This is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in Irish mandolin playing. As well as being a complete guide for the absolute beginner, this book also contains a mine of information, useful tips and ideas for the experienced player. The book takes the reader from the basics of the mandolin right through to more advanced topics such as creating variations, emphasis, improvisation, playing with other musicians, practicing effectively and much more.

All the tunes and key exercises in the book are included on the accompanying downloadable online audio. There is no need to read conventional music notation as all the music is written in easy-to-read mandolin tablature. However, for those interested in learning about music notation there is a handy section on this subject tailored specifically to the mandolinist as well as a chapter on modes.

The Mandolin
First Steps
Polkas
Double Jigs
Other Jigs
Hornpipes
Reels
Traditional Music and Language
Dynamics or Accenting and Un accenting
Posture
Practicing
Learning New Tunes
 Playing With and Learning From Other Musicians
The Weak Little Finger
A Selection of Tunes
Improvisation and Personal Interpretation