Mandolin Mayhem

Playing "The Rakes of Mallow" badly for Takhamir
and guests. Photo: Mark Fojas

I've been practicing the mandolin for over two and a half years now. And, I've almost worked myself up to beginner's level.

I started at it as a vehicle to learn how music works. It's amazing how much simpler it is to play if you don't worry about things like rhythm, being in tune, fretting the notes correctlly and picking the right string.

As I began playing in public, and witnessing the ensuing mayhem, I learned a very important principle - encouragement. Playing the mandolin badly is like a litmus test for encouragement. Some people even turn red. Others turn blue. And I dont even know how to play the blues.

Should i put a signature or "the end" or something to show that this post is over?