Besides being the most comprehensive work on the theory and technique of harmonics for the guitar, the book can also be used as a reference manual by players of other stringed instruments. Harmonics, often referred to as chimes or bell-like sounds, are generally employed in a limited fashion as 'special effects'. In detailing a wide variety of techniques and applications this book aims to illustrate the vast potential of harmonics for any guitar style.
Along with positive response from readers, the first edition of the book drew praise from Howard Morgen, of the Manhattan School of Music and the New School, in the May 1984 issue of GUITAR WORLD Magazine as "a fine new book", and from Jim Ferguson in the October issue of GUITAR PLAYER Magazine as "well written and full of useful information...a comprehensive work." Here are additional comments since the release of the Revised Edition:
"Wow! What a book. It's excellent." (Arnie Berle, noted music educator and author)
"I am sure it will be in use for many, many years." (Ron Benson, Dir. Of Curriculum, Guitar Institute of Technology)
"It is a definitive treatment of the topic" (John W. Tanno, GUITAR REVIEW, winter 1990)
"surely the most complete treatment of the subject available...a reference of value to people interested in strings of all sorts." (Bart Hopkin, EXPERIMENTAL MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS, September 1997)
Other Books and Tapes by David Winters
Books:
- NATURAL & ARTIFICIAL HARMONICS FOR THE GUITAR includes numerous illustrations (with left-hand appendix) and music examples (with tablature appendix). It can be ordered directly from Winters/Music and is available through Guitar Solo in San Francisco or Jamey Aebersold's JazzAids. (2 articles with different perspectives on the subject of harmonics, written by David Winters for Guitar Player Magazine's 'Masters Series', can also be ordered directly from the author.)
- SOLO GUITAR IMPROVISATION presents David's approach to developing an individualized style with sections on Patterning, Chord and Scale Systems, and Improvisation Concepts.
- CONCERT TUNES contains original songs from the tapes 'Jazzy Political Music' and 'Original Songs'.
- MUSIC FOR SOLO GUITAR contains original instrumental works.
- ARTICLES, WORKSHOPS AND INTERVIEWS contains: reprints of articles by David Winters from Guitar Player Magazine, Acoustic Guitar and National Guitar Workshop's Complete Guitarist; workshop outlines, scripts and exercises from varied presentations on voice, guitar and music theory; interviews and news stories on David.
- HARMONICS FOR THE GUITAR a work in progress on the history of string harmonics, will also contain a section on original music and adaptations for the guitar (plus recording).
David Winters has 3 self-produced tapes available:
- JAZZY POLITICAL MUSIC includes 16 original songs, 2 original instrumentals and 3 instrumental versions of classic labor songs, 57 mins.
"David Winters is a Pro, whether he is putting out excellent and tasty guitar or addressing 'Union Letters', a 'Company Town', 'Martin Luther King Day' or the'Nuclear Age', -he is musically and politically on top of his material. I enjoy and respect his Voice and think you will too." - Earl Robinson
- ORIGINAL SONGS by David Winters contains 17 original songs and instrumentals, 45 mins.
- ORIGINAL INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC contains 22 original works, mostly on guitar, 60 mins.
Books, Tapes, and CD's can be ordered directly from Winters/Music, in addition, reprints of articles written by David Winters are also available, write or email (winters@cruzio.com) for information.
