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Banjophobic - Posted - 01/12/2011: 19:53:33
Ok, its a new year and time for me to pick you folks brains and get some feedback. What topics would you like to see covered this year in the LOTW videos? Ive had some mention more things geared toward pure beginners, and a return to seeing some vids on pure licks....thoughts anyone?
rbmalone2000 - Posted - 01/12/2011: 20:14:01
Some more scruggs or jd back up would be great! Maybe work all the way through a single verse and chorus to a song. As it would be played in a jam or band setting.....Just a thought
farm48 - Posted - 01/12/2011: 20:31:55
Beginner to intermediate backup. I can play leads but get lost after that. Thanks, Bob...
Banjophobic - Posted - 01/12/2011: 21:06:35
quote:
Originally posted by farm48
Beginner to intermediate backup. I can play leads but get lost after that. Thanks, Bob...
There is a ton of info already posted that should cover that. Check out the vids under backup:
jsutergraphix.com/LOTW/
Possom - Posted - 01/12/2011: 21:25:01
Maybe do a vid on setups or something. Maybe a how to set intonation, or setting head tension, TP adjustment RR spike install. So much could be done in this area though the time constraint of youtube would be a problem. So many ppl post on these topics it would be helpful for the beginners to actually see it. You've covered so much as it is hard to think of something you haven't covered. Pure lick vids would be nice, I'm always looking new hot licks...who doesn't love those!
adriansmith - Posted - 01/12/2011: 21:26:38
A question I have after watching some of your videos is how do you incorporate licks to compliment a melody? Is it that after playing licks and different variations of them, you begin to get a feel for where to accentuate certain notes so you can hear the melody? Or are licks a different animal? Can you just play a series of licks in a certain key as a break and that's that?
Which brings me to my next question. You've got "g licks" "c licks" etc... Does that mean you play them while you're playing that chord in a song, or you can play those licks anywhere in a song of that key?
Also, are there licks that can transition from a chord to another, like the bass will do a walk up to the next chord? I've seen some walk up style backup you posted, which is great, but what if you're playing lead?
Another helpful thing you could think about for us beginners is to play barebones melody and verse parts to certain songs, then have other videos to explain how you might dress it up a bit. I took a beginners bluegrass banjo last year (and beginners clawhammer last semester) with Wayne erbsen out of Warren Wilson college in swannanoa nc and that's how he does it. It's helpful because you get to know the tune but you learn to improvise your rolls into a tune you already know. One piece that was missing ( likely because it was a beginners class) was how to incorporate licks into it. Actually licks were totally absent.
A few thoughts. Just got back from the bar so if something isn't making sense ask me about it and I'll try to clarify tomorrow.
Adrian
The KIDD - Posted - 01/12/2011: 21:30:40
In light of alotta recent threads about improv that NEVER get resolved or bring any real understanding by the spoken word. Id say coverin a few standard breaks with several different phrasing options to Counter the melody, Color it, create diff syncopations, make FUN of it, You know, like WE do all over our pages..
.
Maybe give 3 exps for each new phrase and diff connector phrases to get into it?
KIDD
bent finger - Posted - 01/12/2011: 23:08:42
Beginner and intermediate would be good.There is not much banjo info in Australia !!!
Pick One - Posted - 01/13/2011: 01:58:26
quote:
Originally posted by rbmalone2000
Some more scruggs or jd back up would be great! Maybe work all the way through a single verse and chorus to a song. As it would be played in a jam or band setting.....Just a thought
I second the motion. Playing backup actually is more interesting than playing leads for me at my beginners level.
John, thanks for all the helpful info you post. Looking forward to your new lessons what ever you decide to do.
Tam_Zeb - Posted - 01/13/2011: 01:59:41
Hi John
Happy New Year
Great to hear you are planning to do more LOTW.
You've covered so much already it's hard to think of a subject you haven't already touched on.
The original idea was aimed at teaching a few basic licks to beginners to help get them started but you've taken this idea and added so much more.
You are a great inspiration to us all and I am forever grateful to you for the help and encouragement you have given me these past few years.
