If you have ever wanted to learn how to play an instrument, the mandolin might be the perfect one for you. It is a fretted instrument of the lute family, similar to a guitar or ukulele. They produce a rich, soprano-like sound. One of the best perks is that they are relatively easy to play. Additionally, you can easily find high-quality mandolins from across a wide range of prices.

How to Play the Mandolin

Learning proper posture is the first step in playing the mandolin. You need to sit up straight and hold the instrument on your lap, with the neck in your left hand and the back pressed against your stomach. Make sure the strings are turned before you play by using a tuning app or instrument.

People play with a pick or their fingers, though it is easiest to play with a pick. Make sure you hold it naturally between your thumb and index finger. Strum a string by flicking your wrist downwards, using the pick to strike the string quickly. As you strum each string with one hand, use your other to press down the strings along the fret. If you press your fingers down towards the edge of the fret, it makes a clearer sound. The best way to learn how to play is to learn chords first, then put them together to make songs and melodies. There are numerous instructional videos you can use when first learning new chords. You can also easily find tutorials and music guiding you through your favorite songs.

The Cheap and Most Affordable Mandolins in 2018

When you are just starting to play, you should focus on finding cheap and affordable mandolins for beginners. As your skill develops and you get better, you can start looking for the best mandolin for the money, which may be a pricier version with higher quality sound or more features. Those who are just learning to play a mandolin can safely stick with the less expensive models. A few of these include:

 

 

 

 

 

 

These are all high-quality brands and are well-reviewed within the mandolin community. If you’re looking for a new hobby but reluctant to spend a lot of money on it until you know you love it, these mandolins are ideal for you.

The Best Beginner Mandolin

The best beginner mandolin for you depends on your intended use, your budget, and your future intentions. For example, if you are looking to pick up a mandolin to see if you like playing, a good beginner mandolin would be one that is inexpensive, but well made. The models listed above are perfect for this purpose, as they are all affordable and high-quality.

Some individuals may feel that the best mandolin for the money is a more advanced model, offering higher quality sound while still being reasonably affordable.

These mid-range instruments tend to grow with a person as their skill level improves. Thanks to the improved quality of the materials used, these brands are also slightly more durable.

Buyers searching for a mid-ranged, beginner mandolin can start with the following options:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Remember to try a few out before you purchase. The shape, style, and body type can dramatically affect the type of sound produced. You should also think about the style of music you want to play. Some brands are ideally suited for specific types of music. For example, Michael Kelly designs are perfect for those who want to play Celtic-inspired tunes.

Individuals looking for something fun and unique to play should consider the mandolin. It is an inexpensive hobby to start, and one that almost instantly pays off if you follow the right lessons. Research has shown that picking up a hobby, such as playing an instrument, is a great way to relieve stress.

This is also a fantastic way to practice mindfulness, since learning how to play involves a lot of focus. Thanks to its affordability and ease of use, the mandolin is the perfect way to relieve stress and perfect a new skill.