cavecookie - Posted - 01/19/2013:  19:21:05

quote:

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Originally posted by rbergesch

Started playing in high school, back in the folk era. I heard bluegrass, liked it, but didn't learn much about it. Went to college, where I didn't play much banjo.



R&R was the rage in the late 60's, of course. I always liked the country side of rock: the Byrds, some Dead, New Riders, Pure Prarie League, Dylan, the Band, and of course that great country R&R band, the Stones...



Never forgot banjos, Earl Scruggs, Eric Weissberg, Pete Seeger, or those magnificent beer-swilling Irish pubsters with their long-neck banjos. A few years ago my piano-playing son put on the  "Dueling Banjos" cut from Deliverance, and at the age of 61 I signed up for some real lessons and started playing again.

My current learning focus is on bluegrass, and while I regret not playing for nearly 40 years, that is water under the bridge. I learned much about other music in the meantime, and I just have a lot of catching up to do.

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 That's my story, but not to that extreme.  I'm 54 and  started honkin' around on the harmonica back in the late 70's, when I was 20 or so.  That was the only instrument I played til  the 90's.  My best bud bought a guitar and so I figured since I always wanted to learn banjo, that was a good time to start.  Bought a REALLY cheap Asian affair, a genuine, authentic Conqueror.  Learned the basic rolls and started by just gettin' chord changes down and keepin' a somewhat smooth roll.  After a couple of years, everyone just sort of lost interest, and they really didn't like banjo music so, not having gotten very far, I put it away for a few years.  About 2 years ago, a guy I know who builds cigar box guitars sold me a pretty good early 70's Epiphone so my interest got revived.  Been getting interested again, now that I have the internet for help.  Once I get up to speed, so to say, I'll get involved in some jam-type activity.  I'm finding that for me, reading tabs is almost like tryin' to learn a foreign language.  Must be this old, musty brain, gettin' balky on me.  On the up-side tho, the more I work with tabs, the easier it is to recognize patterns, so I'll just keep pluggin' away, and havin' a ball!     

radtwo - Posted - 01/21/2013:  11:22:22

I started at 66, I think. They say the memory is the second thing to go, can't remember the first.



My granddaughter surprised me one Christmas with one of those foreign banjos. I took some private lessons and love the banjo. My brother turned me on to The Murphy Method, and I'm glad he did. Love those lessons.

I've since upgraded to a Deering Sierra.  Love it!!

Edited by - radtwo on 01/21/2013 11:25:49

Hankon5 - Posted - 01/22/2013:  13:16:28

There you go---you caught Banjoitis! It's on the SOUND and the FUN!

Normo - Posted - 01/23/2013:  14:54:33

This is my first post and reading  other people's stories is inspiring and also a little intimidating.  I have dreamt of taking up the bano for years,  probably I  was first  drawn to it in the early 1960's and now I am in my early 60's and am finally doing it.  I am still working full time so that's a bit of a problem and there are some physical issues, but after reading about everyone else's dreams and hard work I am excited.  Thanks   Norm

Hankon5 - Posted - 01/23/2013:  17:08:31

quote:

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Originally posted by Normo

This is my first post and reading  other people's stories is inspiring and also a little intimidating.  I have dreamt of taking up the bano for years,  probably I  was first  drawn to it in the early 1960's and now I am in my early 60's and am finally doing it.  I am still working full time so that's a bit of a problem and there are some physical issues, but after reading about everyone else's dreams and hard work I am excited.  Thanks   Norm

---

 Welcome to the BHO my friend!  Congrats!  You are about to embark on a journey of fun and relaxation.  There will be some ups and downs...very little downs(only if you get frustrated...which everyone goes thru) .  There are many here to help you and answer any questions that you may have.  NO QUESTION IS SILLY!  We all learn from one another.  BHO is one big happy family that loves to help.  There are many professionals here also and give super recommendations on any area of concern or banjo maintenance!  EXCITEMENT is on the way!!!!!  Good luck and keep on pick'n!!!

Thumper47 - Posted - 01/23/2013:  19:47:24

I am 65 and just started taking lessons the first of this month.  I tried to teach myself a couple of times before but was more focused on the destination than the journey, I lost interest after I didn't become accomplished over night.

I am more patient now and more focused on the journey this time. I really like my teacher.

