Basics: Note Reading, Chris Thiele Technique, Bluegrass, Classical, Blues, Rock, Jazz, Tabs, Improvisation. Advanced Literature: Chris Thiele, J.S. Bach, David Grisman. Mandolin instruction: Since each string is doubled, it may take until 7th or 8th grade for finger strength to be sufficient for the Mandolin. Young students may start as young as age 4 on Acoustic Violin as long as a parent or guardian will observe the lesson and practice with the child at home. Otherwise, 7 to 9 years old is the optimum age to start violin without parental supervision (depending on the maturity of the student). After a few years we add the Mandolin to the Curriculum.