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Absolute Beginner Advice Needed

From Porch Sitter on 5/7/2016 6:46:57 AM

Hello Everyone,

I am a absolute beginner as far as banjos go.  I would also add that I am a relative beginner as far as playing any instrument would go.  I am 54 years old, the kids are grown and moved out and I am determined to learn to play the banjo.  I need some advice on a few items from those who are more experienced than me (basically anyone who plays).  I will probably never be able to play at a level where I could play for other people but I just want to learn and play for my own enjoyment to see how far I can go.  If you asked me what type of playing style I want to play I am not sure I could tell you - I like all banjo music - old time and bluegrass!  I know that is a broad category but I am thinking I would start out with bluegrass banjo and if the desire ever takes me there get an old time music style of banjo in the future.  It may not be appropriate but I could even see using a bluegrass banjo for old time music as I am just planning to play for my own enjoyment.

I am not a rich guy or a poor guy but just a guy in the middle.  I prefer not to purchase a low cost beginner banjo to start but would like to purchase a good quality banjo that would be a "keeper".  My thought is that the banjo would have more resale value (I never plan to sell it) and I would start out with something I can stay with.  I plan to spend lots and lots of time with my banjo.  I also don't need a professional quality banjo with all the fancy stuff.

Would a Bishline Cimarron be a good choice? 

I am also thinking about signing up for the Midwest Banjo Camp which is only 8 hours from my home.  My thought would be to just go with an open mind and learn what I can on the Novice/Beginner Track.  I am sure I would be the most novice novice there but I need to start somewhere.  Thoughts?

Lastly, I have been doing some research on a lesson instructor in my area without much success.  I am thinking about getting a few beginning bluegrass banjo books, and also taking Tony Trischka's on-line classes.  These items along with the Camp I am thinking will get me going?  Thoughts?

I apologize for all of the questions but I am very determined to learn even though I am a musically challenged beginner. 

Thank You for your time to read this and offer any suggestions!

Dave

8 Comments
	banjomart says: 5/7/2016 7:32:59 AM Hi Dave, my story sounds similar to yours. At 59 I'm trying to get started with my Deering Goodtime banjo but have been frustrated with the the few books I have and online instructions. I know what my problem is- I need to pick up the banjo! Part of my dilemma is having no musical or instrument background. I'm learning a foreign language and I only have a dictionary. At least I figured out which side of the banjo is up. Marty
	KenBirmingham says: 5/7/2016 7:48:24 AM Hi There, I would surgest Murphy Henry Begginning Banjo 1& 2, I have Deering Goodtime 2 its a great banjo for any level. Good luck
	Monster1971 says: 5/7/2016 8:49:02 AM Hi Dave, I have been playing Scruggs style 1.5 yrs. I purchased a $200 banjo from eBay and went through a couple of instructors until there was a good fit. I do recommend an instructor, he or she will most likely help guide you efficiently giving you clear goals and get you started on your journey. Also, there are a lot of books out there so just get one and start with basics, Murphy, Davis, Hohwald, or Ben Clark to name a few. I suggest focus on the basics. Good luck.
	Far North Girl says: 5/7/2016 11:24:09 AM Hi Dave! Good on you for taking up the banjo. I have been playing for 6 weeks and can play 4 songs albeit not well yet but that comes with practice. My son bought me a Deering Goodtime open back since I was not sure what style I was going to play. A dear friend was loaned one and plays old time and 3 finger style. So reading up the Deering it was. Then got a great teacher and most of his students have Deerings . After deciding the pot was way too light I ordered the resonator kit and installed it myself. Made all the difference in the world. Now if I continue to improve I have my sights on a Bishline Midnight Moon. In all I got a keeper of a starter banjo! Good luck! PS you know what happens if you keep picking that thing.....it never gets well! Just be prepared for people making fun of you.
	roadstar75 says: 5/7/2016 12:37:33 PM I have the same level of ambition, just hope to be able to play at least for some friends but at age 78 after starting at age 75 it is slow going. I bought a used Deering Goodtime Classic and soon upgraded to a Deering Calico, which is a high end professional level banjo. Any of the big name banjos with a tone ring such as Recording King or Deering such as a used Sierra should last a long long time. Find a teacher if possible.
	Porch Sitter says: 5/7/2016 1:26:40 PM Thank You for all the helpful comments!
	tonytcc says: 7/12/2016 8:47:42 AM Janet Davies book Deering resonator banjo and you won't go far wrong
	brae says: 1/21/2017 10:57:56 AM Hey Dave, great work! I appreciate your puttion it out there, and would be glad to offer you some banjo wisdom. I teach for JamAlong.org, a really cool online teacher group, and if ya hit me up I will donate you some videos...cheers! -Brae jamalong.org/
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