Banjo Website Map • Return to Lessons Section • Return to Homepage

Comfort Comes First
It's very critical that you learn to hold the banjo properly, yet comfortably. There are numerous ways to hold the banjo; there is no true right or wrong way. A standard hasn't really been set as it has for instance in classical guitar study. I've always felt what's right for one person is not necessarily right for another.

First consider that you'll either be standing or sitting. When first learning to play banjo, you'll want to start out by learning what's comfortable for you in a sitting position. After you've learned some chops, and have gained a good enough foundation to play in a band, then you can practice your standing position. In this lesson, our focus will be on how to hold your banjo in a sitting position.

1. Begin by sitting in a comfortable armless chair.

2. Place the banjo on your lap and let it rest between your legs.

3. Rest your right forearm on the upper portion of the rim, with your right hand situated above the strings. (This assumes you're right handed; if left handed, simply reverse these instructions.)

4. Position your left hand below the the neck of the banjo with the thumb positioned behind it.

The goal is to balance the banjo so that it does not feel as if it wants to fall on its own. You should not have to hold the banjo with the left hand whatsoever. Once you're in the playing mode, your left hand will be dancing up and down the neck and because of this, it will not be practical to have to balance the banjo while playing. Another suggestion, that helps me when sitting, is to find a prop for your left foot. This helps brace the banjo from falling. You can use your banjo case for this purpose.

If you want to stand while playing, you will need a banjo strap. It's critical to try out different straps to determine what's comfortable to you. I highly recommend learning how to play while seated before attempting to play while standing.

Picks

There are a variety of picks available. Two of the most common brands are: Dunlop and National. Usually, when purchasing metal fingerpicks, you'll find that you'll have to shape them fit your fingers. It's important to experiment with the shape of the picks until you've found what works for you. As far as thumbpicks go, there are many sizes and types available. The norm is plastic on the thumb and metal on the fingers.

Banjo Website Map • Return to Lessons Section • Return to Homepage

Please send any comments, questions or requests to info@folkofthewood.com