The Spiral Dance: A Rebirth of the Ancient Religion of the Goddess: 20th Anniversary Edition
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Other Books
  • Let it be life-changing
  • A Great overview of Wiccan ideology
  • Very 60's
  • In the rivers and the mountains, in the forests and in you, the Goddess is alive and growing...
The Spiral Dance: A Rebirth of the Ancient Religion of the Goddess: 20th Anniversary Edition
Starhawk
Manufacturer: HarperOne
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0062516329

Amazon.com

The original book that brought Goddess worship to the public eye has marked its 10th anniversary, yet it still remains an integral part of the Wiccan canon. The Spiral Dance leans heavily toward the feminist aspects of Wicca, but Starhawk's comments on the new edition make it clear that she is aware of the growing male presence in witchcraft. However, this edition is not some watered down, politically correct revision of the original. Very little is changed aside from the addition of Starhawk's observations on how the book has weathered its first decade, and what few changes she would make if she were writing it today. Readers interested in learning more about contemporary witchcraft, whether considering Wicca as a way of life or simply desiring to understand this earth-based religion, will find a wealth of information in The Spiral Dance, and will notice that it becomes one of the most frequently consulted books in their Wicca libraries. --Brian Patterson

Book Description

The twentieth anniversary edition of The Spiral Dance celebrates the pivotal role the book has had in bringing Goddess worship to the religious forefront. This bestselling classic is both an unparalleled reference on the practices and philosophies of Witchcraft and a guide to the life–affirming ways in which readers can turn to the Goddess to deepen their sense of personal pride, develop their inner power, and integrate mind, body, and spirit. Starhawk's brilliant, comprehensive overview of the growth, suppression, and modern–day re–emergence of Wicca as a Goddess–worshipping religion has left an indelible mark on the feminist spiritual consciousness.

In a new introduction, Starhawk reveals the ways in which Goddess religion and the practice of ritual have adapted and developed over the last twenty years, and she reflects on the ways in which these changes have influenced and enhanced her original ideas. In the face of an ever–changing world, this invaluable spiritual guidebook is more relevant than ever.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Other Books.......2007-09-03

An interesting look at wicca and neopaganism, with some advice. Despite her superhero name, this is not full of crazy talk and weirdness. It is worth a read of you are interested in that movement, and want to discover what makes them tick, even if you have no interest in being a religious practictioner, or having a religion at all.

5 out of 5 stars Let it be life-changing.......2007-07-14

This book can change your life and empower you to be in direct contact with Spirit. You don't need to buy or join anything, and it's all about how Goddess and God are immanent, directly and immediately present in heart, mind, soul and body. If you've always wanted to be a genuine lover of God/dess, this book can give you some ideas for how to really do it and feel it deeply at all levels. It helped me to find some doorways to spiritual bliss. And it's so free of the "power-over" trip of so many religions. It can really be a blessing.

5 out of 5 stars A Great overview of Wiccan ideology.......2007-06-05

Starhawk's The Spiral Dance ranks among what come closest to "classic wiccan tests". After nearly 30 years it's still relevant, insightful, and full of wisdom (even if it does date itself at a few points.)

The first thing that really struck me about the book was how up-front she was about the ideology of Goddess worship and how it related to modern western ideology. She doesn't try to water it down to make it appeal to more people, she writes what she believes and what her readers need to know. Do her proclamations about saving the environment and liberating people from cultural oppression seem a bit ambitious? Yes, definitely. But that ambition shines throughout the book, though the rituals and spells that have been re-printed and re-interpreted a million times, and makes the book unique and far more than just another book on the same old stuff.

The rituals, visualizations, and other exercises are simple, easy to follow, and printed in a different font so they will stand out if you are trying to reference them later. Everything is explained well and designed to be added upon and customized as practitioners become more experienced.

The 20th anniversary edition includes commentary from the 10th anniversary edition, as well as updated 20th anniversary commentary. The commentary is interesting and has much to offer, but it is my one complaint: the two set of commentary at the back of the book make reading the commentary very disruptive to reading the text. It almost requires reading the book 3 times to get it all as a whole (once for the original, and once for each commentary.) It can be difficult to figure out the best way to take advantage of the commentary without getting too removed from the context.

