Hi, I have wanted to play the mandolin for years, and I was watching the old grey whistle test last week where someone was playing one. On the spur of the moment I decided I should go for it and have started doing some research on the instrument: how much they cost, what type to get, lessons etc. The scroll mandolins look good but are more expensive, but are better to hold. seemingly. Does anyone play one, and can they give me some advice. Crazy idea, I know, but I have decided to go a bit crazy this year! By the way, I am left handed, though could probably play right handed, as I have had to get used to a right handed world. If you can advise I will be very grateful. Thanks, busy_lizzie
I have had mandolins in the past but now play a bouzouki which is a long necked mandolin. But instead of picking a tune it is used mainly for rhythm. Don't buy an old pretty round back mandolin, most of the cheap ones look good hung on the wall but useless to try and play. A flatback Stagg is made in china and are cheap, around the £60 mark. Sometimes you will get a good one that will stay in tune and you can have fun with it but if you can research and find a better make then get a second hand deal on fleabay you will be on your way. There are mandolin forums that will give you advice and sometimes point you to a good instrument for sale.
Also there are a few tutorials on youtube, depending on what sort of music you want to play. Irish, bluegrass and sentimental old Italian tunes. Go for the irish sound and have a google at Planxty playing.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vQvr3iiZOY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vQvr3iiZOY)
You have to use two hands to play it, so left handed could be a bonus doing the complicated chords etc.
Hi Ace, Thank you so much. It seems just lately you have been my answer to everything. I am not surprised you have played a mandolin. Will follow your advice, and thanks again for the Utube link too. busy_lizzie :icon_cheers: