[MinuteGal]

My grandfather played for the Chicago Mandolin orchestra in Orchestra Hall circa the forties (classical music). The instruments were of all pitches and tones, finely-tuned and crafted.

For encores, they would play Russian folk compositions. There's nothing like a full mandolin orchestra playing throbbing/passionate or merry/lively Russian folk music to make your toes tingle and your heart soar. These encores always brought standing ovations.

A classical mandolin orchestra is a thing of beauty to the ears.

I don't know if there are any more such orchestras. Milwaukee used to have one, I believe.

Leni

[ding_dong_daddy_from_dumas]

Mandolins (at least the bluegrass kind, not sure about Russian) are great for playing violin/viola/cello because the positions are the same.

[prairiebreeze]

I have a friend who plays (or at least used to play) for the Denver Mandolin Society. Thanks for the ping.