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Hey Scott, Enjoyed your show last week with Jack Widner. Moonglow is a favorite. I love your show!
Steve

I am 19 years old and have been playing for almost 16 years (11 years of lessons). I watch your program as much as possible. I must say, you are an excellent teacher. I enjoy how you take things down and explain them. You are teaching me things that I was never taught. You are able to help anyone understand piano and it's compenates. Keep up the great work.
Jessica Wood, Oklahoma, USA

I have only seen your show twice, but I love it! I've been playing guitar for around 20 years and every know and then I get into a rut. I used to have a keyboard to screw around with that taught me some new ways to look at my fretboard on my guitar. In the 2 shows I have seen, I've managed to pick up more ideas for my guitar than I would have if I played a keyboard for 2 months! Thank you and keep up the good work
Anonymous

Dear Scott, I attended your workshop in Springfield, Ohio at the performing arts center (Kuss Auditorium) I laughed for three straight hours! I think I am currently your star student! I never had a piano lesson before the class, but knew I had an ear (and hands) for playing. I play everyday for relaxation on top of an already overloaded schedule, and I love it! I have purchased so many music books that have songs I play pretty well. I can't even begin to decide on my "Misty". Thanks for a great class!
A. Greene, Springfield, OH

Scott, I bought Play Piano in a Flash (with a good fake book) and have been diligently practicing and playing for about 6 weeks. Your book made learning both fun and easy. There still is no substitute for practice but your method is a lot of fun so that is no problem. P.S. Thanks a lot for bringing music in my life. I'm having a blast.
B. Caprara

Scott, I am sure you will get many emails of support, but I needed to add mine.  At 56 years old I am finally doing something I always envied in other people.  My brother is a professional musician.  We live 1800 miles apart.  He is 54 and, as they say, has never had a day job.  He has a Masters in music, which he received in his forties after many years of playing professionally.  Yet, even with that resource, you inspired me to try again after traditional lessons uninspired me 47 years ago.  My brother thinks it's great, and it has made us closer.  I've learned a new language.  The one my brother speaks. Keep up the good work.
Greg

You are great, and thanks to you I am now playing the piano every day. I especially love the idea of the fake book, which I purchased locally.
K. Viskant

What's up Scott! I just happened to turn on KET on Sunday and caught your program. I learned more in 8 min from watching you on TV than I have in the 20 years that I've been longing to learn the piano. Playing chords with my left hand play has always been my hang-up. Many accomplished musicians have promised me time after time that they will take time and teach me some things, but none have produced. I will be a student of yours via DVD or VHS, and if ever you come to Louisville, KY I look forward to meeting you. You have a most relaxed and effortless way of teaching. Please don't lose your since of humor.
W. Logan, Louisville, KY

Thank you so much!!! For the first time today (although I have been struggling for 2 years on classical piano lessons without going anywhere) and thanks to your wonderful teachings, I can play my favourite tune Canon in D of Johann Pachelbel. It came so easy with the chords! I am so much enjoying myself and am so relaxed when playing that it brought tears to my eyes. Your wonderful video really did strike a "chord" in me. You made it all so simple and enjoyable. As a child, I was "forced" to play the piano, and it became such a stressful thing for me that I didn't touch music for many years. I then started again about 5 years ago but gave up because I chose the path of classical music. It was far too ardeous so I gave up. I started again 2 years ago here with a very good "classical" school (because I always thought that was the way to go about piano lessons,) and I struggled and nearly "ressented" my piano which became a chore and was ready to give up again. But THANKS to You, after watching your video tonight I can now for the first time truly become one with my piano. It is fantastic to be able to play music "naturally" without having to strain and to just let the music flow... With much gratitude,
Patricia Grist

Scott, do you remember me? I attended your seminar in the Research Triangle a few months ago. I sat on the front row and had you autograph my book when the seminar ended. I am having a ball playing the piano. Already, I can play just about anything thanks to you. I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciate you. I will be ordering your new fake book asap. I have a new Clavinova at home and am more and more sounding like a pro and wowing my friends. I have been at this only for a few months! It's unreal! I have wanted to play all my life but failed the traditional way. Thanks again. Love,
N. Cooper, Burlington, North Carolina

