Beginner Practice Tips /// Beginner Mandolin Lesson Series (Part 15)

[@robertshorthill4153]

I finally found Norman Blake's version of the Old Hollow Poplar and have been trying to work it out by ear. I became obsessed with getting it, as I have been after it since I first heard it. It is different and more interesting than the traditional version, in my opinion. The first measure, after the pick up phrase, has an open D, followed by a slide to the fifth fret D on the A string, followed by an up stroke back on the open D string, then the B, C, D, open E run to complete the measure. Three Ds in a row, it seems, an octave apart. Norman plays it like this which makes it a signature lick for him. Interesting and in the key of G. I'm told this version was in one of his instruction books, but I don't have this book so had to figure out how he was playing it by ear. A fun tune and very relaxing, once I got it. Cheers, David and mando friends. Bob

[@stewartseidel9165]

@Robert Shorthill I've tabbed out Norman's (actually Nancy's) version of Hollow Poplar for mandolin. It's a wonderful version. If you want, I'd be happy to send you the PDF.

[@robertshorthill4153]

@@stewartseidel9165 thanks very much, my friend. I feel I've got 99.9% as Norman plays it, and since he rarely plays a tune the exact same more than once, who's to say he wouldn't play the slightly varied way it works and sounds for me..... The opening lick was a bit tricky at first, but it works well with the triple D notes I believe. Thanks again my friend. Many cheers and happy picking to you. Bob in Montana

[@DavidBenedictMandolin]

Norman and Nancy are so good!

[@stevetalent8255]

1% better for each day works out to 37.8% better in 365 days.

[@stevetalent8255]

Oops. 37.8 times better.