Re: [Harp-L] Re: review of "Paul Butterfield Teaches Blues HarmonicaMasterclass"



Interesting that this thread popped up just now, as I am right in the middle of the Butterfield instructional CD myself...for about the fifth time.  So I'll just throw out a few thoughts:  first, the CD itself is not that bad.  (The book that accompanies it, however, is horrible.)  I, too, am a Butterfield fan, and although his teaching approach does seem a bit haphazard, I find myself more and more fascinated by his approach (or attack) on the harp.  Particularly, his rhythm and his articulation.  And it really comes through on the CD.  Although Portnoy has a much more structured program, I don't think he comes anywhere close to Butterfield on the articulation thing.  Yes, he does a much better job of telling you how to do it than Butterfield; Butterfield does a better job of showing you.  Overall, I do think Portnoy's stuff is "better" from an instructional point of view, however, I think there's much to be learned from Butterfield's humble attempt too.  Especially if you approach it as a "play along with Paul" kind of deal.  I figure if I can match any part of Butterfield's sound, in any way--and at this point I can't-- I'm just that much better for it.  


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "M. N." <mnessmith@xxxxxxxxxxx>
To: <harp-l@xxxxxxxxxx>
Sent: Friday, January 27, 2006 4:23 PM
Subject: [Harp-L] Re: review of "Paul Butterfield Teaches Blues HarmonicaMasterclass"


> Paul "two cents" Sehorne wrote:
> "I purchased 'Paul Butterfield Teaches Blues Harmonica Masterclass'. I must 
> say I am a bit disappointed. It is a lot of demonstration with very little 
> explanation. I've found Jerry Portnoy's Blues Harmonica Masterclass course a 
> much better investment, even at four times the price."
> 
> ==========================
> 
> Oh, no question about it, the Butterfield thing sucks as an instructional 
> aid. It's a fun listen if you're a fan (I really enjoyed it) but NOT a good 
> tool for learning to blow harp. The Portnoy Masterclass, on the other hand, 
> is indeed very very well done. Highly recommended for intermediate players 
> looking to take the next step. YMMV.
> MN
> 
> 
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