ISBN 9781619114418. Mandolinists who wish to expand their improvisational vocabulary and spice up their rhythm accompaniment are invited to try some Jazz Mandolin Appetizers. This book and accompanying audio, prepared by chef Don Stiernberg, include a batch of etudes that address the challenges every improvising mandolinist faces. These include common issues such as selecting notes that sound good with chord progressions and finding them on the fretboard. In the first section, new melodies are presented for chord progressions that are often played at swing and jazz jam sessions. These tunes will benefit players of any style. Concepts are discussed at the beginning of each tune such as harmonic analysis and the effects of certain intervals (useful groups of tones). The tablature suggestsfingerings for the melodies. The chordal section shows how chords and progressions can be made more interesting by adding color, tension and movement. Chord substitution is also demonstrated. Working through this section will prepare the player with commonly played progressions and will expand their chord voicing vocabulary up and down the neck. Lastly, a study of chord-melody style playing is presented. Playing the melody and harmony at the same time yields full sounding solo arrangements. Don Stiernberg is a leading proponent of the jazz mandolin style. He has eight available recordings, performs coast to coast and abroad, writes a column for Mandolin Magazine and teaches at several mandolin events.

ISBN 9781619118430.

Theory and Improvisation for the Modern Mandolinist is a two book series that teaches improvisation in many musical styles along with theory concepts and how they apply to the mandolin. Each book provides access to different backing tracks and solo examples to help you learn. Every chapter includes scales presented in a variety of common formats: standard notation, tablature and fretboard charts. Volume 2, Jazz and Beyond will expand your knowledge of theory by teaching you advanced chords, scales, and progressions. Sample solos and progressions are included at the end of each chapter to practice with the recordings. When finished with this book, you should feel confident improvising over any chord progression, and have a great understanding of jazz theory and how it applies to the mandolin. Includes access to online audio.