In this week’s breakdown, the focus is on the instrumental “Panhandle Rag” by Leon McAuliff, highlighting its AABA structure and common chord patterns. While not frequently played in jams, the piece is deemed enjoyable and worth learning. The post includes charts in D and E, along with listening recommendations
Flop Eared Mule (also known as Long Eared Mule or Bluebell Polka) is a classic fiddle tune that dates back to 1854, originally published as the Detroit Schottische by Adam Couse. This lively tune is especially fun on mandolin thanks to its unique key change—from G in the A part to D in the B part. In this lesson, Matt C Bruno walks through three different melody voicings, chord options, and harmony lines, plus practice tips to strengthen your pinky and improve transitions between keys.
Forked Deer is one of those tunes that shows up in jams all over the place. it’s a ton of fun to play and a great workout for your fretting hand. It has a mix of melodic lines, rhythmic bounce, and that unmistakable old-time flavor that crosses over nicely into bluegrass circles. There are a […]
Gold Rush by Bill Monroe and Bryon Berline is a classic jam tune worth exploring. The post provides insight into its basic melody, harmony options, and chord voicing. Notably, it’s structured in an AA BB form, making it engaging for both beginners and advanced players. Listening to original references is emphasized as crucial for learning.
Temperance Reel is a classic fiddle tune with Irish origins, also known as Teetotaler’s Reel. It’s derived from melodies like Billy in the Lowground and Blackberry Blossom, making it accessible for beginner musicians. The piece follows a standard AABB form and promotes fun with harmony playing. It’s a great addition to jam sessions.
Time for another “song I should know but never learned”. Today’s mandolin song breakdown focuses on East Tennessee Blues (sometimes called East Tennessee Rag). I first heard this tune done by Adam Steffey a while back. It’s a great tune that I liked, but just wasn’t called a lot in jams so I never really […]
Today’s mandolin song breakdown focuses on another classic, Soldier’s Joy. While this is a bluegrass staple, it’s roots are mostly Scottish from around 1760 or so. Like a lot of older fiddle tunes, there are lyrics that have been added – but we’ll be ignoring those for this review. As with many old standards, it’s […]
Today’s mandolin song breakdown will be focusing on Jerusalem Ridge. Often this tune is considered a jam buster due to it’s length and complex melody. Aside from having 4 parts, this tune is also in a minor key and has some minor oddities with the form. So weird stuff all around as far as fiddle […]
