3 finger ninja - Posted - 11/05/2013:  06:57:24

I feel like today will be a great music day for me. Im listening to a live cd of Rhonda Vincent with Kenny Ingram on banjo...man can that guy play! I think listening is very important.
I'll play through the great banjo tunes dvd again...ive kinda forgot a couple of licks here and there lol.

3 finger ninja - Posted - 11/05/2013:  20:24:14

Well i jammed a while along with the Rhonda Vincent cd and I learned a lot about playing in C and D improvising. Good stuff.
I am going to pop in the great banjo tunes dvd and just watch and listen.i have gold rush, bill cheatham, kcrb, and limehoise blues down well but i cant remember how to play dixie brkdn or shenendoah brkdn( which i barely learned in the first place. Dixie brkdn should come right back but ill have to treat shenendoah brkdn like a new song to learn...maybe it will come easier than i think.
I wish i didnt have to retune tto play in other keys but sometimes you just have to to get the results.

Marvin

jbgreen - Posted - 11/06/2013:  06:56:37

Have been getting in one to two hours of practice a day.

Still working on cleaning up the seven or eight songs that I know pretty well.  Trying to iron out the little problems I've been having with them and get the tone and timing right.

My goal is to have ten songs that I can play cleanly (including backup) learned by my one-year anniversary in February.  If I can accomplish that goal, I will feel like my first year on my banjo journey was a success.   I'm obviously no 50-year-old prodigy.

I'm also spending time during each practice session working on backup.  To me, backup is harder than learning to play any song.

Back Porch Banjo - Posted - 11/06/2013:  09:27:02

Wow, JB Green! I admire your goal of having ten songs learned by mid-February! That's great! I'm positive you'll meet your goal!

But you're already a success -- you decided to learn to play the banjo and you're putting in a lot of practice -- that's a success in my book!

capmike - Posted - 11/06/2013:  15:46:33

Well got to the middle of the break for Blue ridge cabin home. going to practice first half a few more days before moving on.Really neat song and break.

 Mike

Back Porch Banjo - Posted - 11/07/2013:  04:07:47

For some reason, I felt like a challenge was due last night. Got out my Advanced Earl (that I've been afraid to try) and started on the very first phrase of Foggy Mtn Special. Didn't go too bad - might be hope yet!

So I'm working on that, learning Ballad of Jed Clampett (just because), and putting the finishing touches on John Hardy. Adding to my minuscule repertoire one phrase at a time!

jbgreen - Posted - 11/07/2013:  06:15:51

I spent the evening jamming with Murphy, Casey and friends.  We're buds now.

Broke down and bought my eighth Murphy Method DVD yesterday--"Slow Jam with Murphy and Casey."  Practiced both lead and backup on most of the easier songs and then began working on the intermediate level.  I attempted playing backup on the songs I wasn't familiar with by watching Casey's left hand while she plays the guitar.  It's fairly easy to do at the slow speed.  I have my doubts about being able to keep up at full speed.  

Even though the songs are played slowly, I've found that one big problem area I have is when I'm switching from lead to backup or vice versa.  Tend to miss a beat or five on the switch.

Oh well, as the late, great Steve Mizerak said, "Practice, practice, practice."

capmike - Posted - 11/07/2013:  08:18:06

Jb, try throwing in a tag lick right before you start the break.

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 11/07/2013:  11:00:16

quote:

---

Originally posted by jbgreen

 

I spent the evening jamming with Murphy, Casey and friends.  We're buds now.

Broke down and bought my eighth Murphy Method DVD yesterday--"Slow Jam with Murphy and Casey."  Practiced both lead and backup on most of the easier songs and then began working on the intermediate level.  I attempted playing backup on the songs I wasn't familiar with by watching Casey's left hand while she plays the guitar.  It's fairly easy to do at the slow speed.  I have my doubts about being able to keep up at full speed.  

Even though the songs are played slowly, I've found that one big problem area I have is when I'm switching from lead to backup or vice versa.  Tend to miss a beat or five on the switch.

Oh well, as the late, great Steve Mizerak said, "Practice, practice, practice."

