Transition from guitar to...
Hello!
I'm a guitarist and I'm becoming familiar with tunes and join in sessions quite regularly. Generally, though, I'm just figuring out the key and playing chords without really knowing the tunes. So, I want to pick up a new instrument and begin learning melodies.
Mandolin or tenor banjo is probably the obvious choice, but I love the deeper sounds of mandolas, bouzouki and octave mandolins. What should I go for? Any tips and tricks?
Also, info I'm coming up against online about tunings seems to be all over the place so any insight there would be great. I'm pretty good with alternate/open tunings on guitar so I'm not concerned about it, just curious.
Lastly, if anyone can recommend a shop that sells all of these instruments, preferably in the Scotland central belt, where I can go and try them out, that would be class. Many shops don't have the full set of options.
Cheers!