I bought a new Goodtime 2 last Friday to replace the old 1970's Asian aluminum tone ring banjo I started with because it would not hold a tune. My teacher and the tech at the music store said it was not worth the cost of upgrading the tuners.

My new banjo is a dream to play and my practice time has increased considerable. In fact, I made so much progress since my last lesson, my teacher really up the bar at todays lesson.  As a result, I have gone from confident to scared stiff.

Thumper47

Hankon5 - Posted - 01/23/2013:  20:36:13

quote:

---

Originally posted by Thumper47

I am 65 and just started taking lessons the first of this month.  I tried to teach myself a couple of times before but was more focused on the destination than the journey, I lost interest after I didn't become accomplished over night.

I am more patient now and more focused on the journey this time. I really like my teacher.

I bought a new Goodtime 2 last Friday to replace the old 1970's Asian aluminum tone ring banjo I started with because it would not hold a tune. My teacher and the tech at the music store said it was not worth the cost of upgrading the tuners.

My new banjo is a dream to play and my practice time has increased considerable. In fact, I made so much progress since my last lesson, my teacher really up the bar at todays lesson.  As a result, I have gone from confident to scared stiff.

Thumper47

 

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 Nice self evaluation! Congrats!! It's the sound and the FUN!!!

verbel - Posted - 01/24/2013:  02:48:52

I started at 30 and I am loving it! I really wish I had started earlier in life but we just have to do the best with what we have.

Hankon5 - Posted - 01/24/2013:  15:25:17

quote:

---

Originally posted by verbel

I started at 30 and I am loving it! I really wish I had started earlier in life but we just have to do the best with what we have.

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 You still have a bunch of years left...I wish I was 30 again and started playing!!! Good luck and have fun!

Papa-Joe - Posted - 01/29/2013:  08:02:54

62 here and my wife just got me one for Christmas. I ordered Mike's Mute (have not received it yet) because I love my wife and he said it was a marriage saver. I've played Guitar for several year (started at 15) since then I have picked up Mandolin and Ukulele. Now the hardest one of them all the Banjo. having a lot of fun with it.

Edited by - Papa-Joe on 01/29/2013 08:08:57

banjaboy - Posted - 01/29/2013:  08:15:21

You [and especialy your wife] will love the mute, it really is a fantastic piece of gear.

Hankon5 - Posted - 01/29/2013:  12:01:37

quote:

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Originally posted by Papa-Joe

62 here and my wife just got me one for Christmas. I ordered Mike's Mute (have not received it yet) because I love my wife and he said it was a marriage saver. I've played Guitar for several year (started at 15) since then I have picked up Mandolin and Ukulele. Now the hardest one of them all the Banjo. having a lot of fun with it.

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 Welcome my friend!!  A mute will not only keep you out of the dog house, but save your HEARING!!!  Once a day I have to put that thing on because my banjo rings so loud!!  Wait a minute....my ears are still ringing!!!

Wildwoodmike - Posted - 01/29/2013:  15:46:15

I am 48 and started last year I have listened to bluegrass since born my father had it playing 24/7 and I always wanted to play the banjo. My wonderful wife purchased my banjo as a birthday present and I must admit I have been addicted to it and play as many hours as possible to catch up from all the years I have missed.Kids are grown and gone so now is perfect to spend the time to play as much as possible! good luck everyone

Geezer51 - Posted - 01/29/2013:  16:34:57

62 here...first lesson in two more days!

Hankon5 - Posted - 01/29/2013:  20:15:05

quote:

---

Originally posted by Geezer51

62 here...first lesson in two more days!

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Welcome!  Good for you!!  Have much Grinnin' and fun! We both started about the same age. I can't stop pickin'  for even a day. I don't know what will happen when I go on vacation this fall... I will definitely have withdrawals!!!

Edited by - Hankon5 on 01/29/2013 20:18:45

Papa-Joe - Posted - 01/30/2013:  12:55:55

Just got my Mike's Banjo Mute today. I could not believe the difference in the volume. I can now practice in the closet with the light on without getting all of the ringing in my ears, And my wife when I showed her the difference her only comment was "i.trkjmp.com/click?v=VVM6MTQyN...jMmYwOGJk" style="text-decoration: underline" title="Click to Continue > by Vid-Saver Extension">Thank God". And I thank Mike. It is a very nice Banjo Mute and well worth everything Mike asks for it.