---

Hi Barry

In addition to the tag lick, I often use a simple forward roll played over the open strings starting on the 3rd string 21 531 531 that gives you ample time to move your left hand up or down the neck to a new position

Edited by - Tam_Zeb on 11/07/2013 11:00:36

jbgreen - Posted - 11/07/2013:  11:25:31

quote:

---

Originally posted by Tam_Zeb

 

quote:

---

Originally posted by jbgreen

 

I spent the evening jamming with Murphy, Casey and friends.  We're buds now.

Broke down and bought my eighth Murphy Method DVD yesterday--"Slow Jam with Murphy and Casey."  Practiced both lead and backup on most of the easier songs and then began working on the intermediate level.  I attempted playing backup on the songs I wasn't familiar with by watching Casey's left hand while she plays the guitar.  It's fairly easy to do at the slow speed.  I have my doubts about being able to keep up at full speed.  

Even though the songs are played slowly, I've found that one big problem area I have is when I'm switching from lead to backup or vice versa.  Tend to miss a beat or five on the switch.

Oh well, as the late, great Steve Mizerak said, "Practice, practice, practice."

---

Hi Barry

In addition to the tag lick, I often use a simple forward roll played over the open strings starting on the 3rd string 21 531 531 that gives you ample time to move your left hand up or down the neck to a new position

---

Man, I really hate showing my ignorance on such a daily basis, but my noobie brain is a bit confused.

On the Vamping/Beginning Backup DVD, Murphy says to simply drop the last chord and go into the lead.  This is, of course, when transitioning from backup to lead.  So when I'm playing the G, C, D backup up the neck on a song, I've been practicing doing that.  I think she says to use a tag lick on FMB, but on Banjo In the Hollow, Cripple Creek and others, she recommends simply dropping that last chord.  At least I think this is what she is recommending.  That's what I got from it.

If I use a roll, won't I be out of time with the other players in a jam?

I doubt what I'm asking is making sense.  I'm going to pull out the Vamping DVD tonight and go through it again.  I'm going to pay close attention to the FMB backup lesson where she uses a tag lick in transition.  I'm obviously missing something.

jonah4832 - Posted - 11/07/2013:  13:23:02

Had a great practice today, very pleased with how fmb is coming along, also learned the high break to boil them cabbage  on the misfits dvd.  Sometimes it's hard to figure her out on the first time watching but after the second and third time, I usually pick it up fairly well.  Her dvd's is also helping me to see and recognize the licks in other stuff I am working on. 

3 finger ninja - Posted - 11/07/2013:  14:49:50

Jbgreen it makes sense to sometimes just drop the last backup chord and jump into the lead. There are probably pickup notes that take up the space in which the last chord might have been. Its alright to miss a note or two or a chord but get back in in the right spot. Timing truly is the most important aspect of music.

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 11/08/2013:  00:45:43

quote:

---

Originally posted by jbgreen

 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Tam_Zeb

 

quote:

---

Originally posted by jbgreen

  

I spent the evening jamming with Murphy, Casey and friends.  We're buds now.

Broke down and bought my eighth Murphy Method DVD yesterday--"Slow Jam with Murphy and Casey."  Practiced both lead and backup on most of the easier songs and then began working on the intermediate level.  I attempted playing backup on the songs I wasn't familiar with by watching Casey's left hand while she plays the guitar.  It's fairly easy to do at the slow speed.  I have my doubts about being able to keep up at full speed.  

Even though the songs are played slowly, I've found that one big problem area I have is when I'm switching from lead to backup or vice versa.  Tend to miss a beat or five on the switch.

Oh well, as the late, great Steve Mizerak said, "Practice, practice, practice."

---

Hi Barry

In addition to the tag lick, I often use a simple forward roll played over the open strings starting on the 3rd string 21 531 531 that gives you ample time to move your left hand up or down the neck to a new position

---

Man, I really hate showing my ignorance on such a daily basis, but my noobie brain is a bit confused.

On the Vamping/Beginning Backup DVD, Murphy says to simply drop the last chord and go into the lead.  This is, of course, when transitioning from backup to lead.  So when I'm playing the G, C, D backup up the neck on a song, I've been practicing doing that.  I think she says to use a tag lick on FMB, but on Banjo In the Hollow, Cripple Creek and others, she recommends simply dropping that last chord.  At least I think this is what she is recommending.  That's what I got from it.

If I use a roll, won't I be out of time with the other players in a jam?

I doubt what I'm asking is making sense.  I'm going to pull out the Vamping DVD tonight and go through it again.  I'm going to pay close attention to the FMB backup lesson where she uses a tag lick in transition.  I'm obviously missing something.

---

Hi Barry

Your not showing your ignorance your showing your intelligence by asking these questions.. When Murphy says to "miss off" the last chord when vamping to move back down the neck - that's to give you time to make the move and come in cleanly on your break - or your tag lick- which ever comes next. When you do this you leaving a hole where you don't play anything - although you've stopped playing the music continues on. In your head your meter is still counting, your also listening to what else is going on.

To make that transition as a relative newbie and still  keep time is difficult. It only comes together with listening and practicing. Playing a roll over the open strings fills that gap, it keeps you connected and keeps the motor running (it's an added skill)). As you get deeper into the Murphy Method you'll hear Murphy and Casey mention Fill Notes and Fill Licks alot... This is a skill you'll come to learn as you gain experience nothing to worry about... You end up sticking in fill licks automatically when you drop a note loose your place when playing with others... It's called Improvisation... You can't stop in the middle of a tune and go back to the start whilst performing - you gotta keep playing.. A forward roll will help you get back in there as the band continues to play.

The tag-lick doesn't fit with every tune (it's a powerful lick and can sound out of place) hence Murphy often  says to leave off the last chord and move to play the next phrase. That last chord in the phrase is most often the 1 Chord and when your playing in the key of G that's the G chord. The Tag Lick is played over the G chord, and a forward roll played over the open strings is also on a G chord whilst playing in the key of G. But it's less intrusive it has no embellishments and your left hand is free to move anywhere on the neck. So a useful tool to have in your box of tricks.

The tag-lick is also used as a signal to tell the vocalist / other band members that your handing over the lead to someone else usually the vocalist. Hope this is of some help.

jbgreen - Posted - 11/08/2013:  07:44:33

quote:

---

Originally posted by Tam_Zeb

 

quote:

---

Originally posted by jbgreen

 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Tam_Zeb

  

quote:

---

Originally posted by jbgreen

   

I spent the evening jamming with Murphy, Casey and friends.  We're buds now.

Broke down and bought my eighth Murphy Method DVD yesterday--"Slow Jam with Murphy and Casey."  Practiced both lead and backup on most of the easier songs and then began working on the intermediate level.  I attempted playing backup on the songs I wasn't familiar with by watching Casey's left hand while she plays the guitar.  It's fairly easy to do at the slow speed.  I have my doubts about being able to keep up at full speed.  

Even though the songs are played slowly, I've found that one big problem area I have is when I'm switching from lead to backup or vice versa.  Tend to miss a beat or five on the switch.

Oh well, as the late, great Steve Mizerak said, "Practice, practice, practice."

---

Hi Barry

In addition to the tag lick, I often use a simple forward roll played over the open strings starting on the 3rd string 21 531 531 that gives you ample time to move your left hand up or down the neck to a new position

---

Man, I really hate showing my ignorance on such a daily basis, but my noobie brain is a bit confused.

On the Vamping/Beginning Backup DVD, Murphy says to simply drop the last chord and go into the lead.  This is, of course, when transitioning from backup to lead.  So when I'm playing the G, C, D backup up the neck on a song, I've been practicing doing that.  I think she says to use a tag lick on FMB, but on Banjo In the Hollow, Cripple Creek and others, she recommends simply dropping that last chord.  At least I think this is what she is recommending.  That's what I got from it.

If I use a roll, won't I be out of time with the other players in a jam?

I doubt what I'm asking is making sense.  I'm going to pull out the Vamping DVD tonight and go through it again.  I'm going to pay close attention to the FMB backup lesson where she uses a tag lick in transition.  I'm obviously missing something.

---

Hi Barry

Your not showing your ignorance your showing your intelligence by asking these questions.. When Murphy says to "miss off" the last chord when vamping to move back down the neck - that's to give you time to make the move and come in cleanly on your break - or your tag lick- which ever comes next. When you do this you leaving a hole where you don't play anything - although you've stopped playing the music continues on. In your head your meter is still counting, your also listening to what else is going on.

To make that transition as a relative newbie and still  keep time is difficult. It only comes together with listening and practicing. Playing a roll over the open strings fills that gap, it keeps you connected and keeps the motor running (it's an added skill)). As you get deeper into the Murphy Method you'll hear Murphy and Casey mention Fill Notes and Fill Licks alot... This is a skill you'll come to learn as you gain experience nothing to worry about... You end up sticking in fill licks automatically when you drop a note loose your place when playing with others... It's called Improvisation... You can't stop in the middle of a tune and go back to the start whilst performing - you gotta keep playing.. A forward roll will help you get back in there as the band continues to play.

