Rave Reviews from Virtuosi of the Mandolin World:
Tony Williamson (9/21/07), Don Stiernberg (9/27/07), Mike Marshall (3/14/08):
"Debora
Chen’s Standard Notation Book is the first of its kind. A generous,
clear and approachable book designed to unlock the mysteries of reading
music for the many who have been playing with tablature or by ear for
most of their lives. Thanks, Debora, for washing away the fear of this
unknown territory and gently nudging us to dive into this rich and
rewarding musical tradition."--Mike Marshall
"Working on reading standard notation can be so rewarding, what with all the beautiful melodies and ideas that can be accessed from the page. But it can also be daunting, particularly for mandolinists, since we generally don't get to play in the pep band at school, or grow up to go on the road with a 'chart-reading' big band. Suggestions for how to meet this challenge can range from 'just do more of it' to 'get a fakebook.
Now at last Debora Chen shares a new approach and there's a lot to like about it. She presents a coordinated visualization of both music and the mandolin, unifying several activities and saving YOU time. The etudes are a series of attainable goals, not the usual 'do the best you can, you might get it someday' material. As a bonus, several great suggestions on mandolin technique appear even though the book focuses on the reading part of musicmaking. Because of its comprehensive approach and 'to the point' activities, this book should be helpful to students and teachers of any style of mandolin playing who have been looking for ways to bring note reading within their grasp."--Don Stiernberg
"Debora
Chen's book, 'Standard Notation for the Tab Addicted Mandolinist' is
an essential volume for ANY student of the mandolin. Taking just a
few minutes a day to work through it has helped me in a very positive
way. Growing up in rural North Carolina, I learned to play music from
my Dad, who learned to play from his Dad. We never had the benefit of
written music. Now thanks to Debora's insight, quick tips and
fun exercises, I have increased my ability to communicate with
colleagues and students and have opened musical doors that I did not
even know existed. Thank you so much Debora, I can't wait to purchase
your next book!!! --Tony Williamson
"Debora Chen's book gives every mandolinist the 'keys to the musical kingdom.'"--Bluegrass Breakdown, California Bluegrass Association
"Standard Notation for the
Tab-Addicted Mandolinist" is also an excellent introduction to mandolin for those who already read treble clef fluently but need to learn the fretboard.
Purchase J.S. Bach Mandolin Arrangements FAQ page down/testimonials
Book was originally released at the 2007 Mandolin Symposium
click here for detailed description/review on Mandolin Cafe