Mandolin "Positions"

[ChrisWallace]

Often, I hear the term "positions" used when referring to playing up the neck and while (at a very elementary level) I understand that different positions exist...I'm not really sure what/where these positions are. I mean, I understand that 1st position is when you're playing with open strings but what/where are the 2nd, 3rd etc. positions? Any help w/ this would be much appreciated...thanks!! http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

CWallace

[ash]

I'm not sure how common it is. I only use the term because I also play violin. Second position is first finger on the third fret. Third position is first finger on fifth fret. Fourth is on the seventh fret...etc. Practice your scales and stuff in those positions to get used to them. They're very helpful.

[Ken Berner]

Perhaps someone will publish a Mando Sutra for those of us who lack sufficient position expertise!

[steve in tampa]

Here is a link to a photo of a Mel Bay violin chart that shows the positions:

http://www.banjostore.com/fid_chart.html

[mandocrucian]

Bluegrass Up The Neck walks you through position playing step-by-step (book/CD). #Available through Elderly Instruments (http://www.elderly.com/books/items/46-14.htm) or direct from myself. (http://www.btinternet.com/~john.baldry/mando/hokkanen.html)

Niles Hokkanen