How to Play a Basic Scale on the Mandolin

One of the first things to learn after picking up a mandolin is a scale. The first scale to learn is a major A scale, and it carries through 2 octaves. Practice it over and over until you can do it easily with speed, and soon it will lead to playing simple tunes.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Begin the scale with an A. An A is played by plucking the G string with your index finger on the second fret.

2. Play a B next. Place your middle finger on the fourth fret of the G string, and pluck it to get a B.

3. Move on to a C in the scale. A C is played on the sixth fret of the G string.

4. Continue the scale with a D. The D is played open on the D string.

5. Try an E with your index finger on the second fret of the D string, followed by an F on the fourth fret of the D string and a G on the sixth fret of the D string.

6. Resume with a high A played open on the A string, followed by a B on the second fret of the A string, a C on the fourth fret and a D on the fifth fret of the A string.

7. Finish the scale with open E, an F on the first fret of the E string, a G on the fourth fret and finally a high A on the seventh fret of the E string.