Lester's Complete Music Method
This series of music educational books is designed to be used either in isolation or in an ensemble format for musicians of all skill levels. It has a strong focus on Musical Literacy as well as improvisation and gets students reading rhythm accurately right from the beginning.
There are 13 books that cover almost all instruments (concert band instruments as well as guitar, bass, drum kit and keyboard).
Where it differs from many other method books is that it has several sections that address multiple areas of development.
Sections include:
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Learning and Building (from first notes, rhythms and theory through to 2nd/3rd year of development)
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Rhythm drills and rhythm sight reading, Technical Work (beginner to in-depth)
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Patterns and Exercises (to move towards improvisation and composition)
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Common Chord Sequences (taking the previous patterns to the next level)
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Rounds (designed to open the ears)
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Ensemble Playing and Harmonising (duets, trios and quartets that work with any combination of instruments... lots of well known classical, folk, traditional, Christmas and nursery rhyme melodies)
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Lester's Tests (throughout the book learners are directed to these),
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Terms, Symbols and Definitions
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A Practice Journal,
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Fingering Charts and the ever important Circle of Fifths/Fourths.
"Music should be social, challenging and fun."
Nick Lester has been teaching a large array of instruments in rural Australian schools for more than two decades. An environment which requires adaptability in order to provide all students with repertoire and ensemble opportunities to meet their interests and abilities.
This extensive teaching experience has inspired Nick to write this series of books, using the knowledge he's gained to create a music method that promotes growth in any group of musicians. Regardless of instruments or skill levels, Lester's Complete Music Method provides everyone with a challenge and keeps music a fun, social activity.