Lesson 4b Banjo: Right Hand Exercises
Forward/Reverse Roll Patterns with Chordal Studies

by Mickey Cochran

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Notes on Forward/Reverse Roll Patterns with Chordal Studies: There are two separate chord progressions: 1 in the Key of G and 1 in the Key of Em...notice the repeat dots...upon reaching the dots at the end of each chord progression, go back to the beginning, where the two dots face inward, and play the progression again. Be careful to play slowly and evenly. Try to eliminate all pauses between chord changes...and, remember, you're establishing the rhythm with the Down and Up Pick Directions above the tablature.

There are 4 beats to each measure; measures are divided up by vertical lines. Notice that each measure, in the below exercises, consists of eight notes...for each measure count out four beats as if you're keeping the rhythm by clapping your hands or tapping your foot. For a total of eight notes, simply count 1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &...which will then encompass all of the notes...after learning to count out the 4 beats, you will eventually be able to play intuitively and keep an even tempo without counting.

Note: Keep in mind that you're trying to keep these notes played evenly without faltering. There are no pauses between the notes. Start off slowly and keep the timing even.

For proper right-hand picking, follow the "T", "I" and "M" symbols above the tablature of each study...
Thumb = T
First Finger = I
Second Finger = M

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