Banjo Bullies Needn’t Peel Paint and Other Jam Etiquette Issues

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Just last weekend I really wanted to jam and there was a good one going in the campground at our local Bluegrass on the River festival. I watched and listened… and didn’t get out my banjo. Why? … 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

Work Less on Instrumentals, More on Singing? The Year of the Melody

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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

Find a Lead Singer; Backup Video; The Prewar Sound

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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