Frequently Asked Questions About Left-Handed Banjos

Subject: JB-100L
Date: Wed, 14 Jul 2004 23:07:04 -0500

Greetings John,

Ok, lemme give you the straight dope: I am left-handed, and I have never played a banjo in my life, but really want to learn, I am 16, and a budget of less than 400 bucks.

The guy at the local music store (a tiny store, not Mars or whatever) said it'd be easier to learn to play right-handed. This to me not only feels weird, but unnatural.

I'm left-handed myself...I was able to learn right-handed...so, it can be done...only, if you feel uncomfortable, I wouldn't recommend it. If you feel led to play left-handed, then by all means go for it.

So then I found the Johnson JB-100. From appearance, it looks very nice. But I would like to know how this banjo sounds (quality) compared to other ones. I have read only one review for it (and could only find one) and it was a negative one, which is bad because that is only banjo I like that is left-handed.

The JB-100 is a low-end import banjo...if set up correctly, it is OK...and, yes, we carry these too.

Johnson JB-100 24 Bracket Left-Handed JB-100L Retails: $329.00...

Another option you might consider would be the new Goodtime left-handed model...these have a very pleasant tone and are all solid maple. They make the ideal student level banjo...and, now, they have a left-handed model offered at the same relative price as the right-handed models. You might call James about these @ 888-209-8434...

I like dark woods compared to the blonde type, and I like the fact that it has a closed back. I've read somewhere (I think it was in your FAQ) that it had an aluminum part that made the sound degrade, tinny (which I don't know what 'tinny' sounds like), or something like that, and I would just like that clarified.

Yes, the JB-100 will have a somewhat tinny hollow sound. It still is a great value...only, it also needs some serious set-up to bring it up to a solid student level banjo. We provide this set-up with the purchase...

You might also consider a Gold Tone lefty model...many of their models are available in the lefty version for an 85.00 upgrade. However, if you're trying to stay under the 400 mark, the JB-100 or the Goodtime are your best choices.

Be sure to check out our online banjo lessons linked from below...Mickey

But on the good note, your prices and selections are the best I've seen, keep up the good work.

Thanks for your time, John

Email: info@folkofthewood.com