View Full Version : Fingering positions on an OM
It seems an impossible stretch to use regular mandolin fingering on the octave mandolin when playing the melody. I've been searching and the only thing I could find on it was at FOTW where they recommend:
2nd Fret: Index Finger
3rd Fret: Middle Finger
4th Fret: Ring Finger
5th Fret: Little Finger
Is this the fingering all of you use? If I'm going to have to relearn which fingers play which notes, I want to make sure I'm getting it right to begin with. Or do most of you still somehow use the standard mandolin fingering?
Steve L
Oct-04-2006, 3:57pm
Standard mandolin fingering on an octave doesn't really work very well. I don't know of anyone who uses it myself.
Celtic Saguaro
Oct-04-2006, 4:51pm
Yes, that is the standard OM fingering. I find it's easier to go back and forth between the mando and OM if I concentrate on the fret rather than the finger I am going to use. That way whatever finger is closest, frets the note. Almost all the time it works out to be the same as the standard fingering.
jmcgann
Oct-04-2006, 5:36pm
If you use standard mando fingering you'll be calling an ambulance in 15 minutes http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif
zoukboy
Oct-04-2006, 5:49pm
If you use standard mando fingering you'll be calling an ambulance in 15 minutes http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wow.gif
yes, that will only work on OMs with short scales, like around 20".
This one does have a short scale, 20-3/8", but I still can't reach. At least I know I'm not supposed to be able to now. http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
Unseen122
Oct-04-2006, 11:20pm
I play a 22" OM and use regualr Mando fingerings. I have big hands, I also(mainly) play Irish Flute and use regular whistle fingering on that which is also relativly unheard of. It can be done, but it may not be possible for everyone. FWIW, I can use Mandolin type fingerings on a Guitar and some Zouks.