Thank you
phb - Posted - 01/13/2011: 02:35:52
I'm a newbie so I don't know what you have done so far. Perhaps the topic of harmonics would be interesting. I wonder whether they are played with open strings only or whether there is a technique for playing harmonics while fretting the strings (this is often done on the guitar). I guess the fingerpicks would be in the way when trying that.
OSCAR82AA - Posted - 01/13/2011: 04:01:48
Hey Banjophobic ,
I would love to hear some of your expertise on set-up of the banjo.
And maybe cover your break to Remington Ride of youall on the youtube.
That break had everything in there. Fantastic !
gospelman97 - Posted - 01/13/2011: 05:05:52
Formatting a Scruggs style solo in the Keys of C and D similar to the way you did this in the key of G with "9 pound hammer." Thanks!
banjobub - Posted - 01/13/2011: 06:55:40
HI John,, first of all thanks for all your postings, there is something in each to learn from,,
I for one would like to see some licks or styles on the more modern playing like Ron Block in particular his string choking technique.. also ways to improvise this modern style,,
as an old banjo teacher from back in the 70's I really appreciate all your efforts,,
marklori - Posted - 01/13/2011: 07:23:57
I'd personally benefit from a few demonstrations on developing breaks. I understand about picking out the melody notes, but need work on working that into roll patterns and embellishing with licks, etc. The mechanics of what you do to develop the break as well as the mindset (if that makes sense). I can't come up with a break on the fly and usually struggle to get rolls incorporated while staying in time when trying to work something out.
Thanks for all you've done to date. There's more there than I've had time to fully appreciate. It is nice to know the vids are there when I have time to really work on developing as a player. Much of it is a bit above my current level of skill, but you break it all down so that it's not over my head. Very much appreciated.
axsis - Posted - 01/13/2011: 07:44:19
John, As I have posted many times, thanks for doing this. As TAB ZEP posted above its great that you are doing it.
Cheers
Don
archtop717 - Posted - 01/13/2011: 07:59:24
Single string techniques and single string tech playing up the neck and combining it with rolls.
Banjophobic - Posted - 01/13/2011: 09:01:33
quote:
Originally posted by phb
I'm a newbie so I don't know what you have done so far. Perhaps the topic of harmonics would be interesting. I wonder whether they are played with open strings only or whether there is a technique for playing harmonics while fretting the strings (this is often done on the guitar). I guess the fingerpicks would be in the way when trying that.
Harmonics can be played across open strings, in the 'usual' places. But they can also be produced with other techniques and are called 'artificial harmonics'-just like guitar.
Banjophobic - Posted - 01/13/2011: 09:11:37
quote:
Originally posted by rbmalone2000
Some more scruggs or jd back up would be great! Maybe work all the way through a single verse and chorus to a song. As it would be played in a jam or band setting.....Just a thought
Hey, check out the "formatting banjo" videos:
jsutergraphix.com/LOTW/#formating
Banjophobic - Posted - 01/13/2011: 09:13:48
quote:
Originally posted by marklori
I'd personally benefit from a few demonstrations on developing breaks. I understand about picking out the melody notes, but need work on working that into roll patterns and embellishing with licks, etc. The mechanics of what you do to develop the break as well as the mindset (if that makes sense). I can't come up with a break on the fly and usually struggle to get rolls incorporated while staying in time when trying to work something out.
Thanks for all you've done to date. There's more there than I've had time to fully appreciate. It is nice to know the vids are there when I have time to really work on developing as a player. Much of it is a bit above my current level of skill, but you break it all down so that it's not over my head. Very much appreciated.
Try looking at the videos labeled "Building Scruggs Solos" here:
jsutergraphix.com/LOTW/#solos
Banjophobic - Posted - 01/13/2011: 09:15:13
Thanks for the input folks-keep the ideas coming.
tom elder - Posted - 01/13/2011: 09:17:49
John have you done anything on1/4 tones?
Banjophobic - Posted - 01/13/2011: 09:20:38
quote:
Originally posted by tom elder
John have you done anything on1/4 tones?
Quarter tones in what regard? I think Ive covered them as durations in playing patterns, like quarter note pinches and explained them in the Metronome sticky. What else would be helpful you think?
