01
Hold your pick correctly
Use a medium to heavy pick held between your thumb and index finger at a slight angle. This gives you control for both rhythm chops and lead playing.
02
Learn the open strings first
Mandolin is tuned G-D-A-E (low to high), same as a violin. Each course has two strings tuned in unison — use the tuner below to get in tune before every practice.
03
Start with a G major scale
The G major scale is the foundation of bluegrass and folk. Practice it slowly up and down the neck before learning your first tune.
04
Master the chop rhythm
The signature mandolin "chop" — a short, percussive chord strum on beats 2 and 4 — is the heartbeat of bluegrass. Master this early and you'll always be welcome at a jam session.
05
Practise slowly and consistently
Even 15 minutes a day beats a 2-hour weekend session. Slow, accurate practice builds muscle memory far faster than rushing through pieces at full speed.