Mr. Pankey, thank you! I have spent the past 7 weeks working my way through your 10 lessons and am very pleased with the progress that you've enabled me to enjoy. While I will probably never achieve the skill or speed of one who has been playing since his teens or twenties, the sequencing of your lessons, the pacing of your instruction, your comprehensive explanations, and your clear demonstrations have been remarkably helpful. Thank you.
Jim, I finally made it through your 1st 10 lessons and I realize I can actually play the banjo with some confidence and some newly acquired skills, but I also realize how important it is to continue going over what you have taught me on a daily basis and keep on reviewing the songs you have taught in each lesson until I feel that I can play them in front of someone without playing along with you and your videos as my crutch. You always say "now go practice, I'll wait for you to come back" I can't tell you what a bond you build as a teacher and we haven't ever met. You are the greatest! As I sit and learn to do something that I have never done before it is amazing how encouraging you are in each step of the way. You have said "you can do this" and made me believe that I can. But it's only possible (as far as I am concerned) because your wisdom and knowledge in the way you teach and feed each of us the right amounts of information to acquire and build the foundational skills we need to learn and to play the banjo. As you said, I may be a beginner for a long time, but that's ok because it's fun to be a beginner because you have made it that way. YOU have made me a beginner and not so long ago I was NOT. I am proud to say that I am NOW a beginner and I will keep coming back as long as you are there. Thank you so much Jim, you're the BEST! 😀😀😀🪕🪕🪕
45 years ago when I was working in the mountains on a fire crew and there was a banjo in the barracks that I took because nobody wanted it. I went back to college in the fall and practiced a couple weeks using the Earl Scruggs banjo book that is now a classic. I stopped after the first couple lessons because it was to hard to read and figure out what to do. Fast forward to today and I was visiting my grandkids who started taking music lessons on the guitar and ukulele. I started playing the ukulele and had so much fun that I thought when I get back home I’m going to find that banjo and start playing it. I found it up in the attic where it had been stored for all those years. By accident I found your videos. I love them and have been practicing so much that my finger tips are really sore. I made it through lesson 10 and will do every video of yours that I find. You are a great teacher Jim and hearing you play the new sequences makes it real easy to get it. Please keep making more videos and I hope to meet you someday soon.
Jim I want to upgrade from my beginner banjo to something better. I love playing and would rather spend more to get something I can use for years rather something that I will be wanting to change in a couple years. What suggestions do you have? Thanks Bruce
Thank Jim I was at the music store and they had a vintage Gibson rb 3. It had been used a lot and and was a bit worn but when I played it the sound was fantastic so I wound up buying it. I got it for a decent price I think so I’m pretty happy about it. Thanks again for your help.
Daddy got me a banjo when i was 12 years old. that was 32 years ago. i still have that old banjo with all the original strings. replaced my lost pics, tuned the booger with your 1st video, and now i can play 3 songs. i am terrible, but even the wife can hear the melody. im gettin better and I will finish this mission. thanks Jim Pankey.
Greetings from Durham - that’s Durham England, not North Carolina! We don’t often get the weather for sitting out on the porch playing but I’m loving the videos and getting more confident every day. Many thanks, you are a great teacher.
Hello from Scotland Jim if you still check in here. I bought a banjo more than twenty years ago but never really picked it up. I can strum a few chords on the guitar but the poor old banjo just sat in a cornrer collecting dust. Now that I am retired (66) I decided to have another go and discovered your you tube 10 lessons for beginners. Well all I can say is thank you, your teaching style is great and although I have a long way to go to reach speed and accuracy I just want you to know I have enjoyed the lessons so far and will continue to check the other tutorials you have on you tube as I begin to become more slick. By the way love the cats in the background. Once again thank you for making the learning not seem like a chore
Thanks Jim,,I'm a all most 53 years old,,been wanting to play banjo for years so I bought one 12 weeks ago on lesson 10 it's amazing I can actually play a couple of songs and they sound like a song, THANKS
hEY JIM ..I HAVE BEEN PLAYING FOR 40 YEARS AS A MOSTLY SELF TAUGHT DABBLER. I FOUND YOUR 10 LESSONS AND DECIDED TO GO THRU THE REGIMEN AND REVISIT THE BASICS. YOUR ABILITY TO KEEP IT SIMPLE AND COMMUNICATE IS SO WELCOMING AND EFFECTIVE. I REALLY GOT A LOT OUT OF RELEARNING THINGS i'VE PLAYED "MY WAY" WITH A NUMBER OF SELF TAUGHT ERRORS IN TECHNIQUE. MY SKILLS ARE LEVELING OUT TO SMOOTH AND STEADY INSTEAD OF CHOPPY AS A RESULT OF WORKING THRU THE STEPS IN THESE TEN LESSONS. BASICS WITH YOU. THANK YOU BANJO BROTHER. I WISH YOU LIVED IN MY TOWN AS I WOULD LOVE TO SHAKE YOUR HAND!!
I cannot express enough how much your lessons have meant to me. I'm 63 years old and this is the first time I've picked up a banjo. If I had not found your videos, I would STILL be trying to figure out almost everything. Your casual and helpful approach has meant everything. I looked at a few books....but they did not explain things in a way I understood. You did! It must be odd getting a 'fan' message, years after you posted these; however, your impact is continuing to have ripples---even years down the road. THANK YOU!
I've been a musician for 60+ years and never took much interest in the banjo, but after a friend told me to check Jim Pankey out on youtube the first thing I did was go out and buy one. I've went through all 10 lessons and I've had a really good time. If someone wants to learn here's the foundation to build on. I have a substantial edge being a seasoned musician but If someone is willing to invest some time and effort they can play the banjo. I'm going to go through your video's that I can find on line and by spending the winter I'm convinced by spring time I'll have some happy neighbors. If you would just touch on muscle memory so some might have a little better understanding about musical instruments it may help. Thanks a lot it's been a total blast and will continue to be.
