Kenny Hall's Music Book: Old Time Music - Fiddle & Mandolin

Book excerpt: Since the 1960's here has been an extraordinary revival of old-time string band music in California, and indeed throughout the American West. Despite being born blind, Kenny Hall has been a mainstay of many fiddle festivals and of the Western fiddle and string band revival in general. Kenny's musical style is passionate and energetic. This book is a helpful guide to his vast repertoire learned through years of careful listening. It is also a wonderful addition to the fiddler's bookshelf and a fitting tribute to a man who, for many an aspiring fiddler, has been a friend, guide, exemplar, and patron. Many of the tunes includes nonsense lyrics that Kenny used to help him remember the melody, and each tune is accompanied by Kenny's comments. the book is divided into five chapters: fiddle- based tunes (Fiddle Faddle), mandolin-based tunes (Rags, Tags, and Wags), Waltzes, tunes from an origin other than the United States or the British Isles (Kenny's Rambles); and vocal-based pieces including lyrics (Songs, Ballads, Ditties). Some of the transcriptions are written primarily for fiddle or mandolin, but most tunes can be performed on either instrument. This deluxe guide to Kenny Hall's vast repertoire offers fans of old-time music a great way to get to know Kenny and his music.