Jazz Mandolin for Beginners

Aspiring mandolinists seeking a broader understanding of music, including swing, blues, pop, choro, broadway, and even classical, can now expand their playing and develop a working knowledge of jazz fundamentals through this breakthrough approach in mandolin pedagogy. This approach takes four uncomplicated fretboard patterns (FFcP) and drills a physical familiarity into the player's fingers, softening the fear of upper frets and preparing them for the harmonic alterations necessary for effective and intuitive playing of more complex contemporary music.

The player is introduced to modes, eased into jamming with audio accompaniment, and eventually initiated into the most fundamental jazz chord progression of all, the 'ii V7 I' pattern. From the horizontal (melody) to the vertical (chords) and back, the results are both an instinctive and physical grasp of tonal centers and the improvisational fodder of effective performing.

The book's exercises emphasize pinky strength, finger control, and sustain, while also developing the player's concepts of tone and melody. With access to online audio, this breakthrough approach in mandolin pedagogy offers a comprehensive and engaging way for mandolinists to expand their musical horizons beyond the basic folk genres.

No longer confined to the traditional folk realms, this method equips the aspiring mandolinist with the skills and understanding to navigate a diverse range of musical styles, from swing and blues to pop and classical. By mastering the four fretboard patterns and delving into the fundamentals of jazz, the player gains a physical and intuitive grasp of tonal centers and the art of improvisation, opening up a world of creative possibilities.

The book's focus on developing the player's pinky strength, finger control, and sustain, coupled with the exploration of tone and melody, ensures that the mandolinist not only acquires technical proficiency but also cultivates a nuanced and expressive approach to their instrument. With the accompanying online audio, the player can seamlessly transition from the theoretical to the practical, seamlessly integrating the new skills into their playing.

Overall, this breakthrough approach in mandolin pedagogy represents a significant step forward in equipping aspiring mandolinists with the tools and knowledge to navigate the diverse landscape of contemporary music. By breaking down the barriers of traditional folk genres, the method empowers players to confidently explore and master a wide range of musical styles, from the rich harmonies of jazz to the intricate melodies of classical compositions.

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