What is a Mandolin Instrument? An Introductory Guide

What is a Mandolin Musical Instrument?

The mandolin is a tear-shaped stringed musical instrument. It is played by holding it across the body like a small guitar and plucking its strings with a pick. Typically made from wood, it has eight strings, arranged in four pairs known as courses. To generate music, the player strums or pick the strings, which vibrate and project sound via a hole located in the center of the body.

How Popular is the Mandolin?

Using Google Trends as an indicator of instrument popularity, we can see that the Mandolin is very popular across North and South America, Northern Europe and Australia.

Source: Google Trends

Mandolin Instrument Facts

• A person who plays the mandolin is called a mandolinist.
• The mandolin is classified under the Hornbostel-Sachs system as a chordophone because it produces sound through vibrating strings stretched between two points.
• The mandolin’s strings are typically made of steel, contributing to its bright, penetrating sound.
• It usually weighs around 2 to 3 pounds, making it a lightweight and portable instrument.
• Mandolins come in various types, including the Neapolitan or round-backed mandolin, the flat-backed mandolin, and the carved-top mandolin.
• Each type of mandolin can be suited to different genres, from classical and folk to bluegrass and rock.
• The most expensive mandolin ever sold was a Lloyd Loar-signed Gibson F5, auctioned for over $200,000 due to its historical significance and exceptional craftsmanship.
• The mandolin is prominently featured in Italian, British, Irish, American and even Brazillian folk music.
• The instrument gained popularity in the United States during the early 20th-century mandolin orchestra craze.
• Baroque and classical composers like Vivaldi and Beethoven have composed pieces specifically for the mandolin.
• The mandolin’s body dimensions typically range from 10 to 14 inches in length, with variations depending on the style and design.
• Electric mandolins, equipped with electronic pickups, allow players to amplify their sound, suitable for rock and pop genres.
• The mandola, larger than a mandolin but tuned a fifth lower, contributes to the depth of a mandolin ensemble.
• In recent years, the mandolin has seen a resurgence in popular music, featured in bands like Mumford & Sons and The Punch Brothers.

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In this beginner’s guide, we’ll review what the mandolin musical instrument is by examining what it sounds like, how it’s played, its long history, how its made, and also explore some of the great tunes and compositions it has produced across many music genres.

What doe a Mandolin Sound Like?

The mandolin produces a bright, jangly sound, characterized by its crisp and resonant tones. For a deeper exploration of its unique sound, watch the video below and hear some great tunes played on the instrument.

How to Play the Mandolin

This stringed instrument, typically held across the body, is played by strumming or plucking the strings with a pick, also known as a plectrum.

The mandolin’s strings are arranged in pairs, or courses, with each pair tuned to the same note. This unique configuration contributes to the instrument’s vibrant, resonant sound, as the paired strings vibrate together.

The mandolin player, or mandolinist, uses various picking techniques to produce sound. The most common method is the tremolo, a rapid alternation of downstrokes and upstrokes, which creates a sustained, shimmering sound characteristic of the instrument.

This technique is particularly effective for holding notes longer than the natural sustain of the string, adding a dynamic texture to the music.

Chords are played on the mandolin by pressing down strings at different frets with the fingers of the left hand (assuming a right-handed player), while the right hand strums or plucks the strings.

This allows for a wide range of harmonic possibilities and musical expressions. Single notes can be played by picking individual strings, enabling melodic lines to be articulated with clarity and precision.

The physical design of the mandolin plays a crucial role in its sound production. The body of the instrument acts as a resonator, amplifying the vibrations of the strings.

The sound hole, located in the center of the body, projects the sound outward, while the wooden top (or soundboard), back, and sides resonate, adding depth and volume to the sound.

Different Types of Mandolin to Learn

There are several types of mandolins available, each offering unique characteristics and suited to different styles of music. Below is a list of these types with brief pros and cons for each:

Neapolitan (Round-Backed) Mandolin

• Pros: Offers a rich, deep sound ideal for classical and traditional Italian music.
• Cons: The round back can make it difficult to hold for some players.

Flat-Backed Mandolin

• Pros: Easier to hold and play, with a sound that fits well in folk and Celtic music.
• Cons: May lack the depth of tone found in round-backed designs.

Archtop Mandolin

• Pros: Produces a bright, clear sound preferred in bluegrass and American folk music.
• Cons: The curved top design can be more expensive to manufacture.

F-Style Mandolin

• Pros: Features a decorative scroll near the neck, offering a distinctive look and a sound that projects well, ideal for solo performances.
• Cons: Generally more expensive due to complex construction.

A-Style Mandolin

• Pros: Simpler and more affordable than the F-style, with a versatile sound suitable for many types of music.
• Cons: Some players may prefer the ornate appearance and sound projection of the F-style.

Electric Mandolin

• Pros: Allows amplification for use in rock and pop genres, with effects pedals adding to sound versatility.
• Cons: May lose some of the acoustic mandolin’s characteristic warmth and resonance.

