jbgreen - Posted - 12/06/2013:  05:41:02

quote:

Originally posted by Back Porch Banjo

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!

I don't like it either, but I'm going to learn to play it well if it kills me.

Strange thing is if I think about what I'm doing while playing it, I inevitably screw up, but if I kind of zone out and let my fingers go, I can play it much better.

Hang in there.  You'll get it.  We both will eventually.

Back Porch Banjo - Posted - 12/06/2013:  07:39:03

Originally posted by Back Porch Banjo

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!

I don't like it either, but I'm going to learn to play it well if it kills me.

Strange thing is if I think about what I'm doing while playing it, I inevitably screw up, but if I kind of zone out and let my fingers go, I can play it much better.

Hang in there.  You'll get it.  We both will eventually.

Thanks for the encouragement!  I like your "zoning" technique -- think I'll try that and see what happens!

capmike - Posted - 12/07/2013:  20:11:48

Well we here in Texas have been iced in for the past two days, making for a lot of banjo practice time. I did something Illegal today and learned a tune from Tab!  Wreck of the old 97 to be exact. Much more difficult to learn and remember from tab.    still working it out. A lot is familiar licks I've learned from murphy though. Just got to get it in my fingers now.

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 12/08/2013:  04:21:58

Currently working on some Gospel Tunes

jonah4832 - Posted - 12/08/2013:  14:39:38

had  a very good practice, manage to get worried man blues learned today, i am liking the way these licks work from other songs. 

articelk - Posted - 12/09/2013:  09:48:09

OK - I'm in.  Although I'm a 69 year old rank beginner, I love banjo music and hope I have enough years left to learn to play it.  Got my first banjo this past summer - not a classic but a pretty good sounding starter.  Initially took some lessons locally with a study book involving learning tabs.  Did not really learn to play any songs in six weeks, just got frustrated attempting to - but did get familiar with the banjo.  Bought Banjo Primer for Beginners (including the DVD) by Jeoff Hohwald - learned a little more about Scruggs picking and learned to pick some rolls and elementary version of Boil Them Cabbage Down.  Bought Earl Scruggs and the 5 String Banjo book and it was helpful, but still could not play songs reading tabs.  I could not establish any kind of structured practice and I then stumbled upon the Murphy Method and downloaded her Beginning Banjo Vol.1  From the very first lesson, I was amazed!!  I'm now playing Banjo In The Hollow and Cripple Creek (still slowly though), but I now have a practice method that yields positive results and I look forward to everyday's practice sessions.  Just started looking at Cumberland Gap & I'm now subscribed to this group.  Good to see all of you here and hope this to be the next resource that advances my banjo play and pleasure.

capmike - Posted - 12/09/2013:  11:17:53

quote:

---

Originally posted by articelk

 

OK - I'm in.  Although I'm a 69 year old rank beginner, I love banjo music and hope I have enough years left to learn to play it.  Got my first banjo this past summer - not a classic but a pretty good sounding starter.  Initially took some lessons locally with a study book involving learning tabs.  Did not really learn to play any songs in six weeks, just got frustrated attempting to - but did get familiar with the banjo.  Bought Banjo Primer for Beginners (including the DVD) by Jeoff Hohwald - learned a little more about Scruggs picking and learned to pick some rolls and elementary version of Boil Them Cabbage Down.  Bought Earl Scruggs and the 5 String Banjo book and it was helpful, but still could not play songs reading tabs.  I could not establish any kind of structured practice and I then stumbled upon the Murphy Method and downloaded her Beginning Banjo Vol.1  From the very first lesson, I was amazed!!  I'm now playing Banjo In The Hollow and Cripple Creek (still slowly though), but I now have a practice method that yields positive results and I look forward to everyday's practice sessions.  Just started looking at Cumberland Gap & I'm now subscribed to this group.  Good to see all of you here and hope this to be the next resource that advances my banjo play and pleasure.

---

            Welcome! I started at  fifty three, 2 years ago,Stick with Murphy and you'll be playing well before you know it.

Edited by - capmike on 12/09/2013 11:18:46

Back Porch Banjo - Posted - 12/10/2013:  06:43:55

quote:

---

Originally posted by articelk

 

OK - I'm in.  Although I'm a 69 year old rank beginner, I love banjo music and hope I have enough years left to learn to play it.  Got my first banjo this past summer - not a classic but a pretty good sounding starter.  Initially took some lessons locally with a study book involving learning tabs.  Did not really learn to play any songs in six weeks, just got frustrated attempting to - but did get familiar with the banjo.  Bought Banjo Primer for Beginners (including the DVD) by Jeoff Hohwald - learned a little more about Scruggs picking and learned to pick some rolls and elementary version of Boil Them Cabbage Down.  Bought Earl Scruggs and the 5 String Banjo book and it was helpful, but still could not play songs reading tabs.  I could not establish any kind of structured practice and I then stumbled upon the Murphy Method and downloaded her Beginning Banjo Vol.1  From the very first lesson, I was amazed!!  I'm now playing Banjo In The Hollow and Cripple Creek (still slowly though), but I now have a practice method that yields positive results and I look forward to everyday's practice sessions.  Just started looking at Cumberland Gap & I'm now subscribed to this group.  Good to see all of you here and hope this to be the next resource that advances my banjo play and pleasure.

