ACUTABTaught by Thomas P. Ohmsen
This book has been designed with two purposes in mind: to teach you a number
of traditional fiddle tunes for mandolin, and then to give you some tools to
use in improvising on them - or any other tunes you choose. The approach used
is a modular concept, that is to present scales, patterns and licks which can
be "plugged in" anywhere in a tune, as long as you observe a few basic
rules. These rules (or guidlines) are spelled out in the book to give you a framework
for improvisation.
16 well known fiddle tunes are presented in a variety of keys, including Billy
In The Lowground, Blackberry Blossom, Sally Goodin, Red Haired Boy and Dusty
Miller. Tom then shows how to use major, minor, pentatonic, modal and blues scales
to create improvisations to the melodies of the tunes. Ascending and descending
patterns and alternate chord voicings are also shown.
If you have ever been stuck for what to do with a second or third solo on a standard
fiddle tune, or just want to deepen your understanding of mandolin improvisation,
you will find much of value in this fine book.
If you are able to assist us with biographical information about the author, it will be appreciated.