I just want to thank you, Mr. Pankey. My wife gifted me a Recording King RK-R20 for my 48th b-day four years ago and after fiddling with it for a few months put it in the closet. After discovering your vids I decided to get it back out and with your help have made tremendous progress. Thanks, dude. You’re the best!
Hello Jim A few weeks ago I commented on one of your videos and told you that I was getting my first banjo for my 40th birthday and your answer was: "you can do it!". Well here we are - six weeks later - at lesson ten and I can't believe my ears as I play the stuff I've learned in such a short amount of time. This week has been a blast as I'm home due to Covid and have had plenty of time to practice. Like you said, I drive my whole family crazy ;-) I look forward to what awaits me. Thank you for these ten lessons!!! Best wishes vom Stuttgart, Germany Marc
Jim, at 70 y/o if I hadn't seen your lessons.. I would have never thought of playing! You have made if fun and enjoying to be able to play, I went out and got a Deering Goodtime 2.. USA MADE :) Being unable to get around these days.. I spend all the hours I can having "fun" watching your videos and relaxing. Thank you so much for charing your time, expertise and knowing how to speak like a friend! God Bless you and am so glad your on the mend.
I have been at it for almost 3 months now and as Andrew said 2 years ago, you are the Bob Ross of banjo! My progress seems a little slow but at least I am (painting happy trees) !! At my age I will never be a Bob Ross or a Jim Pankey but I am a happy George Cuthbert ! Thank you for the gift you have given me.
Ah Jim! I bought my banjo around 10 or so years ago back in Ireland, loved looking at it but found tab books impossible to learn it from (even though I play a bit of guitar and bass). Then I dug it out of the attic 8 weeks ago to take travelling Europe with me in the motorhome and here I am finished lesson 10 in Germany and can actually play some! Now I have the need...the need for speed!!! Thank you so much! Ballad of Jed is the big goal!
Hi Jim. I just wanted leave this comment to give a little back to the guy who has given me such an amazing skill! Thank you so for all of your lessons, teaching me the banjo over the past month or two. I've enjoyed it so much! The way you lean down to the camera never fails to make me chuckle. Now all I've to do is polish off those chord changes and those hammer ons in the final song and I'll be moving onto a new song - I hope to be able to play your fantastic cover of Country Roads when I feel ready to take on the challenge. Thanks Jim - you're such a fantastic teacher.
Thank you Jim Pankey, I am 72 and bought a banjo on the spur of the moment. Never played a musical instrument before and stumbled across your RUclips lessons. So glad I did, you have got me under way. I have worked through your ten lessons over several months. I may never become a good player but have really enjoyed spending time with you. Will definitely be visiting your other videos when I become more proficient.
Jim, Thanks for posting these lessons, Great job!....For anyone who ever wanted to play a banjo, here's the guy to teach you. Having never played a musical instrument, I started the 15th of Dec now on the 3rd of Feb I've learned 2 songs and working on the 3rd. I'm 70 years old and have a couple of mangled fingers on my left (fret) hand. If I can do it anyone can do it. It's very rewarding and worth the effort. Don't give up and practice, practice, practice.
Lesson 10, finally! Jim, you are the Bob Ross of banjo. Thank you for keeping this instrument alive while simultaneously saving my poor bank account from $50/half-hour banjo lessons (so expensive, even in Arkansas). Please live past 100, as I am rather young and would like to enjoy these videos for years to come.
I read on another video that you live in Georgia. I also live in Georgia and would love to meet you one day. You’re a legend at playing the banjo by the way!
Wow. Here I am at lesson 10 in a little over a month. Plenty of time needed to go over everything in all of these lessons to get it all off pat properly before moving on to fresh material. To quote Winston Churchill, "It may not be the end, it may not even be the beginning of the end, but it is perhaps the end of the beginning." Apologies if this is a misquote. We all owe you a huge debt of gratitude Jim. I'm sure I speak for many when I say it would not have happened without you
Thank you Jim. I come from a line of banjo players and inherited the first banjo my grandfather ever bought. I taught myself some chords and whatnot but never took the time to really learn it. Stumbling across this video series has kickstarted that process for me and I am so grateful. Thanks to you, the Wright banjo legacy continues!
Just finished the 10th lesson! I have thoroughly enjoyed your instructions. Since I retired, I now have time to learn the banjo, never had time to do this when I was working. You have the best series of lessons on the internet. Thank you from an old retired physician!
I purchased my banjo 3 weeks ago today, and man I am hooked. My fingers are sore and my speed is wanting terribly, but I am loving it. Thank goodness for the slow option because when you play your normal speed it just blows me away. I will be 70 on my next birthday, July 4th ha for my American friends, and I am having fun. Love your lessons and I plan to tackle old Beverly Hillbillies next. Thanks Jim.
@@JimPankey No, I am thanking you. A question for you. The banjo I bought three weeks ago is a Deering GoodTime Classic Special. Seller bought it new in 2012 and never really played it. I have been playing a lot the past 3 weeks and I notice the bridge is dipping in on the head. I have googled and it says to tighten your head. Do I need to do anything before tightening the head? Loosen string tension or anything? Should I be planning to purchase a new skin? Any suggestions what to buy? Thanks, Bill
You just need a wrench to tighten it. Just go slow - quarter of a turn on each bracket. Check how it sounds. If you like the sound then stop. Don’t worry if the bridge dips in; it’ll always do that.
