This book sets out to teach the reader how to play the mandolin by using inspiring music from some of the great musical traditions of the world especially arranged for the instrument. Includes CD!Ideal for the complete beginner there is no need for any previous musical knowledge.Invaluable for the existing player/improver looking for fresh ideas and exciting new tunes. By working through this unique book the reader will gain a sound knowledge of the mandolin plus a large and varied repertoire of traditional music from all over the world.By drawing on the music of countries such as Venezuala Rwanda Holland Trinidad Japan andAustralia as well as the more popular traditions of Ireland and North America this book will produce a more well-rounded mandolin player - a musician who will be inspired to look further into the exciting musical traditions of the world. Rather than being an exhaustive guide to all traditional styles of the world this book is a mandolin method which uses tunes from around the world to demonstrate the various techniques required to produce a competent musician. It is the sincere hope of the author that the student will be inspired by the music contained in this book and recording to look more deeply into styles of particular interest.