Overall, it is an excellent book and definitely belongs on the bookshelf of any wiccan or new-age Goddess-worshipper.

4 out of 5 stars Very 60's.......2007-03-22

I found this a very informative book on the craft.It has a very 60's feel to it and I found having to go to the back chapters in the book for a more updated opinion on Starhawk's writings to be a tad annoying hence the 4 star score opposed to a 5 star mark.It is more for the Coven orientated student,however as a solitary I still found some invaluable information as a whole.And it also gave me some interesting insight to coven behavior.I would recommend this to other like minded or curious persons.blessed be

5 out of 5 stars In the rivers and the mountains, in the forests and in you, the Goddess is alive and growing..........2006-09-17

Contrary to what other Pagans may have written on this site, I LOVE "The Spiral Dance" precisely because of its political overtones. As an anticapitalist, ecofeminist gay man, I am deeply moved by Starhawk's vision of an earth-based spirituality that honors women, community, the earth, sexuality and the body. Frankly, I am shocked by the outright sexist reviews some people have given of this book, not to mention the widespread denial of the burning times as a patriarchal holocaust against women, gays, and non-Christian people. The eagerness of certain Pagans to minimize the suffering of this period is, to me, a disturbing reflection of the larger culture's willingness to silence the histories and voices of feminist women and other marginalized groups. Furthermore, in at least one review of this book, I detect anti-Semitism, implying that Starhawk can't fully be a Witch if she retains her Jewishness. Such a narrow definition of what constitutes a Pagan denies us the complexities, nuances, individual choices and ancestries that enrich our lives. Need I remind the reader of the many Hebrew Goddesses of the Middle East or the ecological undercurrents, feminism, and social consciousness that informs Jewish tradition (the contradictions of right-wing Zionism aside). Without a doubt, what seperates Starhawk's writings on the Craft from many other Pagan authors is her passion for social justice, ecological sustainability and peace. Personally, I believe that spirituality devoid of concern for other human beings and the earth is nothing more than right-wing, reactionary navel-gazing. Unfortunately, I have met far too many witches who are much more interested in fluffy, woo-woo nonsense like astral projection and past live regression than they are in restoring the land (the living body of the Ancient Mother we supposedly worship). Moreover, as someone who strongly values participatory democracy, egalitarianism and consensus, I really appreciate Starhawk's insights on coven structure and group dynamics. (Coven hierarchies, like corporate hierarchies, do not appeal to me in the least!) Simply put, if you are looking for another New Age book on channeling spirits or casting hexes, then this book is not for you. However, if your idea of magic involves planting seeds in a community garden or marching for peace, then read this book immediately. It just may change your life forever.
Blessed be and tikkun olam.
The Portland Collection: Contra Dance Music in the Pacific Northwest
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Diverse and melodic collection
  • The Best Fiddle Book Out There!!!
  • A Staple
  • Don't leave home without it!
The Portland Collection: Contra Dance Music in the Pacific Northwest
Susan Songer , and Clyde Curley
Manufacturer: Susan M. Songer
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Spiral-bound
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ASIN: 0965747603

Book Description

The Portland Collection: Contra Dance Music in the Pacific Northwest, is a collection of 318 traditional and recently composed jigs and reels played for dances in Portland, Oregon. National standards and local favorites are included. The music derives from New England, Irish, Scottish, Quebecois, Appalachian, and English sources, all of which are included in the book. Chord suggestions are provided. There is an extensive commentary on each tune. Disography, bibliography, indices, and more are included.

Since it's publication in 1997, The Portland Collection has become the standard for contra dance musicians all across the United States and has also become popular among fiddlers of many other genres. The book is praised for its clear, readable format; its sturdy covers and binding;its informative, entertaining commentary; and especially for the repertoire itself. This music is suitable for any acoustic instrument. Beginners and accomplished musicians alike will find tunes that match their skill levels in this book.

