Jim from Ohio writes: Inspired by my experience at your jam and banjo camps I have focused more on singing, increasing playing speed and clarity and learning better to improvise (“the year of the melody”). I am spending less time on instrumentals.… Read More
Duane writes: In BNL this month you mention seeing you run a jam hosted by Steve Martin on your website. Can’t find it anywhere… Would you mind sending me the link?… Read More
I just turned 61 at the end of February, and find myself reflecting on getting older and “taking stock”. I count myself lucky to have a career in music. The chance both to perform, in many places, with many fine musicians, and to teach people how to play music keeps my life interesting and fulfilling.… Read More
My Elban sounds like a “real banjo,” which it is (full 11” head, some cavity created by the resonator, though not fully as big a cavity as on a regular resonator banjo). Not the greatest banjo I’ve ever played, but a convincing sound if not up to my Granada. Through my Centaur amp, it sounds like the banjo itself sounds, unamplified. … Read More
I’d like to share with you the method I have used for years to iron out problems in my playing, in the shortest possible time. The “loop” I refer to means taking a short segment of a piece and playing it repeatedly in rhythm without stopping.
The “loop” I refer to means taking a short segment of a piece and playing it repeatedly in rhythm without stopping. Using this method will help you tackle many different kinds of challenges.… Read More