A Modern Method for Guitar Berklee Press Book Review Comprehensive Lessons and Exercises

Description

Features

Using the Berklee Press “A Modern Method for Guitar – Complete Method Book/Online Media” (ISBN 0876391994) has been quite an experience. This comprehensive guitar lesson book packs a serious punch with its combination of a hefty hardcover volume and online media access. It’s not just another guitar method book; it offers innovative solos, engaging duets, and intensive exercises that challenge your skills while keeping things interesting. The 424 pages provide plenty of content, and the inclusion of online media really helps bridge the gap between theory and practice. I appreciate how the book covers everything from basic techniques to advanced concepts, making it suitable whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your style.

Ease of Use

Navigating through the exercises and lessons is surprisingly straightforward. The layout is clear, with chapters logically arranged so you can build your skills progressively. I found the instructions easy to follow, which is a relief compared to some other method books that assume you’re already halfway to a guitar wizard. The online media complements the book nicely by offering audio and video examples, which is a lifesaver when you’re unsure how a particular solo or exercise should sound. Even my niece, who’s just started learning guitar, was able to keep up with the basic exercises without too much frustration.

Ice Production Speed (Just Kidding!)

Well, no ice production here, but what about the pace at which you can expect to improve your playing? The method’s pacing is well balanced. The exercises push you to practice regularly, and I noticed steady progress in my finger dexterity and understanding of music theory over a couple of weeks. The solos and duets add a layer of fun that keeps you motivated instead of feeling like you’re slogging through endless drills. The gradual increase in difficulty means you don’t get overwhelmed too quickly, which is crucial for maintaining enthusiasm.

Ice Quality & Type (Still No Ice, But Let’s Talk Content Quality)

The quality of the musical content is top-notch. The solos are not only innovative but also musically satisfying. They incorporate a variety of styles and techniques that make practicing less of a chore. The duets are particularly engaging, and I enjoyed jamming along with a friend or even just playing both parts myself to hone timing and rhythm. The exercises are intensive and thoughtfully designed to target different aspects of guitar playing, from finger independence to chord changes and rhythm control.

Noise Levels

This method book is silent, of course, but practicing the guitar can get noisy depending on where you live. I found that the book encourages practicing with a metronome and online backing tracks, which helped me keep things structured without having to crank up the volume on my amp. Since the book focuses on acoustic and electric guitar techniques, it’s suitable for players in noise-sensitive environments. Plus, the online media lets you crank up the volume when you want to rock out, and keep it low when you’re just working on finger exercises.

Durability

The hardcover edition of this guitar method book has held up well despite daily use. I lug it around in my backpack, and the binding remains intact with no signs of wear or tear after a couple of months. The pages are thick enough not to crinkle easily, which is a blessing because I tend to flip back and forth between lessons. If you’re someone who likes to take their learning on the road or to lessons outside the home, this book can handle the journey.

Warranty

Books don’t usually come with warranties, but if you purchase from reputable sellers like Berklee Press or verified retailers, you can expect reliable customer service if there’s an issue. I haven’t had to test this personally, but the publisher’s reputation gives me confidence that any problems—like damaged copies on arrival—would be handled promptly. The digital access included with the book also tends to be stable, with few reports of glitches or access issues.

Benefits

• Comprehensive coverage from beginner to advanced levels
• Combination of print and online media enhances learning
• Engaging solos and duets keep practice sessions fun and motivating
• Durable hardcover suitable for daily use
• Clear organization and easy-to-follow instructions

Drawbacks

• The large size and weight (3 pounds) can be cumbersome to carry around for some
• Online media requires a stable internet connection, which might not be convenient everywhere
• Exercises may feel intense for absolute beginners without prior music experience
• Some users might prefer more genre-specific content, as the book covers a broad range of styles

Product Comparisons

Compared to other guitar method books like “Mel Bay Modern Guitar Method” or “Hal Leonard Guitar Method,” this Berklee Press offering stands out for its integration of online media and the variety of musical material. While Mel Bay’s method is great for traditional styles and Hal Leonard offers a solid foundation, the “A Modern Method for Guitar” excels in pushing players towards contemporary techniques and musicality. The duets and solos included are more sophisticated and musically rewarding, which could appeal to players seeking a deeper, more immersive learning experience. On the downside, some competing products might be lighter and more portable, which could matter if you’re always on the move.

Price Performance

Considering the extensive content and dual-format approach, the price feels justified. You’re not just buying a book; you’re investing in a comprehensive learning system that includes audio and video resources. The quality of instruction and the depth of material offer excellent value for the price point, especially compared to other method books that might only provide print or digital content but not both. If you’re serious about improving your guitar skills and want a resource that grows with you, this method offers smart spending for dedicated learners. However, casual players might find it a bit more than they need.

This review reflects my personal journey with the Berklee Press “A Modern Method for Guitar – Complete Method Book/Online Media” (ISBN 0876391994) and the experiences shared by fellow guitar enthusiasts in various online communities. The book’s balance of theoretical knowledge, practical exercises, and multimedia support makes it a robust tool for anyone wanting to elevate their guitar playing.

Additional information