The Bright Mandolin

What do classical music pieces sound like when they include a mandolin? Join host Liz Lyon as we explore a bit of the history of the mandolin and listen to examples of it being used within classical music.

Episode 97 playlist

Zequinha de Abreu: Nao Me Toques — Zequinha de Abreu was a Brazilian composer who wrote this fun piece. It has been played by many different instruments, but here is an example of how the mandolin can really shine. Performed by Caterina Lichenberg and Mike Marshall.

LISTEN — Zequinha de Abreu: Nao Me Toques

Johann Sebastian Bach: Trio Sonata No 6 — The Mandolin is tuned just like a violin, which means the mandolin can easily replace the violin in a piece of music. Like in this trio from composer Johann Sebastian Bach. It features a Cello, a Bass, and instead of a violin, it features a mandolin.

LISTEN — Johann Sebastian Bach: Trio Sonata No 6

Bill Monroe: Bill Monroe Medley — The mandolin spent its early days most often playing an accompanying role in classical music. Bill Monroe created a new style of playing which became incredibly popular and even got a name for itself, Bluegrass. This is a medley of some of his most famous pieces. This version is performed by The Modern Mandolin Quartet.

LISTEN — Bill Monroe: Bill Monroe Medley

Chris Thile: Raining at Sunset — Chris Thile is what is known as a virtuoso for playing mandolin. He is also a singer, composer, bandleader, and radio personality. He often writes and plays what is sometimes referred to as progressive bluegrass. He wrote this piece. Here is another mandolin virtuoso, Joshen Ross performing the piece.

LISTEN — Chris Thile: Raining at Sunset

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