About the banjo
African slaves brought the banjo into the USA. They used gourds to create instruments that were similar to theirs. Accordingly, the first instruments were called “gourdbanjos”.
Modern banjos can be divided into ‘fourstring’, “five-string”, or sixstring”. These are further subdivided to those that have a detachable or resonator back. They are known as resonator banjos or open-back banjos.
You can also get a hybrid version called the ukulele, which George Formby used to popularize. It was used to accompany his singing of many (what was then considered) extremely risque ballads.
Buying A Banjo
You can expect to pay approximately PS150 for a beginner-friendly banjo and several thousand pounds for a high-performance, professional banjo. On sites such as eBay, you can often find used banjo for sale.
Playing the banjo
Banjos may be played using the popular strumming method. This is the same as that used by buskers who play guitars. This is where the left hand holds down several notes on the neck of a banjo, creating a chord. While the right-hand brushes across the strings at he banjo’s bridge, left-handed users can use the reverse hand position. Other ways to play include holding down individual strings with one hand and picking that string out with the other hand, arpeggio-style or Spanish guitar style. No matter what method is used it is important to know how the instrument works so you can play it quickly.
Looking after the banjo
Take care of your hands and trim nails before you begin to play – nails that are too long can cause serious damage to your fingerboard.
After every use, clean the banjo with an abrasive cloth. Before replacing the case, ensure that finger prints are removed from the instrument and that it is completely dried.
It is important to be cautious if the instrument is a 5-string banjo.
The banjo should be kept in a durable, well-made case.
The capo should be removed if you do not intend to play the instrument often.
Polish the metal and wood surfaces with a proprietary cleaner every few months and apply oil to the wood using a soft, clean cloth.