A companion recording for the book, A Portland Selection: Contra Dance Music in the Pacific Northwest, was released in 2000. Editors Susan Songer and Clyde Curley, joined by fiddler George Penk, play a representative cross section of the music in the book. This recording is for sale elsewhere on Amazon.com.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Diverse and melodic collection.......2007-05-09

This is a strong collection of tunes with both melodies and chords included so that an advanced novice guitar player could accompany and fill out the sound. Songs are included in both 4/4 and 6/8, so the rhythms and tunes overall are more diverse and interesting than just standard "old-timey" fiddle tunes. While the collection was compiled for contra dancing, they make for charming ensemble pieces that work well at a variety of tempos. I had a few played at my wedding with a mandolin, penny whistle and guitar, and we were all under the spell of love and good music!

5 out of 5 stars The Best Fiddle Book Out There!!!.......2005-06-14

If you are looking to purchase a fiddle book, this is definitely the best one to buy. This book contains about 400 tunes and the quality of the tunes is fantastic. Every single tune in this book sounds great and can be ornamentated dozens of ways with plenty of room to make the tune your own. One of the best features of this book is the spiral binding. The binding is great because you don't have to constantly bend your book to get it to stay open on the stand. Another great feature is that the book is organized alphabetically so you can find your tune quickley during a jam. There is also an index which organizes the tunes by key and type which makes it really easy to come up with your own sets. There are even detailed notes on each song. Some of the notes even give suggestions on how to add some ornamentation to the tune.

Overall, this book is great, but there are two things which are worth noting.
-The pages are quite thin and could tear easily.
-The book is very thick but it's only about 8.5 inches tall. This could make it difficult for people with weak eyesight to see some of the tunes.

5 out of 5 stars A Staple.......2003-07-14

While the fiddler's fakebook has a greater quantity of songs, this particular collection has consistent quality of songs chosen. There are so many great tunes in here, jamming out would not be quite the same without it. My personal favorite is "Lady of the Lake". Yes, I know there are two of them... but they're both good! Go figure.

5 out of 5 stars Don't leave home without it!.......1999-04-02

After the "Fiddler's Fakebook" this is the tune collection to own. Hundreds of reels and jigs in clear notation with, usually, good chord suggestions. Little, if any, overlap with the tunes in the FF. Very durable spiral binding, sits easy on a stand or table. Includes many recently composed tunes including my favorite, Erik Sessions' "It Ain't the Heat, It's the Humidity." Many hours of playing pleasure, fast becoming a standard collection.
Speak with Distinction: The Classic Skinner Method to Speech on the Stage (Applause Acting Series)
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Speech book not voice book
  • Misguiding book title and image
  • Essential reference volume for pronounciation
  • A MUST
  • Incredible Guide to Excellent Voice and Diction, but be ready to practice!
Speak with Distinction: The Classic Skinner Method to Speech on the Stage (Applause Acting Series)
Edith Skinner
Manufacturer: Applause Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Spiral-bound

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ASIN: 1557830479

Book Description

Widely recognized as the most complete and rigorous text of its kind since it was first published in 1942, Speak With Distinction is an invaluable resource. It presents a comprehensive study of the sounds of Spoken English in their most important phonetic environments. This most recent revision also adds much material for comparisons of speech sounds; suggestions for accurate, efficient and conversational ways of combining the sounds into connected utterance; indications that foster a working knowledge of two dialects of speech (General American and what Mrs. Skinner called Good Speech for classic and elevated texts); and beginning material to show application of the principles of Good Speech to well-written texts. Some important additions to the book are the extensive Glossary and Index, abundant guides to pronunciations, new sections featuring such details as the complete "Ask-List" of words, a program for the elimination of glottal attacks of vowel and dipthong sounds, greatly expanded practice material of phrases and sentences, and an updated Chart showing several levels of phonetic transcription and spelling equivalents in current usage. Speak With Distinction can be used in several ways: as a primary educational textbook for both the beginning and advanced actor; as a supplementary textbook for teachers and students who have their own methods and agenda for study; and as a reference book for teachers, speech coaches and directors.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Speech book not voice book.......2007-08-08

This is a great book for the speech student, although I would not rely on it for vocal production. That was never the intension of this text. Skinner has made the understanding of the International Phonetic Alphabet accessable to the average speaker and the experienced actor alike. The text consists of a very,very basic breakdown for the creation of each phonome and some great practice sentences, but very little is said or done about creation of sound, connection of voice to breath, resonation and everything else which helps to create proper phonation and pitch range and the portions on the difference between broad, narrow, and very narrow transcription are not put together well and difficult to understand. The above are mentioned in passing and never delved into, so the student has little to go on. It is not that she says anything "wrong" about phonation, it's just passed over very quickly. A good text for the academic linguistic or accent and dialect teacher but not for the actor without the guidence of an instructor.

