Re: chord query eg/ Em/D
If I may just add to what Pete said, the bass line indicated by the slash note and hinted at in the chord progression can be voiced on another string when adapting these chords for the mandolin - the mandolin already being pretty well fixed in the treble range. This may not matter so much in a band situation, where other instruments are tending to this function, but it's nice to pick up on this action when playing solo. Or, as Pete also said, finding chord voicings with counterpoint is a cool way to go.
Example: D D/C G Gm D includes the notes D-C-B-Bb-A, a pretty standard progression and descending bass line. I'd play it with the action on the A string: 2455 - 2435 - 0023 - 0013 - 2002. I know 2435 doesn't have a D in it, but it works as a passing chord. The main point is to learn to see these chord dynamics when reading sheet music.
But that's just my opinion. I could be wrong. - Dennis Miller
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