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Mandolin Facts

A mandolin is a stringed musical instrument in the lute family. It’s usually plucked with a plectrum or pick. Mandolins evolved in Italy and first appeared during the 15th century. Deep-bowled mandolins were produced mainly in Naples, and became popular during the 19th century.

Similar string instruments around the world include the traditional Russian balalaika, the Greek bouzouki, the Puerto Rican cuatro, the Brazilian bandolim, and the Arab dambura.

The mandolin’s sound is popular in many types of music, including bluegrass, country, folk, rock, ethnic, jazz, and classical. Ludwig van Beethoven composed music specifically for the mandolin and also enjoyed playing it.

Players are drawn to the mandolin because it’s versatile, accessible, and relative easy to learn. It also offers an excellent introduction to the world of music. Mandolin playing skills can easily be applied to many other folk instruments.

Mandolin Bridge

More Mandolin Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a mandolinist. Notable mandolinists include Carlo Aonzo, Dave Apollon, Avi Avital, Jethro Burns, Hamilton de Holanda, Jacob do Bandolim, “Newgrass” Pioneer Sam Bush, Ry Cooder, David Grisman, Sierra Hull, Caterina Lichtenberg, Andrew Marlin (Watchhouse), Mike Marshall, Bill Monroe, James ‘Yank’ Rachell, Johnny Staats, Andy Statman, Adam Steffey, Chris Thile, and the “Queen of Bluegrass” Rhonda Vincent.

Global Musical Influence
The mandolin is strongly associated with Italian folk music and classical compositions—Antonio Vivaldi even wrote concertos for it. Thanks to the “Father of Bluegrass” Bill Monroe, the mandolin became integral to American bluegrass music. It’s also used in Irish, Brazilian choro, and Indian classical genres.

The Mandolin

French Impressionist Artist Berthe Morisot (1889)

The Mandolin by Berthe Morisot

Avi Avital – Venice Baroque Orchestra

The sights and sounds of Venice, Italy come to life in an homage to the beloved Italian composer, Antonio Vivaldi. Joined by the Venice Baroque Orchestra, mandolinist and composer Avi Avital performs Vivaldi’s Mandolin Concerto In C Major from his album Vivaldi. The young musician is well known for his renditions of Baroque and folk music, much of which was originally written for other string instruments.

Best Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve designed 2,000+ products for string instrument musicians and fans. Find a unique gift for your favorite mandolin player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Mandolin collection.

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Vangoa A-Style Mandolin Sunburst

Product details:

Made of quality tonewood with popular sunburst color, shiny finish
Mahogany neck and bridge
Played by picks, no more pains on your fingers
Relatively wider range of 20 frets is suited to beginners or experienced players
A-style mandolin makes a great gift or first instrument
Ready to play straight out of the box!

Vangoa A-Style Mandolin in Sunburst Color (Also Available in Redburst)Includes Pick-up, Picks, Strap, Extra Strings, Durable Soft Bag, and Tuner

Mandolin Door Art

Funchal, Madeira Island (Portugal)

Madeira Mandolin Orchestra
The orchestra is a cultural highlight in Funchal, attracting tourists with weekly concert performances, often at the Madeira Regional Assembly or the English Church. Visitors describe it as a “must-see” experience on Madeira Island.

Best Mandolin Gifts Collection

Our Mandolin Gifts Collection features shirts, tote bags, coffee mugs, chef aprons, buttons, magnets, and more.

Mandolin Shirts and Gifts Collection

Unique Mandolin Gift Ideas

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D’Addario Mandolin Strings EJ74 – Set of 8 – Phosphor Bronze – Full Tonal Spectrum – Medium String Gauge Hal Leonard Mandolin Method Book – Rich Del Grosso – Easy-to-Use Beginner’s Guide – Paperback The Practical Mandolin Chord Chart + Mandolin Fret Board, Tuning & General Info – Two-Sided Chart Evergreen Mandolin Music for Christmas – Butch Baldassari – Holiday Standards – Audio CD