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Hoppini, the Mediocre New user Canada 41 Posts |
Just got me a shiny new copy of the Tarbell Course vol 1 today. I started with the idea that these books are so readily available that, aside from maybe saving a few bucks, there was no need to get them all at once. My plan is to work through the entire course in sequence, and having more than one volume might make it too easy to skip around. Its sort of my way of staying on course.
I do have some experience as a clown entertainer, actually about ten years. The idea of performing is not foreign to me. However, aside from a change bag, a coloring book, and a few David Ginn type props, I never did much magic, and am now embroiled (thanks to Mark Wilson) in the world of coins, rope and cards. (not so much cards...most of the straight magicians I know do nothing but card tricks) So anyway, on the recommendation of many here, I decided Tarbell was the way to go. I like the Wilson book, but don't care for the fact that cards takes up almost half the book, and that each branch is in its own big section. I'd rather have it jump around a bit, a lesson at a time. So first impressions: I read through the lesson 1 - History and enjoyed that. Lesson 2 - the Science of Magic outlines the philosophy behind the course and a few basic principles to follow regarding performing magic, learning magic and practicing magic. Then Lesson 3 gets into Coin sleights, with more possible ways to p**m a coin than I'd ever imagined. That one's gonna keep me busy for a while. One thing I thought was odd was that the classic P* is not mentioned, at least not the way I was told I needed to learn it. I did skip ahead to the next lesson. (I'm actually going to skim the whole book before starting in earnest.) I have to admit I was a little bemused to note that the first actual trick shown would require a clear disc the size of a half dollar as well as a glass with a bottom exactly the same size as the disc. (guess I'll go out to the magic prop tree I have in my backyard and pick me a couple of those...as well as some magician's wax that's apparently needed for the second trick.) I'm really hoping each lesson isn't going to require me to put in another order at ye old magic dealer. I did however have a bit of a laugh reading some of the provided patter. "Please, make a good mark on the coin, Sir. Your girl's phone number will do...I could then perhaps call her up in the morning." lol Anyway, there's no real point to this. Just thought I'd share some thoughts. I have gleaned through all the Tarbell threads, ane I do have one question I haven't seen asked: Has anyone else ever seriously undertaken this course from front to back? Experiences? |
Father Photius Grammar Host El Paso, TX (Formerly Amarillo) 17161 Posts |
Well working straight through Tarbell is a bit impractical, but reading all of it, and working on those basics of sleight of hand and principles you come across are worthwhile. It is an excellent reference book, but a learn from book, well you were probably better with CCIM, nothing says you have to study everything in order. Both CCIM and Tarbell give you a broad view of magic and magic principles. Not every sleight in any area is going to be covered by either. If you find interest in a given area you can then pursue study with books and videos that specialize in those areas, such as cards, coins, silks, ect.
The course was written as a correspondence course over 75 years ago. In the time it was written and offered I'm sure many went through the entire course, and it was probably practical to use up through the 50's for such, but as you notice, it's patter is outdated, and many of its props have been greatly improved upon, and newer ways of doing some things have taken place since it was authored. Still a book worth reading all the way through, and practicing in those areas that interest you.
"Now here's the man with the 25 cent hands, that two bit magician..."
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owln_1 Loyal user dallas /now live by tulsa 222 Posts |
I’ve been reading Tarbell for well over 20 years maybe 30, work on my second set, I find myself referring to these Volumes all the time for inspiration and to get pass a block (like writers block) and I still find new over looked thinks that help me out. Owln_1
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sethb Inner circle The Jersey Shore 2719 Posts |
I agree the patter in Tarbell is dated in many cases, and also not "politically correct." But bear in mind that you will need to be creating your own patter anyway, so just use what's provided as a starting point or a guide for what NOT to say.
I did work my way through the course, but I also skipped over sections that did not interest me at the time (Mentalism and rope tricks, for example). But the material was there in case I ever wanted or needed to refer to it later. In my opinion, the great value of Tarbell is that it exposes you to so many different areas of magic. You are then free to explore further on your own. As far as any required props go, the glass disk, magician's wax and the like are pretty standard utility items and not very expensive. Many of the other props, such as some Rising Card gimmicks and a Handkerchief Cone, can be made instead of being bought. Best of luck with it, and welcome to the Café'. SETH
"Watch the Professor!!" -- Al Flosso (1895-1976)
"The better you are, the closer they watch" -- Darwin Ortiz, STRONG MAGIC |
Hoppini, the Mediocre New user Canada 41 Posts |
Quote:
On 2008-02-08 11:02, sethb wrote: heh...yeah I figured that once he started talking about "Chinamen" Quote:
I did work my way through the course, but I also skipped over sections that did not interest me at the time (Mentalism and rope tricks, for example). But the material was there in case I ever wanted or needed to refer to it later. I'm noticing a few things that might get skipped...but I'll try to give the lessons the benefit of the doubt first. As far as standard utility items, I get that, its just a pain in the butt for me as I need to mail order anytime I need something. No magic shops here, and the one place that does sell a little magic can special order stuff if you don't mind waiting a month. Anyway, diodn't mean to imply that I wasn't enjoying the book. I actually love the archaic language and presentation. |
Jerrine Special user Busking is work. 629 Posts |
I've never set foot in a Magic Shop and don't think I ever will.
