The Tipbook Series is a series of accessible, handy books about music and musical instruments, written in cooperation with numerous musicians, teachers, technicians and other experts.

All levels, all styles
The Tipbooks are used by musicians at all levels – from beginners to advanced players, and even pros – and in all musical styles, from metal and country to classical music and jazz.

Tips, tips, tips
Tipbooks answer dozens of questions about your instrument, and they’re an easy read. They’re basic books and reference guides, with nothing you don’t want to know. About comparing and play-testing instruments and their accessories – from strings to sticks and from picks to bows – and about tuning, adjusting, and maintaining your instrument. With unbiased information about brands and manufacturers, a glossary in each book, loads of additional background information, and dozens of crystal clear illustrations.

Tipcode
In addition to the many illustrations, Tipbooks offer you an additional way to see – and even hear – what you are reading about. The Tipcodes that you will come across in all Tipbooks give you access to extra pictures, short movies, soundtracks, and other additional information at this site.

Available everywhere
Tipbooks are sold at music stores, book stores, and other outlets. Exclusive distribution by the Hal Leonard Corporation.

TIPBOOK CONTENTS IN BIRD’S-EYE VIEW
Tipbooks about musical instruments cover the following subjects – and more.

Introduction
The first four chapters are meant for beginners only; if you’ve been playing ling, you can usually skip them. Each book starts with a general introduction to the instrument (which musical styles can you play, what is the role of the instrumentalist in a band or orchestra, etc.), while the second chapter covers the basic terminology of the instrument.

Learning to Play and Instrument Prices
In the next two chapters, there’s an introduction to learning to play the instrument (how easy or how hard is it, how to find a teacher, practicing, sound-insulation, and other tips), and to buying or renting one: what does it cost, where to go, new or second-hand, etc.

A Good Instrument
The core chapter of each book helps you to select a good instrument. It covers all the technical details – without getting too technical – that help you to compare instruments, and offers loads of tips for play-testing.

Parts and Accessories
Following are one or more chapters on replacement parts and accessories: strings, sticks, cymbals, reeds, mouthpieces, heads, bows, chin rests, benches, stands, and so on.

Tuning
The chapter on tuning covers basic tuning technique as well as tricks, tips, aids, and, if applicable, alternative tunings and other subjects.

Maintenance
Everything on what you can do to keep your instrument clean and in prime condition, and basic information on adjustments and repairs that you should rather leave to a technician.

How They’re Made
A quick look into what making the instrument is about.

The Family
An introduction to the main family members of the instrument, and other, related instruments.

Back in Time
The instrument’s history in a nutshell.

Brands
Basic information on the makers of the instrument.

Want to Know More?
Titles of magazines and books, websites and other sources for additional information.

Glossary and Index
Basic explanation of the main terms; doubles as an index

The Tipbook Series. The best guide to your instrument.