Banjo Classes

Beginning Bluegrass Banjo 2

David Keenan

Four Wednesdays, February 15, 22, 29, March 7, 7:45-8:45 p.m., $80.

You've learned a few rolls, gotten some basics down and couple of beginning songs - now we'll get a little fancier by taking the same songs we learned simply in Banjo 1 and filling them in, bluegrass style. Then we'll look at some new tunes and even some licks. We will also spend more time with the rhythm backup chords. As always, expect to play a lot in this class! If you already play a little bluegrass banjo, but didn't take the Banjo 1 class, that's okay - come join us!

Banjo Outside of Bluegrass

Brad Carter

Four Tuesdays, April 3, 10, 17, 24, 6:30-7:30 p.m., $80.

Want to add a little banjo sound to your band? Learn how to take your banjo playing outside of traditional bluegrass and old-time music: pop, jazz, country, rock, or folk, no style is left behind. We'll start off by reviewing left hand chord shapes, and will explore right-hand techniques that will help you create a full rhythm section. Some of these include strum patterns, picking patterns, and percussive techniques. This class will apply for those playing instrumentals as well as those looking to sing while playing. Old-time and bluegrass banjoists are encouraged to join us, too. For players with at least a little banjo playing experience.

Beginning Old-time Banjo 2

Allen Hart

Four Tuesdays, April 3, 10, 17, 24, 7:45-8:45 p.m., $80.

Continue learning good right-hand technique and becoming comfortable with the basic, essential rhythms of clawhammer-style banjo. Learn more tunes and tunings, and explore the pull-offs, hammer-ons, and slides that will give any tune more character. This class is ideal for players coming out of Clawhammer Banjo 1, or those with a little experience under their belts.

Beginning Bluegrass Banjo 1

David Keenan

Next session TBA.

We will start from the beginning - how to hold the banjo, tune it, how to put on your picks, what to do with your hands, and ultimately how to get music out of it. We will cover the basics of "rolls", chords, simple tunes, and songs. Expect to play a LOT in this class.

Backup Techniques for Bluegrass Banjo

Brad Carter

Four Tuesdays, May 1, 8, 15, 22, 6:30-7:30 p.m., $80.

This class will introduce how to play a supporting role when playing banjo with others. Techniques covered will include basic “vamp” chord rhythms, roll patterns, waltz backup, and a little taste of solo banjo, too. We will examine moveable chord positions and explore “up the neck” possibilities. We will also examine the use of phrasing to help accent the music. This is a great class for for players becoming comfortable with the banjo who are looking to start playing with others, and experienced players looking to expand their skills.