BanjoFlyboy - Posted - 01/13/2011: 09:26:25
John, Maybe get a young actress in a mini-skirt to do your demos on the banjo. Ha Ha
Banjophobic - Posted - 01/13/2011: 09:34:02
quote:
Originally posted by BanjoFlyboy
John, Maybe get a young actress in a mini-skirt to do your demos on the banjo. Ha Ha
yeah, and then no one will know what the video was about---
spinley - Posted - 01/13/2011: 10:01:53
John I recently read a post I think was called beginners forum. After reading the post I realized that I have forgotten what it was like to be a beginner with the banjo. Maybe I am wrong but it seems that there are a lot of beginners who are reluctant to ask questions that are basic to someone that has been playing along time. Like- is the first string the short one on top, basic banjo parts, hand position, tuning, basic roll and chord patterns. Just my thoughts, thanks for all you do. Here is the link to forum I mentioned. You could fill up a year of video with these comments. banjohangout.org/topic/191622
Stuart
Edited by - spinley on 01/13/2011 10:05:45
marklori - Posted - 01/13/2011: 10:20:22
Thanks John. Looks like just what the doctor ordered. I'm looking forward to working on this.
[/quote]
Try looking at the videos labeled "Building Scruggs Solos" here:
jsutergraphix.com/LOTW/#solos
[/quote]
stillearning - Posted - 01/13/2011: 10:22:09
John: Not Complaining' but I can't keep up with the lessons already done. I don't know how you keep doing it. You must have a very understanding family. But I do thank you for you're great effort and keep them coming(lessons that is).
Thanks Again- Stillearning (Dave)
ELWOOD - Posted - 01/13/2011: 11:08:19
Hey , I loved the Theory series. very well done. I saw a lil confusion going on there as some were not on the page. That does not mean that its not welcome.... ok I am a newbie 3 finger picker. learned the rolls , learned how to use them together can thumb lead a tune , play in G and alil D . lets explore the cool transitions between the 1- 4-5- relative minor, G to F , D turn arounds etc. hope i used the right words here as i wish to be understood...Steve
Banjophobic - Posted - 01/13/2011: 11:13:25
quote:
Originally posted by ELWOOD
Hey , I loved the Theory series. very well done. I saw a lil confusion going on there as some were not on the page. That does not mean that its not welcome.... ok I am a newbie 3 finger picker. learned the rolls , learned how to use them together can thumb lead a tune , play in G and alil D . lets explore the cool transitions between the 1- 4-5- relative minor, G to F , D turn arounds etc. hope i used the right words here as i wish to be understood...Steve
Steve
Some of the thoery vids are missing? Hmm, I checked and they all seem current. Let me know if you dont see them all listed.
Banjophobic - Posted - 01/13/2011: 11:14:37
quote:
Originally posted by farm48
Beginner to intermediate backup. I can play leads but get lost after that. Thanks, Bob...
Look here:
jsutergraphix.com/LOTW/#backup
Banjophobic - Posted - 01/13/2011: 11:17:14
Ok, thanks for the input. Here's something to point out that will save some time and repetition. If you are looking for a spcific topic, like 'Scruggs backup", check the link and search by titles. Many of the suggestions have already been covered with a video(s). This will save time in the thread and keep some new,uncovered topics on the forefront of the conversation-thanks!
jimh269b - Posted - 01/13/2011: 14:03:17
what ever john teaches,you can bet you will pick a lot great stuff,he is great teacher
Banjophobic - Posted - 01/14/2011: 13:07:50
quote:
Originally posted by spinley
John I recently read a post I think was called beginners forum. After reading the post I realized that I have forgotten what it was like to be a beginner with the banjo. Maybe I am wrong but it seems that there are a lot of beginners who are reluctant to ask questions that are basic to someone that has been playing along time. Like- is the first string the short one on top, basic banjo parts, hand position, tuning, basic roll and chord patterns. Just my thoughts, thanks for all you do. Here is the link to forum I mentioned. You could fill up a year of video with these comments. banjohangout.org/topic/191622
Stuart
Yes Ive been thinking about a pure beginners series for the LOTW videos too. Maybe some newbies/rank beginners would like to give some suggestions in this thread. It would be nice to hear from them.
Hammerknocker - Posted - 01/15/2011: 18:16:14
It would be great if you could balance the audio between your narration and the banjo. I have to turn up the audio very high to hear what you are saying...then the banjo is super loud. Other than that the videos are great. Thanks for the postings!
Tam_Zeb - Posted - 01/16/2011: 01:08:08
quote:
Originally posted by Hammerknocker
It would be great if you could balance the audio between your narration and the banjo. I have to turn up the audio very high to hear what you are saying...then the banjo is super loud. Other than that the videos are great. Thanks for the postings!
Hi Hammerknocker
Personally I have no problems with the audio on John's videos. The earlier ones perhaps were a little ropey due to a noisy fan running in the background but John bought a lot of new equipment and everything is fine now.
JoeDownes - Posted - 01/16/2011: 10:46:54
Maybe you can work out a song in Scruggs, Stanley and Crowe (insert other banjo players) -style to demonstrate the different approaches.
One song (or tune) in Scruggs, melodic and single string would be nice, too. Thanks for your efforts, John.
Banjophobic - Posted - 01/17/2011: 09:43:08
quote:
Originally posted by adriansmith
A question I have after watching some of your videos is how do you incorporate licks to compliment a melody? Is it that after playing licks and different variations of them, you begin to get a feel for where to accentuate certain notes so you can hear the melody? Or are licks a different animal? Can you just play a series of licks in a certain key as a break and that's that?
Which brings me to my next question. You've got "g licks" "c licks" etc... Does that mean you play them while you're playing that chord in a song, or you can play those licks anywhere in a song of that key?
Also, are there licks that can transition from a chord to another, like the bass will do a walk up to the next chord? I've seen some walk up style backup you posted, which is great, but what if you're playing lead?
Another helpful thing you could think about for us beginners is to play barebones melody and verse parts to certain songs, then have other videos to explain how you might dress it up a bit. I took a beginners bluegrass banjo last year (and beginners clawhammer last semester) with Wayne erbsen out of Warren Wilson college in swannanoa nc and that's how he does it. It's helpful because you get to know the tune but you learn to improvise your rolls into a tune you already know. One piece that was missing ( likely because it was a beginners class) was how to incorporate licks into it. Actually licks were totally absent.
A few thoughts. Just got back from the bar so if something isn't making sense ask me about it and I'll try to clarify tomorrow.
Adrian
Adrian
Look for" Building Solos in Scruggs style", specifically videos 69.70 and 71. See if they help.
jsutergraphix.com/LOTW/#licks
saphine - Posted - 01/17/2011: 16:12:41
Hi John
I'm learning to play in different keys without a capo but struggle with rolls to pick out the melody when all the strings are covered, any help with this would be greatly appreciated. I'm not strictly playing bluegrass tunes, just whatever song I like on any given day. I start with easy strumming to find the rhythm, listen to a cd to try and hear the syncopation but fall apart with the melody. I get stuck in an easy pattern and can't seem to get out of it. Cheers and many thanks as ever for all you do for us.
Tam_Zeb - Posted - 01/18/2011: 04:35:57
HI John
I was out jamming with friends last night, first time we have all been together in about six months and I had a great time but I kinda found myself stuck playing the same up the neck "in the mood" back-up roll all night.
I realise this is not strictly beginner stuff but I am looking for a way to break out of that habit before I get too intrenched.
I know a half a dozen or more roll patterns so thats not the problem it's knowing when and how to change without breaking rhythm and remaining focused.
I know you have covered back-up in previous LOTW and I am not asking you for a re-run just a few hints or tips on which roll patterns work best on the first three strings. Ideally a simple excercise that I could work on to help me break the habit.
Much appreciated
Ken_in_IN - Posted - 01/18/2011: 04:49:47
From a beginners standpoint, one thing I would like to see is a video or series if needed on how rolls are incorporated into a melody. I have some songs of my past that I would love to work into a Scuggs style song, but nothing I've read yet tells me how its done. Most things say to just fit a roll into it. It doesn't seem that simple.
