banjosnapper - Posted - 03/18/2010:  05:14:58

Most early Stroke Style pieces can be traced to a source, often (and in most cases) European melodies. The melody was then either directly adapted, as in the case of several fiddle tunes, or it was altered to better fit the nature of the banjo. Such is the case with a tune I just posted in the video section.
banjohangout.org/myhangout/vid...=&id=4395

This is the original, unchanged lead sheet melody for the Cracovienne Quickstep. What is interesting about this one is its relationship to the early banjo repertoire. It was transformed by a matter of a key change, added thumb string notes, and a very few minor changes into "Ethiopian Cracovienne" from the Briggs' Banjo Instructor of 1855. What better link could we find between European and African culture. The true nature of its origin and performance (Briggs') is unknown, but I certainly see it as a flattering blend of styles. That tune is one of the centerpieces of the Classic Stroke Style.

Edited by - banjosnapper on 03/18/2010 05:23:56

Cracovienne Comparison

stevel - Posted - 03/18/2010:  05:22:07

sounds great tim. you're obviously much more comfortable up the neck than i am on my Boucher.

cheers.

banjosnapper - Posted - 03/18/2010:  05:26:01

Thanks. The ogee marks line up really well on this instrument. Makes a jump up high a breeze.

Edited by - banjosnapper on 03/18/2010 05:26:38

stevel - Posted - 03/18/2010:  06:48:53

yeah, i need to work/play beyond the 5th and 7th fret positions more regularly....

banjosnapper - Posted - 03/19/2010:  12:15:19

Playing fiddle tunes will really challenge the upper register. Use some in the Buckley Book, or go directly to "da source"....Ryan's being a good one.

Bill Rogers - Posted - 03/19/2010:  12:32:27

Just great, Tim. Was that quickstep originally intended for banjo, fiddle, or????

banjosnapper - Posted - 03/19/2010:  13:01:36

It came from "Musician's Omnibus" and is what I call a "lead sheet"....suitable for any monophonic instrument in "C".