1 out of 5 stars Misguiding book title and image.......2007-08-04

This book item is not only improperly titled but also has the incorrect image. It is so misguiding that one might think they are purchasing the actual paperback version of the real book together with the cassette. But NO! It turns out to be a tiny booklet of like 40 pages. I would have purchased some other item if this is not so misguiding.

5 out of 5 stars Essential reference volume for pronounciation.......2007-06-01

There is no other book like this. For actors, teachers, public speakers, or anyone who wants to work on an accent or remove one, this is a one-of-a-kind, vital resource.

5 out of 5 stars A MUST.......2007-05-26

I was thrilled to discover that "Speak with Distinction" had been reprinted and was available. My copy, acquired when I was a student of Edith's at Carnegie Tech, and is little more than bound together mimeographed pages, was barely useable. At Elocution Solution we find it an invaluable resourse when working on voice and speech improvement with actors and other professional voice users. Edith was a master at providing detailed decriptions for the production of speech sounds, with extensive practice materials. Although it focuses on speech for classical theater, e.g. lack of postvocalic r's, it is also useful for acquiring general American speech.

5 out of 5 stars Incredible Guide to Excellent Voice and Diction, but be ready to practice!.......2006-11-06

I feel that voice and diction is the missing link in many people's arsenal of skills. You may have a college education, but who really looks at your resume? But everytime you open your mouth, you are being judged unconsciously by those you are speaking to. If you have read "Pygmillion," or seen "My Fair Lady," you get the idea. But changing your vocal image is very difficult, and takes tremendous effort. I personally believe it can be quite rewarding. For proof of this, look at how many successful professional actors have worked on their voice and diction. And the source they seem to refer to most often is Edith Skinner's classic, "Speak with Distinction".

This work goes into great depth and detail on proper the proper pronounciation of Standard American English. If you are looking to develop you speaking skills to a high level of sophistication for either the stage, acting, business, or personal development, this is the best book I have found so far in my 3 year search... Endorsed by many great actors, this work emphasizes practice through drills. It is not a quick read, although you could use it for spot improvement in more abbreviated form. Highly recommended for those who are serious about diction improvement and willing to put in many hours of practice.

The only thing that could be improved is the audio portion is currently only available on cassette, it would be nice if it was offered on CD.
Dance a While: Handbook for Folk, Square, Contra, and Social Dance (8th Edition)
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • HUGE store of information
  • A great resource book for physical educaion teachers
  • A great book for dance teachers
Dance a While: Handbook for Folk, Square, Contra, and Social Dance (8th Edition)
Jane A. Harris , Anne M. Pittman , Marlys S. Waller , and Cathy L. Dark
Manufacturer: Benjamin Cummings
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Spiral-bound

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Accessories:
  1. Tanita BC533 Glass Innerscan Body Composition Monitor Tanita BC533 Glass Innerscan Body Composition Monitor

ASIN: 0205279368

Book Description

This is the basic book for recreational dance. It is the eighth edition of the best-selling introduction to dance, one whose unique combination of dance instruction, descriptions of major forms of dance, and directions for over 260 individual dances provides future dance instructors with the background needed to be successful teachers. The cultural background of dance for each country is presented along with specific suggestions for developing style. It reflects the most recent trends in dance, and includes a wealth of suggestions for dance resource materials. The methods teacher has an all-inclusive textbook for students, the teacher in training has a reference book that will last a lifetime. Coverage includes the Rumba, Cha Cha, Fox Trot, Waltz, Swing, Hustle, Tango, Salsa, and Country-Western dances. Detailed illustrations and diagrams clarify techniques throughout, making learning each dance as easy as 1-2-3. For beginning and experienced teachers of dance, or for the dance enthusiast.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars HUGE store of information.......2007-09-04

This book has it all, from dance steps to instructions on how to successfully teach social dance. It has been a huge help and resource to me as I prepare my teaching curriculum for the year.