The tag-lick doesn't fit with every tune (it's a powerful lick and can sound out of place) hence Murphy often  says to leave off the last chord and move to play the next phrase. That last chord in the phrase is most often the 1 Chord and when your playing in the key of G that's the G chord. The Tag Lick is played over the G chord, and a forward roll played over the open strings is also on a G chord whilst playing in the key of G. But it's less intrusive it has no embellishments and your left hand is free to move anywhere on the neck. So a useful tool to have in your box of tricks.

 

The tag-lick is also used as a signal to tell the vocalist / other band members that your handing over the lead to someone else usually the vocalist. Hope this is of some help.

 

---

Thanks for the help, Archie.

I started tinkering around with transitions again last night.  It makes sense to me on an intellectual level when I think about it while not playing, but getting my brain and fingers to work properly while playing seems to be an entirely different thing.  Even when playing along with a DVD, I tend to rush the transition and can't find the chords or blow the beginning of the lead.  I remain hopeful that more practice will eventually pay off and solve some of my problems.

I both look forward to and dread the first real jam I will attend.  I'll probably end up being "that guy" and blow the jam apart. 

So much to learn.  And miles to go before I sleep.

3 finger ninja - Posted - 11/08/2013:  19:21:09

I spent a couple hours off and on today mostly shredding(a term borrowed from heavy metal guitar lol). I should have made a vid or two cause im on fire today! Of course tomorrow may be a different story. I played limehouse blues and pike co brkdn and hazel creek. I have a recording of Don Reno playing limehouse blues whic is crazy fast, thats what got me started on the fast playing today. Im gonna wind down now and play super slow for a while.

Marvin

caseyhenry - Posted - 11/09/2013:  05:03:15

quote:

---

Originally posted by jbgreen

 

 

Man, I really hate showing my ignorance on such a daily basis, but my noobie brain is a bit confused.

On the Vamping/Beginning Backup DVD, Murphy says to simply drop the last chord and go into the lead.  This is, of course, when transitioning from backup to lead.  So when I'm playing the G, C, D backup up the neck on a song, I've been practicing doing that.  I think she says to use a tag lick on FMB, but on Banjo In the Hollow, Cripple Creek and others, she recommends simply dropping that last chord.  At least I think this is what she is recommending.  That's what I got from it.

If I use a roll, won't I be out of time with the other players in a jam?

I doubt what I'm asking is making sense.  I'm going to pull out the Vamping DVD tonight and go through it again.  I'm going to pay close attention to the FMB backup lesson where she uses a tag lick in transition.  I'm obviously missing something.

---

On the beginning songs-- Banjo in the Hollow, Cripple Creek, Boil Them Cabbage down, Cumberland Gap--there isn't time for any transition licks, so you do indeed just leave off the last G vamps and then start into the break. Once you get to FMB, John Hardy, and the singing songs on the Misfits DVD, those are where you can start using the tag as a transition. It goes immediately after your D vamp chords. It replaces the last four G vamps. It's tricky to get the hang of, but super useful once you do.

Good Luck!

Casey

capmike - Posted - 11/09/2013:  10:15:08

Just finisned Blue Ridge Cabin home break lesson from Casey. First half of the tune is where the most study has to be applied, second half is almost like the first half except the ending phrase. I can't thank the Henry's enough for there teaching skills. On to finishing improv dvd now.

    Mike

jbgreen - Posted - 11/11/2013:  11:24:59

quote:

---

Originally posted by caseyhenry

 

quote:

---

Originally posted by jbgreen

 

 

Man, I really hate showing my ignorance on such a daily basis, but my noobie brain is a bit confused.

On the Vamping/Beginning Backup DVD, Murphy says to simply drop the last chord and go into the lead.  This is, of course, when transitioning from backup to lead.  So when I'm playing the G, C, D backup up the neck on a song, I've been practicing doing that.  I think she says to use a tag lick on FMB, but on Banjo In the Hollow, Cripple Creek and others, she recommends simply dropping that last chord.  At least I think this is what she is recommending.  That's what I got from it.

If I use a roll, won't I be out of time with the other players in a jam?

I doubt what I'm asking is making sense.  I'm going to pull out the Vamping DVD tonight and go through it again.  I'm going to pay close attention to the FMB backup lesson where she uses a tag lick in transition.  I'm obviously missing something.

---

On the beginning songs-- Banjo in the Hollow, Cripple Creek, Boil Them Cabbage down, Cumberland Gap--there isn't time for any transition licks, so you do indeed just leave off the last G vamps and then start into the break. Once you get to FMB, John Hardy, and the singing songs on the Misfits DVD, those are where you can start using the tag as a transition. It goes immediately after your D vamp chords. It replaces the last four G vamps. It's tricky to get the hang of, but super useful once you do.

 

Good Luck!

Casey

---

Thank you, ma'am.

Started working on using the tag lick on FMB.  I butchered it pretty badly.  I'll get it "woodsheded" out.  I appreciate the explanation.

3 finger ninja - Posted - 11/11/2013:  21:05:33

Ive had a busy weekend so not as much pickin as i would have liked. One thing i have learned lately and woild like to pass on...stretching. Playing banjo.is a physical activity. Ever since ive started stretching my arms, and hands before andvafter playing, my endurance has improved a lot. I think that has made my timing improve as well.

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 11/12/2013:  04:14:05

Hi Guy's

Sorry I have not been very active on the forum of late. I have been so wrapped up with the Uke I haven't had much time for my banjo. I busted a string on my Fender and haven't got round to changing the strings yet, I plan to install some D Tuners but I need to get a 10 mm wrench. Been playing some fav's on my Stelling, I don't really like doing a lot of heavy practice on the Masterflower t as I am starting to see some fret wear. The Fender has stainless steel frets, so when I have a mind to I can play that all day without having to worry. Makes the time I spend playing the Stelling that much more enjoyable. Hopefully I'll get back to some regular study soon.

3 finger ninja - Posted - 11/12/2013:  21:31:32

I was watching the movie Friday with a friend and had the banjo out. The movie has a r+b and hiphop soundtrack and i was surprised how good it sounded when i vamped along to the tunes, even throwing in fills here and there lol! Well thats all i have to report.

Marvin

3 finger ninja - Posted - 11/13/2013:  17:36:51

I was asked to play guitar and sing a couple of gospel tunes at a friends funeral -memorial service so i have to get my fingers reacquainted with my guitar...ill still get a hour in here and there on the banjo though.

Marvin

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 11/14/2013:  01:29:56

Preparing to Deck the Hall's.. Started working on some Christmas Carols, and the dreaded inside roll today. I am working from TAB so progress is gonna be pitifully slow. Yes I know I should be doing this from ear but I really like the TAB arrangements and I want to learn it note for note. I also have an audio recording to help me get the tempo and feel of the arrangements. Well Christmas is fast approaching and these tunes are a short term goal so I'd better get cracking.

Back Porch Banjo - Posted - 11/14/2013:  10:18:33

Put in a lot of hours this week on John Hardy and last night it just "clicked"! I played it well and I played it as fast as I've ever played it. I enjoyed playing it and not really thinking about what the next lick/phrase was. Know what I mean?

Also got in a lot of time on Foggy Mtn Special. It's coming along better than I thought it would (since it's on the Advanced Earl DVD). Hubby's been working nights so he hasn't heard what I've done yet and I'm sure the dog is tired of hearing it! But I'm not! I know eventually I'll get the whole song down and then I can polish it up good!

3 finger ninja - Posted - 11/14/2013:  12:00:19

Back porch banjo, it sounds like your on your way....way to go!

capmike - Posted - 11/15/2013:  22:15:43

Well, I pretty much got Blue ridge cabin home down{slow tempo} will keep working on it. Time to start learning some Christmas tunes,since Christmas is just around the corner. Jingle bells first i think.  Back porch banjo, John hardy worked like that for me as well. I had all kinds of trouble getting that d lick to work, then one day it just started working. Now i play john hardy without much effort. Muscle memory is a strange thing.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Mike

Edited by - capmike on 11/15/2013 22:18:29

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 11/16/2013:  08:40:27

Still working on some Christmas Tunes and trying to figure some rolling backup to Freight Train.......

geckoz - Posted - 11/16/2013:  20:40:40

When I first got my banjo around November last year, the first song I learned from Beginning Banjo Vol1 was Banjo in the Hollow. The next one was Cripple Creek. Then there was a break for many months because I got diverted into learning the guitar and Murphy to the rescue again. I put my banjo up for sale, and suddenly, I felt terrible. I had to go back to the banjo. So, I'm back with the banjo ( and the guitar and drums...and bagpipes).  

