Subject: Mind is finally made up

Hello again Mickey

Yes! I have finally made up my mind on wich Banjo to go with I am going to go with the Sierra! like you mentioned I can always upgrade later. The reason I decided to go this way is because i need to get a few other items to go with my Banjo and that is going to raise my expenses. But from what I've been reading on your web site the Deering Sierra just may suit me fine for quite awhile.
I have some questions as far as accesories though, I would like to know if you carry these items or who would you recomend i get them from. If you carry them i will order them with my Banjo;

Brass finger picks and thumb picks,
I personally use the Dunlops: .018 Brass Fingerpicks and 1 Plastic Small Dunlop Thumbpick
And, yes, we do carry them...

straps i know you have FOTW. straps do carry any of the leather Deering straps?
It depends on which ones...we certainly can get them for you...however, you'll want to be specific on the color and model of strap...

and I want a good Banjo tuner i read some where yesterday about im not sure but i thought it was a Korg tuner that mounts on the peg head and is very accurate. what would you recomend as far as the best accurate Banjo tunner i can get and do you have them?

I personally use the Korg Chromatic Tuner...We have a variety of tuners...only, the most popular that pushes out the door is the Korg.

the other two items i know you carry i saw them on your web site the Intro to the 5 string Banjo Video and and extra set of strings.
Most important, after talking with Nathan last week he had mentioned ¬ that when i call him to place my order he said something about make sure i state how I want my Banjo set up, I will need your help in this. I am going with the Deering Sierra and i am i guess you would say a beginner again since i haven't played in years, but i want the Bluegrass sound nathan was saying something about set up as far as how high the strings are off the fretts?

Yes, I believe you'll want the standard set-up which is not too low nor too high...allowing you the best pop without losing volume and yet still easy to fret...some like their banjos set up with an extremely low action...only, this will add to some buzzing problems and certainly take away the volume of the instrument...

I want the bluegrass sound but yet i want the strings to be at a good EASY playing hight for a beginner after all the whole reason i am spending this much on The Deering is i want easy playability along with great sound.
I will be going through Western Union as far as paying for my purchases. Nathan Mentioned that i should call him when i am ready to place my order wich will be this week! I hope that you still have that Sierra there I know that Nathan said it was last week and you told me that you had one in stock when i first talked to you over a month ago so if it's been there that long I only hope that it's still there, I hope that know that the time has finally come that i don't find out that it is gone and have to wait. Well hopfully i be able to call Nathan¬ tomorrow and place my order if not it will be this week talk to you guys soon.
Sincerly¬ Dan Brunet

Subject: Question on a banjo


Mickey - thanks for taking e-mails.

Greetings,

I'd love to assist:

I played the banjo some years ago and want to pick it back up more seriously. I want to get a banjo that will be quality enough so I don't want to get another one on down the road. I like the Scruggs sound and style, but still have a question about what make to get. I am in the $3-4k range.

Yes, I like the Scruggs sound myself...more of a bottom end banjo with lots of punch and pop. I also like a banjo that offers some versatility for other styles...

We do have quite a few domestic banjos to choose from...Gibson, Deering, Stelling and Wildwood...all offering different qualities and different features...

I also wonder what you recommend for a 5th string capo? Also, I think I would like to get tuners - what are your thoughts?

I, personally, use the long-bar 5th string Shubb capo...which allows me many more key positions...and, seems to be the least intrusive to install...and seems to stay out of my way while playing...this can be installed for 55.00 with the purchase of any nickel-plated banjo...gold-plating is slightly more expensive...

On Keith-style tuners, I only recommend the originals: Keith Tuners made in the US by Bill Keith...I've used a pair of these for 12 years 6-nights-a-week without fail...and still have these in working order! You would never get this from an import copy...


If I were to order an instrument from you would you install the capo and go over the instrument to be sure it is set up as good as possible?

Yes, we install the Shubb 5th string capos and the Keith Tuners...and, yes, we have a 9-Point set-up checklist for every instrument that ships....

Be sure to read through our FAQ database for assistance in determining which banjo will best fill your needs:

http://www.folkofthewood.com/page142.htm

and, be sure to get back with me if you have further questions...Mickey

Thanks.

Subject: Banjo questions

Dear Mickey,

Greetings Becky,

Glad to assist:

I've been interested in learning to play the banjo. I love your web site. I've learned alot from it.

Thanks so much for tuning in with us!

I was going to rent a banjo from a music store here in town but no one rents them. I'm not sure if I'll be able to learn to play one or not so I didn't want to buy one. Well, it looks like I'm going to have to buy one and I'd like to buy one from you. Here are my questions. I want to play bluegrass but I really like the price and the sound of the deering goodtime banjo. What upgrades for a beginner on a budget would you recommend, if any?

