This is exactly the kind of learning videos I have been looking for. Good sound, good video quality and a very calm and comfortable teacher. I am a first time banjo player, and are waiting for my first banjo to arrive at the post office any day now. Im sure going to watch many of your videos. Thanks for sharing them😁👍
Exactly the drills needed by a left handed player on a right handed banjo who started a little late in life. I could see improvement by the second practice session. Thanks, Stan Stachula
I am 77 bought a banjo about a year ago watched a lot of RUclips lots of good teachers, but sure like Steve's style of teaching. I think i can do this now, Thank you Steve
I will echo the sentiments of the many posters here. I've been watching about a dozen or so different youtubers trying to find a method of banjo learning that suits my brain, and you've just hit it on the head. I'm an absolute beginner, and the couple videos I've watched of yours just opened some blinders for me. Thank you so so much! I have hope again!
Steve. Thanks so much. I was getting into a real rut/bored and although I know that the basic frailing srum is the bedrock of what we do, I just couldn't understand why all you guys further forward could syncopate and get real rythm as you do. I now know and will be practising all the more. Cheers!
I fully understand Steve & the important thing is that you are a great teacher. I have just started playing banjo & I find it really difficult to understand how to play melodies while keeping the frailing strum going. Keep up the good work & thank you.
Awesome! Thanks for sharing this. I'm trying to learn clawhammer right now and have difficulty motivating myself to continually practice -- this video definitely helped! Thank you!
This video is a game changer, Steve. I've watched this numerous times and put the info to good use. I hear something new to try everytime I watch it. Thank you for sharing.
Can’t thank you enough. This video was really helpful!!!! But no means do I play well at all now but at least I can practice with precise comments on how to move away from the standard frailing pattern. Amazing, seriously helpful and nice to share your knowledge. Going to be practical in various circles!! Much love from Montreal, Canada!
The capo is not essential but is very commonly used at the second fret because it moves the key to A which is a better key for the fiddle to accompany the banjo.
Steve, I've been "playing" Scruggs picking for quite a few years. But at this point it just doesn't work for me and I'm really not very good at it. I prefer the "Old Time" style and really the sound of it. I'm picking up "frailing" and I really enjoy it. Yes I've been stuck in bum-diddy-dum. I've really learned and enjoyed your drop thumb videos. Well done and a teaching moment. Your videos are "go to" stuff.
@@StevePlaysBanjo What tuning do you use most? I play with people who use open G, F, C…and it seems they are always retuning for different songs? What’s wrong with just playing everything in open G?
@@LastTrump7 I tend to stick with open G and liberally use my capo. I can cover most songs that way. I think that’s because I mostly play melodies off the chord shapes. But it can be fun to try different tunings to mix things up. It can be a bit of a bear if you’re playing with a group and you have to return on the quick.
nice ...helped with strumming bum ditty ... I am new and trying to get the pattern with my ukulele ... I know 4 strings ... have not decided wither to go 5 or 4 string versions... they are different ... from what I can tell mainly chord fingering patterns ..anyway... you have rekindled by interest ..and got me slightly thru the frustration of basic ditty
I had that same banjo after 2 Good times. I sold it too because I wasn't up to its level. I suck. Been trying to play for a few years never got good at it. I just ordered a Dogwood banjo and today saw this video. This will make a world of difference. All I've wanted fir years is to play the damn banjo good. Im'a stick with it this time and practice, and watch this video til I get it.
Do you (or any of the audience) have a recommendation for a budget frailing banjo (scoop neck i.e. frets don’t go all the way to body - like the one in this video, wider finger board)?
Love the low key approach to your instruction. Very helpful. Would you mind sharing some info about the banjo you are playing in this video. Maker, 11 or 12 inch, and tone ring?
Tom Skinker thanks! When I sing, I tend to fall back to the basic frailing strum to keep the rhythm. And then for the breaks I might ramp up the dynamics. Maybe even cut back on volume or just strum simple chords while you sing. Of course that's easier said than done and will take experimentation with each song you learn. And it's something you're always gonna get better at over time. I'm sure I'll be working on it for the rest of my life. :)
Thanks for sharing. I have to use a pick turned over on top of my middle finger to pick the strings. I keep my nails cut very short due to playing guitar. It works ok. I have one question. Your banjo dosent have any frets close to the head. What kind is that?
Sarah Quick thanks! I’m in a handful of Facebook banjo groups. Me and a friend created one called The Singing Banjo for banjo players who like to sing and play. It’s been a lot of fun!
@@StevePlaysBanjo brilliant. I've just requested to join your group. Out of everyone's clawhammer lessons yours are the best. I'm a complete beginner and find it quite daunting sometimes but won't give up 😁
Thank you sharing. Your advance form of picking sounds like the drop thumb claw. Is it another drop thumb claw hammer because I notice the thumb is dropping from top to string 3 in alternate cycle. Just curious.
This is exactly the kind of learning videos I have been looking for. Good sound, good video quality and a very calm and comfortable teacher. I am a first time banjo player, and are waiting for my first banjo to arrive at the post office any day now. Im sure going to watch many of your videos. Thanks for sharing them😁👍
you're genius bro. deconstruction is the root of learning and reconstruction is the trunk and leaves. I just made that up right now. :)
Without a doubt, one of the most important lessons on the internet! Thank you.
This was extremely clear! I just started playing and there’s so many styles to chose from, but this was so clear. I understand claw hammer better now.
This is the best explanation of what is going on with the strumming hand. Thank you.
Exactly the drills needed by a left handed player on a right handed banjo who started a little late in life. I could see improvement by the second practice session. Thanks, Stan Stachula
Thanks for this. I’ve never played an instrument before and I’m struggling to get my footing. This is exactly the video I’ve been looking for!
I am 77 bought a banjo about a year ago watched a lot of RUclips lots of good teachers, but sure like Steve's style of teaching. I think i can do this now,
Thank you Steve
I will echo the sentiments of the many posters here.
I've been watching about a dozen or so different youtubers trying to find a method of banjo learning that suits my brain, and you've just hit it on the head. I'm an absolute beginner, and the couple videos I've watched of yours just opened some blinders for me.
Thank you so so much! I have hope again!
Thank you Steve for sharing a tempo of music that is touching and reflects the depth of music!
Excellent thanks.
Steve. Thanks so much. I was getting into a real rut/bored and although I know that the basic frailing srum is the bedrock of what we do, I just couldn't understand why all you guys further forward could syncopate and get real rythm as you do. I now know and will be practising all the more. Cheers!
I fully understand Steve & the important thing is that you are a great teacher. I have just started playing banjo & I find it really difficult to understand how to play melodies while keeping the frailing strum going. Keep up the good work & thank you.
Awesome! Thanks for sharing this. I'm trying to learn clawhammer right now and have difficulty motivating myself to continually practice -- this video definitely helped! Thank you!
You are the best. Really good lesson.
Brilliant tutorial. Thank you so much.
Fantastic Steve ,thanks for sharing .
Regards
Dave from Scotland
This video is a game changer, Steve. I've watched this numerous times and put the info to good use. I hear something new to try everytime I watch it. Thank you for sharing.
Very helpful! Really appreciate you sharing your expertise!
This is such a helpful well-taught lesson! Thank you!
Your basically the only person that can explain this and make it " hit home " man dont ever quit doing these videos. Foocking greattt!!
Can’t thank you enough. This video was really helpful!!!! But no means do I play well at all now but at least I can practice with precise comments on how to move away from the standard frailing pattern. Amazing, seriously helpful and nice to share your knowledge. Going to be practical in various circles!! Much love from Montreal, Canada!
Great beginner, and practice video. Thanks.
As always.....Great Lesson, Thanks Steve
This was HUGELY helpful. Glad I found your channel!
Wonderful! Thx very much Steve for this little rhythm exercise
Dude, this is a fantastic video. Thanks for breaking things down the way you do. 🤙🤙
You get me so exciting about playing when I listen to you! Thanks Steve!
Thanks for this. Muting strings helps for flat picking guitar practice, too.
This helps meee!! I've been stuck on the basic frail and this was a great lesson to help me move ahead! Thank you :)
The rhythm you play makes me think I can apply it to doing back-up. Thanks Steve.
Cool Steve! It helps a lot to be more precise with the rhythm. Thank you!
Excellent teaching thank you!
Amazing information!! Thank you!
This was the most helpful video I've found on banjo and I really appreciate this.
Thanks so much Steve! Your lessons really do it for me, and this one on rhythm and drop thumb was especially great. Cheers!
Is the capo nessesary. Or just the open G tuning?
The capo is not essential but is very commonly used at the second fret because it moves the key to A which is a better key for the fiddle to accompany the banjo.
Loved that...thank you, thoroughly enjoyed the examples
Great lesson!!
Steve, I've been "playing" Scruggs picking for quite a few years. But at this point it just doesn't work for me and I'm really not very good at it. I prefer the "Old Time" style and really the sound of it. I'm picking up "frailing" and I really enjoy it. Yes I've been stuck in bum-diddy-dum. I've really learned and enjoyed your drop thumb videos. Well done and a teaching moment. Your videos are "go to" stuff.
I was having trouble with drop thumb 'muscle memory' but think I have made a breakthrough thanks you your video. Thank you Steve!
I really appreciate how these rhythms help branch out.
Great sound ! Thanks for this !
best clawhammer tutorial ever
I've been having trouble with the drop thumb. I'm going to try this. Thank you for sharing!
Very helpful and motivating as always. Thanks Steve.
Brilliant lesson!
Thanks so much for this - very useful for a beginner 😊
Great lesson
This is so enlightening, great information! Your presentation's are clear and consice
Jim Patterson thanks!
Excellent tuition. Thanks!
That’s just the instructions I need. Just about to take on this as my instrument of choice Open back banjo.
Great exercises and teachings!
This" paring down to essentials" is priceless. Nice. Thank you. Very helpful as I struggle from basic frail to melody.
Thats a great lesson, thank you
This was a fantastic lesson, thanks for sharing.
Thanks my friend great tip
Exactly what I was looking for, great lesson! Thanks so much!
My pleasure! Can’t wait for the weather to get nice again, so I can play more banjo outside. 😊
@@StevePlaysBanjo What tuning do you use most? I play with people who use open G, F, C…and it seems they are always retuning for different songs? What’s wrong with just playing everything in open G?
@@LastTrump7 I tend to stick with open G and liberally use my capo. I can cover most songs that way. I think that’s because I mostly play melodies off the chord shapes. But it can be fun to try different tunings to mix things up. It can be a bit of a bear if you’re playing with a group and you have to return on the quick.
Black belt banjo!! This is really helpful steve! Thanx for sharing!!
woodmum glad to help!
Certainly huge help for me.
nice ...helped with strumming bum ditty ... I am new and trying to get the pattern with my ukulele ... I know 4 strings ... have not decided wither to go 5 or 4 string versions... they are different ... from what I can tell mainly chord fingering patterns ..anyway... you have rekindled by interest ..and got me slightly thru the frustration of basic ditty
This is great Steve - one of the most useful and genuinely insightful lessons I've seen on RUclips, Thank you so much
Very good. Thank you!
Nice one dude, find your vids really helpful
Such an interesting lesson - A+
That was a great tutorial for students wanting to break out of the bum ditty jail and explore self expression. Thanks a bunch!!
Hah!! I don’t I’ve heard it called “bum ditty jail” before. I like it!
Shout out to the screeching neighbor at 2:10 🤣
But really: great lesson and thanks for breaking it down to basic kinetics!
This was a really helpful video. Thank you so much for breaking it down.
Awesome to show this thank you heaps
Beautiful. Could you please tell me how your banjo is tuned? Thanks.
very pretty style. I gotta learn this thumb drop.
I had that same banjo after 2 Good times. I sold it too because I wasn't up to its level. I suck. Been trying to play for a few years never got good at it. I just ordered a Dogwood banjo and today saw this video. This will make a world of difference. All I've wanted fir years is to play the damn banjo good. Im'a stick with it this time and practice, and watch this video til I get it.
So helpful thankyou.
Such a great video. Thanks sooooo much.
AWSOME lesson! Thanks
I enjoyed that Steve and will help me a great deal, thanks.
Brilliant! Thank you!
Very good lesson! I have to get more thumb action. That's where I'm at now. thanks
The thumb adds a whole new dimension to playing. Gonna keep me busy practicing for a while, as well.
Brilliant.
cannot wait to try this. new to clawhammer
Good lesson. Thank you.
Really, really, really, really helpful session!
jim malin happy to hear that!
Awesome and very helpful!
Wonderful, thank you.
Do you (or any of the audience) have a recommendation for a budget frailing banjo (scoop neck i.e. frets don’t go all the way to body - like the one in this video, wider finger board)?
There is a need for development exercises. The gutar, piano, violin. Have such studies from way back.
Thanks for this. More right hand technique would be great. This is severely lacking in claw hammer lessons.
hell yeah, ive been needing to know how to get to a new level
Love the low key approach to your instruction. Very helpful. Would you mind sharing some info about the banjo you are playing in this video. Maker, 11 or 12 inch, and tone ring?
Thanks! Pisgah Rambler Dobson 12"
Amazing thank you!!
Great presentations - / How does one play when singing and not be too busy or boring?
Tom Skinker thanks! When I sing, I tend to fall back to the basic frailing strum to keep the rhythm. And then for the breaks I might ramp up the dynamics. Maybe even cut back on volume or just strum simple chords while you sing. Of course that's easier said than done and will take experimentation with each song you learn. And it's something you're always gonna get better at over time. I'm sure I'll be working on it for the rest of my life. :)
Why does muted strings playing make me want to say "dude you left your blinkers on"
Most excellent lesson explaining some nuances about the technique I have not found elsewhere. Btw, great sounding banjo! Mind if I ask builder?
M D thanks! This one's a Pisgah Rambler Dobson.
Thanks. I'm putting that one on my list as a next must have.
Thanks for sharing. I have to use a pick turned over on top of my middle finger to pick the strings. I keep my nails cut very short due to playing guitar. It works ok. I have one question. Your banjo dosent have any frets close to the head. What kind is that?
Great!
Steve are you in any social media groups? Your lessons are amazing. Happy person here in England
Sarah Quick thanks! I’m in a handful of Facebook banjo groups. Me and a friend created one called The Singing Banjo for banjo players who like to sing and play. It’s been a lot of fun!
@@StevePlaysBanjo brilliant. I've just requested to join your group. Out of everyone's clawhammer lessons yours are the best. I'm a complete beginner and find it quite daunting sometimes but won't give up 😁
Thank you sharing. Your advance form of picking sounds like the drop thumb claw. Is it another drop thumb claw hammer because I notice the thumb is dropping from top to string 3 in alternate cycle. Just curious.
Hey man what is your tuning? Sounds great!
I think this one was open-G tuning but capo’d 2nd fret to make it open-A. 🪕
Thanks, very useful
Best beginner video on youtube
Awesome.