This book is a must for anyone even remotely interested in playing Celtic music either for personal pleasure or to try to make the "few bob." It is nicely laid out and has a clean, clear approach. The list of tunes included will give even the complete beginner a well-rounded initial repertoire.

The tunes range from the better-known "Danny Boy" to the less often played "The Doon." There are jigs, ballads and "come all ye" songs so you can use this book to please every type of listener.

I realise that it is primarily for a person wishing to play the songs on a guitar, but still I think that the lyrics should have been included. It would have been a great bonus. Another slight niggle here is that "Boolavogue" has a number of spellings used. This is my local song, so I keep a special eye on it.

The accompanying CD is fantastic. Hearing these well-known songs stripped down to the basic guitar picking gives them a new meaning. I have impressed many a visitor by playing this CD for entertainment purposes only -- it could stand alone, beyond its intended use for instruction.

If you like Celtic music as a player or listener this book and CD are well worth the price.

[ by Nicky Rossiter ]
Rambles: 19 April 2002