Gia

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Subject: Playing the Mandolin
Date: Tue, 18 Jun 2002 22:15:07 -0500

Mickey,I have not ever played an instrument and I do not read music,but I really want to learn to play the Mandolin.How does it compare to learning the Guitar or the Piano? I am 55 but I do not think I am to old to learn. I have been looking at the Kentucky KM-140S and KM-150S. What are the differences and which would be better to learn on yet continue to be good when I am able to play some? I will probably play hymns, folk music etc.I do not think I will play Blue Grass but I might try it a little. What is the diifference in the 12 fret and the longer ones how do they play different? What would be a good tape or book to get started on and supplement between lessons? My e-mail address is <mailto:jb4hunt@hotmail.com>mailto:jb4hunt@hotmail.com Any guidence,help or direction you can give me will be appreciated. Thanks,John Burns

Greetings John,

The mandolin can be one of the easiest instruments to learn on when playing basic chords and melodies. For instance, an entire G chord progression (G, C to D) can be played utilizing only two fingers per chord. Additionally, melodies fall right into place due to the mandolin being tuned in 5ths similar to a violin. It's really considered a melody instrument simply because the melodies are all easily within reach. Guitar and piano can be quite a bit more difficult to learn due to melodies requiring more of a stretch and chords requiring more fingers to be placed down.

Both the KM-140S and KM-150S are excellent beginner level mandolins. The 150S would have the edge; however, as long as they're set up properly by whomever you decide on purchasing one through, you'll have an excellent mandolin at your disposal. Either of these mandolins will take you up to intermediate level.

The true difference between these models lies in the construction:
KM-150S Solid Maple Back and Sides
KM-140S Laminate Mahogany Back and Sides

They both offer a 12th fret neck/body joint...they both are constructed within the same dimensions...they both make excellent student models (as long as they're properly set up). The 150S would allow you to grow into grow into at a Bluegrass level...

The longer necks (14th fret neck/body joint) will allow you to play at a higher register. However, as a beginner, this shouldn't be a concern.

There are many good tapes and books on the market. My suggestion would be to look for a tape or book that focuses more on methodology instead of learning one song after another. Typically, books and videos on mandolin teach through rote by learning melodies. This is OK since ultimately, that is why you're taking up the mandolin. My recommendation would be to establish a foundation through exercises and studies first...and then the songs come easy...and, you're more prepared to understand the theory behind the song so that improvisation and learning are more facilitated.

At your disposal, Mickey

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Subject: attn:mickey
Date: Mon, 13 May 2002 08:23:57 -0400

hi- i want to purchase a mandolin and i understand that you play? it is a gift for my 18-year old and i,d like to know if in your opinion the mandolin is a "difficult" string instrument to be a beginner on? compared to a guitar or banjo? could you get back to asap?
thanks
kim

Greetings Kim,

Glad to assist if I can:

I believe the mandolin to be one of the easiest instruments to learn to play on...of course, this is also dependent on its quality and how well it's set up.

One of the easier aspects to learning mandolin is that you can play full chord progressions with the use of only two fingers. Additionally, since a mandolin is traditionally played with a flatpick, as opposed to fingerstyle, the right mechanics are simple and basic. The 5-string banjo requires many more mechanics before a song can be accomplished...learning how to fingerpick with the right hand, as a right-handed player, can be one of the biggest obstacles to contend with...again, a mandolin only requires learning to hold the flatpick and learning to position your right hand correctly. As compared to guitar: the guitar can be slightly more difficult to play chords on due to the stretch required and the fact that entire chord progressions cannot be as easily achieved as on mandolin with two-finger chord positions. The mandolin is a more unique instrument and would be held in higher esteem when jamming with others; you'll find many jam sessions with 3 to 4 guitars...and, in this case, a mandolin would be well received as opposed to another guitar. Being a mandolin player sets you apart within a crowd...I would highly recommend the mandolin over both the guitar and banjo as being easier to learn on; however, the aspiring student should also have a strong desire to learn the instrument. If your 18-year old has a penchant for rock, or already has a desire to learn guitar, mandolin may not be the right choice...if your 18-year old has made mention of playing the mandolin, and is looking for an instrument that's easy to play, I highly recommend the mandolin.

Three things to include with your purchase:
1. An instructional video...this can provide the road map to keep the student interested.
2. An electronic tuner...making the learning process far easier and enjoyable. If the instrument is properly tuned during practice sessions, it's far more inspiring for both the student and close-by listeners.
3. Make sure that the instrument is properly set up before it ships...to ensure ease of playability.

At your disposal, Mickey
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