Papa Joe

3 finger ninja - Posted - 01/30/2013:  20:24:28

I started at 36 and I jiust turned 37. I guess 36 aint old but it aint a spring chicken either! I got almost a year in and love it way more than I ever loved guitar....which Ive played since middle school lol.

Hankon5 - Posted - 01/30/2013:  22:14:57

quote:

---

Originally posted by Papa-Joe

Just got my Mike's Banjo Mute today. I could not believe the difference in the volume. I can now practice in the closet with the light on without getting all of the ringing in my ears, And my wife when I showed her the difference her only comment was "i.trkjmp.com/click?v=VVM6MTQyN...jMmYwOGJk" style="text-decoration: underline" title="Click to Continue > by Vid-Saver Extension">Thank God". And I thank Mike. It is a very nice Banjo Mute and well worth everything Mike asks for it.

Papa Joe

---

 It makes a BIG difference!! SAVES MARRIAGES AND HEARING!

mharris - Posted - 01/31/2013:  07:00:03

I'm 52 and just started playing clawhammer banjo about 8 months ago and have progressed better than I could have ever dreamed. I think my age (and associated wisdom) contributed greatly to my progress. I knew when I walked out of the music store with a Deering Goodtime that it would be very difficult at first and would require a lot of self discipline, which I didn't have when I was younger. I spent 5 weeks doing nothing but focusing on the bum-ditty with no left hand work at all. I'm now picking up two new songs a week and have upgraded to a Bart Reiter Standard. Next year I'm going to buy a fiddle. You're never too old to start.

Bonnybanjo - Posted - 02/01/2013:  21:38:44

Started 6 weeks ago aged 62 my 4 finger tips on my left hand are now numb with calluses and I show them off with pride, yes I’m hooked on the Banjo.
Thanks to my pal Ken Birmingham who got me started.

Hankon5 - Posted - 02/01/2013:  22:01:20

quote:

---

Originally posted by Bonnybanjo

Started 6 weeks ago aged 62 my 4 finger tips on my left hand are now numb with calluses and I show them off with pride, yes I’m hooked on the Banjo.

Thanks to my pal Ken Birmingham who got me started.

---

 Well Bob..I too am proud of the layer of HARD calluses.  When I 1st started playing they really hurt for awhile,  NOW, I can't feel a thing!

I can now tell when my left hand fingers are hitting the strings squarely....Indentations are made.....and when thy show my pinky being off center, I correct the curve of my hand to force the proper position.  Good luck and have fun!

ildertongap - Posted - 02/13/2013:  18:39:42

I have been playing (well that is what I call it) for 15 months and started at the mature age of 60. As they say, if I am picking I am grinning!

Hankon5 - Posted - 02/13/2013:  22:28:27

There have been several new additions recently to the BHO who just started playing after age 60. Being retired, I can play anytime (but not after my wife goes to bed..THAT WOULD BE A MISTAKE of huge proportions!)and as much as I want.I generally play about two hours off and on. But, when I have to jam/play some in front of others, I will put in a lot more! Good to hear from you and good luck in your banjo adventure!

Edited by - Hankon5 on 02/13/2013 22:29:47

rob1340 - Posted - 02/14/2013:  04:40:12

I started a couple of months back at 43,after reading these posts seems young now.its hard learning but am loving it.this site is great,i feel i have learnt alot and have a better understanding of all things banjo.
Thanks guys.
All the best.
ROB.

Hankon5 - Posted - 02/15/2013:  21:08:51

quote:

---

Originally posted by rob1340

I started a couple of months back at 43,after reading these posts seems young now.its hard learning but am loving it.this site is great,i feel i have learnt alot and have a better understanding of all things banjo.

Thanks guys.

All the best.

ROB.