---

Welcome!  I started at 58 - almost 2 yrs ago - with no prior banjo experience.  I loved the sound and wanted to learn to play, so I bought a banjo.  I've been muddling along, took some basic lessons at the start, started taking it to jams and vamping along and picked up some more.  But it wasn't until I started with Murphy & Casey this past summer that things started to take off and I felt like I was actually accomplishing something!  I've learned more in the past several months than I did the whole first year and a half - wish I had started with them sooner!

Have been working on Old Joe Clark and am finally "getting it".  I can't play along with Murphy (with the guitar) yet, but I can play along with her note for note on the really slow version.  It's coming, slowly but surely.  I'm conquering that Old Joe Clark a little at a time - finally!

3 finger ninja - Posted - 12/12/2013:  08:01:52

I found a couple of jams around my area and have started lessons again so I put the MM on the backburner for now. My teacher is going to concentrate on Tony Triscka complete 5 string banjo player book and focus on improvisational skills....good things to come. :)

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 12/12/2013:  08:55:58

quote:

---

Originally posted by articelk

 

OK - I'm in.  Although I'm a 69 year old rank beginner, I love banjo music and hope I have enough years left to learn to play it.  Got my first banjo this past summer - not a classic but a pretty good sounding starter.  Initially took some lessons locally with a study book involving learning tabs.  Did not really learn to play any songs in six weeks, just got frustrated attempting to - but did get familiar with the banjo.  Bought Banjo Primer for Beginners (including the DVD) by Jeoff Hohwald - learned a little more about Scruggs picking and learned to pick some rolls and elementary version of Boil Them Cabbage Down.  Bought Earl Scruggs and the 5 String Banjo book and it was helpful, but still could not play songs reading tabs.  I could not establish any kind of structured practice and I then stumbled upon the Murphy Method and downloaded her Beginning Banjo Vol.1  From the very first lesson, I was amazed!!  I'm now playing Banjo In The Hollow and Cripple Creek (still slowly though), but I now have a practice method that yields positive results and I look forward to everyday's practice sessions.  Just started looking at Cumberland Gap & I'm now subscribed to this group.  Good to see all of you here and hope this to be the next resource that advances my banjo play and pleasure.

---

 Welcome to the group Robert I was a late starter myself. I was 61 when I started and have been playing banjo for five and a half years. I am retired now so I have plenty time to pick.. I really enjoy the learning process.. They say that you can't teach an old dog new tricks well Murphy and Casey can. Good Luck with your picking.

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 12/12/2013:  09:11:33

Well I finally got round  to fitting some new strings on my Fender and used the opportunity to fit the D Tuners I bought with the iintent of fitting them on my Stelling but instead decided to fit them on the Fender since that's really my practice banjo.

I'm looking forward to getting into some of the lessons on the More Advanced Earl DVD where Murphy teaches Flint Hill Special, Earls Breakdown and Randy Lynn Rag using the tuners after the holidays....

Edited by - Tam_Zeb on 12/12/2013 09:12:35

superchicken - Posted - 12/12/2013:  11:09:04

I'm in. I am 43 and have never played an instrument before. I love banjo and really want to learn to play it. I have been practicing for about 3 months now and am frustrated with the lack of progress I have made. MY job does not allow for daily practice, but I'm able to get 5-6 hours/week most of the time. I have Banjo in the Hollow down pretty well and started on Cripple Creek. I can play all the notes in order without mistakes with her when she's going super slow, but when she does the slow with the guitar at the end of the lesson, what I'm playing slowly does not sound like her at all. I can't seem to take it from super slow to slow without it sounding stiff. Is she playing the song with the guitar sort of syncopated or is it just my ear that's messed up? I'm getting frustrated. Am I explaining myself right? Does anyone else have this problem? Am I doomed to forever plink out horrible music?

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 12/12/2013:  15:30:36

quote:

---

Originally posted by superchicken

 

I'm in. I am 43 and have never played an instrument before. I love banjo and really want to learn to play it. I have been practicing for about 3 months now and am frustrated with the lack of progress I have made. MY job does not allow for daily practice, but I'm able to get 5-6 hours/week most of the time. I have Banjo in the Hollow down pretty well and started on Cripple Creek. I can play all the notes in order without mistakes with her when she's going super slow, but when she does the slow with the guitar at the end of the lesson, what I'm playing slowly does not sound like her at all. I can't seem to take it from super slow to slow without it sounding stiff. Is she playing the song with the guitar sort of syncopated or is it just my ear that's messed up? I'm getting frustrated. Am I explaining myself right? Does anyone else have this problem? Am I doomed to forever plink out horrible music?

---

 Hi Laurie

Welcome to the Hangout and the Murphy Method Practice Group.

At the three month stage I was pretty slow and clunky too and my playing didn't sound much like music. So don't think your alone. Your questions come up a lot on the Hangout and the only way to get better is to practice. Most folk have to juggle their practice around their life and seem to make good progress using the Murphy Method. That's not to say you wont get frustrated sometimes it's all part of the learning process. Good luck.

