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I have been exploring music minus one and find the idea of playing along with the recordings intriguing.
Do any of you have any experience with these recordings? If so, what are your thoughts/opinions regarding them?
Thanks in advance.
Christine

Interesting idea Christine!

I had never heard of music minus one - I had to do a google search..... That could be a lot of fun, but I fear I wouldn't be able to keep up with the group.

I will be curious to see what others say about the experience!

I noticed that they had a Burgmuller collection. Since I am playing two of his Op. 100 pieces right now, I thought it might be fun (and challenging).

That does sound interesting - which 2 Burgmuller are you working on?
I've played Candore, and have done a bit of work on Pastoral and Limpid Stream.

I have not used it, but I know one pianist who absolutely loves it, and one who does not. The one who dislikes it finds it too mechanical and doesn't like the click of the timer. She has opportunities to play with real ensembles. Probably the one who likes it finds the limitations less important than the opportunity to mimic playing in an ensemble.

Arabesque and Sincerity

Ah Sincerity is "Candore" by another name I like that one.

If the minus one has "clicks" (I suppose a bit like a metronome?) I would find that irritating too.

Is there a way you can sample it before buying?

That's interesting! I never knew this was available for classical music. Some of the best jazz musicians I've known practice with play-alongs religiously, but that's so much easier as the tempo is consistent start to finish. I can't imagine I'd really enjoy the rigidity you're forced into, but if you never (or very infrequently) have the chance to play with a group, go for it! They're not too expensive to try, and it could be a nice treat. I'll be interested to hear how it goes if you decide to try it.

It's not Music minus one. But many duet books come with CDs. The one I am working with is called “New reans Jazz Styles Duets - William Gillock’s Originals arranged by Glenda Austin”. You can play your part with other parts on the CD or you can play along with your part or both parts. I am doing New Orleans Blues with my friend. What I like best is that you can paly together right away after practiced it with the CD.