Scott, Just want to tell you, I see you on TV from time-time and really enjoy your work. I am a keyboards(one man band) and make a living at it, and still everyday I learn something.(62 yrs old) I would like to attend one of your classes if you get in the Nebr. or Iowa area. Will watch for your schedule and see you soon.
D. Bruce, Columbus, NE

Hi Scott, I've been teaching myself piano for about a year now. I seemed to have hit a brick wall with my skill, until I heard there were piano lessons on Comcast On Demand. I've been watching those and one day last month, I had an "Ah ha"! moment. I had purchased several fake books, but couldn't seem to work my way through a song because I didn't understand the basic chords. After watching you, the chords seemed to make sense. Suddenly one day it all clicked (most of it anyway), and I at least could nail down a C to B major and minor chord. Now my fake books are more usable to me and I feel like I've progressed. Honestly, I was just about to give up the keyboard because I had been stuck at the same skill level for months. Thanks for breaking me through and giving me hope!
Mike

We recently purchased a Roland KR107 Digital Piano and have virtually not used it even though my wife and I have some musical ability. She is a self taught piano player and I play guitar. I've always had a dream of playing the piano and have taken lessons but never progressed for all the reasons you've given. Next to the exercise equipment we've purchased, the piano gathers only slightly less dust. Even though we did not order your DVD and have never heard of your PBS program as it appears to not be carried in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, we received a copy of your DVD from Roland Corporation. The KR107 is a beautiful instrument and the salesman from Steinway Hall could play it very well, but it has so many features and tricks I've never been able to grasp the full potential. Getting your DVD was a most welcome surprise, and I watched the first half today after school today (my wife and I are both teachers). I just wanted to let you know Roland Corporation was sending out your DVD "Play the Piano in a Flash" and your program is not aired in Dallas. I'm hoping to use your materials to become more acquainted with our piano. Thanks for taking a read and I hope you can get your program aired in the Dallas area soon. KERA is our PBS station. Best wishes,
R. Parker, Texas

Scott, It was a pleasure to hear from you on this day of thanks . Ironically, in the past few days before Thanksgiving, I too was thinking of the many things I have to be thankful for. At the top of the list was you and my new piano teacher. Simply because of you, after years of frustration playing the piano, I am now hopeful. I have always wanted to play the piano. For my 40th birthday my husband gave me a Clavinova, and I started lessons. I found a nice teacher and began private lessons. Within a year we bought a beautiful baby grand. My progress went well for the first few years. At the beginning, my teacher had explained to me that she teaches classical style because that is the foundation for successfully learning how to play the piano. Initially, I had explained to her that my desire is to be able to play popular songs just for fun. I trusted her and was committed. As the years went by, my frustration increased. I was committed but felt stuck. Over the years I developed a close bond with my teacher and couldn't imagine taking lessons from anyone else. Playing the piano became a negative thing. It literally made me feel dumb and bad about my capabilities. Fortunately I saw you on PBS and knew that your method was just what I needed. Last January, as I reflected on the past year and the year ahead I made a big decision. I stopped taking lessons from my teacher. We both sat and cried at the piano bench when I told her. I bought some of your material and was determined to accomplish my original desire. Time went by, and I was still not playing. I do best with a structured plan, so I used your resource list for teachers that train your method. I just started lessons 2 weeks ago, and I am so encouraged. I am so optimistic and grateful. I am sure you this scenario is nothing new to you. I just want you to know how GRATEFUL and THANKFUL I truly am. As you said, this 'thanks' comes straight from the heart. All my best to you and your family on this Thanksgiving Day,
P Bradley

Hi Scott, I watched your video over the weekend and was very skeptical. I took formal piano lessions for two years and gave up because I wasn't really making "fun" progress if you know what I mean. I watched the first bit of your video thinking it was somehow just an unbelievable speel, but then I sat down and started playing a few notes...blues first. I printed out "Begin the Beguine" and "In a Sentimental Mood" (which you play in the video) and was able to pick them out...I threw in a few cheap tricks, and I'm hooked. Many thanks for putting the fun back into the piano! Sincerely, PS: Ever see the movie "Oscar" with Sylvester Stallone? My goal is to play/noodle that bit with the accountant in the middle of the film...it's seems easier now than it looked before.
Derek

