The mandolin is a stringed instrument with a distinctive teardrop-shaped body and eight strings, arranged in four pairs called courses. It is played with a plectrum, producing a bright, sharp sound. The instrument has its roots in European folk music, particularly from Italy, where the Neapolitan-style mandolin developed in the 18th century. Its strings are typically tuned like a violin (G, D, A, E), and it is widely used in various genres such as bluegrass, classical, folk, and Celtic music. The mandolin's fast, melodic capabilities, combined with its light, crisp sound, make it popular for both rhythm and lead playing.