One of the most important upgrades would be the 5th string capo option along with a standard banjo capo...this will allow you to play in many other keys using the standard open G tuning...

If I'm able to learn to play I would probably upgrade down the road to a resonator banjo. The only two upgrades I thought might be nice would be the 5th string capo and planetary tuners.

Well, it appears that you're ahead of me...only, I don't believe the Planetary Tuners would be that critical for the beginning player...it might be 2 years before a beginner would impede their playing progress by not having Planetary Tuners...

I don't know if you even install these on a goodtime or not. Or should I just wait and see how my learning progresses and just buy the goodtime as is?

Remember, we have a 100% trade-up policy on all new instruments purchased...this gives you the full latitude to upgrade to a resonator banjo, with Planetary Tuners, at a later date...with no loss of investment other than shipping costs.

I have a bit of carpal tunnel syndrome but I can usually play my piano for about and hour before it bothers me so bad I have to stop. Watching you pick the banjo it appears that it may aggravate this condition also. It's only my right wrist/hand that bother me. Of course while learning I won't be able to play for hours on end anyway. Do you you think 30 minutes to an hour of practice a day would be enough to learn?

Yes, if you consistently practice everyday, from 30-60 minutes, without having days go by without any practice, I believe you'll see quite a bit of progress in your learning efforts...additionally, quality practice will far supercede quantity practice...having focus along with a road map, will accelerate the pace...and will give you a reference point every time you sit down to practice.

I guess I'm telling you more than you wanted to know :). Anyway, please let me know what you think. I love watching you play on your video samplers. It's amazing.

Thanks so much for the kind words regarding my video samplers...it's truly inspiring to hear that others are gaining in some way from this longtime effort....there are approximately 1000 + samplers produced over some 6 years or so...and, I have many more scheduled to come out over the next year...

Keep on Pickin', Mickey


Thank you,

Becky Pemberton

Subject: Re: new banjo player first banjo & accessories



So basically the only Goodtime you'd recommend for my case would be the Special? I think I understand everything except one or two things. First, why is it that fingerpicks seem to all be metal and thumbpicks are plastic (or at least that has been the case in the limited number of places I have looked)? Also, though I understand capos, I don't really understand 5th-string capos (or the spikes, for that matter). Could you try to explain that to me? If you had a picture of one installed that would help too. Finally, would you recommend that a beginner even worry about certain extras such as the 5th-string capo, D-tuners, and such? Or are they things I would definitely want later and might get out of the way now? I said I was done, but I just thought of something else. Does the Goodtime Special come with an armrest? And do you have a hardcase for it? Thanks for the quick reply, looking forward to finding out more!

Greetings again,

First, why is it that fingerpicks seem to all be metal and thumbpicks are plastic (or at least that has been the case in the limited number of places I have looked)?

Metal fingerpicks were originally used by Earl Scruggs himself...this set the precedence for everyone to follow...as far as their functionality goes, well they have more punch and power than plastic...and, I believe the fingers do not have the same strength as the thumb...now, since the thumb seems to set the dominate notes with accents, by using plastic on the thumb it tones down the emphasized notes...only my perspective...

My recommendation would be Dunlop metal fingerpicks...they seem to be the most comfortable...and, be sure to fit yourself for a plastic thumbpick...you don't one that's too loose or too tight...

Also, though I understand capos, I don't really understand 5th-string capos (or the spikes, for that matter). Could you try to explain that to me? If you had a picture of one installed that would help too.

Sure, we have plenty of pix and info on 5th string capos...check out:
http://www.folkofthewood.com/page732.htm

Increases the versatility of your banjo and the capability to change keys.

The 5-String Banjo is always tuned to an open tuning. Commonly, and for bluegrass playing, the tuning is GDGBD. This means that when you strum it open, you have a G Chord. After learning a roll pattern, in combination with a melody such as "Old Joe Clark", you'll more than likely have down pat a tune in the key of G. Now, if you end up in a jam session, you may encounter a problem if any fiddlers or mandolinists are around. Most every fiddler/mandolinist knows "Old Joe Clark" in the key of A, not G. The combination roll pattern and melody you've learned in G will no longer apply. Now, if you have HO RR Spikes as a 5th String Capo, along with a regular banjo capo, you only need to move your 5th string under the RR Spike, and place your regular capo on the second fret of your banjo. You will now be in the key of A, and you'll be ready to play "Old Joe Clark" using the same roll/melody pattern you've already learned. The capo will also add a completely different flavor to old worn out tunes that you've been playing and have learned in open position G.


Finally, would you recommend that a beginner even worry about certain extras such as the 5th-string capo, D-tuners, and such? Or are they things I would definitely want later and might get out of the way now?


