The Mandolin and Bouzouki of Tim O’Brien – Tim O’Brien

Tim O’Brien’s artistry is unique, crossing boundaries between bluegrass, old time, Irish, country and folk music styles. His heartfelt singing, instrumental virtuosity and profound songwriting have put him at the very pinnacle of today’s acoustic performers.

Tim O’Brien’s course will be a boon to mandolin and bouzouki (octave mandolin) players who want to improve their technique, develop ideas and learn new repertoire. Whether he’s breaking down an Irish slip jig, an old time mountain ballad, a bluegrass tune or an original country/pop song, Tim brings his brilliant musicianship and formidable technique to bear, making these pieces fun and enlightening for learning players.

The tunes and techniques that Tim teaches can be played on either instrument. Switching between mandolin and bouzouki (they are tuned to the same notes one octave apart), he demonstrates right and left hand techniques and the advantages of each for soloing, song accompaniment and how to get the most out of their respective textures and tonalities.

Each song or instrumental that Tim teaches will bring you greater facility on your instrument. They include “Down in a Willow Garden,” “The High Road,” “Lay Down Your Weary Tune,” “One Girl Cried,” “More Love,” “The Kid on the Mountain” and “Travelers.”

Note: Even if you don’t have a bouzouki, there’s plenty of material on this lesson to keep mandolinists busy for a long time!