learn banjo

The Deering folks and I have been allies over the years, and they recently asked if I’d review one of their recent Goodtime Banjo variants.… Read More

I am proud to announce this month the launch of my Wernick Method Teacher Certified Jam Classes. As you dear readers may well know, I have for some time been championing learning to jam first as a fun and fundamental way to start playing any bluegrass instrument. Great things happen when people learn to jam, because it’s fun and so involving that they’re motivated—to play more and practice more.… Read More

First, big congratulations to Steve Martin for winning the Bluegrass Grammy! From my research, this is the first time that the Bluegrass Grammy has gone to a banjo instrumental album. … Read More

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

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

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

For the past several years Joan and I have been invited to perform and teach in Morehead, KY by one of our favorite musicians and people, Don Rigsby. Don heads the Kentucky Center for Traditional Music, bringing attention and learning to music there in the eastern part of the state, between Lexington and West Virginia.… 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’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