Homespun basics DVD's, are they worth it?

Posted - 02/07/2010 :  20:10:12    

Are you talking about Steve's "Learning To Flatpick" series? I've got volume 1 & 2 and like them. Whataya wanna know specifically about them?

Posted - 02/08/2010 :  04:35:09    

'ive got the parking lot volume 1 and i think its excellent

Posted - 02/08/2010 :  06:47:31      

Bazzer,
I'm thinking about getting the parking lot Vol. 1. What do you like about it?
Give me a review if you don't mind.

Thanks
Grtknob

Posted - 02/08/2010 :  10:19:03        

I have vol. 1 and 2 and I think they are very good, especially if you're trying to learn the basic,straight-ahead melody of a fiddle tune. Steve plays and breaks down three versions of each tune ( a beginner,intermediate and advanced). It is very easy to learn from. I used them when I was first starting to learn fiddle tunes and honestly only learned the beginner and intermediate versions, as I just wanted a good foundation for my on arrangements. Most instructional material (Tony Rice's,Doc Watson's etc.)is dedicated to teaching that particular player's technique and arrangements. The parking lot picker series however, is more about the songs than the player. If your looking to develop solid timing ,technique and interpretation of melody,you can't go wrong with these. P.S. I also recommend listening to alot of Norman Blake.

Posted - 02/08/2010 :  12:52:49    

Hi gtrknob...Well to start with being a brit i didnt know how a lot of how the tunes sounded, so i had a look on GHO at the videos and found the tunes that was in Steves parking lot book and concentrated on them ( bearing in mind i started flatpicking about 18months ago.)and i bought Steves book on steves advice a couple of months ago and in that time i've learned six beginners versions and five of the intermediate versions to the same tunes) upto around 175 to 180 bpm ,I am trying to get a couple of hours a day practicing.i'm also working on Dan Millers :Flatpicking Essentials vol 1. to improve my rhythm.I dont know how good i will get just trying to get as good as i can!! . with steves book theres six cd's and he talks you through all the versions at a slow pace ,it really works for me.

Posted - 02/08/2010 :  14:05:31      

Terrence,
How long have you been picking? I've listened to your music files and you sound really good. I'm not sure I will ever reach your level.

Bazzer,
I'm also working through the Flatpicking Essentials vol 1. How far have you got in the book? About six months ago I worked up to the G-Run section and kind of slack off after that. I am now trying to pick back up and see If I can improve on some of the stuff I've already learned.

Posted - 02/08/2010 :  17:57:06    

I got as far as the G runs ,but i kinda rushed it so i'm just spending some time reviewing it,i'm recording the tunes i know and trying to play the rhytms that i've learnt so far,I'm thinking doing that is as hard as learning the tunes.

Posted - 02/08/2010 :  19:10:55      

Bazzer, Some Yanks are helpful others are others; you can find some fine comrades here . look for thoes that are helpful and humble ,Take your time and find so many good people to grow with. I like Terrence Z He,s a good player with style And a gentelman. Also look for music uploads so you know who you are talking too..........Have you located John Fincher in North Norfolk, He is on Banjo Hang Out, Great fellow and true..........Hello friend ....Steve

Posted - 02/09/2010 :  01:38:37    

Hi Steve...I'm amazed at at the friendly responses i've had over the last few weeks since i joined,from your self and all the other guys that replied to my posts, that makes me even more determined to get better at playing,although when i hit a flat spot i feel like i'm trying to play catchup ! then i get back on to FPHO to get inspired again so i listen to all the music downloads that you guys have posted,maybe in a few months i'll find the confidence to be able to upload an mp3 and get some more excellent advice.meanwhile i'll be asking more questions (Like is it easier to sit or stand whilst practicing?) i've had a look at john's BHO,but i didnt have time to stop on long(cos i had to go out with my girl(wife) Hello and thanks to all you guys out there.. Bazzer

Posted - 02/09/2010 :  17:58:01    

I have a DVD of his, Figuring Out The Finger Board which was very helpful in the beginning, but then it went way fast over my head by the end of it. That was because I was trying to play exactly what he was playing, instead of letting it flow, like how I play. Which then came easier after I figured out the original concept... Figuring Out The Finger Board!

He's great. The original author/instructor I learned flatpicking from, so I guess I'm biased.

Posted - 02/10/2010 :  02:52:16    

JackJack.... I've got that dvd too, ithink it is a good dvd but i dont quite get the hang of yet,maybe i'm trying too hard(or not hard enough)