How to Crosspick on the Mandolin

Crosspicking on a mandolin is a method of playing that allows the player to sound individual strings instead of chords. This style of playing gives the mandolin its most classic and identifiable sound. Crosspicking can be done fast or slow depending on your comfort level.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Use a flat pick for all crosspicking patterns.

2. Choose mandolin music that has been marked for down strokes and upstrokes on the notes that are to be picked. This lets you know which way to direct your pick for the smoothest sound while crosspicking.

3. Identify the crosspick pattern you'd like to use. Choose from alternating strings, playing individual strings or a blend of the 2 with a 2-string pick at the beginning.

4. Begin by plucking the bottom string or E string. Follow with the second string, then the fourth string then back to the bottom string. Pluck the second string, then fourth string and end with the second.

5. Pluck the E string and the G string simultaneously then follow with the second string, then the third string, and back to the E string.

6. Play an open D followed by an A and then press the second fret on the E string and keep it there. Repeat.

7. Try a D, A, E, D pattern in common time alternating between the down stroke and up stroke throughout. This is a roll pattern.

Tips & Warnings

• Increase your tempo with these crosspicking patterns until the sound is flowing nicely.
• Look for mandolin music that focuses on crosspicking patterns. Quality music should include a number of diagrams about crosspicking and easy to read instructions.