Classical Mandolin

Classical mandolin is a genre residing in the more refined precincts of string music, harkening back to its Baroque and Romantic-era flourishes and often embodying intricate, delicate styles influenced by traditional European compositions. The mandolin, with its shimmering, lute-like tone, is employed as a lead melodic instrument, weaving through complex arrangements traditionally meant for orchestral instruments. Artists such as Caterina Lichtenberg and Alison Stephens have elevated the profile of this genre, showcasing the mandolin's virtuosic potential through solo pieces, duets, and ensembles, sometimes with full orchestral backing. The repertoire spans from adaptations of Vivaldi's concerti to contemporary compositions, exuding elegance and a distinctly crisp sonority that conjures both pastoral simplicity and nuanced sophistication.

Bach: Sonatas and Partitas, Vol. 2

Chris Thile

Album - 15 Tracks - Released November 7, 2025