Let’s Get This Straight: Controversial Topics
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This month’s column jumps headlong into some issues where I will rail against “common wisdom”.… Read More
Jam Etiquette re Breaks and Choices in Recording Banjo
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Patrick writes: I picked up a copy of your jam etiquette flyer. Enjoy your tips a lot – Something is really bugging me though. … Read More
The Year of Good Tone
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Lenny asks: How do you define good tone? What are some things to look out for that detract from good tone and what are some specifics that promote good tone?… Read More
Back to Basics: Are You a Successful Musician? and Pick Noise
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The recent financial meltdown is doing a number on all of us. Everyone’s financial outlook is worse than it was. We all know that life is not about money, and yet shortages of money create changes and can put a damper on plans and expectations. Pro musicians wonder if our careers are threatened or just maybe, we’re better-positioned because “people will always need music.” Probably some of both. Time will tell.
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Productive Practicing
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Bill writes: Hey! I’m 53 with a family and work 6 days a week. I’ve been playing for 2 years but gotten to the point where I don’t feel like I’m using the little time I have for productive practicing. Could you suggest what I should be doing! … Read More
Getting Away from Strict Memorizing and Creating Your Own Solos
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Will J. writes: I have been taking banjo lesson for about a year and a half now. My instructor is a great banjo player, winning competitions at major events. My problem seems to be that he wants me to learn songs by ear. I currently have about 30 songs in my repertoire, mostly traditional Scruggs tunes. … Read More
Can’t Find People to Jam With?
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Think “no one where I live is into bluegrass”? Maybe you’re wrong and don’t know it. There may be someone like you, just as interested, just as skilled, but like you, a closet player. … Read More
Stepping Into a Group
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Jim from Colorado Springs here with an update on my progress. I was invited to play in a group called “The Heirlooms”. The name fits because we are all over 50 and in my case 62. It is really enjoyable. … Read More
Advice to Young Player
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In March of 06 I purchased a banjo flight case from Gary Price of Oklahoma. It was #008. In short, I really like it, the best case I’ve ever had. … Read More
Breaking Out of the Intermediate Rut, and Learning to Play in D
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Gary from British Columbia asks some great and typical questions: First, I would like to thank you for all the encouragement you give new and developing pickers on your videos and website. I have been picking for 6 years, in an active bluegrass band for 2 years, and practicing daily for the last 14 months. … Read More