---

If  I can play ANYONE can play!! I even will be stage again in 3 weeks in front of a few thousand.  I have been playing 3 1/2 years now and having a boat load of fun and meeting new folks!  I play backup  to specialty songs (mostly secular)  that cover a topic that our pastor is speaking about. This usually happens right at the beginning called an INTRO.   Sometimes the band begins  5 minutes before church starts so to get more time for the rest of the worship singing along with the band...FUN stuff!! What helped me a lot was more concentration on backing up the last  year and a  half.  Studied Geoff Hohwald's videos along with Jack Hatfield's back up book and CD.  One time I was extremely embarrassed at a jam.. Less than a year playing I thought I was ready to play with anyone........I really did not know what a jam consisted of.....I new a few leads pretty good and was going to have fun playing them.  WRONG!   I choked , and to top it off when others were playing I just barre chorded if I knew the chords,, I was very humbled> From then on, I made it a quest to get more knowledge in back up.  So I did and it really helped.  Especially with as band. Now I know about  a dozen songs very well at speed and then some.  So that I will keep on adding to my repertoire, I learn some new breaks to break the monotony on rolls/licks I practice and memorize .  Anyway I mentioned all this to give you an understanding that Backing up is about 90% of banjo playing if you go to jams or even play with a band.  I learned at a pace that I was comfortable with ( right now 2 hours/day but up to 4 when practicing for a stage appearance.  I started when I was 62. So, Welcome to BHO and to Banjo playing...it's the adventure of fun!!!! Good luck!

Edited by - Hankon5 on 02/15/2013 21:09:26

TN-Phil - Posted - 02/16/2013:  18:51:26

Started in December. I'm 49. :-)

Samy - Posted - 02/16/2013:  19:18:56

quote:

---

Originally posted by Hankon5

quote:

---

Originally posted by rob1340

I started a couple of months back at 43,after reading these posts seems young now.its hard learning but am loving it.this site is great,i feel i have learnt alot and have a better understanding of all things banjo.

Thanks guys.

All the best.

ROB.

---

If  I can play ANYONE can play!! I even will be stage again in 3 weeks in front of a few thousand.  I have been playing 3 1/2 years now and having a boat load of fun and meeting new folks!  I play backup  to specialty songs (mostly secular)  that cover a topic that our pastor is speaking about. This usually happens right at the beginning called an INTRO.   Sometimes the band begins  5 minutes before church starts so to get more time for the rest of the worship singing along with the band...FUN stuff!! What helped me a lot was more concentration on backing up the last  year and a  half.  Studied Geoff Hohwald's videos along with Jack Hatfield's back up book and CD.  One time I was extremely embarrassed at a jam.. Less than a year playing I thought I was ready to play with anyone........I really did not know what a jam consisted of.....I new a few leads pretty good and was going to have fun playing them.  WRONG!   I choked , and to top it off when others were playing I just barre chorded if I knew the chords,, I was very humbled> From then on, I made it a quest to get more knowledge in back up.  So I did and it really helped.  Especially with as band. Now I know about  a dozen songs very well at speed and then some.  So that I will keep on adding to my repertoire, I learn some new breaks to break the monotony on rolls/licks I practice and memorize .  Anyway I mentioned all this to give you an understanding that Backing up is about 90% of banjo playing if you go to jams or even play with a band.  I learned at a pace that I was comfortable with ( right now 2 hours/day but up to 4 when practicing for a stage appearance.  I started when I was 62. So, Welcome to BHO and to Banjo playing...it's the adventure of fun!!!! Good luck!

---

Thanks for sharing! It's good to hear how others progressed and/or struggled to learn. It reinforces that Banjo is not easy and takes lots of practice! It's good to hear that others who now play well and on stage had the same learning curves that those of us who have only recently picked it up (7 months for me) currently have is positive encouragement!

Thanks!

Southpaul - Posted - 03/08/2013:  19:03:12

quote: Ditto Andy.  I am 72 and was inspired by the same film.  I have always had a fascination with the banjo even though my background has been percussion and keyboard.  I started playing drums when I was 12 and later taught instrumental music in public school.  I was fortunate to find an excellent teacher in my area and look forward to my weekly lesson.

Southpaul

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Originally posted by Winnieff

I started in Feb. this year at age 71;  inspired by Steve Martin's "Give me the Banjo" PBS program. My log book shows 123 hours of practice to date. No one in my family plays any musical instrument so I am bound and determined to be the first. I see me instructor once a week and things are going well although someone slow. Wished I could have started much earlier in life since I'm running out of time now. I look forward to my daily 1-2 hours practice and also looking for for my 2nd banjo already.

Andy 

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goingraydog - Posted - 03/09/2013:  14:49:47

I feel truly inspired!! i am turning 38 this year and i was afraid it was too late. I thought i better get my first Jo before the wife changed her mind. my new Banjo should be hear next week and i cant wait! i know it will be hard to find the time right now, but the first bridge has been crossed. I was thinking of getting my 6 yr old one too so we could learn together, any thoughts or advice on that?

wideawake - Posted - 03/09/2013:  15:58:20

I got myself a banjo for my 37th birthday. That was a month or so ago. So I guess I started earlier than some and later than some. I wish I had started years ago. I have a guitar background so somethings are coming easy (the left hand) and some things aren't so easy (the right hand). But it is a lot of fun. And every so often it actually sounds like I know what I am doing, hopefully that happens more and more frequently.

SWCooper - Posted - 03/10/2013:  07:27:31

Yes, 'dog - *definitely* get your kid a banjo and learn together. At six, his little brain is as plastic as Play Doh...he'll build deep banjo-playing circuitry to last him a lifetime. Anything you think he might want to be good at later on down the line, start him now when learning is as easy as breathing for him.

nanna24 - Posted - 03/10/2013:  07:34:20

I bought my first banjo just a few months ago. I am turning 61 this year. I am definitely a late starter, but that does not discourage me. I still feel young at heart. I know I will never be a great banjo player but I think the most important thing is to enjoy playing it.  I am fortunate that I have a very supportive family that encourages me to do the things I like to do.

ChxJester - Posted - 03/10/2013:  08:35:50

I just started playing weeks ago at age 60... one of those things I WISH I had started as a youngster.  Having a blast thus far... and trying to teach myself using Geoff Hohwald from freebanjovideosd.com ... interested in hearing though from other newbies or veterans on better instruction methods.

ChxJester

Mexican Kerry - Posted - 03/10/2013:  09:28:36

My wife gave me a banjo for my 38th birthday last month, I have absolutely no previous experience with any musical instruments. Its a tough slog, but I'm having fun with it. I haven't had much luck with finding any local instruction, but the interweb has been a huge help.

Guess many would call me a young un but my fingers sure think they're old! Just joined this site today, looks like a good place to pick up some tips.

andymitch - Posted - 03/10/2013:  12:21:37

I bought my first banjo six days ago, I'm 43 and have never played an instrument, but I'm hooked. I have always loved the sound, and find the instrument now drifts to me whenever I have spare time and can practice my 'right hand rolls', not even started to use my left hand yet.

BanjoRW - Posted - 03/10/2013:  21:42:08

ChxJester's Quote: "... interested in hearing though from other newbies or veterans on better instruction methods."

I found the best instructions for me (other than a real instructor) is Tony Trishka's School of Banjo, part of the "Academy of Banjo" ( artistworks.com/banjo-lessons-...-trischka ). The cost averages $30/month. Tony's instructions are in a logical sequence, and each are focus and short (about 5-minutes each). When you are ready, you can submit a video of your playing (if you choose to do so). Tony personnally studies your videos and replies with his video with a detailed analysis and advice.

This has worked better for me than any other CD/DVD, books, etc., that I've tried.

Good luck, and keep on pickin'

BanjoRW - Posted - 03/10/2013:  21:45:34

ChxJester's Quote: "... interested in hearing though from other newbies or veterans on better instruction methods."

I found the best instructions for me (other than a real instructor) is Tony Trishka's School of Banjo, part of the "Academy of Banjo" ( academyofbluegrass.com ). The cost averages $30/month. Tony's instructions are in a logical sequence, and each are focus and short (about 5-minutes each). When you are ready, you can submit a video of your playing (if you choose to do so). Tony personnally studies your videos and replies with his video with a detailed analysis and advice.

This has worked better for me than any other CD/DVD, books, etc., that I've tried.

Good luck, and keep on pickin'

BanjoRW - Posted - 03/10/2013:  21:51:35

Sorry for the multiple replies. I got error messages when I hit "Post Reply", so I thought the posts had failed.

Hankon5 - Posted - 03/10/2013:  22:26:06

quote:

---

Originally posted by ChxJester

I just started playing weeks ago at age 60... one of those things I WISH I had started as a youngster.  Having a blast thus far... and trying to teach myself using Geoff Hohwald from freebanjovideosd.com ... interested in hearing though from other newbies or veterans on better instruction methods.

