I’m bias towards this book, for good reason.
The first time I encountered the book, it changed my life – literally opened up a whole world of improvisation (and how to practice improvisation) better. Then, I met Wayne in person (took a flight to Hong Kong to catch him live twice & take a 2-hour lesson with him.
Then, now – I’m studying this second version of his classic book. And…. it’s pretty amazing.
But before that, if you’d like, you can read my review of the 1st edition here: http://azsamadlessons.com/book-review-an-improvisers-os-by-wayne-krantz/
Now, what are my thoughts on this new edition?
The original book was 88 pages (with text up to 83 pages) and this new one is 116 pages (with text up to 111 pages). The additional pages, as with the 1st edition are blank pages for you to write notes in the book, if necessary.
The book begins with a foreword by Orcan Lestich, 3 pages of initial info & the formulas – a systematic list of every possible note combination (according to note function) in a Western based 12 note equal temperament system. Then, Wayne goes to 13 parts of what he calls “An Improvisor’s OS v.2 FAQ”.
The first time I read this new edition, it felt familiar and began the same. I could feel that the text had been expanded but the initial vibe (a Socratic conversational teaching format – Q&A) was the same as the old one.
What I later found out by comparing both editions side by side was how much Wayne has really expanded the book. There is A LOT of emphasis on the actual musical application of the materials provided in the book as well as specific practice ideas & suggestions for the serious improvising musician.
The book is kind of a textbook for improvising guitarists to develop their skills. But the book is also a book that will be able to help musicians who play with other instruments.
I love the way Wayne expands on the material he talks about & how each element is important for the serious student to develop their improvisational (rather than their compositional skills).
As I reread the book a third time, I began to see how it’s really expanded in a positive way. I’m really glad Wayne revisited the book & wrote this new edition, released 15 years later!
In conclusion, I strongly recommend this book to all improvising musicians especially guitarists who are interesting in getting out of their comfort zone. It’s a great book & one that I will working through gradually over the years to come.
Pros: Great book – and even better now with the additional material.
Cons: It’s do it yourself. Instructions included but some assembly required. (Actually, this is actually a positive thing and is part of the charm of the book.)
TLDR: Get this edition of the book, it’s worth getting even if you have the original edition.
Order the 2nd edition here:
https://waynekrantz.bandcamp.com/merch/wayne-krantz-an-improvisers-os-2nd-edition
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