Traditonal Musical Instrument: Enchanting Mandolin, Part 1 of 2

Although there are many variations, the mandolin generally has a hollow wooden body that includes a soundboard with a teardrop shape. Today, the mandolin plays a vital role in both orchestral and bluegrass music. As Mr. Nigel Woodhouse, a professional mandolinist who has played with many world-renowned orchestras and ensembles, explains: “… the mandolin has two of each string; they’re close pairs intended to be played as one string. It’s the doubling of the strings which gives the mandolin its particular resonance and sustain.”