I'm currently sorting out Cumberland Gap but I"m having real problems with my pinky up the neck where it hs to stretch to fret 11. This is impossible for me. *sigh".  My goal is to solve this problem. 

Edited by - geckoz on 11/16/2013 20:41:52

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 11/17/2013:  00:10:31

quote:

---

Originally posted by geckoz

 

When I first got my banjo around November last year, the first song I learned from Beginning Banjo Vol1 was Banjo in the Hollow. The next one was Cripple Creek. Then there was a break for many months because I got diverted into learning the guitar and Murphy to the rescue again. I put my banjo up for sale, and suddenly, I felt terrible. I had to go back to the banjo. So, I'm back with the banjo ( and the guitar and drums...and bagpipes).  

 

I'm currently sorting out Cumberland Gap but I"m having real problems with my pinky up the neck where it hs to stretch to fret 11. This is impossible for me. *sigh".  My goal is to solve this problem. 

---

Hi geckoz

Welcome to the Murphy Practice group... I checked out your Blog page and I see you already have a number of goals. Good going...  

From my experience limited as it is the Banjo is an easy instrument to learn but a hard one to master. I have been studying the banjo for over five years and I am just beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel but I still have a long road to travel.

The thing with the pinky is it's not a finger that's used much  except maybe to scratch the wax from your ear therefore you have to train "it" and your brain to do more. In fact you have to train all your fingers and your brain to do an awful lot more. Getting my pinky to get really flexible took close on three years working on it every day - I was an old dog when I picked up the banjo for the first time - If your fingers are younger and your brain cells work fast you may get there sooner but either way you need to work at it. I would recommend you look at Alan Munde's website - Alan has a great Finger Fitness Workout that gets your fingers in shape for playing banjo.. It's not teaching you music It's teaching you how to stretch your finger muscles and how to coordinate your individual finger movements on the fingerboard. When you first try the pinky exercise you wont be able to move it much but with a daily workout you will gradually see your finger skills improve providing you work at it.

caseyhenry - Posted - 11/17/2013:  05:03:50

quote:

---

Originally posted by geckoz

 

When I first got my banjo around November last year, the first song I learned from Beginning Banjo Vol1 was Banjo in the Hollow. The next one was Cripple Creek. Then there was a break for many months because I got diverted into learning the guitar and Murphy to the rescue again. I put my banjo up for sale, and suddenly, I felt terrible. I had to go back to the banjo. So, I'm back with the banjo ( and the guitar and drums...and bagpipes).  

 

I'm currently sorting out Cumberland Gap but I"m having real problems with my pinky up the neck where it hs to stretch to fret 11. This is impossible for me. *sigh".  My goal is to solve this problem. 

---

If you can't reach all the way to the 11th fret at first, you can just go to the 10th fret. It sounds a bit different, but will do the job while you're working on stretching out your pinky!

Casey

capmike - Posted - 11/19/2013:  05:31:51

got some good practice in last night. still working on blue ridge cabin home, slowly working through jingle bells.

Back Porch Banjo - Posted - 11/19/2013:  06:38:54

Spent a LOT of time working on Foggy Mtn Special over the past 4 days - I'm good till just after the "17 C-note" part. I can't get the timing down on the next part where you come back to the 12th fret and on from there. But I'm sure it will come eventually. Hubby was impressed when he finally got to hear what I've been doing with it.

I figure I've learned all the notes/licks to a song when I can sit and play it while watching TV at the same time!

jonah4832 - Posted - 11/19/2013:  13:46:18

Had a good practice today.  FMB is coming along good as well as all of the breaks on beginning banjo volume one.  And now boil them cabbage down low and high break sounds great,  started I saw the light and Do Lord today, some very valuable lick there.   I decided against practicing everything i already knew, as it was taking up too much time.  I believe i will play through everything at least twice a week, giving myself time to learn more material. 

caseyhenry - Posted - 11/19/2013:  16:29:28

quote:

---

Originally posted by jonah4832

 

Had a good practice today.  FMB is coming along good as well as all of the breaks on beginning banjo volume one.  And now boil them cabbage down low and high break sounds great,  started I saw the light and Do Lord today, some very valuable lick there.   I decided against practicing everything i already knew, as it was taking up too much time.  I believe i will play through everything at least twice a week, giving myself time to learn more material. 

