Although the mandolin is now regarded as a marginal instrument in the classical music world, a century ago it was one of the most widely played instruments in Europe and North America. Regularly used in operas and symphonies, and forming the basis of plucked instrument orchestras, the mandolin could also be heard in major concert halls. The Classical Mandolin traces the rise of the modern Neapolitan mandolin, examines the lives and works of leading specialist composers (such as Raffaele Calace and Carlo Munier), and looks at its use by mainstream composers from Verdi and Mahler to Schoenberg and Boulez. The mandolin's enduring popularity in folk music is also discussed. Sparks looks finally at present-day orchestras and soloists, examines aspects of technique, and offers guidance on specialist organisations worldwide.