shuffleshuffle wrote:Johnny - learn whatever you are interested in. start wherever you like.
The fact is, in your lifetime you will never have time to learn it all. There is no set starting point, there is no perfect formula. There are no rules.
Older magicians are very wise, but can only speak for themselves. I learnt all the stuff that gave me a buzz and made me come back for more. In fact, if I pushed enough for an answer, the older guys probably didnt learn that history stuff first...
You can learn all the history later. You can have respect for an art without knowing everyone involved in it, and if ready a history book is likely to diminish your interest AVOID IT!
Just being around other magicians, you will learn about the greats anyway.
Get involved, learn what you like, and pick the rest up later.
Just make sure you practice enough so you don't mess up... don't be that guy picking up cards from the floor.
I think I do need a grounded knowledge and a good understanding of showmanship and misdirection before I attempt to learn mentalism as I am sure it is for the experts of the trade but nonetheless good advice and I will learn what I enjoy (if u dont enjoy what u are learning then why are u doing it?)
