A mandolin is a stringed musical instrument in the lute family and is generally plucked with a pick. It most commonly has four courses of doubled strings tuned in unison, thus giving a total of 8 strings.  The mandolin is a key instrument in bluegrass music, since it was played by Kentuckian Bill Monroe, the "Father of Blue Grass Music."

Kentucky is home to several luthiers who specialize in mandolin building or repair.  They range from full-time professionals to dedicated amateurs.