5 out of 5 stars A great resource book for physical educaion teachers.......2000-03-20

If you want to teach your class something about partner, folk, social, contra, and ballroom dance, it is here. This book covers everything from A to Z. It even gives you a glossary just in case you did not know some of those square dance calls. And, its many indexes and other additions at the back of the book are fabulous to help you plan and find all kind of relevant material. I wonder what happened to Ms. Pitman and Ms. Walker, co-authors of earlier editons. Yes, I have used Dance A While for years. It was recommended to me in college during the 60's. I lost it and am so happy to see it is still in print. Because, what ever other books I looked at when I needed information never came close to providing what I needed to find out. Thank you Jane Harris for updating and improving a great book.

5 out of 5 stars A great book for dance teachers.......1999-02-05

This is the best book I used for learning how to teach dancing. It contains a good selection of simple dances which are suitable for novice dancers, and provides detailed dance descriptions and good advice for the teacher. The only drawback is that it doesn't come with music, so you have to track down a suitable recording for each dance. I have used this book for teaching recreational folk dance groups and school classes, and find it to be an excellent resource.
Costuming from the Hip
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Costuming from the Hip .by Barry Brown
  • good ideas, little sewing exp needed
  • Costuming from the Hip
  • this book is CRAP
  • The Book I Always Come Back To When I'm Designing
Costuming from the Hip
Barry Brown
Manufacturer: Dawn Devine Brown
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Spiral-bound

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ASIN: 0967817005

Book Description

Costuming from the Hip is a comprehensive reference for anyone who works with Middle Eastern dancewear. Dancers, costume makers, designers, and historical re-enactors will like the many illustrations, historical patterns, construction techniques, and hundreds of hints and tips. This 120-page book will take you step-by-step through measuring your body, researching your costume, laying out the patterns, fitting it, and accessorizing your creation.

Topics covered include:
* Making your measurement chart
* Turkish coats, kaftans, and thobes
* Veils
* Jewelry
* Designing for every body type
* Coin, tassle, and cabaret belts
* Bras and cholis
* Shirts, vests, and blouses
* Men's wear
* Going professional.

The book includes a glossary, a list of suppliers specializing in Middle Eastern dancewear, and an extensive bibliography.

Customer Reviews:

2 out of 5 stars Costuming from the Hip .by Barry Brown.......2007-04-17

a very good scource/reference book[let],more of it would have been good,as was bit thin on pages, but still an exellent ideas book with drawings & explanations easy to understand, i liked it.

4 out of 5 stars good ideas, little sewing exp needed.......2006-12-05

I'm a beginning bellydancer but an experienced seamstress.My specialty is in proms/bridesmaid/formal wear.Love that this book is spiral bound for laying flat. Lots of good quick ideas, with variations & samples to enhance & create more ornate costumes. Some of the projects will be easier with some sewing experience(some of the instructions might be a little unclear at first reading) but most can be created with minimal sewing skills. It is a good starting point.I consider this book a definite plus in my sewing library for branching out into costuming.The ideas presented go beyond just bellydance and can be used in other areas of dance and/or costuming. I have several of Devine's books on my wish list.

4 out of 5 stars Costuming from the Hip.......2005-08-20

The first in a series of these types of books, which are aimed at the amateur sewer as well as the professional designer. Just because it is a belly dancing costuming manual should not limit those interested in sewing and making costumes in general. This is a comprehensive guide to allow you to create your own designs, and not slaveishly following someone elses pattern and creation, and is a must in anyones personal library who are interested in fashion/costuming and theatre. This book also touches on the tradional costumes of the Middle and Far East throughout the ages, as well as theatrical costuming tips and design for every body type. Plus it includes patterns and design ideas, as well as dozens of graphics to illustrate the author's information.

