Holding Pattern

[Minstrelle]

Do you hold the Mandolin differently for classical versus bluegrass?

[JeffD]

I think in general the classical mandolin hold works for all genres, and the best classical hold is perhaps the best way to hold a mandolin period, for all genres.

But... the big difference is that bluegrassers play mostly standing up, while classicals usually sitting down. I hate playing standing up, and try to avoid it whenever I can. So for me, when I play bluegrass, I am sitting, and so the hold is about the same as my classical mandolin hold.

[Beanzy]

No. I play both standing or sitting on bowlback and archtop without having to alter my hold. I do not use a strap as there is no need with the hold I use. When playing as a soloist with orchestra I find it is much better to be able to play standing. When playing in folk or pub bands it looks better to be able to stand with the rest of the band & lets me move in towards or away from the mic to play solos then backup.

[pops1]

I use a strap so my mandolin is in the same position standing or sitting. I prefer to sit, but stand on occasion.

[Minstrelle]

Thank you everyone for your valuable help.

[Jim Garber]

No. I play both standing or sitting on bowlback and archtop without having to alter my hold.

Sitting on bowlback = a flattop (or bottom).