Scott, Just wanted to let you know how much I'm enjoying your show (in high definition no less.) I took piano lessons when I was small and hated it and stopped after 2 years only being able to play "When the Saints Go Marching In." I always kicked myself for giving up, but now that I've bought and read your book and watched the show, realize that I was never going to learn what I wanted to via the lessons I was taking. I since purchased a new Yamaha keyboard and am plugging away at learning a few tunes. Although I do get distracted each week when your new show airs, and I find I can't keep on one tune or topic long enough to truly master it, but it's fun nonetheless. Anyways, just wanted to let you know what I consider the best part of your show. It's when you have a guest on and you are breaking down the technique of the guest. I love when you point out some little trick or technique that the guest is using that THEY didn't even realize that they were doing. Really drives home the point that the sheet music isn't carved in stone and can be interpreted how you like. Thanks again.
Anonymous

I just started last night - literally. I bought the book and a keyboard, read the whole book and begin practicing in one night. I am very excited. Thank you so much for opening the world of music to me. I hope you had a nice holiday season. Regards,
R. Smith

Happy Holidays, Scott Thanks for finding the way to get musical ability into someone like me. The pleasure I get will last from now on. I owe it all to you. I already own just about everything you've made having just received "Tips and Cheap Tricks-Vols 3 and 4 this week. Keep adding to those. I'll buy them all.
Mike

Thank you so much for your wonderful book. I am thrilled that I can actually even wrap my head around something that challenged me for years. Much appreciated.
J. Grant

Scott I just wanted to let you know that your system is exactly what i've been looking for. I'm simply amazed at the fact that you covered all of the basis that I have been thinking about. Why is it necessary to sit and concentrate on something that I have no interest in whatsoever? Your book is making all the sense in the world to me. I'll keep you updated on my progress. I'm excited as all outdoors! Thank you ever so much!!
Andrew, Nevada US

Hi Scott: I'm enjoying the 10th season of shows and the new artist, David Benoit! I'd like to hear an arrangement of Mac Arthur Park. I'm sure you're working on ideas already for season 11 ... I really like the new "I gotta play that" segment! Thanks!
B. Appleby,

I got your book just before I went on spiritual retreat for the Dances of Universal Peace. With your help, I was able to bring back the three special dances/songs our team loved most, find the chords, and prepare them for our local dance community event. I am FILLED with JOY and GRATITUDE. I may not play Rhapsody in Blue before I die and, then again, I might. Before meeting you, I didn't have a ghost of a chance. This is a LOVE letter. Drink deeply!!!!!
T. Phifer ,

Just a quick response regarding the survey which I filled out. In the section where you asked how much I would be willing to pay to play a song, it did not specify in how long of a period of time. I had been taking lessons for almost a year and paid around $1000.00 in that time and cannot still play a song! So I did not quite know how to respond to that question on your survey. I caught your fund raiser program on public TV, ordered your book, Audio CD and video. The price for all three seemed a bargain in comparison to what I have paid so far for lessons without the satisfaction of being able to play anything. I have just finished all three. Now I am going to try your techniques, and have my fingers crossed that I will find it as easy to do as you make it sound! Thanks,
N. Emmons

I am 68 years old and having been trying to play piano since about 9. I took lessons and was soon discouraged ...lots of study and no playing. So I quit trying to learn or play. I never lost sight that I would love to play the piano, but was resigned to the fact I never would. When I retired in 1991, I decided I would try again. I found a book that said I could learn to play by ear....huh? I had always thought this was a God given talent - certainly not something I could learn. I have spent hundreds of dollars on such books and have learned a great deal. As a result, I can play fairly well, as judged by me. Yet I again became discouraged and stopped once again for a couple of years. Just recently my interest again peaked again, and bless my soul I found PLAY PIANO IN A FLASH....WHO WOULD HAVE EVER THOUGHT A 1 CHORD, 4 CHORD, 5 CHORD AND ANOTHER 1 CHORD WOULD LET ME A BUNCH OF TUNES....THANKS A BUNCH....GIVE ME MORE....IF YOU DIDN'T WRITE IT I DON'T WANT IT!
JOHN

Hi Scott, I am working with your new DVD on The Christmas Song. I am having more fun than I have in a long time. This is my kind of "studying" the music--one song at a time and in Great Detail. You have put SOOOO much into this DVD--besides learning how to play it and sound Professional, you gave us Accompaniments too. And, if that wasn't enough, you took another step and showed us how to Accompany while singing. I LOVE it, and am using it all. I deeply hope there will be many more "One Song DVDs" in the future--it is a Wonderful way to Teach--and I CAN DO IT!! YAY! Thank you so much, Scott. You are filling a BIG NEED IN THE PIANO PLAYING WORLD! Keep 'em comin'--. I love and use the Cheap Tricks DVDs, but this style of teaching is my cup of Tea--THANKS, AND MERRY CHRISTMAS. (I will be playing this song,and a few others, for my family this Christmas.
D. Smith

After reading Play Piano in a Flash, I bought your fakebook. I love it! I had piano lessons as a kid but didn't practice, LOL! Hey, I LOVE music but those songs were awfully dreary sounding! AND, no one was whipping me to practice, LOL! Then, at 15 I tried again. Seemed too arduous a task to get to the point of being able to play songs that sounded good... Now I am 51 and even though I am musically illiterate for all intents and purposes, I am enjoying playing the lovely sounding chords along with the melodies in your fakebook. Since you said, "Have fun" that is just what I am doing. I sit at the piano, and flip through your fakebook attempting to play all the songs that strike my fancy at that moment. I get too bored practicing just one song over and over which is too much like work, so I skip around. I am learning chords pretty fast. I can see that I am getting a bit better every day and one of these days, I may even get up to tempo! What beautiful sounds I am making! I am finding that I love some of the tunes that I loathed before because of the schmaltzy renditions I had heard on the radio! Do another great fakebook, Scott!
M. Palombi

Thank you Scott & Bradley for a great book: "Play Piano in a Flash", The Next Step. It's very well written and easy to follow. The chapter on left hand patterns and bass lines was of particular interest and has been a great big help! J Nesheim
J Nesheim, Roundup, MT

Dear Scott, I enjoy reading your newsletter, and appreciate your good-natured humor and the fact that you enable anyone, even a senior citizen like me, to enjoy music making. I first caught your special on PBS about three years ago, and simply watching that program and applying the hand positions you demonstrated for producing the chords C, F, G turned a light on for me. Your techniques simplified learning how the keyboard functions and opened up the "secrets" of getting some pleasing sounds out of the old Wurlitzer upright (which had been taking up space in our living room ever since our now-grown children had learned to play on it). I‚ve been learning ever since. In the time since viewing that broadcast, I have regularly fingered the keys on my own (no lessons or workshops, just a couple of simple piano books that were lying around). Sitting down at the piano several times a week, I have amazed myself (and my wife!) as I explore different melodies and chord combinations. Hey, I found my own versions of "Summertime," "Frankie and Johnnie," „Saint James Infirmary,‰ even a somewhat recognizable Beethoven's "9th Symphony" (you know, "Joyful, Joyful we adore Thee!"), as well as a few Christmas tunes and some jazz/blues fingering˜plenty of misses, mistakes, and cacophony, too. But I'm having a wonderful time with it! It makes me feel good. I'll never be an expert musician of any kind, but I thoroughly enjoy the time I spend at the piano, and it all came about because of that Saturday morning when I tuned into your show on PBS. As for myself, I say in complete honesty that I discovered something exciting, useful, and fulfilling all in an hour or so spent with you on a TV broadcast. Your love for music and enthusiasm for sharing it with others are infectious. May we all catch this disease. With thanks and sincerest best wishes,
R. Marrash, Fairfield, CT

Thanks again for the class. I really enjoyed your lecture. I went home and was able to use some of my self created guitar song sheets to play some nice music. I had never thought it could be so easy. But I am still interested in learning to read better and play the nice classical songs as well. I like the popular and classical variety. I look forward to seeing you on PBS.
D. Cossa

I filled out your survey but there was no where to put down the fact that while using your method, after purchasing a fake book I was playing "Amazing Grace” in a little less than two hours! A couple more hours and I think my family will think I actually know how to play! I have never played a chord before so this is a big break-through! Thanks again. Your program is absolutely great!
B. Gardner, Springfield, Missouri

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