8 strings
I just bought myself a new instrument. I have been wanting one since Ashoken Camp. Isn’t beautiful?
Peg Board
Now I have to find out if I can really play it. At the moment I need to build up calluses on my left fingers so that I can hold those steel strings down. I also need to build up strength in my left little finger so it can hold strings down.
I found a few websites for mandolin players. Folk in the Woods has lessons. They are on everything from how to hold a mandolin right to how to play more complicated melodies. I might just have to buy his DVD.
Mandolin Cafe seems to be the place for mandolin players but I haven’t had much time to explore it yet. I would rather be playing than reading the internet.
Having the mandolin has already achieved my first objective – more music making. As I cannot play for long without getting blisters, I found that I would sing once my fingers started complaining. The mandolin got me started and then my desire for music making took over.
Here is a picture of the whole thing:
Mandolin
It is a Rover and I purchased it from Elderly Instruments. I love it! Expect to hear more about this new music adventure of mine in the future.
Lab Cat 
It’s beautiful! Enjoy your new instrument.
Very cool. I look forward to a demonstration of the playing once your fingers get properly callused up.
I know there are a lot of great mandolin players but my favorite is Peter Ostroushko. He’s a Minnesota boy, so I’m biased in that regard, but his music is superb. His song “Heart of the Heartland” was featured in Ken Burns’ Lewis and Clark documentary.
Thanks for your comments. I’ll certainly check out Peter Ostroushko; I did a Postdoc in MN and have fond memories of it.
At least every winter I can mock everyone for complaining about the cold.
Congratulations! Nothing better than a new toy-Enjoy! I’ve been working on my yodeling, maybe we can duet next time you’re in town.