Most new (and even some experienced) mandolin players feel constricted by the higher register of the instrument and tend to play only in the open position. Playing or improvising in the second or third position can be a challenge, but there's a simple method for learning the basics. Using the tune "Waterbound", we'll learn to extend melodies or improvisations up the neck.

"Waterbound" is in 4/4 time and in the key of D. Here is the basic melody of "Waterbound" in open position:

The first phrase:

The second phrase:

The third phrase:

There is a 1/16 rest immediately before the slide.

And the fourth phrase:

Once you put all of these phrases together, you have the entire tune. Become familiar with this melody by practicing it several times.