- Select the mandolin that fits your needs - Get a grip on chords and picking patterns - Play bluegrass, blues, jazz, and old-time music Don't just fret?start playing the mandolin! From bluegrass to folk, rock to pop, and even global music, the mandolin has made its voice heard for nearly three centuries. When you're ready to start learning this popular instrument or expand on the skills and styles you've already developed, Mandolin For Dummies is an ideal starting spot. Renowned mandolin player Don Julin helps you learn the basics and get a feel for popular music styles like old-time, Irish, blues, bluegrass, swing, and jazz. Inside... - Pick up mandolin-friendly styles, including bluegrass - Learn even more styles? blues, Irish, jazz, and old-time - Build your skills with downloadable audio - Discover 10 mandolin players you need to hear - Become part of the growing mandolin community