Fretting 2(4) strings at once. Help!

[BluegrassDoc]

I started taking lessons a few weeks ago, and I feel like I'm progressing nicely. However, I have a problem fretting 2 strings with the same finger. The "A" chord is the perfect example. My index finger just can't seem to get all 4 strings down at once. The outside G string just "plunks."

My teacher says it will just take practice, but I have small fingers and am concerned! I think (in addition to practice) a mando with a narrower neck would help. My Mid-Mo was about 1.25mm wider than my instructor's Flatiron at similar positions on the fingerboard.

What do you think? Tips?

[fatt-dad]

It just takes practice. Just wait until you try the chop chord! Lighter-gauge strings may help (unless it wacks your setup). Buying a Flatiron (nice mandolin), likely won't.

Good luck and keep at it.

fatt still-trying dad

[BluegrassDoc]

Thanks Dad, I figure it's just going to take time. Any excuse to buy a new one though, you know? http://www.mandolincafe.net/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif