Guitar players who enjoy Dixieland music typically favor the sound of a 6-string banjo. Similar to regular banjos, but featuring metal guitar strings instead of nylon.
Open G tuning provides new opportunities for playing. Some models even feature pickups like electric guitars.
Choosing a banjo
Selecting a 6 string banjo requires careful thought and consideration, with many players seeking assistance from professionals to help select an instrument suitable to their needs and budget. Furthermore, having a tuner available that keeps the banjo tuned correctly is also crucial – these tuners can often be found for less than $20 and there are multiple choices to suit individual tastes and preferences.
An unfamiliar banjo can be difficult to learn if you’re unfamiliar with playing one. Tuning is different than guitar tuning, and so are its strings; additionally, its lower notes fall an octave below those found on 6-string guitars.
When searching for the ideal banjo, make sure it boasts high-quality construction. An exceptional banjo should be constructed from sturdy material such as wood or metal and should feature either an open or closed back. In addition, look for one with a smooth neck and deep enough nut slots to hold strings securely in place.
Make sure to choose a banjo equipped with an electric pickup for easy live band performance, or one with one that can be added later. Some models include preinstalled pickups while others allow users to add one later if desired.
Tuning the banjo
Tuning a 6-string banjo by ear may take practice. A tuner may be necessary when playing with other musicians or learning a different octave than originally tuned.
Once you have your D strings tuned in tune, proceed to tuning all other strings. Keep in mind that all of them should be tuned together as opposed to being in tune with a reference (such as note C on piano), meaning lower string should match higher one and vice versa across all strings.
Tuning a banjo requires starting off by finding an established baseline note. Tapping on the neck of the instrument to find its tone should suffice – once found, move onto more complex aspects of tuning a banjo.
There are various electronic tuners for banjo available, from clip-on models that attach directly to the headstock to models with display windows for each string’s pitch while playing them. Before first using any tuner for yourself it is essential that it is in good working condition.
Strings
The 6 string banjo offers more variation in tone and string gauge than its 4 and 5-string cousins, and often features nylon strings rather than metal ones like guitars and dobros. This pays homage to how some of the oldest banjos were originally strung over 100 years ago; some players feel this gives the instrument its unique sound and character.
The 6-string banjo can be tuned just like a guitar, though for optimal results it may be wiser to use strings designed specifically for banjo use (although regular guitar strings usually suffice). String gauge should match with both your banjo’s construction and desired tonal qualities – this may take some experimentation; keeping track of when your new strings were installed as well as noting what qualities or attributes they possess can help narrow in on what gauge is ideal. Keeping track of when and why new gauges were added will help narrowing in on which gauges work best with your banjo!
Though commonly associated with bluegrass music, the six string banjo is equally adept at performing other styles of music. With its ability to play guitar chords and its rich tone, this instrument is particularly adept at blues, country, dixieland, ragtime and jazz styles – though traditional bluegrass may present unique challenges on this instrument due to Scruggs style rolls being difficult for 6-string banjo players to perform.
Accessories
There are various accessories available to enhance the playing experience with your 6-string banjo, such as gig bags. A high-quality gig bag will protect your banjo from scratches and damage while offering convenient transportation and storage when not in use.
Tuners are another essential accessory, helping keep strings in tune and prevent them from loosening over time. By regularly using a tuner, it can prevent strings from becoming looser or worn down to lose pitch altogether. There are various types of tuners available; choose the one best suited to your needs and budget.
Be mindful when selecting the type of string for your banjo. A 6-string banjo requires different strings than 4-string ones, and it is essential that this information be considered when shopping for strings. Experimentation may help identify what works best with your banjo.
Consider whether or not you prefer a flat or radiused fingerboard when choosing an instrument. A flat fingerboard allows easier chord strumming; however, it may not suit bluegrass or Dixieland songs as easily. Therefore, radiused fingerboards tend to be superior choices for most players.