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Notes: The roll patterns, in the 4 studies below, will demonstrate how the mandolin can have a driving tone similar to 5-string banjo. These roll patterns can be applied within most any 4/4 context...after learning the rolls below, we will then apply these very same patterns to chord progressions in our next lessons...The following exercises involve only the right hand, your picking hand, and does not require any fretting whatsoever (notice there are only "0"s indicated on the tablature). This is to ensure that we're focusing on the crosspicking pattern only...once we're comfortable with this pattern, we will then be moving on to applying this very same pattern to chordal studies.

A Note on Picking Direction: Notice the "D" and "U" symbols above the tablature. This represents your pick direction. The "D" stands for Down and the "U" stands for Up. Picking patterns, how you choose to go up or down with your flatpick, is critical to the rhythm of your crosspicking arrangements. Below, you'll find that we're using a reverse picking pattern with one downstroke followed by two upstrokes in a row. This pattern can be somewhat difficult...so take your time and play slowly to start. Your main goal is to keep it even and to make sure that all notes ring out clearly.

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