Fuse Magazine #3 1998

Review of "Learn How To Transcribe For Guitar"

One of the best ways to solidify your reading chops is by learning to transcribe music. This book extensively covers the art of transcribing for guitar by going deep into the various forms of transcription. The book begins by acquainting the reader with some basic music theory and quickly moves to more advanced concepts. Next comes the basics of transcription with a few valuable tips. This book comes with manuscript paper to perform the transcriptions and a CD that acts as the teacher, supplying the parts to be transcribed. An easy to follow listing of the CD tracks are found next to each exercise in the book and a section of the completed transcriptions is found at the back of the book so you can check your work.

The CD features transcribing intervals, chords and rhythms, and then puts them all together. In the book, Hurwitz also discusses alternate tunings, capos, speed licks, and various techniques like tapping, hammer-ons, pull-offs, tremolo, harmonics, and palm muting. The final test comes by isolating the guitar parts in a song (four tracks are included on the CD). There are also helpful quotes from notable transcribers including Steve Vai. This book is a valuable tool for guitarists who are interested in uncovering the mysteries of almost any guitarist's technique, while at the same time improving their own reading, writing, and playing skills through ear training.

-Mike Haid