The idea of the Gypsy fiddler conjures up a vivid musical picture - spontaneous, virtuoso and above all fiery! European Gypsies have taken their music wherever they have travelled, from Russia to the Balkans, from Andalucia to the Black Sea. But for many people the heart of the repertoire - the essential Gypsy music - is found in Hungary and Romania.
The arrangements in this collection can be performed as solos, duets, trios or by larger ensembles. The traditional Gypsy band consists of a lead violin or primas, accompanied by one or two violins or violas (playing chords), a cimbalom and double bass; this line-up can be more or less reproduced using these arrangements, with the piano combining the roles of cimbalom and bass.
The full range of traditional fiddle repertoire is now at your fingertips! Using these generous collections, you can create your own ceilidh, barn dance, jazz club, Sarajevo street-café or Gypsy gathering. Some of this music is familiar, some more exotic, but all of it is absolutely authentic, faithfully arranged and, above all, hugely enjoyable.
Each title in the series is available in two formats: the violin edition (with an optional easy violin part and guitar chord); or the complete edition, which also includes both keyboard and violin accompaniments. Either format is hugely flexible, which means the music can be played as solos, duets or trios as well as with larger ensembles.
Edward Huws Jones has travelled extensively researching fiddle-playing traditions. In each book he explains the background of the particular musical style, giving his own suggestions for a lively performance. And to help recreate the spirit of the music, every book in the series is beautifully illustrated.