this edition is superior to the Schirmer editons.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Etudes For the Piano: Complete (Alfred Masterwork Edition) [Plastic Comb]

Product Description:
Although each study emphasizes an aspect of virtuoso piano technique, the etudes are some of the most effectively moving of all the concert works in piano literature. This 144-page volume includes the 24 Etudes, Opp. 10 and 25 as well as the three etudes without opus numbers composed in 1839 for Moscheles and Fetis's Method of Methods. Pedaling is taken from the original manuscripts and first editions, and fingering is editorial.

Buy cheap Etudes For the Piano: Complete (Alfred Masterwork Edition) [Plastic Comb] now Get 15% OFF

Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas: P/V/G (Piano Vocal Series) [Paperback] Review

I bought this sheet music a few years back (because I could play the piano, and I LOVED the movie), but I found that it was WAY too advanced for my level. I still liked to pretend that I could play it and finger though the easiest songs (like sally's song). but more recently I pulled it out and decided I would try it again...I thought I improved a little, but it was still SO hard! Then one day I decided I was going to play the entire song of "This is Halloween." So I sat down and began to play...20 minute later I was so frustrated that I had to stop halfway through. Every note in the piece has a different sharp or flat than the one before it, I'm NOT joking. Even though this music is very hard to play (for me, anyway) I gave it 5 stars because I have heard it played by someone who COULD play it, and it was amazing! Even if you're not a master at the piano, I would still recomend it, if only because the music is so great, but it really is hard to play

Click Here to see more reviews about: Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas: P/V/G (Piano Vocal Series) [Paperback]

Product Description:
The newly revised edition of this book features 11 songs from Tim Burton's creepy animated classic, with music and lyrics by Danny Elfman. Songs include: Jack's Lament * Jack's Obsession * Kidnap the Sandy Claws * Making Christmas * Oogie Boogie's Song * Poor Jack * Sally's Song * This Is Halloween * Town Meeting Song * What's This? * Finale/Reprise.Now Back in Print!

Buy cheap Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas: P/V/G (Piano Vocal Series) [Paperback] now Get 20% OFF