Re: Slide mandolin
Originally Posted by
mandolinfox
I like cross tuning (GDGD or AEAE) for slide mandolin. But I miss the fact that there is no 3rd interval between any of the strings. I would like to experiment with GDBD which gives a minor 3rd between the first and second, and a major 6th between the second and third. I'd also like to try Duane Allman tuning - DF#AD - and re-experience my Live At the Fillmore years! For this I plan to put a .16 on the third string, and use the regular third string - .24 - as a fourth string. Have any of you guys experimented with these (or any other) tunings?
For what it's worth, I have done a lot of open-tuned playing over the years, but find it limiting on mandolin. Standard mandolin tuning and slide do work very well together though there hurdles. Yes, you cannot get the same lovely root/third combination that open tunings provide, at least not in the same easy fashion.
I have found that playing simple melodies, fiddle tunes for example, with a slide can be a great way to gain command and control of slide on mandolin. It can sound like a gaggle of angry mosquitos initially, but persistence and patience will pay off!
Peter Mix
Carbon Fiber & Kevlar Mandolins
Based On Lloyd Loar's Designs
Waterville, VT 05492
Bookmarks