Hasn't hampered me in pursuing Magic. Props purchased: C&B's, Tabman wand, a few gimmicked cards, and a hank of rope. All ordered painlessly online. All literature has been purchased/acquired online. (Kudos to the Lybrary, Learned Pig, & Bill Palmer) Everything else I have been able to purchase at various stores around town; Dollar, hardware, second hand, & fabric, in the form I needed or was able to construct what was needed. (Just finished Tommy Wonder's N.O.B. version 1) When I first acquired Tarbell my intention was to work through it cover to cover, or inside of disc to outside as the case is. That didn't happen, but that's O.K. The fun part, to me, is to chuckle at the dusty patter and "Borrow a gentleman's hat" and then restore/makeover the effect to something I can use. The more Tarbell you absorb the more you will want to. There is a lot going on there! |
Habu Veteran user Texas / Alabama 393 Posts |
I have had my complete tarbell course for about a year. At the advice of several members of the café I decided to purchase the complete set. Like you, I was afraid I would just jump around, so I didn't remove the wrapping from one book until I finished the one preceeding it. One note on this though, is that it is nice to have access to the cross reference index in book seven. It is a very convenient and comprehensive listing. It may even direct you to the next book to get if you decide not to go in order.
I have not regretted getting the complete set. It has been very inspirational. I began with the notion of doing all the tricks, in order, as originally intended. I soon found it would take years to go through the course mastering each trick before going on. I have read the entire collection in depth and have learned many of the effects, mastering "some" and familiarizing myself with others. I think reading the entire series in order is a great way to become extremely well versed in the knowledge of the art, but as it says in the first volume, if you learn (completely master) 5 or so tricks, then you are well on your way. What I have found fascinating, are the effects which are detailed in the volumes, but which you come across perodically at magic suppliers as new magic products for purchase. With a little skill in craftsmanship, you could build a magic business from slight of hand, to parlor "self-working" (hate that term by the way)props, to full stage shows. I hope you enjoy your book, and the whole set eventually, as much as I have, if for no other reason than just for the education you will receive. And as said in other comments, it will provoke ideas based on old concepts which can be new in your hands, and new to your audience. Have fun reading and practicing.
www.magicbyhabu.com
Real name: Rick Jackson Habu: Taken from SR-71 spy plane I worked on. It's name came from a poisonous snake on Okinawa. Hope my magic isn't poisonous! |
Habu Veteran user Texas / Alabama 393 Posts |
Double post
www.magicbyhabu.com
Real name: Rick Jackson Habu: Taken from SR-71 spy plane I worked on. It's name came from a poisonous snake on Okinawa. Hope my magic isn't poisonous! |
sethb Inner circle The Jersey Shore 2719 Posts |
Hoppini -- Sorry to hear that it's tough to obtain magic props in your neck of the woods. Have you tried the Camirand Academy, click HERE to view; the Browser's Den of Magic in Toronto, click HERE to view; or Morrissey Magic, also in Toronto, click HERE to view. There is also a long list of Canadian magic shops HERE.
Finally, you might try The Magic Warehouse here in the States. I have found them to be reliable and they have very fast service, although I don't know what the postage to Canada or customs duties might be. Click HERE to view. SETH
"Watch the Professor!!" -- Al Flosso (1895-1976)
"The better you are, the closer they watch" -- Darwin Ortiz, STRONG MAGIC |
Hoppini, the Mediocre New user Canada 41 Posts |
Oh yes. I know Morissey's and Browsers both. I prefer Browsers...the guy that does the online correspondence/ordering is awesome.
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Michael Hajek New user Orlando, FL 4 Posts |
I had bought the set many years back with the intent of following it in order. Instead, I ended up reading/learning out of order, but continually have used it as a reference and thought provoker. The bottom line is that there is no right way to approach it, just do what works best for you personally. I did find great benefits though in reading all of the books, as they provide a great framework for thinking about magic.
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Hoppini, the Mediocre New user Canada 41 Posts |
Thanks for all the responses guys. I've been through the book from front to back now. Even if some of the stuff is iffy, there's enough material there to keep this guy busy for a while.
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