Guide to Tremolo Picking Mandolin

Playing the mandolin requires a different approach than other instruments. The technique for it is unique in that the instrument itself requires it to be relevant. When you say ''mandolin'' the first thing that people usually think of is tremolo picked passages on a very high octave with the natural chorus effect that mandolin provides. This is necessary because the mandolin itself has a small resonating chamber with extremely thin strings. As such, the sound it creates dies very quickly so in order to get usable passages out of it you usually need to tremolo pick.

Firstly, you need to practice every day. You cannot build effortless speed in bursts or or in one session. It will require many many hours of drills and focus. Once you have your routine down you can play while watching television and such, but until then focus on playing perfectly and economically. At least an hour a day will get you good, long lasting results.

Secondly, you absolutely need a metronome. Playing any instrument with a metronome is a no brainer, and the mandolin is no exception. 16th Notes are your bread and butter for building speed. Set the tempo to something really slow... try the 40-60 range. 16th notes are ''ONE ee and uhh TWO ee and uhh THREE ee and uhh FOUR ee and uhh''. The metronome is brutal and unforgiving, and you'll soon hear the mistakes in your rhythm very clearly. Increase the metronome extremely slowly. Maybe 2 beats a day, if even that. The more you take the time to perfect a tempo, the better off you'll be later. Remember, there's no short cut to speed. Take your time and you'll have better technique with less effort in the future.

Third, play scales when you practice. Don't ever play chromatic nonsense unless the song calls for it. Instead, play major scales. These are scales that you will use for the rest of your life, so it's important to get them under your fingers. Building blazing speed while practicing? It's a win win situation!

Fourth, don't use your wrist! This is the most important thing. If you want truly blazing speed, absolutely do not use your wrist. The wrist is a pivot joint, not meant for the stress that tremolo picking mandolin provides. Also pick with your forearm. It may seem unwieldy at first, but this provides better speed with less effort and less stress on your body later. Absolutely never forget! Don't pick with your wrist, pick with your forearm! Good luck!