---

Be careful not to cover too much material too fast. The average for adults learning to play is one song a MONTH. Make SURE you've got each song down before moving on to the next one!

Casey

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 11/20/2013:  05:33:12

quote:

---

Originally posted by Back Porch Banjo

 

Spent a LOT of time working on Foggy Mtn Special over the past 4 days - I'm good till just after the "17 C-note" part. I can't get the timing down on the next part where you come back to the 12th fret and on from there. But I'm sure it will come eventually. Hubby was impressed when he finally got to hear what I've been doing with it.



I figure I've learned all the notes/licks to a song when I can sit and play it while watching TV at the same time!

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Hi Back Porch Banjo

Yep... That's one very difficult lick to master. Some folk count it out but I don't. The best way I can describe how I do it is I FEEL the change. I anticipate the lick drawing to closure and focus on the move to the next target location on the neck . I guess I really learned this lick from listening to Earl. When I saw Murphy had put this tune on the Advanced Earl DVD I never thought in my wildest dreams I would master this lick. But within a week I had nailed this entire tune. My advice for what it's worth would be to listen to Murphy or Earl Playing the lick over and over. Really focus on every single string strike. Take it slow to begin with. But bear in mind this is really a lick that has to be played in context 'at speed' for it to 'sound right'   

jbgreen - Posted - 11/20/2013:  10:49:23

Rinse and repeat.

Still plugging along.  Tomorrow makes nine months on the banjo journey.  (Maybe I'll give birth to an incredible, original song or something.)  I could probably count on one hand the number of times I've gotten in bed before 1:00 am since I started learning to play.  This banjo thing is addictive.

Started Lonesome Road Blues last night.  Doesn't seem all that hard if I can get my fingers to move quickly enough.  I think the MM version is all up the neck, but while perusing videos on YouTube, I see that there is a down the neck part, too.  I think I'll stick to the MM version for now and add the down the neck part later.

capmike - Posted - 11/20/2013:  11:30:38

quote:

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Originally posted by jbgreen

 

Rinse and repeat.

Still plugging along.  Tomorrow makes nine months on the banjo journey.  (Maybe I'll give birth to an incredible, original song or something.)  I could probably count on one hand the number of times I've gotten in bed before 1:00 am since I started learning to play.  This banjo thing is addictive.

Started Lonesome Road Blues last night.  Doesn't seem all that hard if I can get my fingers to move quickly enough.  I think the MM version is all up the neck, but while perusing videos on YouTube, I see that there is a down the neck part, too.  I think I'll stick to the MM version for now and add the down the neck part later.

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I think Murphy teaches a down the neck break towards the end of the impov dvd

Back Porch Banjo - Posted - 11/21/2013:  04:53:03

I got the whole thing together! Foggy Mtn Special, that is! Played through the entire thing last night with my husband silently counting time to make sure I stayed in time -- and I did it! That song is so much fun to play. I still have a LOT of polishing to do on it and it's not up to speed yet, but I can play along with Murphy's "slow" version on the DVD.

I can't say enough good about Murphy and Casey and how much they've helped me with my playing. Getting their DVDs was by far the best decision I've made since I started playing banjo! Looking forward to learning more and more and more and more.....

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 11/21/2013:  13:44:51

quote:

Originally posted by Back Porch Banjo

I got the whole thing together! Foggy Mtn Special, that is! Played through the entire thing last night with my husband silently counting time to make sure I stayed in time -- and I did it! That song is so much fun to play. I still have a LOT of polishing to do on it and it's not up to speed yet, but I can play along with Murphy's "slow" version on the DVD.



I can't say enough good about Murphy and Casey and how much they've helped me with my playing. Getting their DVDs was by far the best decision I've made since I started playing banjo! Looking forward to learning more and more and more and more.....

Well Done...

3 finger ninja - Posted - 11/22/2013:  16:47:07

Well its been a while since i checked in. I found a jam today and met a fellow bho member Bumarmbob. Really nice guy. The host was a pro/teacher whos style i like a lot so im starting lessons next week. I found anothet jam to attend om top of that so all is good.

