Mandolin

stringed instrument · lute family · plucked

Eight strings in pairs. A mandolin has four courses, which means four pairs of strings tuned together. This gives it a total of eight strings that create a shimmering, full sound when you play a single note.

Tuned like a violin. The mandolin's strings are tuned in perfect fifths, the exact same way as a violin. This means if you know violin notes, you already know how to tune a mandolin.

Part of a family. The mandolin is the smallest and highest-sounding member of the mandolin family. Larger relatives include the mandola, octave mandolin, mandocello, and mandobass, each going deeper and deeper in sound.

Steel string sound. Most mandolins use steel strings, which create a bright, ringing tone. Steel strings are also the most affordable option for beginners.