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.

Guidelines, Suggestions and “Wise Sayings” About Improvisation

Improvisation

Get to Know Your Tones and Intervals

Color Tone

Tensions and Alterations

What About s4, s11, f13?

Wise Sayings

Tunes

Lima Bean Gumbo

Freddie

Minor (and Major) Swing

Savannah Stomp

Porterhouse1

Bibim Bop

Nectarine

Illiana

Big Chief Wauconda

Rhythm Changes Changed

Rhythm Changes

Rhythm Changes Changed #2

Rhythm Changes Changed #3

Rhythm Changes Changed #4

Rhythm Changes Changed #5

Rhythm Changes Changed #6

Chord Melody

Chord Melody #1

Chord Melody #2 “Ballad”

Chord Melody #3 “After a Rain”

Chord Melody #4 “Swing”

“Jazzberry Blossom”