Mandolin

About the Sound and Character

The sound of the mandolin is bright, snappy, and piercingly high. Due to fast sound decay, sustained notes are played using a “tremolo” technique (rapid up-and-down pick movement), creating a characteristic ringing, continuous flow of sound associated with Italian romance.

Structure and Features

The classic Neapolitan mandolin features a convex, lute-like body. American versions (for country) often have a flat soundboard. The instrument has 4 pairs (courses) of steel strings tuned like a violin (G, D, A, E). It is played with a plectrum (pick).

Genres

• Italian and Celtic traditional music
• American bluegrass and country
• Classical chamber music