Banjophobic - Posted - 01/18/2011: 08:21:24
quote:
Originally posted by saphine
Hi John
I'm learning to play in different keys without a capo but struggle with rolls to pick out the melody when all the strings are covered, any help with this would be greatly appreciated. I'm not strictly playing bluegrass tunes, just whatever song I like on any given day. I start with easy strumming to find the rhythm, listen to a cd to try and hear the syncopation but fall apart with the melody. I get stuck in an easy pattern and can't seem to get out of it. Cheers and many thanks as ever for all you do for us.
Saphine
See if these videos help you any:
jsutergraphix.com/LOTW/#solos
Banjophobic - Posted - 01/18/2011: 08:22:21
quote:
Originally posted by Ken_in_IN
From a beginners standpoint, one thing I would like to see is a video or series if needed on how rolls are incorporated into a melody. I have some songs of my past that I would love to work into a Scuggs style song, but nothing I've read yet tells me how its done. Most things say to just fit a roll into it. It doesn't seem that simple.
Ken
I think these videos "building solos" will shed some light on that:
jsutergraphix.com/LOTW/#solosLet me know if they do or dont help.
banjer5 - Posted - 01/18/2011: 08:22:24
John, You provide a valuable service to those who pay attention. Unfortunately I rarely get to view and hear the lessons due to my dial up connection.......the price I pay for my rural existence. Keep up the good work.
Fred
O.D. - Posted - 01/18/2011: 08:24:21
Hey John
If it has not ben covered,Id like to see an explaination on authentic,bluegrass rhythm.
Ive seen threads on the subject,however I dont recall a lesson, or thorough explaintion on video of how to create it.
It is one of those things that is hard to describe in words,or print.
Thanks for all your contributions on playing banjo.
You have gone over and above with your generousity.
Regards,O.D.
Old Hickory - Posted - 01/18/2011: 11:07:12
Thanks for asking for input.
How about playing in the key of E without a capo?
Or is it more common to play in E by capoing D at 2 or C at 4?
If one of those, then I could use some more ideas and insight into playing in D, not necessarily melodic. And with that, doing it with the 5th capoed to A or left at G.
Main reason I ask is pretty selfish. New band I just joined is playing a couple tunes in E. One recorded source is definitely D capoed at 2 with 5th only up to 7 to keep everything relative to G-tuning. (Don't remember the source or original key for the other one we're playing in E). Plus, in the source for a song we're playing in D, the banjo plays in G tuning with the 5th up to A. I've worked out some of what's going on.
If you've covered this, I'll look through the titles again.
saphine - Posted - 01/21/2011: 16:13:13
Just the ticket John... Thank you
MoTomCat - Posted - 01/22/2011: 19:13:12
quote:
Originally posted by Banjophobic
Ok, its a new year and time for me to pick you folks brains and get some feedback. What topics would you like to see covered this year in the LOTW videos? Ive had some mention more things geared toward pure beginners, and a return to seeing some vids on pure licks....thoughts anyone?
Hi John.
I'm not a beginner, but have some ideas that might work. First, I like what you said about some videos on pure licks, I'd love some more of them. Insights on how to use them to play along in a jam to songs you may not be famliiar with would be great too.
But, with the beginner in mind, maybe you would want to address many of the problems, or questions, we see posted over and over on the BHO. Things like how to control flyaway fingers, how to fret without deadening adjacent strings, how to use a capo, how and when to play in the X and Y positions, standing and sitting while playing, how to use D-tuners, how to properly place the bridge, etc. We see these, and many other, questions come up all the time and a video source to not only tell, but show, how to overcome or learn some of these things might be a big help.
I'll add my thanks for all the videos you have posted and the work you have put into these, as well as to the member who posted the links to all the videos. It's really a neat thing you have done here.
Tom
banjoman_18 - Posted - 01/23/2011: 10:20:34
Hey John long time no talk lol. Wel my idea for lotw would be introducesing Reno style. Also explaing specific song since iam blind and for begginers you could start out with roll patterns an how to chose the best one that works for certin songs. John i realy like your vid there very helpful and helped me become a better player.
mebacon - Posted - 01/23/2011: 14:14:14
I really liked the KIDD's suggestion.
