When it comes to bluegrass mandolin, mastering advanced chords can take your playing from good to great. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, expanding your chord vocabulary is essential for achieving that authentic bluegrass sound. In this blog, we’ll dive into some advanced mandolin chords and techniques to enhance your bluegrass playing. Along the way, we’ll reference the incredible bluegrass mandolin courses available at ArtistWorks, taught by master mandolinists Sierra Hull and Mike Marshall.

LEARN MORE: Want to learn how to play bluegrass mandolin from a master musician like Mike Marshall or Sierra Hull? Try some free online mandolin lessons now!

The Importance of Advanced Mandolin Chords in Bluegrass

Bluegrass music is known for its fast tempos, intricate melodies, and, most notably, its distinctive chop chords. Chop chords are essential in bluegrass for providing rhythmic support and creating that characteristic percussive "chop" sound. However, to truly excel in bluegrass mandolin, it's crucial to go beyond the basics and incorporate advanced chords into your repertoire.

Essential Advanced Chords for Bluegrass Mandolin

Major 7th Chords:

These chords add a lush, jazzy quality to your playing. For instance, to play a G major 7th chord, place your index finger on the second fret of the E string, your middle finger on the second fret of the A string, your ring finger on the fourth fret of the D string, and your pinky on the fifth fret of the G string.

Minor 7th Chords:

These chords are perfect for adding depth and emotion to your music. To play an A minor 7th chord, leave the E and A strings open, place your index finger on the second fret of the G string, and leave the D string open.

Diminished Chords:

Diminished chords can create tension and resolve beautifully in bluegrass tunes. For a B diminished chord, place your index finger on the first fret of the E string, your middle finger on the second fret of the A string, your ring finger on the first fret of the D string, and your pinky on the second fret of the G string.

Augmented Chords:

These chords add a unique, unexpected twist to your playing. To play a C augmented chord, place your index finger on the first fret of the E string, your middle finger on the second fret of the A string, your ring finger on the first fret of the D string, and leave the G string open.

Advanced Techniques for Mastering Bluegrass Mandolin Chords

Chord Inversions:

Learning different inversions of chords allows you to play the same chord in various positions on the neck, adding versatility to your playing. This technique is extensively covered in the bluegrass mandolin lessons by Sierra Hull at ArtistWorks.

Chord Substitutions:

Substituting chords can make your playing more interesting and complex. For example, substituting a dominant 7th chord with a minor 7th flat five chord in a progression can add a new dimension to your music. Mike Marshall’s online mandolin lessons at ArtistWorks delve into these advanced chord substitutions.

Smooth Transitions:

Practicing smooth transitions between chords is key to maintaining the flow of a song. This skill is crucial for live performances and recording sessions.

Learning from the Masters: Sierra Hull and Mike Marshall

Sierra Hull and Mike Marshall are two of the most respected names in bluegrass mandolin. Their expertise and teaching methods can be accessed through their comprehensive online mandolin lessons at ArtistWorks. These courses cover everything from basic techniques to advanced chord progressions, ensuring that players at all levels can benefit.

Why Learn Bluegrass Mandolin Online at ArtistWorks?

Expert Guidance:

Learning directly from renowned mandolinists like Sierra Hull and Mike Marshall means you’re getting top-tier instruction from musicians who have mastered the craft.

Structured Learning:

ArtistWorks offers a well-structured curriculum that takes you step-by-step through the learning process, making it easier to track your progress and build on your skills.

Interactive Feedback:

One of the unique features of ArtistWorks is the ability to submit videos of your playing and receive personalized feedback from your instructors. This direct interaction can significantly accelerate your learning process.

Flexibility:

Online lessons provide the flexibility to learn at your own pace, making it easier to fit practice into your busy schedule.

Expanding your mandolin chord vocabulary is essential for anyone serious about bluegrass mandolin. Advanced chords and techniques not only enhance your playing but also enrich your overall musicality. By taking bluegrass mandolin lessons from masters like Sierra Hull and Mike Marshall at ArtistWorks, you can gain invaluable insights and personalized instruction that will help you reach new heights in your mandolin journey. Start your online mandolin lessons today and experience the benefits of learning from the best in the field. Happy picking!

READ MORE:

Exploring Modal Sounds on the Mandolin in Bluegrass Music

Innovative Strumming Patterns for the Modern Bluegrass Mandolin Player

Exploring the Roots of Bluegrass: A Deep Dive into Historical Mandolin Styles