The Steel Guitar Forum

I just picked up Mark Van Allen's E9 Theory CD's and I have to say I wish I would have sooner. I have been an "ear player" and its served me well until I got to the pedal steel. It didn't take long for me to realize that if I am going to reach a level of being able to play gigs that I would have to finally suck it up and learn.

I have half heartedly tried a few different books and have a very basic understanding but MVA's cd's broke it down in a way I am able to digest and apply. I've just started on it but it's very enjoyable. I feel like a dummy for dodging it this long.

I

I've had it for some time and it never gets used up. Everytime I replay I find things I overlooked. Great resource.

John,
It's like you kinda sorta almost know from skating by all those years on guitar. After listening to Mark explain it the light bulb finally lights up and your brain begins to really absorb all of that information. The harmonic scale actually makes sense now and the finding the easy 7th's leading to the next chord change falls into place. The passing chords add great color to your changes.

It definately helps make your transition to pedal steel much more enjoyable. I recently received Mark's first two Emmon's lick CD's. A lot of fun and they make better sense, to me, than looking at licks in tab format. Mark means business when he tells you to get out your pad and paper...

I think he is working on a 3rd E9 theory lesson.

Im a newbie to the pedal steel but Ive played guitar for quite a while as well as non-pedal steel for a couple of years. I just bought the E9 theory set from Mr. van Allaen and the best adjective I can think of to call it is "Illuminating." Man, wish I had gotten it years ago and my guitar playing would be soooo much better. GREAT tool![/quote]

As you can imagine, I really appreciate the positive comments, guys! My whole intent in producing these courses is to make theory and the connection with steel playing more accessible and understandable. It's just great to hear that I'm on the right track. Lots more to come!