Bluegrass Banjo:

 Beginner students learn basic technique for both hands, and work through the basic right-hand patterns, or ‘rolls,’ that are the building blocks of the style.  Students will work through tunes from the standard bluegrass repertoire, and will become fluent in the different roles of the banjo, both in lead and backup playing.

As students progress, they are equipped to feel comfortable and confident playing in jam sessions with players of all levels.  We will work through arrangements of bluegrass standards, focusing on technique, accompaniment styles and improvisation. Topics covered will include speed building, tone production, developing solid time, improvisation, single-string and melodic-style lead playing and more.

Clawhammer Banjo:

Beginner banjo students can also learn the ancient and haunting style of playing called “clawhammer” or “frailing banjo.” Played without picks, and using a picking technique that goes “down” into the strings rather than “up,” this style is popular in American old-time music and creates a warm and mellow tone.  We will discuss the basic elements of clawhammer, including the frail stroke, drop-thumb technique and the classic “bumditty” stroke. Students will learn classic old-time banjo tunes, while learning about the history of the instrument and its role in an old-time ensemble.

See our about page for pricing and scheduling information.