Learning a new instrument can be intimidating for older adults who already have established lives, leading them to give up. But you shouldn’t give up; persevering will pay off in spades!
However, an openback banjo is an ideal instrument for beginner players! One of its greatest advantages is being instantly capable of producing sound with no time wasted in learning how to play it.
Choosing a Banjo
The banjo has an inimitable sound that lends itself well to many different genres of music, from classic rock and bluegrass to old-time and oldies. As one of the most iconic instruments in popular culture today, its versatile versatility can complement many genres of genre.
Your banjo choices range from no-frills student models to handcrafted professional instruments with substantial price tags; ultimately, it all depends on your budget and commitment to learning the instrument.
Beginners should focus on purchasing an open back 5-string banjo as a starting point, since most modern bluegrass and clawhammer styles require short fifth strings that can only be played using this kind of instrument.
Deering Goodtime banjos are an excellent starting point for beginners as they cost under $300 while providing sufficient tone without incurring extra expenses such as resonators. Be sure to purchase some basic accessories such as a case, fingerpicks, an inexpensive tuner and the Earl Scruggs banjo method book as well.
Getting Started
Selecting the ideal banjo can make or break your success as a beginner musician. Consider factors like playability, sound quality and durability as you search for your ideal instrument – ideally try out several banjos before making a final choice!
Once you’ve decided on your perfect banjo purchase, be sure to purchase essential accessories such as a case, strings and fingerpicks as well as an electronic tuner which will enable accurate intonation on your instrument.
Once your equipment is in order, it’s time to start practicing! Begin by working on some basic chords and scales; these fundamentals will serve as a solid basis for further musical knowledge. Daily practice with the metronome will enhance precision and accuracy as you build upon these foundational pieces. To ensure consistency over time, organize your practice sessions into smaller segments so they remain focused for maximum progress.
Finding a Lesson
Step two is finding time and place for practice. For some, this may mean building it into their daily schedule – whether that means leaving their banjo on display in the living room so they can play it while watching television, or carrying it with them for driving across town to work.
Once you know what kind of music you want to create with your banjo, the next step should be learning its basics: rolls and clawhammer licks.
Chords are essential components of bluegrass music and will allow you to expand your songlist. Sometimes a chord can help expand a melody that’s already in your head; eventually you should also practice major and minor scales until you discover your unique playing style; I once read that pianist Glenn Gould practiced his pieces by visualizing them mentally!
Practicing
Repetitive practice is vital, yet marathon sessions may lead to injuries such as tendonitis or carpal tunnel syndrome. Therefore, practicing for shorter sessions more frequently throughout the day is more effective at keeping interest up while strengthening overall finger strength and dexterity.
There are various styles of playing banjo. Bluegrass is one such style which uses a resonator to increase volume and produce a rich sound; this style also serves well in jam sessions with other musicians.
There are also open back banjos without resonators that are often used in folk music and played using three finger picks. These instruments tend to produce a more subdued tone. Travel banjos fold their neck back onto their heads for easier transportability.