Be sure to spend time just listening to Murphy playing... The syncopation will come when to learn to emphasise notes and the rests between the notes. That skill comes from listening.

Edited by - Tam_Zeb on 12/12/2013 15:41:56

capmike - Posted - 12/13/2013:  05:17:25

Welcome Laurie, and good luck with the banjo.

Got in some good practice this morning. I got up at 3 am, couldnt sleep so.... good time to play the banjo! The wife was still asleep, no interruptions, worked on wreck of the old 97. getting there with that one,

really good bluegrass tune. also worked on blue ridge cabin home. and I saw the light. I've been playing murphys way on that one for some time, Earls version has a little more after the first lick. I think its a cripple creek lick but not sure. maybe somebody could enlighten me?  I have some more of Casey's  lessons coming, dooley, fox on the run and nashville blues. can't wait to get started on those. enough for now

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Mike

articelk - Posted - 12/13/2013:  05:54:28

quote:

---

Originally posted by 5 finger ninja



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.

---

I recently found that I'm unconsciously lifting up my right hand 'anchor' fingers - either one or the other ... sometimes both .... it's causing me to lose my position and to miss my strings.  Have been doing some exercises to get more flexibility with my right hand 'ring' finger.  That's the one that gives me best control when I can keep it down on the head. It's also the one that wants to come off the head the easiest.  Any suggestions from anybody who's faced or conquered this kind of problem in their 'rookie' phase of playing?

articelk - Posted - 12/14/2013:  06:28:06

Found a solution to my right hand ring finger anchor problem.  Using 2 sided scotch tape on that finger to 'train' it to stay down on the head - it's working.  Played several practice sessions using the 2 sided tape on that finger, then removed the tape and played a couple of practice sessions with the bare finger & experience a marked improvement in keeping that finger down on the head.  Will continue with the tape training until I can keep that finger anchored on the head without the tape. It's a physiological problem due to an old injury at a joint in that finger.   I'm encouraged because I'm making good progress in my practice sessions now that I can keep my right hand in the proper position.

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 12/14/2013:  06:37:28

quote:

---

Originally posted by articelk

quote:

---

Originally posted by 5 finger ninja



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.

---

I recently found that I'm unconsciously lifting up my right hand 'anchor' fingers - either one or the other ... sometimes both .... it's causing me to lose my position and to miss my strings.  Have been doing some exercises to get more flexibility with my right hand 'ring' finger.  That's the one that gives me best control when I can keep it down on the head. It's also the one that wants to come off the head the easiest.  Any suggestions from anybody who's faced or conquered this kind of problem in their 'rookie' phase of playing?

---

 Hi Robert

This topic has been raised a lot on The Hangout over the years I have been a member. Everyone seems to have a different take on it. There are those that insist you have two fingers planted some have the pinky down some the ring finger and some have none on the head. I often find I am only anchoring either my pinky or my ring finger sometimes both. I don't worry about it  I have seen clips of Earl with his ring finger off the head. Your still at an early stage of learning so I would encourage you to try to anchor at least one finger, two may give you more stability and control.

capmike - Posted - 12/16/2013:  05:05:40

Nothing new to report. I think I have hit a roadblock, practice all my known songs, not much improvement on anything lately. It seems like a month ago my playing had taken a big leap foward. Now kinda stuck in a rut and can't seem to improve much.need more practice..........

                     Mike

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 12/17/2013:  14:47:07

Past few days I have been getting familiar with my D Tuners. Things seem to be coming along fine but I am still having a heck of a time setting up the tuners. Just when I think I have everything set one of the tuners goes flat or sharp and  I have to go through the process againg..Phew..

Just completed learning all the phrases to Flint Hill Special just got to getting things smoothed out.. Very pleased with my progress on this most of the licks are fairly straight forward but I had a hard time getting that C Lick in my head, It's not so difficult it's just a little different and I had a hard time getting all my fingers on the right string at the right time. Another milestone passed.

Edited by - Tam_Zeb on 12/17/2013 14:48:11

jonah4832 - Posted - 12/18/2013:  02:51:13

Capmike, thats not a roadblock, we have have those times when it seems like out playing isn't going anywhere, then out of no where something in us clicks and it makes you stand back and say, wow.  Just keep playing and you will surprise yourself soon.  Let us all remember, playing can be up to speed if we want, but practice should be slow and focused, making sure there are no trouble spots that we are overlooking. 

capmike - Posted - 12/18/2013:  07:28:17

Jonah, thanks for the encouraging words, will keep at it.

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 12/18/2013:  07:54:43

quote:

---

Originally posted by capmike

Nothing new to report. I think I have hit a roadblock, practice all my known songs, not much improvement on anything lately. It seems like a month ago my playing had taken a big leap foward. Now kinda stuck in a rut and can't seem to improve much.need more practice..........

