Tuning
It is important to tune your banjo. If it’s not in tune then it won’t sound good. It takes a while to learn how the string should sound. Tuning is quick and simple with electronic chromatic tuning devices.
The most common tuning for banjos in the world is “G tuning”. Tune your Banjo using the guide provided below.
D – 1st String
B – second string
G – third string (one octave less than the fifth string)
D – Fourth string (one octave higher and the first string)
G – 5th String (the string that is at the top when holding a banjo).
Changing Strings
After a few attempts, changing banjo string is a simple task that is part of routine maintenance. It is best to only change one banjo string at a moment. If you are having trouble, just take a look at the way other strings have been attached to the instrument. The first step is to slip the string loop over the peg in the tailpiece. If you are having trouble slipping your loop over the tailpiece, you can use a sharp pencil to round the loop. Once you’ve got the loop over the peg and the string is through the tailpiece, you can feed the other side of the string into the hole. All you need to do now is feed the end string through the peg and tune it. It will take a couple of days for new strings to stretch. Cut off the excess strings with a pair or wire cutters.
Maintenance and cleaning
After each performance, you should use a different type of cloth to wipe the instrument clean. Use a different type of cloth to clean the strings (be sure you clean them under the strings). You might also want to apply a conditioner to the string.
Change the string every 4-6 week or when it feels “dirty”. Apply pencil lead in the nut slots to keep lubricated. Use ultra fine steel wool for cleaning and polishing fretboards and the fingerboard. Apply lemon oils to fingerboard.