Andy Chase

Another good example of the internet falling short: Go to the Mandolin Cafe message board and search for the phrase left hand position. You’ll find lots of very informative and helpful posts, but you won’t be a whole lot wiser for reading them. Several hours spent scouring the internet for descriptions on the best way to hold your left hand while playing mandolin is worth less than five minutes spent face to face with an experienced player, who can show you how it’s done, and give tips and observations based on what you’re doing.