Mandolin

The mandolin is a versatile stringed instrument, usually with 8 strings in four pairs, which can be played in a variety of styles, and in a variety of music.

The strings are tuned in pairs to G D A E like the violin. The strings are plucked with a plectrum, sometimes in rapid succession to produce the tremolo often associated with Italian romantic music. The mandolin family consists of the

• Mandolin
• Mandola
• Octave Mandolin
• Mando Cello, and
• Mando Bass

(please see chart below)

Played as a solo instrument, as well as often being accompanied by guitar or piano, the mandolin is capable of a great range and variety of tone and expression. The great virtuosi of the late 19th and early 20th Centuries held huge audiences captivated and awe inspired by their technique, dexterity and passion.

Music for the mandolin is plentiful and varied, ranging in styles covering classical, bluegrass and folk. The instrument has attracted great composers like Beethoven, Hummel, Mozart and Vivaldi and there are now more compositions being written than ever before for solo, ensemble and orchestra. After the golden years of the early 1900s mandolin orchestras are once again becoming popular and the standard of musicianship is rising.

The wide range of musical styles which can be played on the Mandolin, or indeed other instruments in the "mandolin family" is not generally recognised in Scotland. Many people have never had the opportunity to hear or play the instrument (it is not generally taught in schools) and it seems to be recognised as an instrument which is used mainly in folk music settings.

It is fair to say that the majority of people including existing musicians, are unaware of the versatility of the instrument.

Mandolin
Intro | History | Tutor Books

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