Re: Use of Tremolo on Electric Mandolin
On electric, tremolo is more of an effect, a coloring, a variation of expressiveness, than a means of producing a longer-lasting note.
It also seems like more of an affectation. And since it's not necessary physically, it seems only natural to use it less.
As to the 4-string vs 8-string question, I would think that would be decided on a case-by-case basis. I play a 4-string electric, and use tremolo very little with it. I can see how that might change with double strings, but still, I imagine the decision would be driven by aesthetic rather than physical concerns. That is, whether the piece, or passage within a piece, calls for that sound, rather than how to produce a longer note.
But that's just my opinion. I could be wrong. - Dennis Miller
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