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As some of you know I was getting money together to purchase a RK-50 banjo. I sold my Strat (against the wishes of many), which brought me some of the money I needed, and the rest I took out of the credit union where I work. It’s been my experience that anytime I come into what I call “windfall money” some financial situation creeps up to nip me in the wallet, this instance was no different. At the time I was gathering this scratch, my daughter was nearing graduation from college in D. C. Proud momma and poppa had made plans to be there for this auspicious occasion, but, some of the money we were counting on for the trip got eaten by other means, which left my “banjo money” to cover this unforeseen monetary black eye. I thought nothing of it, added my profits to the kitty and off we went. This expenditure severely depleted the money I had put aside for the ‘jo, but it was worth every penny as our daughter graduated with distinction (suma cum laude, phi beta kappa, and a writing award – oh, we were beyond proud).
Now that the economy appears to be taking a nose dive, I had begun to rethink pulling the trigger on the RK-50 and going for something less expensive, but once I saw video footage of a guy playing that very ‘jo on YouTube, I decided to stick with acquiring the RK-50. I really want something decent this time around and want to get the best I can afford, rather than go too cheap and be disappointed. Needless to say, the naysayers consider me daft for wanting to spend close to a grand on a banjo, and of course they point to the state of the economy as reason enough not to. Hard headed thespian that I be I’m ignoring that noise and here’s why. I know how a good instrument will inspire playing, make learning easier, and in the long run serve better than a bottom of the barrel entry level instrument. I didn’t bother to explain this, as it’s been my experience that nonplayers will interpret my opinion or reasoning as ludicrous.
To close, dear readers, we all better hold on tight. It’s my feeling that things will only get worse as time goes on. I read on the net that motor scooters across the country are selling like hotcakes, so are bikes, owners of gas guzzling SUVs and Humvees can’t give them away let alone sell them. I called a bike shop today to see about getting an old bike of mine overhauled and was told their repair dept. is two weeks back logged (thankfully, I don’t drive, but I’m sick of public transit). So, “they” call me crazy for wanting this “luxury item”, they tell me I’m being foolhardy, but they don’t see it like I do. It’s not that I need this ‘jo or can’t live without it, but when I think of the wonderful dimensions it can add to my life, ESPECIALLY NOW, I can only say, ker-blang!
zeke_w15 Says:
Tuesday, July 15, 2008 @11:45:12 AM
Good for you.You go for it,I just did the same thing back in April put out right around a grand for a new jo,and am very glad I did..You will not regret it,the pay off of learning will out way the cost by ten fold....Good luck and enjoy.
strokestyle Says:
Tuesday, July 15, 2008 @11:51:12 AM
Just remember you can alway sit on the next street corner and earn money playing your banjo. So you do the right thing and get that banjo pronto. Christine says things are not as bad as the naysayers pronounce.
valdae Says:
Tuesday, July 15, 2008 @12:04:53 PM
Thanks, and I was thnking that very thing - I could head for the Quarter and get part of the cost back. Either way, I'd rathe have it than not.
Cottonmouth Says:
Tuesday, July 15, 2008 @12:04:57 PM
I'm no longer in the working world, but I cannot tell you the stress relieved by my music when it had to be vented in some manner. You point to the fact that a good quality instrument will enhance your learning and enjoyment; it is true! Apparently "they" aren't musicians so they just do not understand. Do you "deserve" a better banjo? Of course you do.
valdae Says:
Tuesday, July 15, 2008 @12:21:43 PM
One of the reasons I make music is for that very purpose, to relieve stress and to bring joy to my life (currently playing 12 string guitar). In this regard, any musical instrument is a life enhancer. "They" don't get it...oh well.
banjotef Says:
Tuesday, July 15, 2008 @2:48:59 PM
BUY IT! Once you got it, you GOT IT! You pay money only once, but the pleasure it brings to you lasts a lifetime!
quikcarl Says:
Tuesday, July 15, 2008 @6:32:03 PM
Go for it, just call it a retirement gift for yourself and play to your hearts content. I just bought a used Kentucky mandolin and have never had a lesson although my son plays one, you only live once and its not a sin to love and play music. I think God has an ear for good bluegrass gospel music, and thats where its roots are. Good luck with your purchase and happy picking, Carl
DandyRandy Says:
Tuesday, July 15, 2008 @10:09:48 PM
A banjo is better in times of no money than money in times of no banjo.
Guy Says:
Wednesday, July 16, 2008 @2:46:58 AM
You must go for it. I explained to my wife that I had a second hand car which was worth twice what I wanted pay for a banjo, whose job was to take me from A to B. I get no pleasure from it and I use it when I have to. On the other hand, the banjo would give me pleasure for an average of two hours a day, hopefully bring pleasure to others and last me til me dying day. Needless to say, she agreed with me. Go with your heart, you only live once and you are now in a period of your life where you will get to enjoy it more than most. That's all that counts.
Guy
jpoulette Says:
Wednesday, July 16, 2008 @4:17:56 AM
Eric - Buy the banjo. The economy will continue to swirl the bowl regardless of whether you buy a banjo or not. The 'ole USA is in for serious hard times, big time - the banjo will just make it a little more tolerable. Convert your assets to precious metals (the Saudis prefer gold) and get a Vespa. Good luck!
valdae Says:
Wednesday, July 16, 2008 @8:02:58 AM
Thank you one and all for your encouraging words. One great thing about it is that my wife is in favor of me getting it (I know, I count my blessings daily). I still have a guitar to sell once I check on its value. In any case, I agree, it's more than worth it.
GShannon Says:
Wednesday, October 22, 2008 @1:23:22 PM
DAMN THE TORPEDOS I SAY. HAVE A BANJO. if nothing else, when you're on the porch fondly remembering the days when the electricity was working at the house, and you could listen to the radio, you can softly play foggy mountain wiggle step to yourself and smile. you'll be glad you have it. HONEST..!
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