Banjos add a unique charm and depth to musical arrangements, but it is essential that you find one that best complements your sound.
Resonator banjos feature a metal resonator which magnifies and projects its sound, making it an attractive option for bluegrass musicians due to its brighter tone and ability to stand out amongst a crowded mix.
Learning the Scales
Deering Goodtime Two banjo is an excellent instrument for beginners looking for quality sound, as its resonator makes it suitable for bluegrass and country playing styles. Plus, with 24 brackets and geared 5th tuning peg it provides ample support.
Removable resonators on this banjo can also make for easier “old timey” sound reproduction, which is great news for anyone trying to replicate that traditional old time sound and style predating bluegrass and Earl Scruggs by far. Playing banjo with resonator can truly represent its genre!
Of course, when purchasing a banjo there are other considerations such as budget and resale value that need to be considered. But ultimately it should be about finding something that speaks to you and feels right – your ideal instrument!
Learning the Melodies
Your journey here probably began because you want to learn banjo playing, perhaps inspired by Flatt and Scruggs or Abigail Washburn, Ron Block or Bela Fleck’s work.
No matter which banjo you prefer – open-back or resonator – there are certain basic things you should take into account before beginning to learn it. For instance, if your goal is clawhammer style banjo playing, an open-back banjo may be your ideal choice, as they possess a more gentle tone suitable for mountain music genres where volume competition between instruments may not exist.
American-made banjos like the Deering Goodtime Two offer low price points and great versatility, perfect for beginners as well as more advanced players alike. Removable resonators allow more modern styles such as finger picking to flourish with just 3-4 screws that hold it together so it’s quick and simple!
Learning the Chords
Many people mistakenly believe that quality banjos must be heavy; this, however, is not true with regard to resonator banjos.
Pros of resonator banjos include its ability to produce louder sound for live performances and its metal resonator helping brighten its tone, making it ideal for bluegrass players.
Resonator banjos provide players with the advantage of playing either claw hammer or Scruggs styles, making it an excellent option for beginners who may not yet know which style they wish to learn. Furthermore, their flexibility means resonator can easily be taken off if a more old timey sound is desired; just remove its three or four screws (more like bolts). Doing this takes only minutes. However, your sound will likely change without it present – though slightly quieter overall.
Learning to Tune
As we earn a commission when you shop through our links, at no additional cost to you, selecting a banjo can be challenging if you’re new to playing; look for something easy-to-learn that allows your skills to progress as they develop. Find an instrument with an affordable and comfortable neck. Some manufacturers employ geared tuners that will help the instrument remain in tune longer – an invaluable feature for beginners. Also invest in a gig bag to protect it during transportation. Once your banjo has been tuned, practice playing simple melodies using a pick, before moving on to chords. Practice until you can perform your desired song flawlessly and always remember to clean your instrument between uses so its strings remain healthy and clear sounding.