There's no sound more thrilling than the walking bass notes and driving chords of traditional gospel piano, and there is no better way to learn it than from this 2-DVD set. Dr. Ethel Caffie-Austin, a formidable pianist, vocalist and educator, is steeped in the traditions and styles of the black church. She has a clear and concise teaching method and a desire to get you playing this heartfelt and inspirational music, even if you have never played it before.
Ethel teaches the basic melody of a hymn or spiritual, and then adds the chords and bass lines that will give the song a solid rhythmic foundation. Finally, by adding intros, runs, harmonies, fills and turnarounds, you'll create a complete piano arrangement in true gospel style.
The well-known hymns and spirituals you'll be playing include: When the Saints Go Marching In, Standing in the Need of Prayer, Angels Keep Watching Over Me, Can't Nobody Do Me Like Jesus, What a Friend We Have in Jesus, Show Me The Way, Study War No More, Jesus is on the Mainline, Amazing Grace and other beloved gospel standards.
George 4 years, 7 months ago
My partner very kindly bought this for me a gift in 2016, and ever since then its been a great reference for Gospel Piano.
Link | ReplyEthel is a true master of her craft and gives great explanations and demonstrations on the subject.
If you want a good grounding in Gospel, then this DVD and music booklet have it all.
George
Tom 1 year, 2 months ago
Ethel clearly knows her licks, but I wasn't able to learn from this double DVD and gave up 20 minutes in. The problem was that what she described was not always what she played, and the camera didn't always show what she played and what we were meant to practice. So I ended up having to guess what was being played -- something that's pretty hard when six or so notes are being played at the same time. I really wish this course had been photographed, written, and edited better.
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