I know I'm not the only guy at the Banjo Hangout that bought a banjo after a conversation with a builder. I get excited when I hear a builder talk about what could be. Can't help it! I wanna buy HIS version of the banjo of MY dreams.
Yes, it's a little like trying to buy passion in a bottle. In this case it comes as wood and wire. But add in a little hands-on passion of your own and you've got yourself the makings of a real play-fest, trying 'em all out, that is. Or, you just might have found yourself a life-long musical partner. It doesn't get much better than that.
It's true, many of today's roster of fine banjo builders got into the business because they genuinely wanted to make a better instrument (we all know it certainly wasn't for the money). But the real joy of owning a banjo built by the hands of one you find inspiring is, you end up with a piece of their personality inside. Dunno how they do it. Most of them don't know either. But it's pure joy to make music on a hand-made instrument, inspired, created and powered by passion.
I got so jazzed just looking at the banjos built by today's luthiers, I decided to use available (and free) technology go on a personal journey from my computer and talk with those that wanted to share their stories. I didn't reach everyone, but the ones that took the time to share philosophies, woods, personal convictions and more I recorded for others to see. Many gave shop tours. Some played. All demonstrated the personalities, goals and goods for which they've become recognized.
So here they are for you to enjoy as well.
What can you say about banjo-building pioneer Chuck Ogsbury that hasn't already been said? He's advanced the art more than any other builder in the past 40 years! www.omebanjos.com
Oh, there was a sound issue (as in NO sound in the first 3 minutes of this program. Not to worry, though. Most of what didn't make it was just my superlative introduction to a man that needs none. The good stuff starts when the sound does. :)
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Brooks Masten's banjos are the REAL DEAL! I don’t think anyone building instruments today puts more love and joy into their work. And they sound fabulous. You gotta love Brook’s banjos! www.brooksbanjos.com
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Bob Flesher is truly an artist (as well as an award-winning player!). While you’re looking at his stunning work, check out a few CDs. www.flesherbanjos.com
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Jason Romero's work is amazing. And his designs and principles are timeless. Jason put in some time at Wildwood banjos along the way. You gotta love what he’s doing for the art of the clawhammer banjo. www.romerobanjos.com
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Tom Nechville. Tom makes an extraordinary banjo... and thanks to that front-row-seat tour, now you know why! Having Barry St. Mane (another BHO member) there to play those beauties at the end was just icing on the cake. Thanks Tom and Barry! www.nechville.com
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Colin Vance is a new face on the scene. But his designs and craftsmanship are timeless. Check out his website for more www.vancebanjos.com
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Craig Evans spends most of his time posting "how to thrive with autism" news and encouragement at Autism Hangout. The rest of the time he plays fiddle and banjo, occasionally taking breaks to let the dogs out or teach marketing at a local college in St. Paul, MN.
You can read more about his banjo exploits at www.frailin.com.
Banjo makes life really good. :)
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