1 out of 5 stars this book is CRAP.......2004-05-28

i buy this book for my girlfriend...its not a book, its a stapled pile of paper at the price of a hardcover book

5 out of 5 stars The Book I Always Come Back To When I'm Designing.......2003-12-06

I'm a costumer of the Philadelphia area bellydancers, with over 30 years of sewing experience under my beaded and bangled belt.
When I'm drawing up a new design for a customer, "Costuming From the Hip" is the book I always come back to for advice and moral support. There are lots of other wonderful books that address the sewing techniques that go into a costume, but few that address the unique concerns of a bellydance costumers.
Bedlah, Baubles, and Beads
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Good, clear instructions - makes you want to sew!
  • Excellent book on the principles of design, construction and embellishment
  • Fantastic!
  • Best of the series so far
  • The best!
Bedlah, Baubles, and Beads
Dawn Devine Brown
Manufacturer: Ibexa Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Spiral-bound

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ASIN: 0967817048

Book Description

Bedlah, Baubles, and Beads is a book about designing and crafting the elaborate bra and belt sets worn by contemporary belly dancers. Also known as "dance oriental" and "raks sharki," belly dancing has numerous sub-styles that are defined not only by their movement vocabulary, but also by their distinctive costuming.

The first part of the book provides a conceptual framework by starting with a history of this costuming style and its origins here in the United States. From there, it concentrates on introducing the reader to design principles, methods, and techniques for developing figure-flattering styles.

The second part presents the materials, tools, and processes for putting together an elaborately decorated bra and belt set. Step-by-step illustrations for applying beads, a fabric shopping guide, and directions for constructing the bra and belt bases are all illustrated with descriptive diagrams to aid the reader.

Finally, the book finishes with a portfolio of styles and ideas for expanding the performance wardrobe. From skirts to accessories, these chapters introduce the essential garments that transform the bra and belt into a complete costume.

Detailed topics include:

* Step-by-step illustrations of beading techniques, including back stitch, couching, tambour beading, scatter beading, and more.
* Directions for making high-quality bedlah, from concept to finished costume.
* Techniques for developing beading patterns using clip art sources and transforming images into dynamic designs.
* Fitting and covering bras and belts.

An extensive bibliography and a list of mail-order resources is included.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Good, clear instructions - makes you want to sew!.......2006-07-05

Inspiring! It has great notes on different styles and ways to flatter your figure, and clear directions on making your own costume for the moderately crafty. The beading section is highly recommended. I hear her website is good, too.

5 out of 5 stars Excellent book on the principles of design, construction and embellishment.......2006-06-14

As someone that is new to belly dancing I was surprised at the prices of the costumes. Being an avid do-it-yourselfer, I decided to figure out how to make my own. Unless you count 7th grade home economics I have never made a garment in my life, nor have I had any sewing training. This is not to say that I don't sew at all, because I do. I have made lined Roman blinds, pillow covers, duvets, and slipcovers for the v-berth of a boat. Garment sewing has been something that I avoided because it seemed far too complex. This book has given me the confidence to give costume making a whirl.

This book is extremely well written and very easy to follow. The directions are very clear, even for a novice sewer like myself. The book covers the following information:

PART - DESIGN
1. History
2. Contemporary Styles of Costume
3. Principles of Design
4. Designer's Toolbox
5. An Analytic Approach to Designing Bedlah
6. Designing for Every Body
PART II - BEDLAH CONSTRUCTION AND EMBELLISHMENT
7. Bra Construction
8. Belt Construction
9. Surface Embellishments
10. Beading Techniques
11. Developing Beaded Designs
PART III - COMPLETING THE LOOK
12. Skirts and Pants
13. Accent Garments
14. Dresses and Gowns
15. Accessories and Embellishments

The section on the contemporary styles of dancewear is very enlightening. The costumes that the author identifies go way beyond what a new belly dancer is aware exists. The author's drawings have opening up a new world of possibilities to me.

The principles of design outlined by the author are extremely helpful. The author managed to answer questions that I didn't know that I had. Once I read about the right and wrong way to proportion things, and emphasis different areas it all made complete sense.

