Mandolin theory books

[micall5]

I'm looking for a book on Mandolin music theory. I'm looking for a book I can use as a reference for chords, scales, double stops, technique, basic music theory to advanced. Something to aid me in learning the map of the mandolin and try and make sense of. Is this possible in one book? Recommendations?

[Mike Bunting]

"Music Theory for Modern Mandolin" (http://www.elderly.com/books/items/172-1.htm)

This should keep you busy for a few years. I've found it to be a great reference book.

[Perry]

I had the book mentioned and it fits your request to a T.
It's a good book and has some great info in it.

Though shouldn't a a real theory book in standard notation and not be instrument specific? http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif

also check out Mark Levine's Jazz Theory book

[micall5]

Though shouldn't a a real theory book in standard notation and not be instrument specific? http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/rock.gif
That is true, but the author is probably trying to narrow his audience.

The book looks great. From your perspective, does it seem to cover the general theory in full? Does it seem limited in anyway... possibly to a style or bias towards an area? I'm trying to learn more theory and understand even the basics and beyond. I feel motivated to learn correct and a well rounded information about the mandolin. If you feel this book focuses on this sort of learning theory then I will give it a try.
Thanks.

[Perry]

I think it is generalist in nature with maybe a slight bend towards bluegrass/fiddle tune style? Not alot of heavy jazz stuff but I don't really remember. Others who have the book could elaborate.

It is comprehensive. For example there's a chapter on writing harmony lines to fiddle tunes that I found useful.

I think you will like it.

Note that the book is a comb bound photocopy of typewritten pages type set in the courier font. Not the prettiest to look at.

[mando.player]

"Music Theory for Modern Mandolin" is about as comprehensive a reference as you will find. That being said, it's a reference. You'll have to take the information that you find there and integrate/apply it into whatever else you are learning. The type setting/layout doesn't make easy to read either. But if you want the info it's there.

What genre are you looking to apply this to? I've just started with this book (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0634038613) by Bert Ligon. He does a great job of breaking down the concepts of improvisation.

[micall5]

I'm not looking for a genre specific. Lately, I have been playing with different groups of musicians who are playing folk, bluegrass, or a mix of music that does not fit into a genre. I realized that my knowledge has been limited to the bluegrass/folk area and I would like to branch out and use the mandolin to its full potential as an instrument. For that I need to learn more about what it can do and understand what it is I'm doing, not just "ear" the music.

[mando.player]

"Music Theory for Modern Mandolin" should be a great start.

[micall5]

Thanks, I'll give it a shot. Appreciate the help as always