Things You'll Need:
- Mandolin
-
Step 1
Visit the Mandolin Cafe website (see Resources) and bookmark it. There is no need to sign up for an account. The lessons are free and available all the time. The Mandolin Cafe features an extensive library of mandolin lessons by notable writers such as John McGann from the Berklee School of Music and Mel Bay instructor Mickey Cochran. The lessons range from mandolin basics to advanced technique. Mandolin Cafe is an effective online mandolin instruction site.
-
Step 2
Begin by going through the glossary, located in the upper left hand corner of the website. This will help you familiarize yourself with the mandolin terminology you'll be seeing on the website. When you've spent a little time with the glossary, go into the "Lessons" category and choose "Tuning" to learn how to tune your mandolin before you begin playing.
-
Step 3
Go to "Chords" and use the drop-down menu to select a chord to learn. Chords will be the foundation of your playing, so you should spend a great deal of time here. Set a goal for yourself. Learn two or three new chords a week. The more chords you know, the easier you will find it to play some of your favorite music.
-
Step 4
Take advantage of the message board. There are a lot of great topics there to assist you with your playing skills. It's also a good place to ask any questions you might have. The mandolin players who hang out at Mandolin Cafe are knowledgeable and always willing to help beginners establish their footing.
-
Step 5
Spend a little bit of each learning session in the "Mandolin Lessons" section of the website. Begin with the first lesson, "Guide to Mandolin Triads," which ties in with your chord study. Follow the lessons in order, working at your own pace.
-
Step 6
Play music. There is no better way to hone your skills than by applying the playing techniques you learn to songs you enjoy. You will find an extensive library of mandolin songs in the "Tablature" section of Mandolin Cafe. Once you have mastered a few techniques, select a song and learn it. Make it a practice to learn a new song a week, or at least every other week, and it won't be long until you're ready to entertain family and friends with your new mandolin skills.
