The Mandolin

The mandolin is a small instrument shaped a little like a pear or teardrop. It has eight strings that are grouped into four pairs. Players use a small pick to strum or pluck the strings. The mandolin makes a sweet, ringing sound that is perfect for fast music.

Where It Came From

The mandolin started in Italy hundreds of years ago. It grew from older instruments called lutes. Over time, people in many countries learned to play it. Italian travelers brought the mandolin to America. Today it is used in many kinds of music around the world.

Playing the Mandolin

Each pair of strings on a mandolin is tuned to the same note. This makes the sound extra bright and full. Players often play a trick called a tremolo, where they strum very fast up and down. The mandolin is used in bluegrass, folk, and classical music. It is smaller than a guitar and fun to hold.

Fun Facts

• The mandolin has the same tuning as a violin.
• Some mandolins have a flat back and some have a round back.
• Bluegrass star Bill Monroe helped make the mandolin famous in America.

Did You Know?

The mandolin can be heard in the famous Led Zeppelin song 'The Battle of Evermore' from 1971.