Gramophone Classical Music Podcast Mandolinist Avi Avital on his new album 'Song of the Birds' | Gramophone Classical Music Podcast
Aug 8, 2025
Avi Avital, a renowned mandolinist and leader of the ensemble Between Worlds, shares insights from his latest album, 'Song of the Birds.' He discusses the mandolin's rich history and unique role in various musical traditions. The conversation highlights how the album blends classical and folk music across Iberia, Southern Italy, and the Black Sea. Avital also explores the cultural connections fostered through music and the exciting spontaneity of live performances that bring audiences and musicians together.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Mandolin Is A Global, Evolving Instrument
- Avi Avital highlights the mandolin as a global plucked-string family instrument that predates bowed and reed instruments.
- He explains the modern mandolin evolved in Italy but kept diverse adaptations across cultures and genres.
Tuning And Craft Define Mandolin's Classical Role
- Avital compares the mandolin's tuning and role to the violin, noting its soprano melodic character tuned in fifths.
- He stresses instrument quality and maker collaboration shape its ability to project in classical halls.
Mandolin's Chameleon Quality Shapes The Project
- Avital describes the mandolin as chameleon-like, adapting folkloric color when placed in regional styles.
- He used that quality to shape Between Worlds' three programs: Iberia, South Italy and the Black Sea.