“Amazing Grace” is a musical work with a fantastically rich history and one that has made an impact across cultures. Originally written in 1772 by English poet and Anglican clergyman, John Newton, the piece has been performed and recorded by hundreds of artists in dozens of different stylistic interpretations throughout the centuries. “Amazing Grace” has had an immense impact on American popular music in particular, and has been performed by various iconic artists including Aretha Franklin, Joan Baez, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Sam Cooke, Judy Collins, and many more.

In this online mandolin lesson, Grammy Award-winning musician, 4-time IBMA “Mandolin Player of the Year,” and ArtistWorks master bluegrass mandolin instructor, Sierra Hull, teaches how to play the melody to “Amazing Grace” in the key of G Major. She also details some essential introductory music theory concepts that are utilized in this song and can be applied to many others as you continue to progress on the mandolin. To explore Part 2 of this lesson and more, join Sierra's online mandolin course here.

“One of the things that I want to bring to my student’s attention with ‘Amazing Grace’ is its use of waltz time,” Sierra explains. “Rather than the typical 4 beats per measure, in waltz time there are only 3. We’ve all heard songs like this many times throughout our lives and may not have even realized it.”

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

Taking the time to learn how to play “Amazing Grace” on the mandolin is not only beneficial in that you’re expanding your repertoire to include a timeless classic, it also helps reinforce your knowledge and practice of fundamental music theory concepts and scales.

“When you’re learning to play the ‘Amazing Grace’ melody, the best way to start is by reviewing your G Major scale,” Sierra explains. “Scales are so fundamental to everything we play in music and are the foundation of nearly every melody.”

To learn how to play “Amazing Grace” on the mandolin and understand the fundamental music theory behind this prolific piece, dive into this online mandolin lesson from Sierra Hull:

Learn to Play “Amazing Grace” (Part 1) with Sierra Hull:

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Have you always wanted to learn how to play bluegrass mandolin? Through our comprehensive mandolin lessons online and Video Exchange Learning platform here at ArtistWorks, you can learn from internationally renowned players, like Sierra Hull, and get personal feedback on your playing.

Sierra’s course starts with the basics and teaches everything from beginner mandolin to advanced performance techniques and classic bluegrass tunes. So, whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced player, all levels are welcome and all students will grow and improve their skills as mandolinists and musicians.

Try out some free sample music lessons here and see what makes ArtistWorks courses some of the best online music lessons around!

READ MORE:

Bluegrass Mandolin Lesson: Setting Your Tone Goals with Sierra Hull

My Bluegrass Heart: An Interview with Béla Fleck, Bryan Sutton, & Sierra Hull

ArtistWorks Instructors Sierra Hull & Missy Raines Win 2021 IBMA Awards