Octave Mandolin

• Pros: Tuned an octave lower than a standard mandolin, offering a deeper, richer sound.
• Cons: Larger size can be challenging for players accustomed to standard mandolins.

Mandola

• Pros: Provides a warm, mellow tone, acting as a bridge between the mandolin and larger mandocello.
• Cons: Not as commonly used, which can limit available music and resources.

Each type brings its own flavor to the music, allowing players to choose based on personal

Musical Origins

The name “mandolin” comes from the Italian word “mandolino,” a diminutive of “mandola,” which itself originated from the Latin “pandura.” The pandura was a three-stringed instrument introduced to Europe through the Byzantine Empire from the Middle East.

Instrument History

Year/Period	Development
15th-17th Century	Early versions of the mandolin appear in Europe, derived from the lute.
18th Century	The Neapolitan mandolin emerges in Italy with a bowl-back design.
Late 18th – Early 19th Century	The mandolin gains popularity in Europe and America, with variations in design.
Early 20th Century	The Gibson Company introduces the archtop design, modernizing the mandolin.
1930s-1940s	Bill Monroe pioneers the bluegrass style, featuring the mandolin prominently.
Late 20th – 21st Century	Diverse styles and electric mandolins expand its use across musical genres.

The mandolin’s development from its early origins to the present day illustrates its adaptability and enduring appeal.

Initially influenced by the lute, it transformed through various designs, notably the Italian Neapolitan and the American archtop.

Instrument Description

Each part of the mandolin, from its body to its strings, plays a crucial role in producing its unique tone.

The primary components include the body, the neck, the strings, the bridge, the tailpiece, the tuning pegs and the sound hole:

• Body: The body of the mandolin is pivotal in shaping its sound. Traditionally, the back and sides are made from woods such as maple, rosewood, or mahogany, known for their durability and tonal qualities. The top, or soundboard, often utilizes spruce or cedar, chosen for their ability to resonate and project sound effectively.
• Neck: The neck, typically constructed from maple or mahogany, supports the fretboard and strings. It is crucial for the player’s comfort and the instrument’s playability. The fretboard itself, usually made of ebony or rosewood, hosts the frets that allow for the creation of different notes.
• Strings: Mandolin strings were historically made from gut but are now predominantly steel or nickel for increased durability and a brighter, more penetrating sound. They are arranged in pairs, known as courses, contributing to the mandolin’s distinctive voice.
• Bridge and Nut: The bridge, made from ebony or rosewood, transfers vibrations from the strings to the body, influencing the instrument’s tone. The nut, placed at the junction of the neck and headstock, is commonly crafted from bone or synthetic materials, guiding the strings to the tuners.
• Tuning Pegs: These are essential for tuning the instrument. Made from metal, with buttons often crafted from plastic or wood, they adjust the tension of the strings to change pitch.
• Sound Holes: Located on the soundboard, sound holes can be either f-shaped, characteristic of bluegrass mandolins, or oval, found in classical and folk instruments. These openings enhance sound projection and resonance.
• Tailpiece: The tailpiece anchors the strings at the base of the instrument. It can be made from metal or wood, affecting the string tension and, subsequently, the tonal quality.

From the wood choices for the body and neck to the metal and synthetic materials for the strings and tuning pegs, every component contributes to the mandolin’s sound and aesthetic.

Famous Mandolin Musicians

The mandolin has been embraced by musicians across a variety of genres, showcasing its unique sound. From classical to bluegrass, folk to rock, the instrument has been championed by talented players who have contributed significantly to its popularity and evolution.

Here are five famous mandolin musicians known for their mastery and influence.

Bill Monroe

Known as the “Father of Bluegrass,” this American musician from Kentucky transformed the mandolin into a central feature of bluegrass music. Monroe’s pioneering playing style and composition skills have left an indelible mark on American music history.

Chris Thile

An American virtuoso, Thile has pushed the boundaries of the mandolin in both classical and contemporary music. His innovative techniques and compositions have earned him multiple Grammy Awards, making him a pivotal figure in the instrument’s modern evolution.

David Grisman

Grisman, an American musician, introduced a new genre known as “Dawg” music, a blend of bluegrass with jazz. His exceptional skill on the mandolin and his contributions to acoustic music have made him a legendary figure among mandolin enthusiasts.

Raffaele Calace

An Italian composer and mandolinist, Calace is remembered for elevating the mandolin’s status in classical music. His compositions and performances showcased the instrument’s capabilities, influencing generations of classical mandolin players.

Yank Rachell

A blues musician from Tennessee, Rachell’s mastery of the mandolin brought a unique sound to the blues genre. His decades-long career and collaborations with other blues legends have cemented his status as a pioneer of the blues mandolin.

These musicians, hailing from diverse backgrounds, have each contributed to the rich tapestry of mandolin music. Through their innovative playing styles and compositions, they have showcased the mandolin’s enduring appeal across various musical landscapes.