                     Mike

---

 Hi Mike

I had the same walls to climb. As Jonah say's just keep practicing, keep moving forward set yourself a new goal a lick or an ending something to take your thoughts elsewhere for a few days  then come back to the bit your struggling with in a day or two. Don't get trapped into thinking your not making progress. The brain needs time to organize all the stuff your accumulating.

caseyhenry - Posted - 12/18/2013:  10:44:12

quote:

---

Originally posted by Tam_Zeb

Past few days I have been getting familiar with my D Tuners. Things seem to be coming along fine but I am still having a heck of a time setting up the tuners. Just when I think I have everything set one of the tuners goes flat or sharp and  I have to go through the process againg..Phew..

Just completed learning all the phrases to Flint Hill Special just got to getting things smoothed out.. Very pleased with my progress on this most of the licks are fairly straight forward but I had a hard time getting that C Lick in my head, It's not so difficult it's just a little different and I had a hard time getting all my fingers on the right string at the right time. Another milestone passed.

---

The tuners can often be finicky. Be sure you tune UP to the top note, and DOWN to the bottom note. That usually helps. But I always have to set mine twice anyway!

Casey

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 12/18/2013:  12:39:22

quote:

---

Originally posted by caseyhenry

quote:

---

Originally posted by Tam_Zeb

Past few days I have been getting familiar with my D Tuners. Things seem to be coming along fine but I am still having a heck of a time setting up the tuners. Just when I think I have everything set one of the tuners goes flat or sharp and  I have to go through the process againg..Phew..

Just completed learning all the phrases to Flint Hill Special just got to getting things smoothed out.. Very pleased with my progress on this most of the licks are fairly straight forward but I had a hard time getting that C Lick in my head, It's not so difficult it's just a little different and I had a hard time getting all my fingers on the right string at the right time. Another milestone passed.

---

The tuners can often be finicky. Be sure you tune UP to the top note, and DOWN to the bottom note. That usually helps. But I always have to set mine twice anyway!

Casey

---

 Thanks Casey... Yes your mum does say to tune the high note first then down to the lower note. The B string seems to be the easier of the two but on occasion has a mind of it's own The G string is finicky but when I get it right it seems to stay right. I use graphite on the nut slots to keep the strings lubricated

jonah4832 - Posted - 12/23/2013:  03:32:50

I believe the encouraging words of these practice forums are a great help.  Currently working on two dollar bill from banjo for misfits, and continue to work on all the songs from beginning banjo 1 and banjo for misfits. My speed is increasing on all the other songs and I have learned some great licks that i recognize in other songs and i am starting to hear some of these licks in music that i listen too.  I pray that each of you will have a very Merry Christmas, and perhaps Santa might bring you a new dvd from muphy.  Do keep up your practice and keep us all informed of your progress as we all need those incouraging word's. 

Back Porch Banjo - Posted - 12/27/2013:  05:58:56

Spent a good 2 hrs last night starting on Clinch Mtn Backstep - went pretty well. Also working on bringing Old Joe Clark, Foggy Mtn Special, John Hardy and others up to speed and improving tone.

Had an un-nerving uncomfortable experience at the last jam I went to. It was my usual Friday night jam last week. The jam leader (excellent banjo player) for our group was unable to be there. We had two guitars, two mandolins, a bass, a fiddle, and me (the only banjo) in the group. We played half an hour and had fun. Then another guitar player showed up who is not a regular but attends somewhat frequently. He stood in our group, not playing, for several numbers. Someone asked him if he was going to get his guitar out of the case or just stand there and listen. He said (and I quote): "We need a real banjo player." There was an extremely uncomfortable silence till I said: "Hey, I'm making as much banjo noise as I can" and laughed - so did everyone else. But this guitar player kept saying over and over: "Nah, we need a real banjo player." He finally left the group saying: "I'm gonna find me a real banjo player." He was gone for 20 minutes or so and came back with a guy carrying a banjo and announced to our group: "Look, I found me a real banjo player. Now we can play some real music." I got up and gave my seat to the new guy and packed my banjo up for the evening. I spent the evening listening in on other groups at the jam. This guitar player walked by me once and said (sarcastically): "You oughta come sit in now - you might learn something." I declined. The other players fell out of the group one by one and either went to other groups at the jam or left for the evening. Each one commented to me on the insensitivity and nastiness of this guitar player and several said they didn't want to play in that kind of atmosphere.

In the group, we usually tease each other, but always in fun. For example, when I play my "Wreck of the Old 97", one of the guys says because I'm building up my speed, my Old 97 doesn't go "down the road making 90 miles an hour" -- my Old 97 is only going about 35 to 40 miles an hour but I'm picking up speed down that hill a little at a time! Why do some people feel it's necessary to cut others down? I guess they do it because they need to make themselves feel/look better -- well, they don't look any better in my eyes! They look a lot smaller to me.

Sorry for the long post -- just had to get that off my chest. One good thing came out of it -- the incident did inspire me to buckle down and work really really hard on my music!

irasmith - Posted - 12/27/2013:  07:49:26

Hi Back Porch!

Well thanks for posting, don't let this guy get you down, just mark it as a learning experience. I have been to many Jams where I have felt that I should just keep the Jo in the case, that's OK.

This is a long road, and there will be bumps, but it sounds like you have a good attitude, so keep at it!

The Banjo is a difficult instrument to learn, I have heard more than once that it is the hardest, I always keep that in the back of my mind.

Jamming with friends is THE MOST rewarding part of Banjo playing for me, you just have to find the right bunch to play with. There will always be funny looks, and snickers, but you know how much work it takes to sound good, so that is the most important thing to remember.

I might suggest that you ask your guitar buddy to play together, just the two of you, and have him tell you what it is about your playing that he finds troublesome, and BOTH of you work TOGETHER to improve how BOTH of you sound.

Good luck buddy!

jonah4832 - Posted - 12/27/2013:  14:57:11

Hey backporch, is it better to play the best you can and everyone like you or to be an arse and everyone despise you, personally i would opt for the first.  I personally think they think they are better then they really are, so hang in there and be accepted.

capmike - Posted - 12/27/2013:  20:26:40

quote: Seem's some people forget where they come from. I've played guitar for 30yrs or so before I took up banjo. And yes when I go out jamming there are several people playing guitar that I can out play, but I would never try to belittle those folks for there effort, cause i've been there, and your guitar player has been there too. He's just forgot what it was like to struggle and learn. So was the Banjo player, and so was Earl Scruggs. Everybody has to learn. Nobody  is born knowing how to play. The difference is Time on the instrument. Keep up the good work, you Will get there.  

---

Originally posted by Back Porch Banjo

Spent a good 2 hrs last night starting on Clinch Mtn Backstep - went pretty well. Also working on bringing Old Joe Clark, Foggy Mtn Special, John Hardy and others up to speed and improving tone.



Had an un-nerving uncomfortable experience at the last jam I went to. It was my usual Friday night jam last week. The jam leader (excellent banjo player) for our group was unable to be there. We had two guitars, two mandolins, a bass, a fiddle, and me (the only banjo) in the group. We played half an hour and had fun. Then another guitar player showed up who is not a regular but attends somewhat frequently. He stood in our group, not playing, for several numbers. Someone asked him if he was going to get his guitar out of the case or just stand there and listen. He said (and I quote): "We need a real banjo player." There was an extremely uncomfortable silence till I said: "Hey, I'm making as much banjo noise as I can" and laughed - so did everyone else. But this guitar player kept saying over and over: "Nah, we need a real banjo player." He finally left the group saying: "I'm gonna find me a real banjo player." He was gone for 20 minutes or so and came back with a guy carrying a banjo and announced to our group: "Look, I found me a real banjo player. Now we can play some real music." I got up and gave my seat to the new guy and packed my banjo up for the evening. I spent the evening listening in on other groups at the jam. This guitar player walked by me once and said (sarcastically): "You oughta come sit in now - you might learn something." I declined. The other players fell out of the group one by one and either went to other groups at the jam or left for the evening. Each one commented to me on the insensitivity and nastiness of this guitar player and several said they didn't want to play in that kind of atmosphere.



In the group, we usually tease each other, but always in fun. For example, when I play my "Wreck of the Old 97", one of the guys says because I'm building up my speed, my Old 97 doesn't go "down the road making 90 miles an hour" -- my Old 97 is only going about 35 to 40 miles an hour but I'm picking up speed down that hill a little at a time! Why do some people feel it's necessary to cut others down? I guess they do it because they need to make themselves feel/look better -- well, they don't look any better in my eyes! They look a lot smaller to me.



Sorry for the long post -- just had to get that off my chest. One good thing came out of it -- the incident did inspire me to buckle down and work really really hard on my music!

---

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 12/28/2013:  00:47:11

Hi Back Porch

Ask yourself, what did you learn from that experience? Then move on.

This world is full or arrogant individuals who get off on putting people down, don't spend you practice time worrying about them life is too short.

Edited by - Tam_Zeb on 12/28/2013 00:47:37

Back Porch Banjo - Posted - 12/30/2013:  12:43:22

THANK YOU to everyone for your encouraging words and thoughts! Tam Zeb, you're right, life is too short to worry about people like this guitar player. I'm moving on.

And what did I learn? I've learned that I always need to play the best I can; I've learned that I should always be patient with people, especially myself; I've learned that no one is born knowing how to play -- we all started from zero; I've learned that I need to buckle down and work on my music and improve my playing a little at a time; and I've learned that if I do these things, eventually I'll get there -- and I'll have a lot more fun on the way!

I went to a fairly high level jam yesterday afternoon for the first time. When I walked in, the first person I saw was the guitar player from the other week. I wasn't sure if I even wanted to get my banjo out of the case but several people (some I knew, some I didn't) came over and encouraged me to join the group, so I did. I spent most of the afternoon sitting on the edges vamping chords and playing rolls. And when it came to my turn, I did Foggy Mtn Special. I announced to the group that my version would be a lot slower than Earl did it and they were great about it -- got several congratulations afterwards. My hands shook and I was scared to death, but I got through it just fine! Another young banjo player did an incredible break on it and after the jam, he showed me how he started it -- it'll be a while before I can play his break, but I learned how to start it -- very nice guy.

Anyway, enough of that. I've got Clinch Mtn Backstep down pretty good -- I really like that song. And I didn't think it was all that difficult to learn. Working on Fireball Mail now. And of course, practicing all the rest, improving speed and tone. LOVE this Murphy Method!

Thanks again to all! Have a GREAT New Year!

capmike - Posted - 01/01/2014:  05:34:29

Happy new year! Hope everyone has great success with the Banjo this Year.

                                                                                                                                          Mike

articelk - Posted - 01/01/2014:  06:14:36

quote:

---

Originally posted by Back Porch Banjo

I went to a fairly high level jam yesterday afternoon for the first time. When I walked in, the first person I saw was the guitar player from the other week. I wasn't sure if I even wanted to get my banjo out of the case but several people (some I knew, some I didn't) came over and encouraged me to join the group, so I did. I spent most of the afternoon sitting on the edges vamping chords and playing rolls. And when it came to my turn, I did Foggy Mtn Special. I announced to the group that my version would be a lot slower than Earl did it and they were great about it -- got several congratulations afterwards. My hands shook and I was scared to death, but I got through it just fine! Another young banjo player did an incredible break on it and after the jam, he showed me how he started it -- it'll be a while before I can play his break, but I learned how to start it -- very nice guy.



Thanks again to all! Have a GREAT New Year!

---

While reading Back Porch Banjo's post about jam sessions, it occurred to me that before I eventually participate in a jam, I need to learn to play standing up!  I've always been seated in my practice sessions with my banjo comfortably placed and stationary ... so I stood up to try a practice tune and found that to be a whole new experience! My banjo is moving around when I make chords and left hand slides and pull-offs - something new to deal with my right hand picking.  Might seem elementary for all you seasoned pickers, but I'm now finding I must recognize my place on the fingerboard from the dots on the neck and I can't always see where my right hand is picking.  Now I'll be doing all my practice sessions while standing.  Thanks for the tip!

Happy New Year to all!

schlange - Posted - 01/06/2014:  20:19:45

Hey gang, I've got some good news!

I talked to Casey Henry (of Murphy Method fame) and she has agreed let me feature particular video lessons from her archive (see caseyhenry.net/lessons.html) on a weekly basis. You'll be able to buy the lesson for $6 (instead of the regular price of $30) and this way everyone will have access to a nice thorough ear-training lesson for a particular song. Her videos are about 15 minutes long and walk you through each part--for me, at least, it's been unquestionable the best way to learn a tune.

So what I'm going to do is post a new topic each week with info on a new tune. For that week only, Casey's video will be available for $6. 

I'll put a referencing post on this thread banjohangout.org/topic/276252/3/#3487905 so you'll know where to find each week's featured tune post, so subscribe to that thread if you want to be notified of each new TOTW.

3 finger ninja - Posted - 01/06/2014:  22:14:00

quote:

---

Originally posted by articelk

quote:

---

Originally posted by Back Porch Banjo

I went to a fairly high level jam yesterday afternoon for the first time. When I walked in, the first person I saw was the guitar player from the other week. I wasn't sure if I even wanted to get my banjo out of the case but several people (some I knew, some I didn't) came over and encouraged me to join the group, so I did. I spent most of the afternoon sitting on the edges vamping chords and playing rolls. And when it came to my turn, I did Foggy Mtn Special. I announced to the group that my version would be a lot slower than Earl did it and they were great about it -- got several congratulations afterwards. My hands shook and I was scared to death, but I got through it just fine! Another young banjo player did an incredible break on it and after the jam, he showed me how he started it -- it'll be a while before I can play his break, but I learned how to start it -- very nice guy.



Thanks again to all! Have a GREAT New Year!

---

While reading Back Porch Banjo's post about jam sessions, it occurred to me that before I eventually participate in a jam, I need to learn to play standing up!  I've always been seated in my practice sessions with my banjo comfortably placed and stationary ... so I stood up to try a practice tune and found that to be a whole new experience! My banjo is moving around when I make chords and left hand slides and pull-offs - something new to deal with my right hand picking.  Might seem elementary for all you seasoned pickers, but I'm now finding I must recognize my place on the fingerboard from the dots on the neck and I can't always see where my right hand is picking.  Now I'll be doing all my practice sessions while standing.  Thanks for the tip!

Happy New Year to all!

---

I go to jams and have never had to stand yet, although I have just because I felt like it at the time. Playing standing up feels a little funny at first but like anything else youll find your comfort zone with it.

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 01/07/2014:  05:31:47

quote:

---

Originally posted by schlange

Hey gang, I've got some good news!

I talked to Casey Henry (of Murphy Method fame) and she has agreed let me feature particular video lessons from her archive (see caseyhenry.net/lessons.html) on a weekly basis. You'll be able to buy the lesson for $6 (instead of the regular price of $30) and this way everyone will have access to a nice thorough ear-training lesson for a particular song. Her videos are about 15 minutes long and walk you through each part--for me, at least, it's been unquestionable the best way to learn a tune.

So what I'm going to do is post a new topic each week with info on a new tune. For that week only, Casey's video will be available for $6. 

I'll put a referencing post on this thread banjohangout.org/topic/276252/3/#3487905 so you'll know where to find each week's featured tune post, so subscribe to that thread if you want to be notified of each new TOTW.

---

 Hi Eric

I think this a brilliant idea I am sure many banjo students will gain a lot from these lessons . I wished you had thought of it a lot sooner alas I have enough lessons to last me a good year or more. However should something come up that interests me I will certainly participate. Huge thanks to Casey for granting permission.

caseyhenry - Posted - 01/07/2014:  05:32:21

quote:

---

Originally posted by articelk

While reading Back Porch Banjo's post about jam sessions, it occurred to me that before I eventually participate in a jam, I need to learn to play standing up!  I've always been seated in my practice sessions with my banjo comfortably placed and stationary ... so I stood up to try a practice tune and found that to be a whole new experience! My banjo is moving around when I make chords and left hand slides and pull-offs - something new to deal with my right hand picking.  Might seem elementary for all you seasoned pickers, but I'm now finding I must recognize my place on the fingerboard from the dots on the neck and I can't always see where my right hand is picking.  Now I'll be doing all my practice sessions while standing.  Thanks for the tip!

Happy New Year to all!

---

Yeah, it's a good idea to practice standing up if there is even the slightest chance that you'll ever need to play standing up. Although, most jams are, in fact, sitting down jams.

Casey

Back Porch Banjo - Posted - 01/10/2014:  10:41:47

Been working on Home Sweet Home (C) recently. I usually work on 2 at a time and learn them both well before moving on -- then I keep working on increasing speed on the new ones. Can't decide what the other new song will be yet -- so many choices! Have also been working on rolls -- just trying to increase my speed on all the different types of rolls while staying in time. Haven't been doing enough of the basic work lately.

Went to my regular slow jam group last night and did my (just-learned) Fireball Mail -- went really well -- and contrary to their name, the group did not take it "slow"! Also did a break on "Wreck of the Old 97" (in G) that moved along pretty fast also. Played Clinch Mtn Backstep with a few in the group during our evening break -- am having a tough time with the timing on the A part of the song -- the B part is good (even the "backstep" 5 beat measure). Anyone have any suggestions -- except for practice and more practice?

Had a newbie last night in my slow jam group - a woman who studied classical violin, lived abroad most of her life, and had never been exposed to bluegrass. We informed her that her instrument became a "fiddle" when she joined the group! She tried a few simple fiddle breaks on songs she had never heard before and she did really well. I think we have another bluegrass convert! My slow jam group is great -- we meet twice a month -- I love it -- they encourage risk-taking on breaks and don't judge when screw-ups occur because we all screw up at some point! I wish everyone could play with a group like this group!

caseyhenry - Posted - 01/10/2014:  12:18:10

quote:

---

Originally posted by Back Porch Banjo

Went to my regular slow jam group last night and did my (just-learned) Fireball Mail -- went really well -- and contrary to their name, the group did not take it "slow"! Also did a break on "Wreck of the Old 97" (in G) that moved along pretty fast also. Played Clinch Mtn Backstep with a few in the group during our evening break -- am having a tough time with the timing on the A part of the song -- the B part is good (even the "backstep" 5 beat measure). Anyone have any suggestions -- except for practice and more practice?

 

 

My advice about the Clinch Mountain A Part (besides practice) is to listen to it a lot. Listen to where Murphy plays it through in the lesson, at the end where it's put together with the guitar. Just record off that time through the song and put it on repeat and let it run. It will sink into your head and fix your timing issue.

Casey

capmike - Posted - 01/11/2014:  10:17:38

 I have the same problem with Clinch mountain backstep too. Timing is really tough on that one. good luck with it.

 Got wreck of the old 97 and Blue ridge cabin home down pretty well, Gonna start on Dooley now.Look pretty easy. we shall see....

capmike - Posted - 01/12/2014:  16:13:57

Was going over Blue Ridge cabin home today, trying to pick up the pace a bit, and found when I came to the roll holding down the g string at the second fret, playing three-one-five,two- one- five,three-one.I was loosing a beat and thought I was just not famillier enough with the roll. But after much slowing down the lick, I soon discovered I was double thumbing, playing the 5th string and using my thumb to play the third string. Didn't even notice it till I started to speed it up. Everything in the details I guess.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Mike

Back Porch Banjo - Posted - 01/23/2014:  07:42:59

Been working on Salt Creek - having a terrible time getting the F-chord roll/3rd string-middle finger pull-off at the beginning of the A part in time. The whole piece just doesn't sound right yet - sounds like bits and pieces of totally unrelated music. I'm not even close to playing it along with Murphy (with guitar). Lots of work to do on that one!

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 01/23/2014:  08:21:32

quote:

---

Originally posted by Back Porch Banjo

Been working on Salt Creek - having a terrible time getting the F-chord roll/3rd string-middle finger pull-off at the beginning of the A part in time. The whole piece just doesn't sound right yet - sounds like bits and pieces of totally unrelated music. I'm not even close to playing it along with Murphy (with guitar). Lots of work to do on that one!

---

 Hi Back Porch Banjo.

If it's any consolation I struggled with this lesson too. There's a lot of stuff going on in that one. If you have worked your way through all the lessons on Beginning Banjo 1 and Old Joe Clark you should have a good grounding for working through  this lesson. Many beginners struggle with the F Chord shape. But once you know how to make the shape anywhere on the neck your off to a good start.

I think the reason it seems so hard to do is because it's at the bottom of the neck,  and if you don't have the banjo sitting on your lap properly with the neck angle in the right position you add tension to your arm.  This is not uncommon with new players since they will often twist the banjo round in order to see the frets.  That's a fatal mistake.

The F Chord lick isn't really all that difficult. your just holding down two fingers Index on the 2nd string 1st fret and Ring finger on the  4th string 3rd fret whilst you pluck the 3rd string  at the second fret with your middle finger.

The Roll 3141 3141 3141 4 IMTM IMTM IMTM T Pull off on the 3rd string each time

What I do when I am having problems is to isolate the lick and work on it for a day or two. Then go back to the lesson and try again.  

Edited by - Tam_Zeb on 01/23/2014 08:35:00

Tam_Zeb - Posted - 01/23/2014:  08:40:33

quote:

---

Originally posted by Tam_Zeb

quote:

---

Originally posted by Back Porch Banjo

Been working on Salt Creek - having a terrible time getting the F-chord roll/3rd string-middle finger pull-off at the beginning of the A part in time. The whole piece just doesn't sound right yet - sounds like bits and pieces of totally unrelated music. I'm not even close to playing it along with Murphy (with guitar). Lots of work to do on that one!

---

 Hi Back Porch Banjo.

If it's any consolation I struggled with this lesson too. There's a lot of stuff going on in that one. If you have worked your way through all the lessons on Beginning Banjo 1 and Old Joe Clark you should have a good grounding for working through  this lesson. Many beginners struggle with the F Chord shape. But once you know how to make the shape anywhere on the neck your off to a good start.

I think the reason it seems so hard to do is because it's at the bottom of the neck,  and if you don't have the banjo sitting on your lap properly with the neck angle in the right position you add tension to your arm.  This is not uncommon with new players since they will often twist the banjo round in order to see the frets.  That's a fatal mistake.

The F Chord lick isn't really all that difficult. your just holding down two fingers Index on the 2nd string 1st fret and Ring finger on the  4th string 3rd fret whilst you pluck the 3rd string  at the second fret with your middle finger.

The Roll 3141 3141 3141 4 IMTM IMTM IMTM T Pull off on the 3rd string each time

What I do when I am having problems is to isolate the lick and work on it for a day or two. Then go back to the lesson and try again.  

---

 Opps that should read 3241 3241 3241 4 TITM TITM TITM T

Edited by - Tam_Zeb on 01/23/2014 08:41:59

articelk - Posted - 02/03/2014:  13:29:32

Finally - my first tune from Murphy Method Beginning Banjo Vol. 1.  I'm attaching the MP3 file played on my Morgan Monroe model MGB-1C/FL Rocky Top.  Constructive criticism or other comments welcomed.

Banjo In The Hollow

jonah4832 - Posted - 02/03/2014:  15:26:23

quote:

---

Originally posted by articelk

Finally - my first tune from Murphy Method Beginning Banjo Vol. 1.  I'm attaching the MP3 file played on my Morgan Monroe model MGB-1C/FL Rocky Top.  Constructive criticism or other comments welcomed.

---

Hey great job, really no bluegrass tune is wrote in stone.  I enjoyed the way you played it and great pulloff by the way.  I believe you are on your way, keep it up.

caseyhenry - Posted - 02/04/2014:  06:20:58

quote:

---

Originally posted by articelk

Finally - my first tune from Murphy Method Beginning Banjo Vol. 1.  I'm attaching the MP3 file played on my Morgan Monroe model MGB-1C/FL Rocky Top.  Constructive criticism or other comments welcomed.

---

Nice job!!

Casey

jbgreen - Posted - 02/04/2014:  06:37:58

quote:

---

Originally posted by articelk

Finally - my first tune from Murphy Method Beginning Banjo Vol. 1.  I'm attaching the MP3 file played on my Morgan Monroe model MGB-1C/FL Rocky Top.  Constructive criticism or other comments welcomed.

---

Good job!  I like it.

articelk - Posted - 02/06/2014:  20:39:53

Been working on Cripple Creek - got the brain & both hands together enough to get thru Murphy's lesson at a pretty good tempo for me - but when I put it all together, it just doesn't sound like the same tune that she's playing !? Tried all kinds of ways to alter my timing on the picking - just can't seem to get the song sounding like Murphy's Cripple Creek.  Anybody else had a problem with timing on this tune?  Maybe I just need to start over & unlearn what I've done - learn it all as new again.  Frustrated, mainly because I kinda like what I'm playing, but it just doesn't sound like the traditional Cripple Creek and I want it to.  Don't understand what went wrong 'cause I'm picking all the right notes with the slides, pull-offs, & hammer-ons in the right places - must be way off correct time for the tune?