MANDOLIN INSTRUCTION

Click Here for a useful article on practicing and music.

Mandolin fingering generally follows this pattern: Index finger is used for both 1st and 2nd frets; Middle finger for 3rd and 4th; Ring for 5th and 6th; and Pinky on 7th.

Please see a close-up video of Chris Thile's technique as he plays a inspired version of the E Major Prelude by J.S. Bach (YouTube)

Also check out Chris with the Punch Brothers as they perform Sometimes from their album. Please note Chris' right hand, how he angles the pick across the strings and how the pick is "out in front" of his hand. Compare this to Joe Walsh's right hand position as he plays the first solo in Forked Deer (YouTube). Both right hand techniques are similar: the fingers are curled and do not touch the soundboard; the motion is compact to the point of being delicate in order to achieve accuracy, tone, and speed. Please review these videos carefully and practice looking into a mirror to see how closely you can match the techniques of these two mandolin masters.

Finally, Click Here for Chris Thile's extended discussion of right hand plectrum (pick) technique

Jerusalem Ridge c. Bill Monroe

Manzanita c. Tony Rice

The Star Above the Garter Irish Traditional (.pdf file)

Swing 51 c. David Grisman

After The Battle of Aughrim Traditional

The Cumberland Gap Traditional - Arranged by Joe Walsh

Big Mon c. Bill Monroe

Emily's Welcome to Portland c. Joe Walsh

Don't Fence Me In c. Cole Porter

Fallin' In Love (chords) arr. The Claire Lynch Band

Bob's Bucket c. Joe Walsh