Everyone can learn from the section on how to design for your specific body. We all have areas that we want to emphasize or de-emphasize and the author explains exactly how to go about it.

The author covers Bra construction in this book. However, I recommend her book "Embellished Bras" for a more complete dissertation on the subject. Embellishment of the Bra and Belt are the most difficult parts of the costume. If you can get those done you are home free.

Overall, I thought I knew what I wanted to make until I picked up this book. Now I am thinking my first costume will be an Indian costume from Sari fabric. The options are endless once you have this book for inspiration and instruction. I highly recommend this book to any dancer.

5 out of 5 stars Fantastic!.......2003-01-28

This book is more than just directions for putting together bras and belts! Davina does a wonderful job starting in Chapter 1 as she gives the reader a brief summary of the costumes seen in the US over the past 100 years.

The true jewel in this book is going to be Chapter 3! Davina provides invaluable insight on the principles of design and wonderful examples of how it can translate to the cabaret bra/belt costume. Even if you have no desire to ever pick up needle and thread, you should read this book and make it a practice to sketch costume ideas on your personal croquis, as it will help you discover what looks good on you and what doesn't all without having to spend hours trying on various costumes!

4 out of 5 stars Best of the series so far.......2003-01-03

Of Dawn and Barry's series of Belly dance costumes books, this one is the best and most comprehensive. A good basic book explaning costume elements, design basics and simple construction techniques. As a very useful chapter on how to emphasise each dance move and enhance a dancer's physique through design details. Line drawings illustrate most the complex ideas although a few sewing stitches could have used pictures, too. An excellent addition to any library for the dancer or costumer alike.

5 out of 5 stars The best!.......2002-07-09

This book has all the information needed to make or select a spectacular, flattering costume. It is clear, practical and comprehensive.
I especally liked the Design section. Her method to design for individual body types is very objective. For example, she tells you how to both emphasize and de-emphasize wide shoulders. She makes no value judgements here - the dancer decides what effect she wants to make.
Construction details seem very complete. This chapter can help dancers select a well-made costume that will last thru many performances. All the essentials for making a complete ensemble!
120 Singing Games and Dances for Elementary Schools
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Worth it's weight in gold
  • great resource
120 Singing Games and Dances for Elementary Schools
L. Choksy , and D. Brummitt
Manufacturer: Prentice Hall
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Spiral-bound

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ASIN: 0136350380

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Worth it's weight in gold.......2007-08-24

Someone gave me this book my first year of teaching. I have now taught music for 6 years, and have used this book every year. Each song is notated musically, and accompanied by the game and a short introduction as to the origins. I also teach Kindermusik, and can see that many of our activities must have been taken right out of this book. I HIGHLY recommend this book, and although I wish you great luck in finding it for under $100, or at the library, you wont be disappointed if you spend the money.

4 out of 5 stars great resource.......2002-01-12

This book has a wide variety of different musical games, all of which are singing and movement games. Perfect for the Kodaly educator. Many of the games can be found in more readily available and inexpensive resources, however, so try to get titles before you buy.
Foundations in Singing w/ Keyboard fold-out
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • A Great Practical Guide
  • The "Foundations in Singing" Tape is a great addition!
  • Excellent instruction and songs for beginning vocal student
Foundations in Singing w/ Keyboard fold-out
John Glenn Paton , and Van A Christy
Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill Humanities/Social Sciences/Languages
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Spiral-bound

VoiceVoice | Instruments & Performers | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 007321275X

Book Description

Available separately or in a package with the text, these recordings provide accompaniments to the anthologized songs.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars A Great Practical Guide.......2001-04-08

My voice teacher recommended Christy's "Expressive Singing" when I was studying opera. I found it helpful, although the photos were already dated. Recently I discovered "Foundations in Singing" in my public library. Impressed with its concepts, exercises, & approach, I puschased my own copy and use "Foundations" when I teach others. The cassette tape completes the set. My only reservation is the cost - ouch! Grudgingly, I must admit it was worth it to "bite the bullet" and buy the set. Hope this is helpful.