Marvin

jonah4832 - Posted - 11/23/2013:  04:44:48

To practice or not to practice, heck that ain't no question.  I have found that even if you do not have an instrument in hand, you can still practice.  Singing along with a song on the radio, thats practice cause it gets the tune in your head, so therefore just listening is practice.  counting the time as you listen, once again its practice.  Thinking on a particular song and letting your mind process it like a computer, again practice.  Sometimes just chopping on your leg as you listen is practice, so heck I find myself practicing all the time, with or without my instrument.  I do enjoy reading how you guy's and gal's are progressing in your practice, it amazes me that when we all have one common goal, that no matter who or where we are in the world, we can all live in peace and harmony, so in essence we are building a banjo bridge that reaches across the globe.

3 finger ninja - Posted - 11/23/2013:  06:29:09

Jonah I wholeheartedly agree that listening is practice!! So using that theory, I practice about 12 hours a day :)

capmike - Posted - 11/27/2013:  03:14:56

Well it's been a while since i last posted. Have been going over everything I have learned so far. Blue Ridge cabin home is going well. I have been playing everything at a slower pace, and repeating many times. Seems my accuracy has improved, as well as tone. Have not jammed lately. Still working through Improvising dvd. With the holidays coming up may not get as much practice as usual, so don't want to get too much going.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Mike

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 11/28/2013:  00:50:31

Still working on my Christmas tunes.... Count Down has begun..........

jonah4832 - Posted - 11/29/2013:  04:37:45

had a great thanksgiving.  Got a chance to play the songs I know while my brother played the guitar as backup, sounded good.  that is what i need more of, to help my timing.

Back Porch Banjo - Posted - 11/30/2013:  06:28:11

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! Took my banjo and hubby's dobro to dinner at our daughter's home. We played pre-dinner music for them and hubby's 90 yr old Dad. Our son-in-law even commented to our daughter that "your mother sounds a lot better this year than last year"!! Coming from him, I'll take that as a BIG compliment! His Dad tapped his feet and totally enjoyed all of it!

Went to our usual Friday night jam last night and played Foggy Mtn Special for my jam group -- with everyone there taking breaks, it sounded pretty good! I thoroughly enjoyed it! It was nice to be able to contribute to the music. Worked with another banjo player later on a low break to Foggy Mtn Special (he plays the song as good/better than Earl did). I've learned so much going to jams -- and not just sitting in the background vamping. Most people are willing to share from time to time -- take advantage of any offers!

Makes me want to learn more and more and more and more......

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 12/03/2013:  23:03:23

Good Morning Everyone 4 December 2013 0700hrs

Well I guess I have been slacking on my reporting but I am pleased to say I haven't been slacking on my banjo practice I have been managing to play some every day but maybe not as much as I was doing before

 My Ukulele lessons will  be ending soon and we have a Christmas concert to do on the 18th for an elderly social group.

Yesterday I received Murphy and Casey's new performance DVD and it really inspired me to get back into some deep study. So watch this space.

Edited by - Tam_Zeb on 12/03/2013 23:04:33

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 12/04/2013:  15:58:02

Today's Practice Session 6 hrs 3x 2 hour sessions.

Inspired by Murphy & Casey's new video I was in the mood to do some serious practice and study today. I started out practicing a few favorites.  Folsom Prison Blues, Life is like a Mountain Railroad, Freight Train. I also worked through some Backup Exercises, Then got down to learning a couple of new tunes focusing on licks and inside roll patterns. Grandfathers Clock and Old Rugged Cross both these arrangements are fairly challenging. A mixture of Scruggs and Melodic. I have been working with these tunes on and off for about a month now and after today's session I am starting to see some good progress. These tunes will surely keep me busy all through winter.

Back Porch Banjo - Posted - 12/06/2013:  04:27:07

Spent 2 hrs last night practicing -- half an hour reviewing songs I've learned and the rest working on Old Joe Clark. I don't really like that song -- ever since someone really embarrassed me about a year ago at a beginner's jam because I didn't have a break on it (traumatic experience for a beginner)! However, I've decided to tackle it with Murphy's help and learn it and the next time someone looks at me at a jam and asks if I want to take a break on Old Joe Clark, I can nod my head 'yes'!

Long dark cold winter evenings make good practice times!