I've been through these first videos for a while and through a few other songs. Thought I'd take some in person lessons, and the instructor asked me how many years I'd been playing. I told him two months, and he was SHOCKED. He said to keep doing what I'm doing. You're the best Jim. Thank you for making the world a better place.
Finally finished the 10 lessons and a few other random tunes from your videos. I can't thank you enough. Living in a California city, there are basically no banjo teachers in my area so your videos certainly came to the rescue. THANK YOU JIM!!
Cal City is like Pinon Hills. It is between other places. I am down the road from you Chris. I always start with : do you know where____________ is? " No, well how about____________
Thank you Jim. If I could get my hands on a Wurlitzer prize I would give it to you!! You have made it to where “I play my banjo” instead of “my banjo playing me”. As a beginner I will tell you that my patients and confidence were wound up tighter than all 5 of these strings combined. Until I came across this series of lessons. I have tried playing several times before but just got frustrated and thought that I would pursue brain surgery or becoming an astronaut instead.
Mr. Pankey, I'm a Brazilian who got really into Bluegrass a long while ago and who also got a banjo as a B-day gift back in 2016. I play the guitar, but my first attempts at the banjo were...well, I sucked. A Lot (as you normally do whenever you're learning something). So, I let it go and moved on, like I normally do whenever I quit something. That happens a lot. Anyway, about a month ago I decided to give it a shot again once I stumbled upon your channel by accident. Turns out I've finished all the 10 lessons and I can play them songs just as nice as you'd expect - who'd have thought the guitar experience paid off at the end of the day? Music is, as Zappa said it once, the best, so I'd like to thank you with all my heart for allowing me to learn how to play the banjo through your teachings. I know things on the internet don't tend to mean much, but as someone who never writes comments on anyone's videos, I wanted to let you know you truly changed my life for the best. Thank you for being this amazing teacher. I'm addicted to the banjo, that's just, again, the best and that's thanks to you. I'm your fan for life. PS. I'll even consider trying the "peanuts in a cola" thing someday...maybe...I'll wait another 3 years and let you know. Take care!
Thank you Jim and greetings from the Swiss alps.I have had my Banjo for a few years now but your channel was the spark that lit my bluegrass fire. Just finished your final lesson a little over 2 weeks from starting and i feel i now have the confidence to continue learning.Merci, Danke & Grazie.
I always wanted to learn to play the banjo but I never tried to do it because I thought it would be too hard. I have never played any type of instrument. I came across your banjo lessons in April and I showed my husband and I told him I think I could learn to play using your videos. You inspired me to buy a banjo and give it a try. My banjo arrived in May and I have done all of the lessons. I am able to play the 3 songs at a slower speed of course, and now I need to continue to improve on them and work on increasing my speed. Thank you for your lessons!!
Thanks Jim. I've been a bluegrass fan and a lover of banjo music for over a quarter century. I've played almost every bluegrass instrument from autoharp to mandolin through the years but have never been able to make anything stick. I got my first banjo a week ago and started playing along with you. Now I'd rather play banjo than almost anything else. I've even started adding the words to cripple creek. Thank you for making it easy to want to keep practicing and getting better.
well here i am at the end of lesson 10. ok that short cut with the 1, 2, strings open going into the the D7 is like you were reading my mind. i was having a hard time changing fast enough. Thanks for your great teaching I am looking forward to Jed Clampett and all my other favorite bluegrass songs you have posted
Jim Pankey thanks for the lessons coming from Guitar and can play all three songs in only three weeks. Took me years to learn the guitar. You really can explain things in a n understandable way that makes it a joy to learn. Thanks again,
My Dad just passed away last week and I got his old banjo. Ive never played a stringed instrument at all and in a week I can get through cripple creek. I feel like the way you break it all down helped me tremendously so thank you. I wish now I had started years ago and could have played with my dad but I was uninterested until now.
Hi and hello from sweden! Im playing Crippel Creek for my whole family and they love it!! I got my banjo for my 35 th birthday 2 of januari! you are a realy good teacher!! Many thanks! 😊
Yes, now i got nervous! 😆 now I have to practis even more!! It sounds realy good when Im alone and my head doesent interfear whith my fingers! How do I send you a video? Can I send to messenger maby? Big thanks again! 😀 Best regards Johanna
Jim you can't quit on us lol we need these lessons you do such a wonderful job making it pretty easy. One month ago bought a banjo (cheap one) and have learned three songs, at 53 yrs young never played nothing but a radio but have wanted to play banjo for 35 years but thought I could never learn it. Thanks to u I'm doing it, gotta long way to go but it's a real joy thank you very much for taking time to do these lessons for us that are in that little screen u bend down to look at
I have wanted a banjo for years and finally got one. Someone turned me on to these videos and you've made learning so much fun. Thank you for taking the time to teach beginners what you know. I have enjoyed your videos tremendously and would not be where I am without your excellent instruction. I appreciate you.
Sweet shirt dude! And thank you so much for this series, really easy to follow. My Cripple Creek slide still sounds a bit off, but I guess that comes with practice.
I think the best part about your videos is how you break down a full song into the most simple techniques so people who've never picked up a banjo before can just watch through this series and get to this level by the end of it.
Hello, Jim I am back and I have had my banjo 8 weeks and with your expert lessons and teaching process I have had the best time of my life never ever though I would be able to play the banjo now I have a long with to go in this adventure but I really feel good about all of this thank you very much Jim Pankey
@@JimPankey Wow super cool it is like my first airplane flight with out a instructor in the airplane They call it Solo flight certificate, thank you again Jim.