5 out of 5 stars The "Foundations in Singing" Tape is a great addition!.......2001-04-08

"My own voice teacher recommended Van Christy's "Expressive Singing" to me years ago when I was an opera student. It was most helpful. I must admit, however, "Foundations in Singing" is great for beginning students. I have elected to use it with my voice students. The cassette tape adds an additional dimension to the text: The demonstration of exercises is quite helpful. The song collection covers a wide range of styles and languages, while reinforcing the concepts in the text.

5 out of 5 stars Excellent instruction and songs for beginning vocal student.......1999-10-07

This is a clear, concise no-nonsense introduction for vocal students with a list of additional resources at the end of each of 12 chapters. It is supplemented by nearly 200 pages of wonderful, varied songs, many arranged for both high and low voice, with piano accompaniment. The music ranges from simple folk tunes through Broadway hits to art songs and arias in foreign languages. Appendixes provide guides to musical terms, the international phonetic alphabet, and tips on singing in selected foreign languages. Helpful for anyone embarking on improving vocal technique.
From Turban to Toe Ring
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Very Informational
  • Useful!
  • Simply Written
  • Arabian Costumes
  • Great How To
From Turban to Toe Ring
Dawn Devine Brown
Manufacturer: Ibexa Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Spiral-bound

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ASIN: 0967817013

Book Description

From Turban to Toe Ring is a guide for designing and making tribal-fusion belly dance wear. This style, which originated in the San Francisco dance community and has spread world-wide, is fast becoming one of the most popular costuming options. Tribal-fusion costuming is an assemblage of design elements pulled from many different tribal, rural, and nomadic peoples from North Africa, across the Near and Middle East, and as far away as India. Surface design techniques, articles of clothing, and jewelry components are fused together to create a look that blends all of these items into an exciting and uniquely individual image for each dancer.

This book will be an excellent reference source for the libraries of dancers, costume designers, historical re-enactors, and dancers who want a break from the high glitz and glamour of cabaret-style costuming.

From Turban to Toe Ring contains numerous hints, tips, and directions for making, designing, and assembling a tribal-fusion costume, including:

* A country-by-country breakdown of tribal jewelry styles from the Berber people of Morocco to the Ribari of India.

* Patternmaking directions for several different choli and salwar designs.

* Directions for traditional surface embellishments, including applique and shi-sha.

* Mehndi (or henna), from mixing the paste to creating your design.

* Adapting Indian textiles, such as the toran and chakla, for tribal-fusion dancewear.

* Extensive bibliography and guide to historical research of Middle Eastern costume.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Very Informational.......2007-06-27

I have been looking for information on belly dance costume making. This one was the very helpful (especially for my personal needs). I found the information on making shi-shas and have been doing them on a table cloth for Tarot reading.

Anyone who has the ability to sew or conceptualize a costume will be able to structure their own outfit, with authenticity. Highly recommended!

4 out of 5 stars Useful!.......2007-03-14

One of the more concise information sources on tribal costuming - focusing on construction and sources.

4 out of 5 stars Simply Written.......2007-01-19

"From Turban to Toe Ring" is a well written and informative book on Tribal style costuming for the experienced garment maker.

4 out of 5 stars Arabian Costumes.......2006-08-28

Great resource for costumers who are costuming plays like "Arabian Nights", "Aladdin's Lamp" etc. A real help.

3 out of 5 stars Great How To.......2006-06-27

This is a great book for "how to" create tribal gear without having to be a sewing guru! Finally nice simple way of making tassles!
Scene Painting Projects for Theatre
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Scene Painting Projects for Theatre
    Stephen G. Sherwin
    Manufacturer: Focal Press
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Spiral-bound

    GeneralGeneral | Theater | Performing Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
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    ASIN: 0240808134

    Book Description

    The art, practice, and technique of scene painting is an essential part of theatre design. A scenic artist is responsible for translating the vision of the scenic designer to the realized scenery.

    Unlike all other scene painting books, this text will take you step-by-step through actual individual scene painting projects. Each project is commonly used in theatrical productions and each project builds upon the skills learned in the previous lesson. From wood and marble, to foliage and drapery, this book will teach the you how to become a skilled scenic painter.

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