Yay!!! I made a HUGE breakthrough today!!! My husband just walked into the front room and said, “That was you? I thought that was the guy on RUclips?” Today was the first time that I played it all the way through with you, Jim, even the second time through with the increased pace. Thank you times 100!!! Social distancing isn’t so bad with my banjo and your lessons.
He cracks me up how he keeps looking into the Camera ,makes me feel like a little kid who's Grandpa is trying to teach his little son Banjo only the little kid is sitting under the table and he keeps looking to see if the kids paying attention , LOL
I appreciate the encouraging words at the end, still extremely happy with my progress. Banjo has totally replaced my 95-hour a week video game routine so I will be practicing and practicing :) Thank you for the new tune
Hi Jim. , I startet learning Banjo 6 months Ago and i have a lot of Fun with . I bought it from Rüdiger helbig in Munich, great bluegrass Player, people say. I will Never become an eypert like him, Even Not like you. But i am 70 year old, I have time ( i Hope so ) and Every small improvement Makes me happy. Actually i learn your Lessing 8 ( Banjo on a half ) I Thank you very much for your Videos. For me it is the best way To learn and you are an Excellent teacher. Thank you very much, Jim !! All the best, Gert
I am 35 from germany and heard dead south on the radio... that was the point where the insane idea came to my mind, i could learn that! So without any knowledge or research i bought the cheapest benjo i could find, opend youtube and found your sympathic face bending sideways into the camera.. no tabs, no "i assume you know what a chord is" just "trust me and play with me". I normally don't post under old videos, but i want you to know how absolutely amazing and helpful your tutorials are. I usually quit new things early because i dont see enough progress and i nealry did it this time too when i saw the experts playing cripple creek... but than i just trusted you and continued with the lessons... and now in lesson 8 i finally believe you that i can play the banjo. I really really really hope you will do a looot more of these! And perhaps "in hell ill be in good company" because all other tutorials on this song are horribly bad. But for now i will continue with the lessons and leave you with my biggest THANK YOU!
I was thinking I love music but I will never be able to play anything. A month ago I decided to start to play the banjo I am in this lesson right now. I feel I have never been in love with an instrument before. So, thanks so much for these instructions, you make the way so fun, nice and possible.
@@JimPankey You're so cool and great teacher. When I clicked the first video and you said "it's not hard I promise that" just I felt I should trust on you! Thanks again!
Using this "stay home " time to practice my banjo, just started lesson 8. Love that Banjo in the Hollow. Hard to believe that 2 months ago I never played a banjo.. very excited. thanks Jim for your relaxed way of teaching, that even I can understand...I'm Looking forward to be able to feel less intimidated to go out and join a workshop..
Hi Jim, just wanted to say thanks for your videos from a woman in the middle of England. I’ve been learning the banjo about a year now and until recently struggling along with books and tabs but finding your videos has been a revelation, I’ve gone back through your beginner lessons and am now getting banjo in the hollow quicker and cleaner, but I’m picking it up so much quicker than just from tab alone and your style is so personable and great to watch, Thankyou so much! I’m so excited to keep learning from you, so many songs to learn, I can’t wait! 🪕💕 Ps love the cameos from the cats 🐱
Dear Mr. Pankey, I just wanted to thank you for your videos! I'm still at lesson 8 but you're the reason why I went ahead and bought a banjo. I've heard the instrument in different settings and liked the sound it made. At some point I realized that the music I want to make will sound real good with a banjo (at least for me). Before I bought the banjo, I thought "I should check if I can find resources online that will help me stay focused and practice, even on my bad days". I found your videos and I have to say you're a wonderful teacher. Your attitude is very warm and welcoming, that's rare and precious. After watching the first lesson (I made up my mind after the first minute, but just couldn't stop watching) I ordered my banjo and now here I am, lesson 8, can't wait until I've practiced enough so that I can move on to lesson 9. Thank you so much. The banjo and you opened a new door for me. Have a great week~
Hi Jim! So I haven’t taken MONTHS off from the banjo. Working from home and trying to get into a normal routine. Then I realized, I need more banjo in my life. I grabbed my banjo, took me a few mins to feel it out and bam! I was able to play. I have now played several times this week and I’m definitely keeping it in my normal routine! Thanks so much for these videos!!
Hi Jim, Just thought I would let you know that as an older person (60+) I decided to learn the banjo. I have some previous experience with guitar at a very … very low level. I found your lessons helpful and easy to follow, they are always done clearly and with a level of fun. After one month I have managed to play Cripple Creek and Banjo in Hollow all the way through using your instruction. Playing for 15-30 minutes every day has helped enormously, I am still a little slow but getting faster al the time. As a person from outside the USA I do not know these tunes but enjoy playing them anyway. It’s a fun instrument! Thank you for posting these , I will continue to follow and hope to keep improving.
Thanx Jim! I played Cripple Creek for my dad fr his birthday! And, I taught myself how to play happy birthday song for him :) he was So impressed :) But, the funny part Was, when I got home, I was listening to my next lesson 7, and there are 3 OWLS THAT ARE HOOTIN UP A CRAZY EVERY TIME I TRY TO LISTEN TO THE NEXT LESSON! It's Hilarious!!! Thank you for making learning the banjo FUN!
Once again - watching your lessons always brings to mind something new. I know you hear this all of the time but it bears repeating. YOU ARE A BLESSING both as a banjo instructor and as a testimony!
Terrific fun, getting all the segments in place, and then speeding up this piece! Thanks for your patient encouragement, Jim. I'm going to get my metronome out now and see if I can speed up a little without missing too many notes!
Jim, I hope you are continuing to recover. Thank you so much for these videos. I have been struggling for years trying to learn the banjo. When I found your videos, I started at Lesson 1 and kept it until I was really smooth and did not need to think about the rolls. Thanks for all your advise and encouragement!. Yes, I am learning that "I can do this"!
Thank you for teaching me the Banjo, I’m 42 and have never played an instrument. I’ve been playing a little over a month now. I’m on this lesson. Enjoying my time, rewatching a video 20 times in one lesson. Thanks for the videos.
I’ve probably posted it before, and I’m sure I will keep doing it as long as I’m on the right side of the grass, but thank you so much for making me a banjo player, even if I’m a slower one! I was treading water with basic clawhammer, because my hands have tremors, so picking was frustrating - until I met you! You’ve even helped me carry it over to fingerpicking my guitar! I’m loving every minute I get to spend on your videos!
Hi Jim, I am a musician who has been playing guitar for 13 years an bass for 8 years. I picked up the banjo because I started hearing banjo parts in some songs I have been writing. I just want to say your optimism and your approach is not only helping me learn banjo, but its revealing errors in my finger picking technique I didn't know I had from playing guitar and bass. Thank you for your humility.
@@JimPankey thank you! Once I record my first song with banjo I'll send it your way and also let ya know when I make my first video with banjo! Thanks so much Jim!
I completely agree with the previous comment a while back that you are the Bob Ross of banjo. I was thinking towards the end of this video that your positive words were so helpful and supportive, and how I wished I had something like that in the other areas of my life. Nervous about that work presentation to the Board? Jim Pankey is here to tell you that you can do it! Anyhow, I am SO glad I found your lessons, and I feel like I am genuinely accomplishing something other than just plinking around. Thank you.
Jim, i can't thank you enough for getting me started on banjo. I love these lessons, better than any i've seen. I play fiddle and haven't picked it up for a few days. I'm just banjo ing away. Please keep coming out with more, they are wonderful.
@@JimPankey when doing the low part of banjo in the hallow, are you apposed to us using the ring finger on the first string second fret instead of the social finger? To me it make sense to begin using the ring finger for the partial C cord so that my ring ringer gets more callused but wanted you take on it. Thanks a bunch!
I don't know how far you've gone with your lessons yet. But I'm here to tell you... These are the best I've found online period. Thank you for your time. I hope you keep going.
you are definitely the best teacher out there I went through your 10 lessons and comprehended every bit of it and I'm not the sharpest knife in the drawer thanks for getting me started I look forward to watching more of your videos
I'm on lesson 8. I've read a lot of the comments from your other students, and most of us share the same feelings: we've all been trying to learn for years with no success until you. I bought a book with tabs years ago and have pulled it out about about every five years and tried hard to learn, but it's SO difficult if you don't even know what the song is supposed to sound like! My father's relatives from the Appalachians played the banjo, and I thought it just wasn't in my blood because I couldn't learn, but what I now realize is it's just who you have for a teacher. Wish I'd been at your knees as a child, but glad I'm here now. Thanks for all you do.
Great lessons. I have taken a day or two after watching each video to practice the material as Jim always suggests and has worked out great so far. I usually rewatch a lesson to make sure I haven’t missed anything. I feel like I’ve made good progress in a relatively short time. And it’s fun! Thanks Jim!
Jim, I've tried starting on guitar a couple different times over the years, with no success. I got a Banjo for Christmas and have been playing every day since. Your lessons make learning the Banjo fun and easy for me! I have tried a few other Banjo channels, but keep coming back to yours. When anyone asks who taught me to play Banjo, I'll say, "Jim Pankey did!"
@@JimPankey Thank you for doing what you do! My family has a gathering in September for a fall round-up. Can't wait for the Banjo debut around the campfire!
Jim, this has been the most fun I have had learning something in a long time... it is so cool to not know how to do something and slowly progress and get somewhat good at it. You have a real knack for inspiring people and giving them the confidence to do this. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I'm sad that there are only two more lessons in this series. Timings for reference 00:00:53 - Partial C pattern 00:02:04 - D7 - Alternating roll 00:02:27 - All tied together 00:03:18 - Everything tied together again 00:05:24 - Low part and high part (lesson 7) 00:07:33 - Forward roll 00:08:43 - Demo of full C chord
@@JimPankey Will do Jim. Any chance you have done a lesson on how to play Big Country by Bela Fleck? Maybe that is a bit advanced, duno... I just love that song and the rolls that are in it and someday, I would love to learn how to play it.
I've had my banjo for just over a month now, and I've made it all the way through this lesson so far. Thank you for posting your videos! I really enjoy them! You're a great teacher!
You are a very good teacher. Very thorough and encouraging. I'm having sooooo much fun learning a new instrument. Looking forward to more lessons. Thanks so much.
I bought a 1988 Alvarez banjo got on line to find some lessons. Everyone and their brother has lessons. After 2 mos I was ready to give up. I then found you and I'm hooked. You explain everything and show everything in the most simple way. I have played guitar for 55 years. I played mostly rhythm with some lead. Had a wrist injury(right) so my guitar days are over. After I started playing with your series (3) weeke ago I am now playing cripple creek and banjo in the holler (not perfect and not to speed) but people can tell what I'm playing. Your videos are great. THANK YOU.
Hi Jim, I have Part 1 Banjo in the Hallow sorted (love this tune) and I have just taken down the High Part 2 so will go away & practice. I practice everyday like you say as it really pays off!!! Loving the sound of my banjo 'Goodtime Special with Tone Ring' now he's ringing out and sounds like i'm playing something !!! Heaps of rolls, cripple creek and new stuff to be getting on with so thank you again you have helped me achieve all of this so far. Be in touch soon for Lesson 9. Liz x
You have been my only source of banjo lessons and I have absolutely loved it! I can't believe how genuinely sweet and encouraging you are in your videos!!! Thank you so much for all you've taught me. It's been a pleasure, and I can't wait to to learn more.
Hi Jim I just wanted to let you for being such a lovely teacher and virtually a friend for banjo playing! I’ve just purchased one and came across your course. It is such an inspiration and I’m determined to eventually get good. I do hope you are keeping well. Best wishes Susie
Jim, I have been practicing every day yesterday and today all day I have work on plying banjo and I am really begaininb to love the sound so much. Thank you
I'm finding lesson 8 quite challenging, but I'm confident that with the easy teaching method of Mr Pankey and a little patience on my part that I'll get there eventually. Still completely stress free. Less than 4 weeks since I started lesson 1
Hi Jim, Thank You for the great banjo lesson videos. You have the patience of Job! I'm thinking we may need to get a gofundme for you started,for cat food, as your cats are raiding the pantry of cat food as soon as you start these great banjo lessons. Looks pretty much like our house with animals roaming about . :) Banjo In the Hollow is now added to the repertoire. Needs some more practice but sounds pretty good. Thanks!
HI Jim, Thought I'll tell you got Cripple Creek and Banjo in the Hollow down to a fine art what I have to do is speed it up and that will come by playing the songs over and over to develop muscle memory and only I can do that so thanks for being a fantastic teacher 🤠.
Thank you Jim . Love your tuition style . Had a banjo for years but not got the hang of it up till now . Can play play this song now but with lots of mistakes and no speed but I’ll plug away at it . Thank you so much
I have really learned a lot from your lessons I really appreciate it my grandma gave me her banjo she never learned to play when I was 9 I’m 20 now and have been practicing a couple weeks I’m not sure if you’re still making videos or if you’ll see this but i really learn a lot from you
Wow . . . borrowed a banjo on Jun 19, "discovered" your vids 3 nights ago (on BHO); these have all been great! I hate to think there are only 2 more. Thanks for your time and insight.
Thanks again Jim, I have spent a little while on this lesson. I had a bit of a setback, crushed my RH index finger int the tailgate of my 4x4, took some bark off and the nail is going to come off. Cant wear picks on a mangled finger. However I still practised every day, just had to shuffle the picks down the the social finger and ring finger. It was a challenge getting it all working but I did manage to have success. Playing Banjo in the Hollow nicely now. Thanks again. Also I love how your cats have to get in the action, never miss an opportunity for fame!
I used to go to a jam with a guy that didn't have an index finger, he wore his picks on middle and ring. He played just fine like that. :) These cats... oh boy. You need a cat? I can hook you up. lol
JIM, I AM 82 YEARS YOUNG,BEEN PLAYING CLAW HAMMER ABOUT 5 YEARS BUT ALWAYS WANTED TO PLAY B.G. STYLE.YOU MADE THAT HAPPEN FOR ME.I AM ON LESSON8-&9. I EVEN BOUGHT A JIM PANKEY PURPLE T SHIRT. SEE MY VIDEO ON U TUBE(( UNDER BANJO PETER AND WAYNE)) I AM THE HARMONICA PLAYER AND WROTE THE TWO TRUCK SONGS ABOUT MY 53 CHEV. THANK YOU MUCH.
I got my banjo on Monday and I’ve watched your lessons since and now on Saturday I can play cripple creek and banjo in the hollow with absolutely no experience on the banjo
This is such a pretty tune. And after taking a month to learn cripple creek I think I got this in two days. Three counting the roll practice I suppose.
Hi Jim. I just want to thank you for the lessons on youtube i never ever thought i could pick up a Banjo and learn to play it at my age ( 57 ) I'm loving every Minute of it, I'm on lesson 8 now but was just wondering if I'm taking too long in getting where I am. if possible could you advise me on how long I should be practicing each day please. Regards Bob C
So glad I can help you learn to play! I usually practice at different times during the day. The amount varies, but I usually try to get an hour or more.
Jim, thank you for all you've done for us beginners. I truly cherish your help. Question: would it be too uncommon or not recommended to learn the "Partial C" with the ring finger on the 1st string - 2nd fret? Or should I keep using that social finger on the first string for the partial C? Just wondering if anyone finds the ring finger to feel more natural in that position?
Hi Jim. Boy I have learned so much from you. A great teacher and all around nice guy. A couple of questions: 1. I'm not sure I'm getting the cadence right when I play, how to fix it. 2. I'm on lesson 9 and wondering what is the next logical session to go to keep progressing. Thanks again. Neil
Welp, if you're on lesson 9, the next video to look at is lesson 10. I also have a "Learn These Next" playlist. Be sure to check that out. As for the cadence, slow it down and be thoughtful.
hey jim i just wanted to let you know that i started playing this banjo on friday may 3rd its now may 8th ive finished and gotten pretty good with your cripple creek lessons but im having trouble keeping time. i want to go faster and faster but if i do pick up speed i cant keep it steady is there any pointers you can give? I have loved every second i spend watching these lessons and playing my banjo. i have never played a string instrument in my life and i cant read music. so to be this far in this amount of time i feel like i just was meant to play this banjo. everything but the timing feels natural to me. Thank you so much and if possible i can toss you a couple bucks for a video call with some critiques from you on how im playing.
hey jim been watching your videos since i got my banjo for christmas, and now im pretty proud of my two songs i can play, much to the demise of the wife who gets to hear me practicing the same two songs every day. But all is fair in the pursuit of progress i say. anyways ive been using several different picks and i find the ernie ball pickey picks are a huge improvement to my playing. but i havent found a good thumb pick yet. could you tell me what one you use? thanks
Thank you so much for being such a great and encouraging teacher. I have been practicing regularly and can play all of Banjo in the Holler right along with you on the video and even a few clicks faster, but it still sounds very little like Banjo in the Holler as played by a “real” banjo player. Are they just playing these same roll patterns at a wickedly faster pace or are they using completely different roll patterns that have at least twice the number of plucks per roll? They sound like they are playing at superhuman speed and I am in slow motion. Your videos have brought me such a long way, but I still feel so far away from anything sounding like actual bluegrass coming from my banjo. Thanks!!!!
Jimbo, this is my second time going through your 11 lessons for beginners. For some reason I am much more comfortable using my ring finger instead of social finger on partial C chord. Is this going to hurt me later? It just feels much more natural using my ring finger. Should I make myself use my social finger?! Thanks! Your videos got me re interested in the banjo!
Hi Jim, help!!! I am up with everything on banjo in the hollow and onto this new roll & even other stuff on the side from my beginners book but I have come to a stop because I cannot get a clear sound fretting a Chord C. Particularly in rolls needing the 3rd sting ( un-fretted) and also the sound of the 4th string which is fretted sounds dead as my annoying middle finger keeps touching the 3rd sting. I have tried & tried moving my thumb behind, up & down, my fingers high off the frett board or flat on the sting or higher up going above the string ( like you), but I am still really struggling making the C chord sound clear & not sound dead particularly in a progressive roll when picking the other strings. I have walked off a few times in frustration. Can my middle finger be too fat ? I will take a look at you fretting the C chord again but you make it look easy 😤
While I can’t see what you’re doing, I can offer a couple of tips… Curl your fingers more. Push your left elbow down to your side. Hold neck of banjo around 45°. You can do it.
@@JimPankey Thanks Jim I will try those on my next practice & let you know. Driving my kids up the wall with my new music tastes 😂 music.ruclips.net/video/4x-OHZwNqA8/видео.html&feature=share
Jim thanks for the videos. It seems to me at 6:02 you added a pinch and omitted the (D7) 4251 roll. This seems different than all your other examples of the B Part. Am I missing something?
I enjoy your lessons. Even though I am practicing a lot, I have trouble getting "dead notes" when I use my left hand to play a chord. Do you have any helpful hInts? I am playing on a banjovie.
Jim, what needs to be adjusted when the strings don’t ring after about the 13 14 fret. Doesn’t seem that the strings are touching the frets but the sound in dead, not ringing as I move down to the 18th fret and higher.
I’ll check that in the morning, I’m petty certain it’s lower than that at 12. Meantime the callouses are finally back on the left fingers and my rolls are getting better and better. You know, I’ve looked as some other instructional videos and yours are still, hands down the best!!
Okay, so I finally took the leap. I stripped off old strings and put new ones on. I have them tuned (I think) but when I strike my top G string it rings out forever. Really, forever, the thing is still sounding off when I get back to it for the next part of the roll. Did I do something to make that happen? I did remove the back part of my banjo to clean it. I did also tighten the tail piece because it was loose. Could one of those actions have caused this?
I'm taking forever on this one - but who cares, right? Discovering (d'uh) that making CLEAN sound on the strings actually matters. Who knew? At first I was blaming my picks, but it turns out it ain't the picks, it's the picker. Anyway, really enjoying watching this one over and over.
Hi Jim, hope all is well, thanks for the great lessons. Do you have a link to a beginners tab sheet for the Buck Owens/Beatles song, Act Naturally? Might be cool to play on a banjo.
Yay!!! I made a HUGE breakthrough today!!! My husband just walked into the front room and said, “That was you? I thought that was the guy on RUclips?” Today was the first time that I played it all the way through with you, Jim, even the second time through with the increased pace. Thank you times 100!!! Social distancing isn’t so bad with my banjo and your lessons.
High five! No, wait, SHOE BUMP!! Exciting, isn’t it? Proud of you.
Really nice. I’m working on polishing this up now. Great stuff Jim!
You are the “Bob Ross” of the banjo.
Thanks a bunch for all the fun lessons so far.
Wow, thanks!
Jim, you are a diamond. You are a truly gifted educator and a master of the art of speaking plainly. Absolutely love the lessons.
Glad you're enjoying the lessons. Keep picking. :)
Just one super teacher who truly wants subscribers to learn and become successful, fun-loving banjo players. You are absolutely inspiring, Jim
Thanks!!
He cracks me up how he keeps looking into the Camera ,makes me feel like a little kid who's Grandpa is trying to teach his little son Banjo only the little kid is sitting under the table and he keeps looking to see if the kids paying attention , LOL
I totally agree. Whenever I miss my grandpa, he helps a lot actually :)
Richard Prince, my husband says it reminds him of that sitcom, Tool Time, the next door neighbor who only peeks over the fence. Haha
Best banjo teacher on RUclips.
Thanks 😊
I appreciate the encouraging words at the end, still extremely happy with my progress. Banjo has totally replaced my 95-hour a week video game routine so I will be practicing and practicing :) Thank you for the new tune
Hi Jim. , I startet learning Banjo 6 months Ago and i have a lot of Fun with .
I bought it from Rüdiger helbig in Munich, great bluegrass Player, people say.
I will Never become an eypert like him, Even Not like you.
But i am 70 year old, I have time ( i Hope so ) and Every small improvement Makes me happy.
Actually i learn your Lessing 8 ( Banjo on a half )
I Thank you very much for your Videos. For me it is the best way To learn and you are an Excellent teacher.
Thank you very much, Jim !!
All the best, Gert
Thanks for letting me teach you 😊
I am 35 from germany and heard dead south on the radio... that was the point where the insane idea came to my mind, i could learn that!
So without any knowledge or research i bought the cheapest benjo i could find, opend youtube and found your sympathic face bending sideways into the camera.. no tabs, no "i assume you know what a chord is" just "trust me and play with me".
I normally don't post under old videos, but i want you to know how absolutely amazing and helpful your tutorials are.
I usually quit new things early because i dont see enough progress and i nealry did it this time too when i saw the experts playing cripple creek... but than i just trusted you and continued with the lessons... and now in lesson 8 i finally believe you that i can play the banjo.
I really really really hope you will do a looot more of these! And perhaps "in hell ill be in good company" because all other tutorials on this song are horribly bad. But for now i will continue with the lessons and leave you with my biggest THANK YOU!
It makes me very happy that I can help you learn. Thanks for trusting me, and following along. Proud of you!
I was thinking I love music but I will never be able to play anything. A month ago I decided to start to play the banjo I am in this lesson right now. I feel I have never been in love with an instrument before. So, thanks so much for these instructions, you make the way so fun, nice and possible.
Thanks for letting me teach you ☺️
@@JimPankey You're so cool and great teacher. When I clicked the first video and you said "it's not hard I promise that" just I felt I should trust on you! Thanks again!
Using this "stay home " time to practice my banjo, just started lesson 8. Love that Banjo in the Hollow. Hard to believe that 2 months ago I never played a banjo.. very excited. thanks Jim for your relaxed way of teaching, that even I can understand...I'm Looking forward to be able to feel less intimidated to go out and join a workshop..
So glad I can help you learn!
Each lesson makes me love learning the banjo even more.
Thanks ☺️
Hi Jim, just wanted to say thanks for your videos from a woman in the middle of England. I’ve been learning the banjo about a year now and until recently struggling along with books and tabs but finding your videos has been a revelation, I’ve gone back through your beginner lessons and am now getting banjo in the hollow quicker and cleaner, but I’m picking it up so much quicker than just from tab alone and your style is so personable and great to watch, Thankyou so much! I’m so excited to keep learning from you, so many songs to learn, I can’t wait! 🪕💕
Ps love the cameos from the cats 🐱
Keep me posted on your progress. Post a video from time to time. Can’t wait to hear you play.
Dear Mr. Pankey, I just wanted to thank you for your videos! I'm still at lesson 8 but you're the reason why I went ahead and bought a banjo.
I've heard the instrument in different settings and liked the sound it made. At some point I realized that the music I want to make will sound real good with a banjo (at least for me).
Before I bought the banjo, I thought "I should check if I can find resources online that will help me stay focused and practice, even on my bad days". I found your videos and I have to say you're a wonderful teacher. Your attitude is very warm and welcoming, that's rare and precious. After watching the first lesson (I made up my mind after the first minute, but just couldn't stop watching) I ordered my banjo and now here I am, lesson 8, can't wait until I've practiced enough so that I can move on to lesson 9.
Thank you so much. The banjo and you opened a new door for me.
Have a great week~
Thanks for letting me help!
Hi Jim! So I haven’t taken MONTHS off from the banjo. Working from home and trying to get into a normal routine. Then I realized, I need more banjo in my life. I grabbed my banjo, took me a few mins to feel it out and bam! I was able to play. I have now played several times this week and I’m definitely keeping it in my normal routine! Thanks so much for these videos!!
Glad you're picking!
Hi Jim, Just thought I would let you know that as an older person (60+) I decided to learn the banjo. I have some previous experience with guitar at a very … very low level. I found your lessons helpful and easy to follow, they are always done clearly and with a level of fun. After one month I have managed to play Cripple Creek and Banjo in Hollow all the way through using your instruction. Playing for 15-30 minutes every day has helped enormously, I am still a little slow but getting faster al the time. As a person from outside the USA I do not know these tunes but enjoy playing them anyway. It’s a fun instrument! Thank you for posting these , I will continue to follow and hope to keep improving.
Thanks for letting me teach you 😊
Thanx Jim! I played Cripple Creek for my dad fr his birthday! And, I taught myself how to play happy birthday song for him :) he was So impressed :)
But, the funny part Was, when I got home, I was listening to my next lesson 7, and there are 3 OWLS THAT ARE HOOTIN UP A CRAZY EVERY TIME I TRY TO LISTEN TO THE NEXT LESSON! It's Hilarious!!!
Thank you for making learning the banjo FUN!
Once again - watching your lessons always brings to mind something new. I know you hear this all of the time but it bears repeating. YOU ARE A BLESSING both as a banjo instructor and as a testimony!
Thanks ☺️
Terrific fun, getting all the segments in place, and then speeding up this piece! Thanks for your patient encouragement, Jim. I'm going to get my metronome out now and see if I can speed up a little without missing too many notes!
Let me know how it goes!
Jim,
I hope you are continuing to recover. Thank you so much for these videos. I have been struggling for years trying to learn the banjo. When I found your videos, I started at Lesson 1 and kept it until I was really smooth and did not need to think about the rolls. Thanks for all your advise and encouragement!. Yes, I am learning that "I can do this"!
Recovery is going well. Thanks.
Thank you for teaching me the Banjo, I’m 42 and have never played an instrument. I’ve been playing a little over a month now. I’m on this lesson. Enjoying my time, rewatching a video 20 times in one lesson. Thanks for the videos.
Thanks so much, and thanks for letting me help you learn!
I’ve probably posted it before, and I’m sure I will keep doing it as long as I’m on the right side of the grass, but thank you so much for making me a banjo player, even if I’m a slower one! I was treading water with basic clawhammer, because my hands have tremors, so picking was frustrating - until I met you! You’ve even helped me carry it over to fingerpicking my guitar! I’m loving every minute I get to spend on your videos!
That’s fantastic. I’m glad I’ve been able to help. 😊
Hi Jim, I am a musician who has been playing guitar for 13 years an bass for 8 years. I picked up the banjo because I started hearing banjo parts in some songs I have been writing. I just want to say your optimism and your approach is not only helping me learn banjo, but its revealing errors in my finger picking technique I didn't know I had from playing guitar and bass. Thank you for your humility.
So glad I've been able to help you. Would love to hear you play.
@@JimPankey thank you! Once I record my first song with banjo I'll send it your way and also let ya know when I make my first video with banjo! Thanks so much Jim!
Looking forward to it!
I completely agree with the previous comment a while back that you are the Bob Ross of banjo. I was thinking towards the end of this video that your positive words were so helpful and supportive, and how I wished I had something like that in the other areas of my life. Nervous about that work presentation to the Board? Jim Pankey is here to tell you that you can do it! Anyhow, I am SO glad I found your lessons, and I feel like I am genuinely accomplishing something other than just plinking around. Thank you.
Thank you so much!
Jim, i can't thank you enough for getting me started on banjo. I love these lessons, better than any i've seen. I play fiddle and haven't picked it up for a few days. I'm just banjo ing away. Please keep coming out with more, they are wonderful.
Hi Jim, hope you are feeling well! Slowly working my way through your videos, definitely making progress. Thank you so much!
Keep it up
@@JimPankey when doing the low part of banjo in the hallow, are you apposed to us using the ring finger on the first string second fret instead of the social finger? To me it make sense to begin using the ring finger for the partial C cord so that my ring ringer gets more callused but wanted you take on it. Thanks a bunch!
@@joeld_i4052 That's totally fine to do it that way. It's good to be able to do it both ways. How'd I demo it in the video??
@@JimPankey Using the social finger for depressing the 1st string second fret. Thank you very much for replying!
After I don’t no how many months I’m finally getting it I think. Thank you Jim.
Hooray!!!
I don't know how far you've gone with your lessons yet. But I'm here to tell you... These are the best I've found online period. Thank you for your time. I hope you keep going.
you are definitely the best teacher out there I went through your 10 lessons and comprehended every bit of it and I'm not the sharpest knife in the drawer thanks for getting me started I look forward to watching more of your videos
I'm on lesson 8. I've read a lot of the comments from your other students, and most of us share the same feelings: we've all been trying to learn for years with no success until you. I bought a book with tabs years ago and have pulled it out about about every five years and tried hard to learn, but it's SO difficult if you don't even know what the song is supposed to sound like! My father's relatives from the Appalachians played the banjo, and I thought it just wasn't in my blood because I couldn't learn, but what I now realize is it's just who you have for a teacher. Wish I'd been at your knees as a child, but glad I'm here now. Thanks for all you do.
So glad I can help you learn! Please keep me posted on your progress.
Thanks Jim. You've made my life. I cant express how thankful I am for you. What an educator you are.
Thanks for the kind words
Great lessons. I have taken a day or two after watching each video to practice the material as Jim always suggests and has worked out great so far. I usually rewatch a lesson to make sure I haven’t missed anything. I feel like I’ve made good progress in a relatively short time. And it’s fun! Thanks Jim!
Awesome!
Jim,
I've tried starting on guitar a couple different times over the years, with no success.
I got a Banjo for Christmas and have been playing every day since. Your lessons make learning the Banjo fun and easy for me! I have tried a few other Banjo channels, but keep coming back to yours. When anyone asks who taught me to play Banjo, I'll say, "Jim Pankey did!"
So glad to be part of your banjo journey. 😊
@@JimPankey Thank you for doing what you do!
My family has a gathering in September for a fall round-up. Can't wait for the Banjo debut around the campfire!
Hi your way of teaching banjo is just awesome I've just started playing at nearly seventy years young
Keep up the good work I'm hooked
Thanks for letting me teach you
Jim, this has been the most fun I have had learning something in a long time... it is so cool to not know how to do something and slowly progress and get somewhat good at it. You have a real knack for inspiring people and giving them the confidence to do this. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I'm sad that there are only two more lessons in this series.
Timings for reference
00:00:53 - Partial C pattern
00:02:04 - D7 - Alternating roll
00:02:27 - All tied together
00:03:18 - Everything tied together again
00:05:24 - Low part and high part (lesson 7)
00:07:33 - Forward roll
00:08:43 - Demo of full C chord
Be sure to check out the backup series I have and also the “Learn These Next” playlist.
@@JimPankey Will do Jim. Any chance you have done a lesson on how to play Big Country by Bela Fleck? Maybe that is a bit advanced, duno... I just love that song and the rolls that are in it and someday, I would love to learn how to play it.
I've had my banjo for just over a month now, and I've made it all the way through this lesson so far. Thank you for posting your videos! I really enjoy them! You're a great teacher!
You are a very good teacher. Very thorough and encouraging. I'm having sooooo much fun learning a new instrument. Looking forward to more lessons. Thanks so much.
I bought a 1988 Alvarez banjo got on line to find some lessons. Everyone and their brother has lessons. After 2 mos I was ready to give up. I then found you and I'm hooked. You explain everything and show everything in the most simple way. I have played guitar for 55 years. I played mostly rhythm with some lead. Had a wrist injury(right) so my guitar days are over. After I started playing with your series (3) weeke ago I am now playing cripple creek and banjo in the holler (not perfect and not to speed) but people can tell what I'm playing. Your videos are great. THANK YOU.
Hi Jim, I have Part 1 Banjo in the Hallow sorted (love this tune) and I have just taken down the High Part 2 so will go away & practice. I practice everyday like you say as it really pays off!!! Loving the sound of my banjo 'Goodtime Special with Tone Ring' now he's ringing out and sounds like i'm playing something !!! Heaps of rolls, cripple creek and new stuff to be getting on with so thank you again you have helped me achieve all of this so far. Be in touch soon for Lesson 9. Liz x
Thanks for keeping me posted! Can’t wait to hear you play!
Jim.
thanks I have just started and am so engrossed I can't practice enough thanks to your relaxed style of teaching.
Wonderful! Keep me posted on your progress!
You have been my only source of banjo lessons and I have absolutely loved it! I can't believe how genuinely sweet and encouraging you are in your videos!!! Thank you so much for all you've taught me. It's been a pleasure, and I can't wait to to learn more.
Thanks for letting me teach you!!
just started 2 weeks ago and i can already play cripple creek! thank you jim!!!
Great job!
Hi Jim I just wanted to let you for being such a lovely teacher and virtually a friend for banjo playing! I’ve just purchased one and came across your course. It is such an inspiration and I’m determined to eventually get good. I do hope you are keeping well. Best wishes Susie
Wonderful! Keep me posted on your progress.
Just love your sessions! Finally Im getting somewhere! Thank you all the way from Sweden
Awesome! Keep me posted on your progress. 😀
Please keep giving us lessons , your the first teacher I can follow. Your great!
Jim you are amazing. I am having a blast learning from you!! Thank you so much.
Jim,
I have been practicing every day yesterday and today all day I have work on plying banjo and I am really begaininb to love the sound so much. Thank you
Fantastic!
Thank you again Jim. One day I'll catch your live stream.
Hope to see you there
I'm finding lesson 8 quite challenging, but I'm confident that with the easy teaching method of Mr Pankey and a little patience on my part that I'll get there eventually.
Still completely stress free.
Less than 4 weeks since I started lesson 1
Hi Jim, Thank You for the great banjo lesson videos. You have the patience of Job! I'm thinking we may need to get a gofundme for you started,for cat food, as your cats are raiding the pantry of cat food as soon as you start these great banjo lessons. Looks pretty much like our house with animals roaming about . :) Banjo In the Hollow is now added to the repertoire. Needs some more practice but sounds pretty good. Thanks!
HI Jim, Thought I'll tell you got Cripple Creek and Banjo in the Hollow down to a fine art what I have to do is speed it up
and that will come by playing the songs over and over to develop muscle memory and only I can do that so thanks
for being a fantastic teacher 🤠.
Thanks for letting me help!
Thanks Jimbo, this is so awesome. I just started learning banjo a couple of weeks ago and you're an amazing teacher.
Thanks for letting me teach you 😊
Thank you Jim . Love your tuition style . Had a banjo for years but not got the hang of it up till now . Can play play this song now but with lots of mistakes and no speed but I’ll plug away at it . Thank you so much
Great! Keep me posted on your progress.
I have really learned a lot from your lessons I really appreciate it my grandma gave me her banjo she never learned to play when I was 9 I’m 20 now and have been practicing a couple weeks I’m not sure if you’re still making videos or if you’ll see this but i really learn a lot from you
Glad I can help you learn. Yup... still making videos.
Thank you Jim for teaching me banjo!
Thanks for letting me teach you ☺️
Awesome series Jim! Thank you for taking the time to make these videos. I appreciate your words of encouragement as well :)
Wow . . . borrowed a banjo on Jun 19, "discovered" your vids 3 nights ago (on BHO); these have all been great! I hate to think there are only 2 more. Thanks for your time and insight.
Very good teaching!
And lovely cats too!
Thanks 😊
Got a banjo for Christmas. I can play two songs already thanks to you. Happy New Year Jim! Stay safe
That’s fantastic!😊
i spent close to a year perfecting cripple creek before moving on.... definitely progressing a lot faster with this song.
Awesome 👏🏼
Thanks Jim, I was just starting to stress out! Then you told me not to. Perfect timing. I am definitely getting better :-)
Glad I could be there for you! 😊
@@JimPankey me too ;-)
My playing isn't improving too quickly, but I am enjoying your sense of humor! I will keep trying!
It takes time. You can do it.
Great lesson !!! I'm really making some music and I love it ! Every lesson makes me more eager to come back and to learn new stuff. THANK YOU
Thanks for letting me teach you 😊
Thanks again Jim, I have spent a little while on this lesson. I had a bit of a setback, crushed my RH index finger int the tailgate of my 4x4, took some bark off and the nail is going to come off. Cant wear picks on a mangled finger. However I still practised every day, just had to shuffle the picks down the the social finger and ring finger. It was a challenge getting it all working but I did manage to have success. Playing Banjo in the Hollow nicely now. Thanks again. Also I love how your cats have to get in the action, never miss an opportunity for fame!
I used to go to a jam with a guy that didn't have an index finger, he wore his picks on middle and ring. He played just fine like that. :)
These cats... oh boy. You need a cat? I can hook you up. lol
The best teacher I ever had so far
Thanks for letting me help you learn
@@JimPankey playing now for four weeks and just began on lesson 9 all thanks to good teaching and a lot of practice
Looking forward to what the future holds!!! Love these videos Jim. I've watched a-lot and these are easily the best.
Great video. Easy to understand and follow.
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks Jim. Always wanted to play banjo and you have given me a great start. Love the lessons.
JIM, I AM 82 YEARS YOUNG,BEEN PLAYING CLAW HAMMER ABOUT 5 YEARS BUT ALWAYS WANTED TO PLAY B.G. STYLE.YOU MADE THAT HAPPEN FOR ME.I AM ON LESSON8-&9. I EVEN BOUGHT A JIM PANKEY PURPLE T SHIRT.
SEE MY VIDEO ON U TUBE(( UNDER BANJO PETER AND WAYNE)) I AM THE HARMONICA PLAYER AND WROTE THE TWO TRUCK SONGS ABOUT MY 53 CHEV. THANK YOU MUCH.
Hey there! Thanks for getting the shirt, and thanks for letting me teach you!
Thanks Jim, for your help! for a slow poke learner in N.W. Alaska, anyone can learn to play!
Glad to be able to help! Keep picking!
Best banjo teacher on youtube
☺️thanks
I got my banjo on Monday and I’ve watched your lessons since and now on Saturday I can play cripple creek and banjo in the hollow with absolutely no experience on the banjo
Awesome! Thanks for letting me help you learn.
Another great lesson. Beautiful song and a nice contrast to Cripple Creek. Thanks!
Glad you're enjoying these lessons!
Thank you Jim for reaching out to teach the banjo I have learned so much just a back wood country boy again thank you and God bless you.
Thank you so much Jim! I live in Argentina and nobody can teach me bluegrass pickin'. Cheers!
My pleasure! Glad to be able to help you!
I like playing this song in old time tuning . it just sounds nice to me.
You rock, Jim!
This is such a pretty tune. And after taking a month to learn cripple creek I think I got this in two days. Three counting the roll practice I suppose.
Each tune will be easier than the last... you've got more skills. :)
You are so nice, I am enjoying your lessons!
Glad you like them!
Hi Jim.
I just want to thank you for the lessons on youtube i never ever thought i could pick up a Banjo and learn to play it at my age ( 57 )
I'm loving every Minute of it, I'm on lesson 8 now but was just wondering if I'm taking too long in getting where I am.
if possible could you advise me on how long I should be practicing each day please.
Regards
Bob C
So glad I can help you learn to play! I usually practice at different times during the day. The amount varies, but I usually try to get an hour or more.
@@JimPankey Nice one Jim, Thanks for getting back to me so soon.
Bob C
I love your lessons so much, Jim Pankey!
Jim, thank you for all you've done for us beginners. I truly cherish your help. Question: would it be too uncommon or not recommended to learn the "Partial C" with the ring finger on the 1st string - 2nd fret? Or should I keep using that social finger on the first string for the partial C? Just wondering if anyone finds the ring finger to feel more natural in that position?
It’s good to be able to it both ways
Hi Jim. Boy I have learned so much from you. A great teacher and all around nice guy. A couple of questions: 1. I'm not sure I'm getting the cadence right when I play, how to fix it. 2. I'm on lesson 9 and wondering what is the next logical session to go to keep progressing. Thanks again. Neil
Welp, if you're on lesson 9, the next video to look at is lesson 10.
I also have a "Learn These Next" playlist. Be sure to check that out.
As for the cadence, slow it down and be thoughtful.
really great lessons. Thank you bro
Glad you like them!
hey jim i just wanted to let you know that i started playing this banjo on friday may 3rd its now may 8th ive finished and gotten pretty good with your cripple creek lessons but im having trouble keeping time. i want to go faster and faster but if i do pick up speed i cant keep it steady is there any pointers you can give? I have loved every second i spend watching these lessons and playing my banjo. i have never played a string instrument in my life and i cant read music. so to be this far in this amount of time i feel like i just was meant to play this banjo. everything but the timing feels natural to me. Thank you so much and if possible i can toss you a couple bucks for a video call with some critiques from you on how im playing.
hey jim been watching your videos since i got my banjo for christmas, and now im pretty proud of my two songs i can play, much to the demise of the wife who gets to hear me practicing the same two songs every day. But all is fair in the pursuit of progress i say. anyways ive been using several different picks and i find the ernie ball pickey picks are a huge improvement to my playing. but i havent found a good thumb pick yet. could you tell me what one you use? thanks
I use the Blue Chip JD Crowe. I’ve also used the Dunlop calicos.
Thank you so much for being such a great and encouraging teacher. I have been practicing regularly and can play all of Banjo in the Holler right along with you on the video and even a few clicks faster, but it still sounds very little like Banjo in the Holler as played by a “real” banjo player. Are they just playing these same roll patterns at a wickedly faster pace or are they using completely different roll patterns that have at least twice the number of plucks per roll? They sound like they are playing at superhuman speed and I am in slow motion. Your videos have brought me such a long way, but I still feel so far away from anything sounding like actual bluegrass coming from my banjo. Thanks!!!!
Chances are, if you’re listening to the Dillards then you’ve got a lot of speed to gain.
hi jim lesson 9 now just started it. Got to say loving your lessons,not been playing guitar much scince i got my banjo ,have you got a book out jim
I don't have a book per se. I do have tabs and some collections at: wildjimbo.sellfy.store
Jimbo, this is my second time going through your 11 lessons for beginners. For some reason I am much more comfortable using my ring finger instead of social finger on partial C chord. Is this going to hurt me later? It just feels much more natural using my ring finger. Should I make myself use my social finger?! Thanks! Your videos got me re interested in the banjo!
It won’t really be a problem, but it’s good to be able to make chords with different fingers depending on how a tune might lay out.
Hi Jim, help!!! I am up with everything on banjo in the hollow and onto this new roll & even other stuff on the side from my beginners book but I have come to a stop because I cannot get a clear sound fretting a Chord C. Particularly in rolls needing the 3rd sting ( un-fretted) and also the sound of the 4th string which is fretted sounds dead as my annoying middle finger keeps touching the 3rd sting. I have tried & tried moving my thumb behind, up & down, my fingers high off the frett board or flat on the sting or higher up going above the string ( like you), but I am still really struggling making the C chord sound clear & not sound dead particularly in a progressive roll when picking the other strings. I have walked off a few times in frustration. Can my middle finger be too fat ? I will take a look at you fretting the C chord again but you make it look easy 😤
While I can’t see what you’re doing, I can offer a couple of tips…
Curl your fingers more.
Push your left elbow down to your side.
Hold neck of banjo around 45°.
You can do it.
@@JimPankey Thanks Jim I will try those on my next practice & let you know. Driving my kids up the wall with my new music tastes 😂
music.ruclips.net/video/4x-OHZwNqA8/видео.html&feature=share
Thank you Jim
You're very welcome!
Jim thanks for the videos. It seems to me at 6:02 you added a pinch and omitted the (D7) 4251 roll. This seems different than all your other examples of the B Part. Am I missing something?
Good catch. Either works there. Where I do that pinch you can do the 4251 or the pinch like I do.
@@JimPankey OK thanks, I like your arrangement, I noticed when I tabbed it out just so I wouldn't have to keep rewinding. Thank You
THANKS JIM!
You’re welcome 😊
AGGGHHHH THANKS JIM!! Big progress today!! :D
Awesome! Would love to hear you play.
Hey Jim. Would it be better to start the partial C with ring finger instead of middle since that's how the full C will be?
If that works for you, sure. 😊
Ok thanks. Can't believe how fast I've progressed with your videos!
I enjoy your lessons. Even though I am practicing a lot, I have trouble getting "dead notes" when I use my left hand to play a chord. Do you have any helpful hInts? I am playing on a banjovie.
Banjovie is really small... You're going to have to really get up on your tips and pay close attention to getting your fingers positioned just right.
@@JimPankey Thank you for your quick reply! Have a great day!
Jim, what needs to be adjusted when the strings don’t ring after about the 13 14 fret. Doesn’t seem that the strings are touching the frets but the sound in dead, not ringing as I move down to the 18th fret and higher.
Really not sure, but the strings should be about 1/8” above the 12th fret.
I’ll check that in the morning, I’m petty certain it’s lower than that at 12. Meantime the callouses are finally back on the left fingers and my rolls are getting better and better. You know, I’ve looked as some other instructional videos and yours are still, hands down the best!!
Okay, so I finally took the leap. I stripped off old strings and put new ones on. I have them tuned (I think) but when I strike my top G string it rings out forever. Really, forever, the thing is still sounding off when I get back to it for the next part of the roll. Did I do something to make that happen? I did remove the back part of my banjo to clean it. I did also tighten the tail piece because it was loose. Could one of those actions have caused this?
No way for me to really know without having banjo in hand. Other than maybe it's just new strings...? I dunno.
Jim Pankey I think I’m gonna’ take the back off and loosen the tail piece again. When all else fails, go back to the beginning and have a “do over”.
I'm taking forever on this one - but who cares, right? Discovering (d'uh) that making CLEAN sound on the strings actually matters. Who knew? At first I was blaming my picks, but it turns out it ain't the picks, it's the picker. Anyway, really enjoying watching this one over and over.
Oh, it gets better. Keep on picking. 😊
Hi Jim, hope all is well, thanks for the great lessons. Do you have a link to a beginners tab sheet for the Buck Owens/Beatles song, Act Naturally? Might be cool to play on a banjo.
Glad you like the lessons. Thanks for the suggestion.