Jim, Just "rolled" into lesson 10. I discovered your lessons back in January of 2022. My Dad played guitar, mandolin and banjo. He passed about 5 years ago. When I was visiting my Mother last year I saw his banjo and decided I wanted to learn to play it. Your lessons have been very valuable to me in that your method of teaching kept me challenged but allowed for success in that I never wanted to give up. I retired last year, a little late in learning something like this but a whole lot more fun than watching TV. Thanks again Jim, Hope all is well with you.
Thanks Jim. I've been at it for 8 days now. What you have done for me is sensational. I can play all the rolls and bits and now the challenge is to play your real time version of Cabbage at end of lesson 10, before I move on. I'll then see if I can put banjo on some of my songs. Thanks again
Super simple easy to follow directions and it took me two weeks for the first lesson. I played rhythm guitar for 55 years, hurt my right wrist and now after 15-20 min of playing guitar my wrist is on fire. I found that I can use my thumb and fingers with no problem. I decided to learn banjo and the first lesson was like putting ice scates on a pig. I learned new names to call my banjo, none of them I can spell but I stuck with it. This was 9 weeks ago and I just finished the 10th lesson. I can play all of the songs in the lessons plus you are my sunshine. None are up to speed but I have them. Thang you for getting me started and convincing me I can do this. I'm off to the races now and may never be a triple crown winner but I'm having a blast playing for the people in my neighborhood.
I should have known by your shirt choice that this song would be SO MUCH FUN! My only complaint is that I haven't been able to get any sleep because when I finally put my banjo down and go to bed... I'm still pickin it in my head :-D Thank you so much for these addicting lessons! I'm 3 weeks in and can't believe I can play 3 songs already, plus an old hymn arrangement I was able to compose using all the stuff I've learned. You are seriously the best!
you are the best teacher i've found. i'm really surprising myself how i'm learning from you. your technique is just what i need! and also, i sold my cheap banjo on ebay and went and got an rk r35 from geoff holwald. i don't know how good of a deal i got- i guess he made money, and that's good, i wanted him to- but i think he picked me out a good one! at first i was attracted to the rk r36, but he steered me to the rk r35 because it had a better sound and was a little cheaper.......anyway, i love it! and i love praticing! i hope you continue your lessons. if i lived closer i'd take lessons from you in person! thanks! you're great!
hello mister pankey i always wanted to learn an instrument. in search i discovered the sound of the banjo. the next search was a teacher. unfortunately the banjo is not played so often in Austria. then I found her videos. at the beginning i had to learn to listen, then i learned to play. Many thanks. All the best for you
Dear Mr. Pankey, I just wanted to say thank you very much, your lessons got me into learning to play the banjo, it was a lot of fun, and I will definitely continue, so thank you again
oh ky god Jim, i just bought a banjo in a charity shop last wednesday and 1 week on im playing at lesson 10! im absolutely obsessed and you've made it so easy to learn! thank you soo much from rainy england!
Just went through these lessons. Thank you. No on to easy Jed Clampett. Finally after 10 years I picked it up. Great how you get us playing a little something right off to get hooked.
Hey, thanks Jim I've finished up your video series at Navy "A" School, there's no off base liberty due to covid and your videos have really helped me make the most of my spare time here. I appreciate the work you do!
Thank you for how you teach!!!! A lot of the online videos are not nearly as broken down to the basics for beginners like me! Thanks to quarantine I played through the 10 beginner lessons in 1 week cause I was captivated. Ill never recommend those boring books to anyone. Your lessons make learning fun.
Someone said in one of your past lessons that you've mastered teaching simplicity and man were they right. I have always had a hard time understanding any type of lesson and I've taken to yours much faster than anyone else's because you choose to say things in ways that are easy to understand and repeat things that need to be repeated. I'm 21 right now and some day I will be a banjo master and you will be the person I mention whenever someone asks how I got so good. Thank you very much for these lessons.
Jim, you've got me seriously hooked! I'm writing from Derbyshire, England and have made it to lesson 10 now, practicing every day and loving every minute. Your beginner series has a great mixture of new techniques and things already covered in previous lessons so I never get worried about trying the next thing. Thank you, I'm off to check out some more of your videos!
Thank you so much Jim! I've had my banjo about 3 months and just finished these lessons. You're a great teacher! It has been truly a great experience. My 80 year old grandfather's father played banjo, but my grandpa never learned. Thanks to you I've been able to play him some songs on my banjo that his dad used to play for him. When I played Cripple Creek for him the for first time he got emotional and said, "it sounds like daddy's back in the house." So thank you very much Jim! I plan on purchasing your tab books and a t-shirt soon so everyone knows who the best banjo teacher on RUclips is! -- John
Thank You Jim. I've just finished lesson 10. I'm not doing bad, but I've heard a lot better. I'm having fun, and that's what counts. I got interested in 5 string banjo watching Buck Trent.He liked to show off, but he was very talented. So in 1966, I special ordered a custom banjo from Gibson, [ rb250 ].It took eight weeks to get here. It's got special pearl inlays, cherry sunburst finish and Scruggs tuners. Its a B-U-T. [ beauty ]. I took lessons from a guy named Harold Streeter. After about 4 weeks I found myself practicing during my lessons. my heart wasn't in it, so I decided to quit.I waited 20 or so years and started taking lessons again. The instructor wasn't very good or clean .I stopped after 3 lessons.This is where you came in. The banjo has been in its case , except for a few times until now.About 4 or 5 weeks ago, I found you on the internet, and here I am. I'm doing good. I just wanted to thank you. You got me going again. I'm 76 years old, and having fun, and at my own pace. When I'm struggling, I put it down and come back to it later.I would like to learn the Scruggs tuners. Do you teach them.Reply if you would. Thanks again Jim.
I had my banjo (Tele-Star long neck) since college (40 years) been working and it has sat in the closet. Retired in December and restrung it. Followed all 10 of your lessons, playing every day as you say and heck, I play better than I ever did. Nice approach and I can do all, even Boil the Cabbage Down (but not at 3/4 speed yet...). Doing some Claw style as well to mix it up - it's all good. Now time for a new banjo. Thanks for these videos!
I have started working with my banjo again. Jim I found your lessons and I really liked them. I will be working through your other videos. You really have helped me! Thank you for all your hard work. I know how valuable knowledge is being a martial arts teacher. One day I hope to meet you and jam a little using things you taught me on here!
Thank you so much for these delightful videos, Mr. Pankey! I picked up the banjo on a whim not too long ago but I was overwhelmed with learning how to play. Your lessons were so accessible and positive. You are truly a very talented Banjo player and teacher. Thank you for these wonderful 10 lessons, they have helped me gain confidence on the banjo and now I am starting to really gain momentum. Thank you for giving me a headstart! You have really made a difference in my little world.
I have to thank you too... I'm an old fart, so while I practice every day I wake up, I still have some "teaching my brain" to do. Your videos have been a huge help, more than I can say. Your method of teaching is friendly and bright. Thank you for the virtual encouragement and your virtual ability to get us through our self doubts. I ain't perfect, and sometimes I'm a tad cranky towards my fingers (darn little misbehaving rascals!) but I am actually learning and improving. Wow. .. Thank you! You've made a difference in my life .. and as I read here, quite a few others as well.
I was ready to sell my banjo after locking it up for 7 years in the closet because I gave up. Learned 3 songs by your videos and really appreciate your training videos
Hi Jim from Leeds in the UK. Well I've completed your ten beginners lessons during lockdown and I'm on my way to becoming a banjo player. A big thank you. You're one of the good guys.
Thanks Jim. You make learning the banjo just so much fun. I have found other people’s lessons can be boring but yours are so clear and enjoyable. I tell everyone they should learn the banjo with Jim Pankey. I’m ready to check out your other songs now. Thanks again.
These videos are some of the best tutorials I’ve ever watched. I play guitar very well. Finally got a banjo and what a difference it is. Thankful I found these and thank you!!!!
God bless you Jim. Loved your relaxed, easy steps approach to teaching banjo. I’m never going to be a great player but hey I’m enjoying having a go! Many thanks for taking the time to share your talents and encourage us novices. Much appreciated! Geoff in UK.
Hey Jim. Thanks for the lessons! 49 years old and got my first banjo. Off work for Christmas, and have practiced around 4 hours a day. I can play cripple creek! Your videos have been awesome.
Jim, thank you so much for teaching us how to play the banjo. If it wasn't for you, my banjo would have propably been catching dust for some time by now. You were the only one I could find on youtube that takes the time to explain every basic thing about the banjo and really motivates people to learn. Once again, thank you very much for your tutorials and I'm excited to go and learn a lot more new songs!
HI JIM, Been following all your videos for bluegrass banjo lessons and found your style of teaching most enjoyable and with practice and more practice I'M confident I will be playing my banjo at a reasonable level quite soon as your lessons are a shortcut for me and thousands of banjo enthusiast's learning the banjo Thanks' you JIM. 🪕
Hey Jim, I made it through Lesson 10! I didn't think I could catch on as well as I did when I first started. But, you're a great teacher! I found an old Kay banjo in my parents garage and got it fixed up. Have wanted to learn to play since I was in high school but never got the opportunity. Now that I'm 60, I better get going before I miss my chance. I found an old Kay banjo in parents garage and got it fixed up. Just started playing on December 22nd and have my 9 year old grandson learning too. I'm already thinking about an upgrade!
Well Jim, I think that I have just about got this one nailed. Just in time, I'm starting to feel sick from the smell of boiled cabbage in my sitting room for the last week! So, onward and upward. Jed Clampett here I come. Thankyou Jim
It was slow going for me! These videos took me a solid 6 months to go through, with practice and life happening. 6 months isn't too bad! I'm definitely eager to learn more. Keep at it! And thank you so much, Jim!
I remember watching Hee Haw when I was young and thinking the banjo was soooo cool! It looked so difficult to play, but I always thought one day maybe I could learn. My wife got me an inexpensive banjo this past Christmas. I happened upon one of your videos and watched it. It wasn't the first one in the series, but the way you were teaching made me think I should find your first video and give you a shot. It is February 15th, I'm 50 years old, and I'm playing Cripple Creek fairly fast with a few mistakes here and there. I am getting better at the other songs as well and having loads of fun! Thank you, JIm! You are a natural teacher! This was a "bucket list" type of accomplishment you helped me with. May you find much success and joy in your current and future endeavors!
Hey Jim yes your an awesome teacher, I've been learning 8 months now, and followed your 10 lessons, can now play cripple creek, banjo in the halls and boiling cabbage down, not perfect yer but not bad, and now starting Ballard of he'd clampet. Thanks for all your videos keep up your great work. Phil from the UK
Hey Jim, Ive been playing solely clawhammer for a while now and I've wanted to branch out but I'd always found the bluegrass style to be intimidating. Your lessons really helped me overcome that and now I'm having a blast cruising with 3-finger style!
Thank you so much, Jim! I'm 72, and just learning to play the banjo. When I started with lesson one, I didn't hold out much hope of ever being able to play...but after all 10 and MANY hours of practice, I can do them all! Not quite up to speed, but i'm better than i was! I can't wait to get out there and try some of your other lessons. I love your folksy teaching style! Please do more for us 'beginners. Thanks, again.
Thoroughly enjoy ALL your videos. They have been very helpful in my adventur with the Gibson Epiphone 5 string my Uncle Jack gifted me. THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH !!!!
Jim, so many thanks for these videos. I can't believe how far I've come, when in the beginning, I thought just doing the alternate roll seemed impossible, let alone putting fingers on the fretboard at the same time. Now 4 weeks later, I'm attempting to smooth out the three songs you've presented to us. You're videos are simply the best and quite entertaining. I have a new friend in you and am looking forward to working thru many of your others as I progress along. A big THANK YOU!!!
@@JimPankey Will do! Again, many thanks for sharing your mastery of a fantastic instrument. I've always admired it, but always assumed it was beyond me.
Thank you so much for this series! I am 58 years old, have never played any musical instrument in my life, and can't read music. We had a banjo laying around the house, and being from Kentucky, I've always loved the sound of the banjo, especially in bluegrass. So during this stay-at-home time, I decided to try to learn to play banjo. But teaching myself was hard, and I was about to give up when I found your channel. You are the best banjo instructor on the internet! Your 10 lessons for beginners have been fabulous, and although I still can't play fast or without mistakes, I can play! I'm going to keep practicing what I've learned in these 10 lessons, and then look for more by you! Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Thanks so much, Mr. Pankey! I have wanted to learn the banjo since I was 7 years old and now I finally have those begining tools under my belt. I've taken my time going through your videos and practiced almost every day. Now I can go through most of it pretty smoothly. I'll make sure I'm a little smoother and then check out your other videos. I really appreciate you relaxed manner your hit-the-ground-running teaching style. Thanks again!
Hi Jim, I've been watching your lessons over the last month and it's been amazing. You're an exceptional teacher and I greatly appreciate the effort you put into these videos. As many others I haven't had the best of times during the pandemic, but your videos and your personality really help me keep a positive mindset, thank you very much for that! On top of that the Banjo is the most fun instrument I ever laid hands on, and my journey just began. I'm looking forward to learning more from your videos, keep it up! Greetings from Germany:)
Thank you so very much for learning me to play the banjo Jim. I have thoroughly enjoyed your first 10 lessons & I am looking forward to learning more from your other videos. I also enjoy your live Q&A videos.
Thank you so much! I started playing banjo on Monday with your lesson 1. Finished lesson 10 on Friday (I did have a leg up since I have played finger style guitar for about 35 yrs). Today, Saturday, I went to the music shop of a fairly famous fiddle player here in Oklahoma to try out better banjos. He walked into the room where I was playing and said "Sounds good!" I replied "Thanks! I started Monday." He couldn't believe it! You did for me in a week what it would have taken a teacher 2 months to teach. I can't thank you enough. I also learned your foggy mountain breakdown. Will continue to devour anything else you have on RUclips. I just wish there were 100 more lessons. You're the best!!!
Very cool about the fiddle shop! Glad BB approved. Keep at it, once you get a feel for it you should be able to figure out anything without my help. :)
Thank you, Jim. Your lessons came up in my feed and I pulled out my old banjo - an RK-20. Had so much fun playing again I bought a RK-35. I love your teaching style. Thanks!
Jim!!! A million thank yous sent your way!! I can play three whole songs thx to you and I bought a new banjo and it came today!! Beyond thrilled...your shared joy and love of teaching shines through to all of us blessed enough to listen and follow along! I wish you well always and forever.
fun, fun, fun! Thanks for another great lesson, Jim! I can play three pieces now. After a few days of practicing these three, I'm going to take a look at Jed Clampett. . . thanks again!
Jim just thought I'd drop a line to say thank you for getting me enjoying the banjo...love your lessons 1 to 10 just learned the shave and haircut and enjoying practicing..think I saw the misses tap her foot earlier ha ha....keep up the good work from Wales UK...
Jim thank you for posting these. I just watched all 10 lessons and I don’t even own a banjo, just excited to learn. I am going to get one this week. My brother and I are going to learn together.
Many thanks JIm. Only been playing for 10 weeks now (one lesson per week) and can't believe how much you've taught me. Love the way you present it too. Now off to clean my teeth :-)
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
Your fashion taste is IMMACULATE
Shirt is from Greg Rich… explains much.
Mr. Pankey, thank you! I have spent the past 7 weeks working my way through your 10 lessons and am very pleased with the progress that you've enabled me to enjoy. While I will probably never achieve the skill or speed of one who has been playing since his teens or twenties, the sequencing of your lessons, the pacing of your instruction, your comprehensive explanations, and your clear demonstrations have been remarkably helpful. Thank you.
Ditto! Thank you, Jim!
Me too
Said well, thanks Mr Pankey
Jim, I finally made it through your 1st 10 lessons and I realize I can actually play the banjo with some confidence and some newly acquired skills, but I also realize how important it is to continue going over what you have taught me on a daily basis and keep on reviewing the songs you have taught in each lesson until I feel that I can play them in front of someone without playing along with you and your videos as my crutch. You always say "now go practice, I'll wait for you to come back" I can't tell you what a bond you build as a teacher and we haven't ever met. You are the greatest! As I sit and learn to do something that I have never done before it is amazing how encouraging you are in each step of the way. You have said "you can do this" and made me believe that I can. But it's only possible (as far as I am concerned) because your wisdom and knowledge in the way you teach and feed each of us the right amounts of information to acquire and build the foundational skills we need to learn and to play the banjo. As you said, I may be a beginner for a long time, but that's ok because it's fun to be a beginner because you have made it that way. YOU have made me a beginner and not so long ago I was NOT. I am proud to say that I am NOW a beginner and I will keep coming back as long as you are there. Thank you so much Jim, you're the BEST! 😀😀😀🪕🪕🪕
Congratulations on getting through the series! Be sure to print your certificate! www.learnbanjowithjim.com
Awesome....but I want MORE!
(Proud to be of the 9400 that made it thru all 10 lessons)
Talk about a lifesaver during the pandemic! Thank you, sir.
Happy to help
Hi Jim from Nebraska and I want to thank you for your lesson on playing the banjo..
My pleasure!
45 years ago when I was working in the mountains on a fire crew and there was a banjo in the barracks that I took because nobody wanted it. I went back to college in the fall and practiced a couple weeks using the Earl Scruggs banjo book that is now a classic. I stopped after the first couple lessons because it was to hard to read and figure out what to do. Fast forward to today and I was visiting my grandkids who started taking music lessons on the guitar and ukulele. I started playing the ukulele and had so much fun that I thought when I get back home I’m going to find that banjo and start playing it. I found it up in the attic where it had been stored for all those years. By accident I found your videos. I love them and have been practicing so much that my finger tips are really sore. I made it through lesson 10 and will do every video of yours that I find. You are a great teacher Jim and hearing you play the new sequences makes it real easy to get it. Please keep making more videos and I hope to meet you someday soon.
So happy to be helpful. Congrats on making it to lesson 10. Keep on practicing. There's a lot of info in those 10 lessons. :)
Jim I want to upgrade from my beginner banjo to something better. I love playing and would rather spend more to get something I can use for years rather something that I will be wanting to change in a couple years. What suggestions do you have?
Thanks
Bruce
Bruce Nicoletti ruclips.net/video/EU73vs6Qh9E/видео.html
Thank Jim I was at the music store and they had a vintage Gibson rb 3. It had been used a lot and and was a bit worn but when I played it the sound was fantastic so I wound up buying it. I got it for a decent price I think so I’m pretty happy about it. Thanks again for your help.
You’ll have to post some videos!
Daddy got me a banjo when i was 12 years old. that was 32 years ago. i still have that old banjo with all the original strings. replaced my lost pics, tuned the booger with your 1st video, and now i can play 3 songs. i am terrible, but even the wife can hear the melody. im gettin better and I will finish this mission. thanks Jim Pankey.
Greetings from Durham - that’s Durham England, not North Carolina! We don’t often get the weather for sitting out on the porch playing but I’m loving the videos and getting more confident every day. Many thanks, you are a great teacher.
Hello from Scotland Jim if you still check in here. I bought a banjo more than twenty years ago but never really picked it up. I can strum a few chords on the guitar but the poor old banjo just sat in a cornrer collecting dust.
Now that I am retired (66) I decided to have another go and discovered your you tube 10 lessons for beginners. Well all I can say is thank you, your teaching style is great and although I have a long way to go to reach speed and accuracy I just want you to know I have enjoyed the lessons so far and will continue to check the other tutorials you have on you tube as I begin to become more slick.
By the way love the cats in the background. Once again thank you for making the learning not seem like a chore
Thanks for watching! Just keep practicing and you’ll be up to speed in no time.
Thanks Jim,,I'm a all most 53 years old,,been wanting to play banjo for years so I bought one 12 weeks ago on lesson 10 it's amazing I can actually play a couple of songs and they sound like a song, THANKS
That’s fantastic! Please keep me posted on your progress. 😀
hEY JIM ..I HAVE BEEN PLAYING FOR 40 YEARS AS A MOSTLY SELF TAUGHT DABBLER. I FOUND YOUR 10 LESSONS AND DECIDED TO GO THRU THE REGIMEN AND REVISIT THE BASICS. YOUR ABILITY TO KEEP IT SIMPLE AND COMMUNICATE IS SO WELCOMING AND EFFECTIVE.
I REALLY GOT A LOT OUT OF RELEARNING THINGS i'VE PLAYED "MY WAY" WITH A NUMBER OF SELF TAUGHT ERRORS IN TECHNIQUE. MY SKILLS ARE LEVELING OUT TO SMOOTH AND STEADY INSTEAD OF CHOPPY AS A RESULT OF WORKING THRU THE STEPS IN THESE TEN LESSONS. BASICS WITH YOU. THANK YOU BANJO BROTHER. I WISH YOU LIVED IN MY TOWN AS I WOULD LOVE TO SHAKE YOUR HAND!!
Thanks for the kind words. Keep picking and thanks for watching. 😊
I cannot express enough how much your lessons have meant to me. I'm 63 years old and this is the first time I've picked up a banjo. If I had not found your videos, I would STILL be trying to figure out almost everything. Your casual and helpful approach has meant everything. I looked at a few books....but they did not explain things in a way I understood. You did!
It must be odd getting a 'fan' message, years after you posted these; however, your impact is continuing to have ripples---even years down the road. THANK YOU!
Thanks for letting me teach you. 😊
Randy, I’m right there with you!
I've been a musician for 60+ years and never took much interest in the banjo, but after a friend told me to check Jim Pankey out on youtube the first thing I did was go out and buy one. I've went through all 10 lessons and I've had a really good time. If someone wants to learn here's the foundation to build on. I have a substantial edge being a seasoned musician but If someone is willing to invest some time and effort they can play the banjo. I'm going to go through your video's that I can find on line and by spending the winter I'm convinced by spring time I'll have some happy neighbors. If you would just touch on muscle memory so some might have a little better understanding about musical instruments it may help. Thanks a lot it's been a total blast and will continue to be.
Congrats on making it through the series! That's great. Keep at it!
I just want to thank you, Mr. Pankey. My wife gifted me a Recording King RK-R20 for my 48th b-day four years ago and after fiddling with it for a few months put it in the closet. After discovering your vids I decided to get it back out and with your help have made tremendous progress. Thanks, dude. You’re the best!
Fantastic! Can’t wait to hear you play.
Hello Jim
A few weeks ago I commented on one of your videos and told you that I was getting my first banjo for my 40th birthday and your answer was: "you can do it!".
