The mandolin is a very old instrument, the origins of which go back to the lute of Medieval times. Although there are three prominent types of mandolin available: the Neapolitan bowl-back, the arch-top and the flat-back, it is the flat-back mandolin that is most commonly used in the Irish tradition.

Some believe F-style and A-style mandolins absolutely sound identical. Others are adamant that the tone of each style can be different, depending on a few factors: the wood used in construction of the instrument, the F-style’s scroll and points and the benefits of a professional setup.

The most commonly known member of the mandolin family, the mandolin itself is probably the least contentious. Its scale length varies from 13″ up to about 16″ (33 – 41 cm), though normally around 14″. It is rarely called anything else and rarely played in alternative tunings.

Learn traditional Irish mandolin, with an emphasis on playing the dance music of Ireland with an authentic Irish feel and rhythm. In this lesson, you’ll learn the reel “Anything for John Joe.”

In conclusion, if you’re a beginner and want to learn how to play mandolin, you need to discover your style, find the right mandolin for that style, and utilize the variety of resources available to you. Follow these steps and you’ll be playing the mandolin in no time.

These two styles of mandolin are the most popular for bluegrass players. If you want to play classical or European folk genres, a bowl backed (AKA “potato bug”) shaped mandolin will be a better fit. Lastly, if you want to play Irish music you might want to consider a larger A style mandolin, or perhaps even a mandola.

Throughout the years, the mandolin has been featured in recordings from a wide range of musical genres. For example, Bob Dylan and Eric Clapton have both been recorded playing the mandolin on folk and blues songs. Classical composers have written great pieces for the mandolin.