ChxJester

 

---

 Geoff got some fine stuff all the way thru advance. Both he and Jack Hatfield's back up books and videos has helped me to play on stage with a band a few times.  KEY:  don't let frustrations or brick walls stop you..play thru them and get to the next stage..and do it over and over again...I started playing at 62..that was 3 1/2 years ago. I am more anxious to learn and play than ever before.  I will not ever play like Earl or most of the Folks on this forum..but I am having so much fun that it should be outlawed!   I am constantly learning from the good folks here of the BHO forum..They are always eager to help and encourage you.  So welcome to to BHO and KEEP ON PICKIN" FOR FUN AND ADVENTURE!

If I can learn to play..ANYONE can!!!!  You just need Focus and determination!

Edited by - Hankon5 on 03/10/2013 22:34:20

Hankon5 - Posted - 03/10/2013:  22:29:26

quote:

---

Originally posted by andymitch

I bought my first banjo six days ago, I'm 43 and have never played an instrument, but I'm hooked. I have always loved the sound, and find the instrument now drifts to me whenever I have spare time and can practice my 'right hand rolls', not even started to use my left hand yet.

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 My friend ..you are smitten with the banjoitis..no cure..Your journey begins anew!

jbgreen - Posted - 03/11/2013:  06:11:12

I turn 50 next month, and I just started frailing. Have no idea why I waited so long to start. Now if I could make just one song sound recognizable.

gambler - Posted - 03/11/2013:  09:25:09

Well I bought my first banjo epiphone 200 about ten years ago and two months after starting to learn I was in a bad traffic accident. I had to have my left my shoulder totally reconstructed and neck surgery which I was out of work almost a year. I sold my banjo thinking that I would never be able to play. The year before I retired I had six strokes but still had the desire to play a banjo. God has blessed me with a complete recovery. In saying all this I am buying a Huber Lancaster banjo from BHO that I will pick up in a couple of weeks which I can hardly wait to get! We are not old just got a late start in life as for me I never grew up I am still just a kid and my wife agrees with me.

Hankon5 - Posted - 03/11/2013:  10:03:06

quote:

---

Originally posted by gambler

Well I bought my first banjo epiphone 200 about ten years ago and two months after starting to learn I was in a bad traffic accident. I had to have my left my shoulder totally reconstructed and neck surgery which I was out of work almost a year. I sold my banjo thinking that I would never be able to play. The year before I retired I had six strokes but still had the desire to play a banjo. God has blessed me with a complete recovery. In saying all this I am buying a Huber Lancaster banjo from BHO that I will pick up in a couple of weeks which I can hardly wait to get! We are not old just got a late start in life as for me I never grew up I am still just a kid and my wife agrees with me.

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 Good for you my friend!  Banjo playing will help you in many ways..mind and soul!! That's a great banjo, You will REALLY enjoy it.  God Bless and happy pick'n!

Hankon5 - Posted - 03/11/2013:  10:04:36

quote:

---

Originally posted by jbgreen

I turn 50 next month, and I just started frailing. Have no idea why I waited so long to start. Now if I could make just one song sound recognizable.

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 We all say the same thing...fortunately we decided to START!!! Keep on Pick'n!

Matthew Reis - Posted - 03/11/2013:  11:49:23

I wish that I had started playing at age four (like Earl).

Hankon5 - Posted - 03/11/2013:  13:20:00

quote:

---

Originally posted by Matthew Reis

I wish that I had started playing at age four (like Earl).

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 You already gave up your 3 wishes!!!

gribbub - Posted - 03/11/2013:  13:39:47

Hi everyone 

I turned 43 a month ago and I finally got my Banjo a week ago and man am I loving that sound! I'd been dreaming of picking for a few years but never thought more than fantasy.

I can't wait to really make my baby sing!!!!

andymitch - Posted - 03/12/2013:  04:12:08

quote:

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Originally posted by Hankon5

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 My friend ..you are smitten with the banjoitis..no cure..Your journey begins anew!

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So very true. It's nearly always on my knee now, addicted.

andymitch - Posted - 03/12/2013:  04:15:58

quote:

---

Originally posted by gribbub

Hi everyone 

I turned 43 a month ago and I finally got my Banjo a week ago and man am I loving that sound! I'd been dreaming of picking for a few years but never thought more than fantasy.

I can't wait to really make my baby sing!!!!

---

Same as me, 43 and just starting. good luck.