Significant Mandolin Music Across Different Music Genres

If you are keen on following up on some outstanding mandolin music check out this list of ten tunes by some highly renowned musicians and composers.

From Vivaldi’s baroque concertos to the folk-rock melodies of the 20th century, the following list of music provides a great example of the depth and breadth of the mandolin’s musical contributions over time.

1. “Concerto for Mandolin in C Major, RV 425” – Antonio Vivaldi (1725): Composed by Vivaldi, this concerto highlights the mandolin’s expressive range, set against a baroque orchestral background, showcasing the instrument’s classical capabilities.

2. “Mandolin Sonata in G Major” – Ludwig van Beethoven (c. 1796): This sonata for mandolin and harpsichord or piano reveals Beethoven’s early work, offering a glimpse into the mandolin’s adaptability to classical music’s intricacies.
3. “Bluegrass Breakdown” – Bill Monroe (1949): A pivotal piece in bluegrass music, Monroe’s composition features the mandolin prominently, demonstrating its role in creating the energetic rhythms that define the genre.
4. “Mandolin Wind” – Rod Stewart (1971): This song by Rod Stewart integrates the mandolin into rock music, highlighting its ability to add a poignant, melodic layer to the genre’s robust sound.
5. “Losing My Religion” – R.E.M. (1991): This hit song features the mandolin as the lead instrument, showcasing its modern pop and rock adaptability and contributing to the song’s distinctive sound.
6. “The Battle of Evermore” – Led Zeppelin (1971): The mandolin plays a central role in this folk-inspired rock song, illustrating its capacity to blend with and enhance rock music’s dynamic range.
7. “Tico-Tico no Fubá” – Zequinha de Abreu (1917): A Brazilian choro piece originally composed for piano, this lively tune has become popular in mandolin arrangements, demonstrating the instrument’s rhythmic and melodic flexibility.
8. “Sonata for Two Mandolins” – Giovanni Battista Gervasio (late 18th century): This classical piece for two mandolins exemplifies the instrument’s elegance and the intricate interplay possible between mandolinists.
9. “Ode to a Butterfly” – Nickel Creek (2000): By the contemporary American band Nickel Creek, this instrumental showcases the mandolin’s role in modern folk and newgrass music, highlighting its lyrical and expressive qualities.
10. “J.S. Bach’s Sonata No. 1 in G Minor, BWV 1001 – Fuga: Allegro” (Arranged for mandolin): Though originally for violin, this piece’s adaptation for mandolin by various artists over time showcases the instrument’s capacity to handle complex classical music, offering a rich, textured sound.

The Mandolin in Film

The mandolin has often been a subtle star in film and television, lending its distinctive sound to memorable soundtracks and scenes. Here are three more mandolin tunes featuring the that have left a lasting mark on audiences.

1. “The Godfather Love Theme” – Nino Rota (1972): Part of the iconic soundtrack of “The Godfather,” this theme is interwoven with the mandolin’s tender and melancholic tones, embodying the emotional complexity and Italian heritage of the film’s narrative.

2. “Maggie May” – Rod Stewart (1971): While not originally from a film or TV show, “Maggie May” has been featured in various media, making its mandolin riff one of the most recognizable. Its inclusion in movies and commercials has cemented its place in popular culture.
3. “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin” – Stephen Warbeck (2001): The film, set in World War II Greece, prominently features the mandolin, reflecting the title character’s passion for music. The soundtrack, rich with traditional Greek and classical motifs, showcases the mandolin’s versatility and cultural significance.

Instruments Similar to a Mandolin

The mandolin is part of a rich family of stringed instruments, each with unique characteristics yet sharing similarities in construction and playability. Here are five instruments closely related to the mandolin, offering a diverse range of sounds and musical possibilities.

Bouzouki

Originating from Greece, the bouzouki is a long-necked instrument with a bowl-shaped body, similar to the mandolin but larger. It typically has eight strings in four courses and is central to modern Greek music, offering a bright and lively sound.

Lute

The lute, with its origins in the Arab world, was widely popular in Renaissance and Baroque Europe. It features a rounded body with a varying number of strings, and like the mandolin, it is plucked with a plectrum or fingers, known for its soft, melodious tone.

Balalaika

This triangular-shaped, Russian folk instrument comes in various sizes, from soprano to bass, and typically has three strings. The balalaika is strummed or picked, producing a sound that ranges from deep and resonant to light and tinkling, depending on its size.

Oud

The oud is a pear-shaped stringed instrument commonly found in Middle Eastern music. It has a short neck and no frets, with strings grouped in courses. The oud is known for its deep, rich sound and is considered a precursor to the European lute.

Banjo

While not as closely related in shape, the banjo shares with the mandolin a high-pitched twang and the use of a resonator. Originating from Africa and brought to America, it typically has four or five strings and is prominent in American folk and bluegrass music.