I see that Kevin Burke has several instructional videos/DVDs out.
My question is, which one is for the very beginner?
I’ve seen that there’s Level 2 and Level 3 (Level 3 being for intermediates, while Level 2 is for beginners, but it says that some elementary things are left unexplained).
If I already know the basic scales, is it safe to assume that I can start with Level 2?
Thanks,
Where do you feel that your ‘bowing technique’ stands? I’m not familiar with Kevin’s books or if they cover bowing technique, but I feel your decision may be made in part as a result of what level you would place your own technique at. Brian, do you know someone who can show you the ropes of bowing and other skills involved with fiddling?
New enough to it that I don’t have a bowing technique.
I can play the scales, a couple of simple tunes, but I’d like to move on a bit, but in an Irish style.
The tough part about the Burke tutors is that there’s not enough detailed explanation about what’s in them, and no recommendations as to who they’re geared towards.
Thanks for the input,
Why not get them all? You’ll end up sounding like Kevin Burke, but that’s not all bad. If you want to learn a more trad sound, try Matt Cranitch’s book and CD.
djm
If you know of someone who can point your nose in the right direction with bowing, pretty much any tutor will be easier to use. Kevin Burke is a mighty fiddler, I would assume his tutors would reflect his style and ability.
We have these right here. The first one is Learn to Play Irish Fiddle
taught by Kevin Burke, Homespun video. Video One Polkas Jigs and
Slides it says on the cover. VD Bur F101 is the #.
My husband started from scratch with these videos. I think they are quite
good (I’m not a fiddler but my husband has become somewhat proficient!).
The only downside he found was that when he took a summer class with
KB, he could not pause and rewind him. (don’t ask!)
Good luck, Lesl
