In this book and accompanying audio Autoharp hall of famer Evo Bluestein provides a beginning approach to a repertoire of songs and Fiddle tunes popular in old-time and bluegrass circles. Basic rhythm chord accompaniment lyrics and music notation make this book useful for other lead instruments as well including Fiddle Mandolin and Voice. A more advanced approach can be found in Evo Bluestein's book 'Autoharp in Four Easy Steps' published byMel Bay. More books and DVDs are available at www.evobluestein.com.Evo Bluestein is known as an expert player in the style pioneered by the late Autoharp master Kilby Snow. Bluestein has also developed two successful andpopular brands of Autoharp The Evoharp and the Sparrowharp built by two world class Autoharp luthiers. In addition to helping many adults learn music on the Autoharp for over thirty years children in numerous schools havelearned to play and sing using the Autoharp in programs that Bluestein has implemented. He is also an accomplished dance caller teaching folk dance as an independent contractor throughout California schools. Bluestein isco-founder of the California Autoharp Gathering. Includes access to online audio featuring Evo Bluestein.

A step-by-step self-instruction method. Includes care of the Autoharp playing positions chord changes back-up strums arpeggio strums melody picking rhythm picking and much more. Each song teaches something new and eachstrum pattern is built on the previous one.When you have practiced each selection and perfected each strum you will have the necessary foundation to go on to more advanced styles and more intricate picking. The songs inthe book are arranged for the 15-chord instrument since it is the most popular for beginning students. In the 60-minute instructional audio recording the author uses Autoharp and Vocals to demonstrate the major styles presentedin the book from simple to advanced strums to melody picking. The player learns effective ways to practice each new style and has a chance to play along with the singer on the songs that are repeated unaccompanied. Includesaccess to online audio.

This collection of 35 Celtic tunes represents ten different performance styles from Ireland Scotland Wales and Brittany. The majority of these pieces are dance tunes such as the jigs and reels popular at Irish sessions theinformal gatherings of musicians in pubs community halls and homes. Although relatively new to the session ensemble the Autoharp bears a distinct resemblance to the Irish Folk Harp. Fittingly this collection includes Harptunes by famed Irish harpist Turlough O'Carolan as well as other slow airs. All of the pieces in this book have been arranged to be played on any standard 15 or 21-bar chromatic Autoharp in either melodic or rhythmic (backup)style. A melody line with suggested chord accompaniment is included so other instrumentalists can easily join in. The book's companion online audio includes performances of all 35 selections ably illustrating the rhythmic andstylistic nuances of this engaging music. In notation and tablature.