The D tuners are not necessary...you may check out the following page on D tuners:
http://www.folkofthewood.com/page735.htm

I do believe having the 5th string capo installed from the start can be very helpful...many of the songs that may become boring to practice in open G, can have a new sparkle simply by adding the capo to the key of A.


I said I was done, but I just thought of something else. Does the Goodtime Special come with an armrest? And do you have a hardcase for it?

Yes, the armrest is included on the Goodtime Special: See:
http://www.folkofthewood.com/page1513.htm

And, yes, we do offer hardshell cases for the Goodtime Special at 69.95 discounted.

Hope the above helps...Mickey

Subject: Re: new banjo player first banjo & accessories

I have never played a banjo before, but I am looking to buy one to play around with and learn. Knowing the small amount that I do, I think that I am looking for more of a bluegrass style, 5-string. I don't really know what is available, so any information would be appreciated. I am hoping not to spend more than $400, but I would like something that sounds good and is going to last (I do take good care of my stuff though!). I also would like to know what accessories are typically used in banjo playing. I really like your website, and I am delighted that you have so much information available. One last thing, I would prefer (but not demand) something american-made. Thnaks!

Greetings,

The best value going in this price range is the Gold Tone line-up (or the new Morgan Monroes)...

For bluegrass, you'll want, at the very least, a resonator banjo with a real tone ring...such as the BG-250F or the OB-250 from Gold Tone...

Your other option would be the Goodtime Line-Up from Deering...

Accessories normally purchased with your first banjo:
2 metal fingerpicks: Dunlop preferred.
1 plastic thumbpick: Dunlop preferred.
1 extra set of banjo strings...
1 Electronic Tuner
1 Instructional Video

Hope this helps...Mickey

Mickey

I am really enjoying the banjo I got from you a few months ago (Gibson Earl Scruggs). Will you give me some advice on a bridge? It came with a Snuffy Smith II (I think??? compensated 3rd string). I have managed to chip the 4th string slot...just a tiny bit.

I know there are lots of options for bridges and it depends on desired style and sound. Can you recommend a few to consider???

Thanks

chuck hill

Greetings Chuck,

Yes, there are quite a few options available...I do like the compensated bridges for accurate chording on the upper register...

The Snuffy Smith will add crispness, and volume, to your Earl model...if you're looking for a deeper tone, you might consider a fatter bridge...such as a compensated bridge...

The Shubb makes a compensated bridge...

We have a selection of bridges that we haven't listed on our site to date...however, please stay tuned, maybe we can get these up within the next three weeks.

You might also check with Janet Davis or Elderly.com to see if they have anything for you to try out.

Please get back with me if I can assist you further.

Mickey

Subject: armrests


Hey! Do you folks happen to stock, or know where I can find a couple of Maple arm rests for banjo? I have a customer who swears he saw one. I can't find them in the usual places. Help!?! Please email me... if you can help. Thanks! Rob Godfrey


Greetings Rob,

Glad to assist if I can:

You might try:

Jack Hatfield Music

Or

http://www.internationalluthiers.com/banjoparts.html e-mail: contact@internationalluthiers.com

www.deeringbanjos.com
They can custom build just about any banjo accessory...

Hope the above helps somehow...Mickey

Date: Wed, 10 Apr 2002 00:29:54 -0500

Darlene says:

Will the banjo mute work with a plectrum as well as a five string?
Thanks,
Darlene

Greetings Darlene,

Yes, the banjo mute works on any type of banjo with a moveable bridge. However, if your banjo bridge happens to be thicker than usual, you'll want us to file out the depth of the mute to ensure a solid fit. This is also true of Goodtime banjos by Deering...the only mute we've found available is a heavy metal and clips on the top of the banjo. It requires filing out the center to fit snugly on the bridges used on the Goodtimes.

Mickey

Date: Fri, 21 Sep 2001 04:19:05 -0600
Subject: banjo questions First Banjo?

Greetings! Gold Tone seems to have a number of inexpensive custom type options available, such as planetary tuners. Is this upgrade worth it?

Answer: The Gold Tone is most definitely the best value in the banjo industry...especially when weighing the pro features it offers over and above other banjos in the same price range. The Planetary Tuners is contributory to the banjo's value in three ways:
1. It has the traditional appearance expected of a high-end banjo

2. I find it easier to tune when the keys are reverse such as the planetary offers.

3. If you ever want to play some of the Scruggs classics, such as: "Earl's Breakdown" or "Randy Lynn Rag", Plantetary pegs are essential. Mickey

Subject: Keith Tuners question

Hi Mickey,

I have some Keith tuners (2nd and 3rd string) which I will be installing
on my "Earl". Is any particular orientation preferred so that the stops
are easily adjusted? Dave Funk

