I really want to get a Telecaster Mandolin made by J.L. Smith Mandolins. The five string model really intrigues me. The single strings would lend themself to bending and other ‘guitaristic’ sounds…but with the tonal range of the mandolin. If you’re interested in learning to play the mandolin, read below to find out about private lessons with Michael.

Michael ‘Gonzo’ Gonzalez has taught people of all ages, background, and levels how to play the mandolin. Learn to play mandolin to any style of music. From traditional techniques like Bluegrass, Celtic and Italian to more contemporary sounds of Pop, Jazz, and Folk. In addition Gonzo teaches Mandola, Bazouki, and related instruments. He will delivers mandolin lessons throughout Whatcom county (WA). Michael has students in Lynden, Ferndale, Nooksack, Blaine, Bellingham, and Everson, WA.

• Rhythm Mandolin
• Strumming Patterns
• Counting + Timing Drills
• Genre Rhythmic Profiles
• Chord Colors
• Capo + Chord Transposing
• Singing + Playing
• Chord Substitutions
• Movable Chord Forms
• Mandolin Picking Techniques
• Tremolo Slides
• Crosspicking/Reels
• Arpeggios
• Lead Mandolin
• Movable Scales
• Pentatonic Grips
• Blues Boxes
• Chord/Scale Grips
• Scale Modes

Listen to Michael playing the Mandolin on music he produced for this public service announcement: