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Please note this is an archived topic, so it is locked and unable to be replied to. You may, however, start a new topic and refer to this topic with a link: http://www.banjohangout.org/archive/408021
ak3 - Posted - 04/03/2026: 04:06:55
Hi there,
Someone gave me an old banjo years ago, and its been sitting there gathering dust. This last few weeks i have tried to play It from looking at you tube videos.
Ive tried a simple cripple creek versión. But It sounds terrible.
Ive attached a recording.
Can anyone give me advice on what they would do st this very early stage to be better?
kantstandya - Posted - 04/03/2026: 06:53:25
Well first off, for only a few weeks playing it sounds great. I’ll tell you the same thing I’ve been told. Practice Practice Practice. Keep watching videos. Find a good teacher near you. Most importantly, if you like it make music and have fun. Good luck on your journey Anna Kay.
banjopaolo - Posted - 04/03/2026: 07:00:08
I don’t hear anything ‘terrible’ being a first attempt!
Keep playing, mind to be very carefull on the rhythmic side, I suggest using the metronome gradually increasing the speed…
I’m sure that the improvements will be quick…
Texasbanjo - Posted - 04/03/2026: 08:12:58
That's very good for a first song. Your timing is good and one can hear the melody. Excellent work, keep it up!
jack_beuthin - Posted - 04/03/2026: 09:12:44
Welcome to clawhammer banjo!
I have a free introductory course on clawhammer banjo on YouTube that uses Cripple Creek as the “go to” tune. The lesson series starts with a bare bones version, then lesson by lesson, adds in various embellishments (slides, pulls, hammers, drop thumb) to get to a fully rendered, “flesh on the bones” version. The series aims to help you understand the structure of playing clawhammer, rather than learning by rote memorization. You might find it helpful at your stage. Have fun regardless!
ak3 - Posted - 04/03/2026: 12:23:04
Hi,
I think it sounds awful! haha
You are seriously very kind people. But its good to know that you think it's a decent start. And I should just carry on, I was wondering when I would get the bounce into it. Thanks Jack for the link I have had a look and will follow the course.
And I will use a metronome.
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