Summary: Desi Serna is excited to announce the publication of his new book Guitar Rhythm and Technique for Dummies, published by Wiley. Copies will be available in stores everywhere. This book follows on the success of his previous release Guitar Theory For Dummies, Wiley 2013. Guitar Rhythm and Technique for Dummies features Desi’s unique approach to teaching the guitar, and music in general: “Teach students the music they want to play.” By drawing on his encyclopedic knowledge of music from the 50s to the 70s and beyond, Desi is able to present musical concepts and techniques in a way that engages students, keeping them playing the guitar and coming back for more. According to Desi, “This new book helps guitarists develop their sense of timing and hone their chops. As in all my instructional materials, I teach by emphasizing popular styles of music and include countless references to influential guitar players.” Students who purchase this book also gain access to online audio and video aids.
Like many professional musicians, guitarist Desi Serna decided he wanted a career in music while a teenager. He realized right away, that a musical career would involve more than just playing an instrument. “I had a business instinct right from the beginning. I knew that if I wanted to make a living as a musician, I would need to offer a variety of related services and products. I decided to perform on the guitar, teach music to anyone interested, and create instructional material.”
Desi is primarily a self-taught player, learning the basics of the guitar from friends and picking up on songs by ear. Once he became more serious about his studies, he taught himself how to read music. He also began to work his way through more structured music programs available through the books and videos he found at local public libraries and music stores. Even though he began playing guitar in the 1980s, it was the music of the 50s, 60s, and 70s that inspired him. “I love songs by Chuck Berry, The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, and Led Zeppelin.” [Read more…]