The Corso di Chitarra , released in 1982 by Fabbri Editori, represents a landmark collaboration between two titans of Italian music: jazz legend Franco Cerri and classical maestro Mario Gangi
. Published originally in installments with accompanying audio cassettes, this method sought to bridge the gap between formal classical training and the expressive freedom of modern jazz. A Fusion of Disciplines
The course is celebrated for its dual-perspective approach, blending Gangi’s rigorous academic foundation from the Santa Cecilia Conservatoire with Cerri’s self-taught jazz brilliance.
Classical Precision: Gangi's contributions emphasize Metronome Use and systematic technical development, focusing on scales, arpeggios, and precise finger placement.
Modern Accessibility: One of the course's most progressive features was Gangi’s early adoption of tablature alongside standard notation, making complex music more accessible to beginners and self-taught players.
Jazz and Popular Style: Cerri’s sections are noted for their more gradual progression, focusing on acoustic and electric styles, including interpretations of popular songs like "Oh Susanna" and "Greensleeves". Educational Philosophy and Impact
The method advocates for a "slow and steady" progression, prioritizing precision and control over speed. Despite being over 40 years old, it remains a frequent point of reference in guitar forums and archives, such as JazzMusicArchives.com, where enthusiasts still discuss its technical exercises and rare recordings. corso di chitarra di franco cerri e mario gangi
Critics and students have noted that while the Franco Cerri portions are approachable, Gangi’s classical exercises can be quite demanding for absolute beginners, often introducing complex hand movements early on. However, this "no-shortcuts" philosophy is precisely what has cemented its reputation as a comprehensive foundation for any serious guitarist. Legacy of the Collaboration
Beyond the technical exercises, the Corso di Chitarra is a cultural artifact of 1980s Italy. It brought professional-grade music education into the homes of thousands, supported by high-quality recordings featuring prominent musicians like saxophonist Eddie Daniels. For many, the course was not just a book but a gateway to understanding the guitar as a versatile instrument capable of both Bach-like intricacy and jazz-inflected soul. Corso di chitarra Gangi-Cerri digitalizzato - Pagina 5
Corso di Chitarra Franco Cerri Mario Gangi , originally published by Fabbri Editori
in 1982, is a celebrated multi-genre guitar method designed for self-taught students. It is highly regarded for its dual focus on classical and jazz/modern guitar, reflecting the distinct expertise of its two creators. Forum di Chitarra classica Core Educational Features Dual-Specialization Approach
: The course is uniquely divided into two distinct pedagogical tracks: Classical Guitar : Managed by Mario Gangi
, focusing on formal technique, posture, and traditional repertoire. Jazz/Modern Guitar : Managed by Franco Cerri The Corso di Chitarra , released in 1982
, introducing jazz sonorities, plectrum technique, and swing rhythms. Multimedia Format
: Originally released as a weekly series of fascicles (booklets) accompanied by audio support on vinyl or cassettes to guide students through exercises. Progressive Curriculum Foundational Skills
: Covers posture, hand positioning (using footrests for classical), and basic music theory. Technical Mastery
: Includes systematic finger exercises, major/minor scales, and a comprehensive arpeggio method. Repertoire : Teaches iconic pieces such as "Greensleeves" "Oh Susanna" to apply learned techniques. Forum di Chitarra classica Production Credits Franco Cerri E Mario Gangi : Corso Di Chitarra
To understand the weight of this corso (course), you need to understand the authors.
Together, they created a method that teaches you how to play beautifully, whether you are reading counterpoint or blowing over a II-V-I. Franco Cerri (1926–2021): The father of Italian jazz
Unlike classical methods that play scales robotically, Cerri introduces scales with articulation. You learn to play scales in legato, staccato, and with accents on the off-beats (the "up-beat" essential for swing).
Before you play a single jazz lick, the course focuses heavily on fingerstyle technique (pizzicato with fingers, not just a pick). Gangi’s influence ensures you develop independence between thumb (bass) and fingers (melody). This is essential for playing chord-melody jazz—a style where you play the bass line, chords, and melody simultaneously.
One of the standout sections teaches you how to play a walking bass line with your thumb while strumming or plucking chords with your fingers. This is the quintessential "solo guitar" sound—the sound of a small orchestra on one instrument.
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The physical books are published by major Italian music publishers (like Berben or Ricordi).