Rapid German: Volume 1

As someone who teaches graduate students how to create well-designed instructional materials, and who has had to learn 2 foreign languages over 20 years (no, high school French and Spanish don't count) I always approach language "tapes" with a bit of trepidation. However, I found this audio lesson reasonably well constructed. For the most part, I found the music engaging and it helped maintain my interest in the lessons. The only drawback I experienced was that on 3 or 4 occasions, the music made it difficult for my ear to pick out the exact consonants used in a few words. A quick flip to my old German texts resolved the issue but some may not have that option. In any case, I believe this is a worthwhile introduction (or review) but having a reference nearby would be handy.

I have just gotten back from Germany and I have to testify - this program was a Godsend! I could talk to everyone and they not only understood me, they remarked that my German was very good! I was blown away not only by how easily and effortlessly the recorded phrases came back to me, but how I was able to integrate the phrases with the limited vocabulary and grammar that I already possessed. I have tried MANY language programs in the past and never have I found one this effective - AND it's enjoyable to use, too. I believe this program mimics certain aspects of how we naturally learn our mother tongues - by hearing others repeat the same words and phrases over and over, then by repeating them ourselves. I can't wait for volume 2 and strongly recommend this program to anyone wondering which one to purchase.

Someone has finally realized that listening to language tapes can give you a real migraine. In this program you are still learning, listening to and repeating most of the basic "Where's the Bathroom" type phrases. But they've set the program up with accompanying music and speakers with much more appealing voices. Most language programs feature voices as appealing as an emergency broadcast system siren.

I know some folks out there may find the music annoying and the material too basic. But I listen to a LOT of language programs and really like what they've done with this program. When I have to do a quick brush up on my German, this will definately be the program I'll grab. I eagerly await Volumne 2 and beyond.

This book was easy to follow, easy to remember, and gave me a good deal of phrases that I can build upon as I learn more words. For me, that is important. Learning a word leaves my mind, but learning how to ask "Where is ..?", "I'd like ....", etc., gave me the basis to move forward with confidence. I will definitely be reviewing it again. However, I'm surprised of how much I remember after my first excursion through the course. The music makes me remember it better, and the pronounciation was clear. I ordered several intro books, and this is my favorite. It is also the first I listened to (and the one I got the most out of).

It's easy listening. Make sure to read the booklet and get the spelling, that helped me with remembering the words.

This format works! The speakers introduce the language in clear, managable bites, each new addition building on the last. There is also a light jazz background that seems to help with both focus and cadence. It's far easier to learn, master, and remember the phrases than with other, similar products that I've tried.

I do a fair amount of business travel, and have found that being able to speak at least a few phrases in the local language goes a long way in terms of goodwill and cooperation. I've tried several other language programs, and the "Rapid" series is, for me at least, by far the most effective.

Now, if they'll just release Thai, Korean, Hungarian and Arabic versions...

You only learn simple phrases but it is a good and entertaining way to bursh up on basic German.

Amazing! Three days with the Earworms lessons, and I'm starting to remember stuff I learned in college! The music in the background, the rhythmic cadences of speech, and the conversation between the male and female voices hold my attention and I am retaining the lessons. My daughter is experiencing the same thing. The free booklet helps with some of the more difficult words. I like the way they dive right into the practical stuff, like how to order a cup of coffee, or ask directions. We love this audiobook!

What a fantastic way to learn some basic German. The English and German speakers' voices speak in cadence with background jazz tunes that keep the learning fun and well paced. The phrases have mix-n-match appeal, so I've been able to extend my learning beyond what was explicitly taught.

Having listened to other samples with silence in the background, I can't say enough about the value of the musical background to help pass the time while working through the exercises.

The downloadable pdf document is nearly 100% matched to the dialog.

I am SO looking forward to Rapid German 2 and 3, which I hope will be available soon.

This is a great tool for beginners. I consider myself an intermediate speaker, but even I learned a thing or two from this just because I don't have an opportunity to practice with native speakers.

The music is nice and the language tracks are memorable without being too repetitive. All in all, I'm happy to have this, but I eagerly await levels 3, 4, and 5. I also plan to use Earworms when it comes time to improve my weaker languages, like French. Thanks for a great product.