While we were filming another interview backstage at RockyGrass last summer, Mike and Casey Campbell got together to talk mandolin and jam for the first time ever. We only had a single camera at the time and no proper audio equipment so there is some background noise (especially considering this was filmed just a stone's throw from the main stage.) But it's a great interview and jam session nonetheless! You can find it all in the +Music area or just click here!
Regardless of how long you've been playing mandolin, developing and maintaining a regular practice routine is a critical component to your progression as a musician. As tempting as it can be to just grab the instrument and start playing, the key to continued progress with the mandolin is a disciplined practice routine of good habits. Here's a list of 10 important exercises to make sure to include whenever you practice. If you're already doing these, you'll be well-equipped while climbing Mt. Mandolin.
Check out this great interview Mike Marshall did recently on the Bradley Laird Grass Talk Radio podcast. They talk about how he got started in Florida to later getting involved playing with David Grisman, teaching mandolin and a whole lot more. You can listen here on the player or click here to learn more about the show.
When you feel like you're ready to call yourself a intermediate mandolin player, there's a few things to keep in mind as move up to the next level. One of the many benefits of having a teacher like Mike Marshall is that he can help you gain unique insights about your own playing very early in the learning process. The advice he gives you through Video Exchanges here will open new doors and accelerate your development as a musician.
Here are three important intermediate mandolin concepts to consider as you go about your practice. The first two relate to Music Theory and the last one focuses on some specific techniques that will definitely spice up your mandolin playing.