I’ve played the acoustic guitar on the praise team for the past six years but decided to switch to the mandolin. The praise team (without me) consists of one acoustic guitar, bass guitar, piano and keyboard. I doubled the preexisting guitar so much that I decided to switch to the mandolin to provide something unique.
I’ve been studying the mandolin from several sources and it's giving me a fairly well-rounded study. Most of it is generally bluegrass focused. Mike Marshall does add other material in the mix.
I can play through most of the lesson music and exercises as written albeit slower and not perfect as I learn. I’ve been experimenting with playing the weekly music for the church praise team, which includes both contemporary and traditional songs. Generally it’s the lead vocal lines or SATB, and sometimes chords are written on the staff. Hymnal music, however, is just piano and SATB. Their are no mandolin parts at all; I have to make it up on my own.
I’m struggling with what I could do on the mandolin that will allow me to contribute musically to the collective performance. Playing the melody, strumming/chop chords, inserting tremolos, and perhaps adding pentatonic notes seems worthy. When, where and how or anything else is unclear.
I’m wondering if there is some secret for how I should approach this music (a.k.a making up parts) that all of you experienced players do. Any advice and guidance to help get me started would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!!
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