An old joke says: "If you have been using the mandolin for 30 years then it means that you have actually spent 15 years tuning it and 15 years playing it". While it's true that the mandolin isn't the easiest instrument to tune, the procedure is quite doable with the right guide. By learning the basics of tuning a string instrument you will be able to "tame" it and play in no time just like Bill Monroe or David Grisman.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: The Basics of Tuning
Step 1. Queue it like a violin
A mandolin is traditionally tuned with the notes G, D, A and E, starting from the lowest string and proceeding towards the highest one, tuning the pair of strings to the same note. In other words, the instrument will be tuned like this: Sol Sol, Re Re, La La and Mi Mi. The highest string is the one that should be closest to the floor and will be the E.
If you play the guitar it will be easier to think of the 4 lowest strings, E, A, Re and G, but in reverse. This information will also help you with fingering when you start playing the instrument
Step 2. Find the tuning keys corresponding to each string
In most mandolins, the keys for tuning the notes G and D are on the side of the headstock facing you, while those of the notes A and E are on the opposite side, the one towards the floor.
Generally, to tune you have to turn the keys clockwise and start from the low strings until you reach the high ones
Step 3. Tune the strings individually, one pair at a time
The thing that makes tuning the mandolin more difficult than that of the violin is that there are 8 strings instead of 4, and you have to tune them well otherwise the instrument will have an unpleasant sound. If you play the pair of strings on the same note at the same time it will be difficult to determine which of the two is out of tune.
Stop a string with your finger to isolate the one you are tuning. So you will get a clearer and more distinct sound while using the tuner or any other method
Step 4. Tune up and not down
As with all stringed instruments, you have to tune the flat notes increasing, so if in a pair of strings one of the two notes is flat, tune it with the other making it sharp. This is important to stabilize the instrument voltage. If you set it flat, you risk loosening the tension by making all the other strings flat. This is especially true when using new strings.
Step 5. Use strings in good condition
Worn or rusty strings are easier to forget and damage your fingers. Make sure you change strings regularly and keep the instrument in tune. You don't have to change them every night - unless you're Tim O'Brien, do it every 4-6 weeks or so after constant use.
Step 6. Tune it roughly and then fine tune it
Immediately after replacing the strings it can be very difficult to tune the instrument, which will be easily forgotten. There is a lot of tension in the neck after changing the strings and the wood will flex slightly. So with that in mind, roughly tune the instrument, let it rest for a while, and then fine tune it. This way you will have a faster and more precise tuning.
Part 2 of 3: Using an Electronic Tuner
Step 1. Buy a good quality electromic tuner
The most accurate and efficient way to tune the mandolin is to use a specially created tuner. You can also use an electronic violin tuner.
- You can also use one of those clip-on tuners that attach to the guitar neck to tune your instrument frequently during the studio or gig. You can leave it attached to the handle and use it when you need it. The prices of these tuners range from 10 to 30 euros.
- You can also use online tuners that reproduce the sound of the note you need to tune with, but these are less accurate than those that pick up the sound directly from your instrument. If you're on a tight budget, download a tuner for your smartphone, these are themselves quite accurate, cheap or even free.
Step 2. Turn on the tuner and make sure it picks up the sound
If the tuner has any features or modes, set the one for violin or mandolin and use it in a room where there are no noises that could compromise its functionality.
Step 3. Play each string individually
Turn the stick until the note matches that of the tuner. It doesn't have to be accurate on the first try, you'll double-check all the strings again a second time. Continue by tuning all the strings, increasing the tension and observing the tuner.
Then check all the strings again, tuning them precisely. Watch for the tuner signals. Many tuners indicate whether the note is flat or flat, and when you center the note perfectly you will see a green or flashing light appear
Step 4. Use your eyes and ears
Now double check the strings and play the double notes to make sure they are in place. Pinch the pair of Gs and listen. You may be tempted to always use the tuner, but you also need to know how to use your ears. Tuners aren't perfect and each instrument has its own different characteristics. Listen carefully to the pairs of notes and make sure no other corrections are needed.
Part 3 of 3: Using Alternative Methods
Step 1. Learn to tune the mandolin to yourself
While it is important to tune the notes well, this is not strictly necessary if you are not playing with others. You must also do this in order to continue studying properly. You may not have the tuner handy, so it's good to learn how to do this.
Practice checking the harmonics and octave intervals, playing the notes at the 12th fret to make sure they match with the open strings. Check and double check
Step 2. Use the seventh key
Tune the pair of E's, then play the A on the seventh fret, comparing it to the next pair on empty. Continue doing the same with the other strings.
Step 3. Agree with another instrument
Use a piano, guitar, or tuned banjo to do this. Ask a colleague to play the notes separately (G, D, A, E: you have to memorize them!) And take the time it takes to tune them. It is important for developing the ear and recognizing the rising or falling microtones of sound. You will also be a better player if you can make these distinctions by ear.
Step 4. Also learn alternative tunings to expand your repertoire
The only difference between a classical and a folk violin is the tuning. At first, those who play the mandolin learn to tune it with the notes G, D, A, Mi, but this does not mean that you will always have to use it like this. Some folk instrumentalists call this tuning "Eye-talian" (Italian), to indicate its formality and sophistication. Learn different tunings and new fingerings for the chords you already know. It could open your horizons completely. Trial:
- Tuning at the sawmill (Sol Re Sol Re)
- Sol pedal (Sol Re Sol Si)
- Irish tuning (Sol Re La Re)
Advice
- Buy a tuner.
- Remember to tune your instrument regularly or you will play "scary".