Most definitely...if possible, check out our pictures on our Keith Tuners' section of our website. The pictures will show the exact orientation of each "stop" screw. By proper orientation of these "stop" screws, you'll find it far easier to utilize them, even within the middle of a song being played. Speed is of the essence when playing with Keith tuners; you'll most definitely want the pegs oriented where they can be turned in the correct direction to achieve the pitch control. This is easily done by removing the tension screw and replacing the pearloid buttons at their correct orientation. Be aware, you'll only do this process after tuning up your banjo. Mickey

Date: Thu, 12 Jul 2001 20:17:49 -0700 (PDT)
From: George McKamy
Subject: Re: banjo strap

Hey guys I was wondering if you could send me some
information on Gibson banjos (catalog) or do I have to
get that from Gibson. I was wondering what banjo and
strap Dean from Capitan Gap uses. And do you carry
his style of strap. I have the one that has your
logo (the Folk of the Wood Circle Strap). Thanks-george

--

Greetings George,

I know that Dean does use a very unique strap that criss-crosses on the back so that the banjo is evenly distributed on both shoulders. We do have this style strap, although, I'm not sure if it works on a banjo since it's a guitar strap...I'm not sure if Dean's started out as a guitar strap or was made specifically for the banjo. I do believe you've posed a challenge...I'll see what I can do about designing one of these. I know I could have used one during the 12-year 6-night-a-week gig I had at Cattleman's Steakhouse in Fabens, TX.

Dean does have a Baldwin Ode banjo (gold-plated)...probably a few decades old.

Gibson banjo catalogs should be in stock soon (you only need to call before you come up to ensure that we do have the brochures available) You may also order the catalogs directly from Gibson...

Hope the above helps...

Mickey

Date: Tue, 5 Sep 2000 01:01:56 -0600

Hello Dan...

I'd be glad to assist:


Hello,
My name is Dan Bishop, and I am 18 years old. I have played and
instructed both piano and percussion at a professional level....and I
learned how to play guitar a little. I own a Rogue banjo. I think it
is a pretty good beginner model....seems to play well. I have gone
through and done all of your lessons, but now I need help. I need a set
of finger and thumb picks, for I have none. I also need a soft case for
my banjo. And most of all, I need a good book that will cover technique
and chords and take me from beginner to at least high end intermediate.
I have searched your sight, but now I am open for your personal help,
please. If you could help me with...
1. what bag to get for my banjo.

My recommendation is a heavy duty gig bag...stay away from thin vinyl bags. They offer no protection whatsoever. We carry only top end banjo bags with heavy duty stitching and padding...with zippered pockets. Our standard gig bag retails for 59.00; your discount cost through us would be 39.95.

2. what strap would be ok for my banjo.

There are many straps available from inexpensive to truly expensive. With the type of banjo you have, because it's relatively light as compared to professional banjos, you can make-do with one of our clip on straps...your cost 7.65. We also carry our very own, exclusive "Circle Straps" which are far more expensive and lend themselves well to heavy banjos.
3. where I can get a set of picks....

We carry a wide variety of fingerpicks and thumbpicks. My recommendation, and what I personally use, would be 2 dunlop metal fingerpicks and 1 dunlop plastic thumbpick. We sell these at 1.00 each.

4. Which instructional video would be best for me ( I can pick up VERY fast, so the more it covers, the better).

A good all-around banjo video would be: "You Can Teach Yourself Banjo" by Janet Davis. Your cost 23.95 Retails 29.95...

5. Any good play along or instructional cds.

If you like bluegrass, a great standard would be Peter Wernick's Bluegrass Banjo Book/CD compilation your cost 19.95...

If you could help me with these questions and get me on my way....I
am sure I will practice a lot. Thank you soo much.

Shipping is 2-day priority for any amount of accessories: 4.00

Please get back with me if you have any questions regarding setting up your banjo or getting past the stumbling blocks during the learning process.

Let me know if you have any further questions or if I can assist you with anything else...
Mickey Cochran

Hi, If I buy the Saga can we install the capo system and put together an accessory package together like you do for the Goldtone and Derring, with a gig bag.

Thanks, P.S. Great Website!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! David A. Holt

Hello David,

Nice name...it should go well with you as a banjo player...you could land a lot of extra dates as a player...and even bring more money. ;o)

For 5th String Capo Installation:
We can install two different 5th string capo options:
1. Shubb 5th String Capo (the one I personally use) 50.00 Installed...this one offers the best advantage since you do not have to retune when using one...it has a tension screw that allows fast and easy key changes.
2. Small HO Spikes behind each chosen fret (we normally install these in 7, 9 and 10) 6.00 each Many request that we install these in the 7, 8, 9 and 10th frets. Nice thing about the Shubb, it covers all of these frets and more...disadvantage of the HO spikes, it can take two hands to push the string up underneath one...and, the string usually goes sharp requiring some retuning.

Let me know if you have any further questions or if I can assist you with anything else...
Mickey Cochran