Lou Martin's Tunebook

By Mandolin Cafe
August 16, 2007 - 11:45 am

Lou Martin's Tunebook

Senior Monroe disciple and Rinzler protégé Lou Martin has written a new mandolin book, with seventy-seven tunes in standard notation, including more complex numbers like "Limerock", "Ace of Spades", "Golden Eagle Hornpipe", and "The Nine Points of Roguery".

Features include an introduction covering the historical background of notation in American country music, correct bluegrass and classical technique, and notational conventions/problems; plus Lou's commentary on almost every tune. Indications for both how long to hold the fingers down and when to cut certain notes somewhat short for true bluegrass performance are given throughout; this is the only book ever done with the latter type of visual help to the player.

For classical mandolinists approaching the bluegrass, old time, and Celtic traditions, Lou Martin's Tunebook will offer strong assistance. Bluegrass pickers seeking more depth and understanding of both correct technique and the underlying background of the tradition will find what they are looking for. Mandolin teachers will find that the book is suitable for more advanced students.