Tuning a mandolin can be tricky business. Since mandolins have shorter strings than guitars, narrowing in on the correct pitch takes finesse – not to mention time.
Mandolin
The mandolin is a small, lute-like instrument that usually has 8, but can have up to 12 strings. The bright-toned instrument originally appeared in Italy in the 15th century, but has evolved quite a bit since then and is still widely used in classical music, but also in other genres - even in Jazz.
The mandolin’s unusual body acts as a resonator can be either bowl-shaped (like the traditional ones that originated from Italy) or box-shaped. There are also flat-back mandolins that are quite popular in North America. All of them produce a different sound. The sound is of course hugely impacted by the number of strings of each mandolin.
Bellow, you will find more information about what mandolins are, where they originated, how they are played, and how to pick one. Our experts also gathered information on the best mandolin strings, how to change them and how to tune your mandolin.
Best Mandolin Brands & 7 Best Beginner Mandolin Reviews
With so many mandolin brands claiming to offer the best mandolin for beginners, it can be easy to find yourself overwhelmed. But if you take a little time to think about what you want from your new instrument, you will find that answering just a few key questions will make it easy to narrow downRead more…
The Best Mandolin Strings 2023
When you buy a new mandolin, you may think you’re stuck with that instrument’s sound for the rest of its life. But there’s another factor to consider, which can be almost as important to the sound as the instrument itself: the strings.
How to Change Mandolin Strings: Guide in 13 Easy Steps
Changing mandolin strings can seem like a challenge at first. Not only are there eight strings to change, but the instrument is small enough that things can get a bit cramped. Luckily, with the right tools and know-how, you learn how to string a mandolin and get it sounding better than ever in no time.
What exactly is a mandolin?
On the simplest level, the mandolin is a small, lute-like instrument with eight strings. Originally appearing in 18th-century Italy, this bright-toned instrument has become a staple in styles of music all over the world, ranging from classical to bluegrass and even to jazz. But that’s only a small part of the story of the mandolin.