Member-only story

My First Mandolin Picking Songs: A Journey of Melodies and Rhythms

Harry Cook

·7.4k Followers· Follow

Published in My First Mandolin Picking Songs

4 min read

158 View Claps

8 Respond

Save

Listen

Embarking on a musical journey with the mandolin can be both exhilarating and daunting. As a beginner, selecting the right songs to practice can significantly enhance your learning experience and foster a lifelong passion for the instrument. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the realm of mandolin picking songs, offering a curated selection that caters to various skill levels and musical preferences.

Song 1: "Wildwood Flower"

Mandolin Player Strumming My First Mandolin Picking Songs

My First Mandolin Picking Songs

by Steve Kaufman

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9240 KB
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	37 pages

Composed by Carter Stanley in the 1920s, "Wildwood Flower" is a timeless classic that has graced countless bluegrass and folk performances. Its simple chord progression (G, C, and D) and straightforward strumming pattern make it an excellent choice for novice players. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing and nostalgia, adding a poignant touch to the melody.

Song 2: "Take Me Home, Country Roads"

Mandolin Player Performing My First Mandolin Picking Songs

Written by John Denver in 1971, "Take Me Home, Country Roads" has become an iconic anthem for aspiring musicians. The mandolin part features a steady shuffle rhythm and intricate fingerpicking, providing a perfect balance of rhythm and melody. The song's uplifting lyrics and nostalgic melody have resonated with audiences worldwide.

Song 3: "Cripple Creek"

Mandolin Player Playing My First Mandolin Picking Songs

A traditional fiddle tune that originated in the Appalachian Mountains, "Cripple Creek" has captivated musicians and dancers for generations. The mandolin arrangement involves a syncopated strumming pattern with alternating bass notes, creating a lively and infectious rhythm. The melody is characterized by its haunting minor chords and evocative phrasing.

Song 4: "John Hardy"

Mandolin Player Performing My First Mandolin Picking Songs

This traditional folk ballad tells the tragic tale of a railroad worker wrongly accused of murder. The mandolin part in "John Hardy" is based on a simple fingerpicking pattern with descending bass lines and a haunting melody. The song's lyrics are both powerful and poignant, recounting the protagonist's struggles and ultimate demise.

Song 5: "Fiddler's Green"

Mandolin Player Playing My First Mandolin Picking Songs

Written by Irish folk singer Mick Ryan, "Fiddler's Green" is a lively and energetic tune that is often played at Irish sessions. The mandolin arrangement features a fast-paced strumming pattern with interspersed rolls, creating a rhythmic and spirited sound. The lyrics paint a picture of a mythical place where musicians gather to play and revelry never ends.

Song 6: "Ode to Billie Joe"

Mandolin Player Singing My First Mandolin Picking Songs

Bobbie Gentry's haunting ballad "Ode to Billie Joe" was a major hit in 1967. The mandolin part provides a subtle accompaniment to Gentry's vocals, adding a haunting and ethereal quality to the song. The lyrics are enigmatic and open to interpretation, leaving listeners pondering the mystery behind Billie Joe's fate.