Well here we are - six weeks later - at lesson ten and I can't believe my ears as I play the stuff I've learned in such a short amount of time.
This week has been a blast as I'm home due to Covid and have had plenty of time to practice. Like you said, I drive my whole family crazy ;-)
I look forward to what awaits me. Thank you for these ten lessons!!!
Best wishes vom Stuttgart, Germany
Marc
Can’t wait to hear you!!
Jim, at 70 y/o if I hadn't seen your lessons.. I would have never thought of playing! You have made if fun and enjoying to be able to play, I went out and got a Deering Goodtime 2.. USA MADE :) Being unable to get around these days.. I spend all the hours I can having "fun" watching your videos and relaxing. Thank you so much for charing your time, expertise and knowing how to speak like a friend! God Bless you and am so glad your on the mend.
Thanks for letting me be a part of your banjo journey!
I have been at it for almost 3 months now and as Andrew said 2 years ago, you are the Bob Ross of banjo! My progress seems a little slow but at least I am (painting happy trees) !! At my age I will never be a Bob Ross or a Jim Pankey but I am a happy George Cuthbert ! Thank you for the gift you have given me.
Thanks for letting me teach you ☺️
Ah Jim! I bought my banjo around 10 or so years ago back in Ireland, loved looking at it but found tab books impossible to learn it from (even though I play a bit of guitar and bass). Then I dug it out of the attic 8 weeks ago to take travelling Europe with me in the motorhome and here I am finished lesson 10 in Germany and can actually play some! Now I have the need...the need for speed!!! Thank you so much! Ballad of Jed is the big goal!
Fantastic! You can totally learn Ballad of Jed!
Hi Jim. I just wanted leave this comment to give a little back to the guy who has given me such an amazing skill! Thank you so for all of your lessons, teaching me the banjo over the past month or two. I've enjoyed it so much! The way you lean down to the camera never fails to make me chuckle. Now all I've to do is polish off those chord changes and those hammer ons in the final song and I'll be moving onto a new song - I hope to be able to play your fantastic cover of Country Roads when I feel ready to take on the challenge. Thanks Jim - you're such a fantastic teacher.
Thanks for letting me teach you!
Thank you Jim Pankey, I am 72 and bought a banjo on the spur of the moment. Never played a musical instrument before and stumbled across your RUclips lessons. So glad I did, you have got me under way. I have worked through your ten lessons over several months. I may never become a good player but have really enjoyed spending time with you. Will definitely be visiting your other videos when I become more proficient.
Be sure to keep me posted on your progress 😊
Jim, Thanks for posting these lessons, Great job!....For anyone who ever wanted to play a banjo, here's the guy to teach you. Having never played a musical instrument, I started the 15th of Dec now on the 3rd of Feb I've learned 2 songs and working on the 3rd. I'm 70 years old and have a couple of mangled fingers on my left (fret) hand. If I can do it anyone can do it. It's very rewarding and worth the effort. Don't give up and practice, practice, practice.
Thanks for letting me be your teacher! Congrats on making it to lesson 10!
Lesson 10, finally! Jim, you are the Bob Ross of banjo. Thank you for keeping this instrument alive while simultaneously saving my poor bank account from $50/half-hour banjo lessons (so expensive, even in Arkansas). Please live past 100, as I am rather young and would like to enjoy these videos for years to come.
Thanks for the kind words. I'm shooting for 103... Let's see how I do. :)
I read on another video that you live in Georgia. I also live in Georgia and would love to meet you one day. You’re a legend at playing the banjo by the way!
Hope to meet you too!
Jim Pankey I live in the Cartersville area. What about you? If you don’t feel comfortable answering you don’t have to.
Wow. Here I am at lesson 10 in a little over a month. Plenty of time needed to go over everything in all of these lessons to get it all off pat properly before moving on to fresh material.
To quote Winston Churchill, "It may not be the end, it may not even be the beginning of the end, but it is perhaps the end of the beginning."
Apologies if this is a misquote.
We all owe you a huge debt of gratitude Jim.
I'm sure I speak for many when I say it would not have happened without you
Thank you Jim. I come from a line of banjo players and inherited the first banjo my grandfather ever bought. I taught myself some chords and whatnot but never took the time to really learn it. Stumbling across this video series has kickstarted that process for me and I am so grateful. Thanks to you, the Wright banjo legacy continues!
Glad you're carrying on the tradition!
Just finished the 10th lesson! I have thoroughly enjoyed your instructions. Since I retired, I now have time to learn the banjo, never had time to do this when I was working. You have the best series of lessons on the internet. Thank you from an old retired physician!
Congrats! 🎉 I feel like I should give folks certificates when they make it through. :)
I purchased my banjo 3 weeks ago today, and man I am hooked. My fingers are sore and my speed is wanting terribly, but I am loving it. Thank goodness for the slow option because when you play your normal speed it just blows me away. I will be 70 on my next birthday, July 4th ha for my American friends, and I am having fun. Love your lessons and I plan to tackle old Beverly Hillbillies next. Thanks Jim.
That’s great! Thanks for letting me teach you. 😊
@@JimPankey No, I am thanking you. A question for you. The banjo I bought three weeks ago is a Deering GoodTime Classic Special. Seller bought it new in 2012 and never really played it. I have been playing a lot the past 3 weeks and I notice the bridge is dipping in on the head. I have googled and it says to tighten your head. Do I need to do anything before tightening the head? Loosen string tension or anything? Should I be planning to purchase a new skin? Any suggestions what to buy? Thanks, Bill
You just need a wrench to tighten it. Just go slow - quarter of a turn on each bracket. Check how it sounds. If you like the sound then stop. Don’t worry if the bridge dips in; it’ll always do that.
I've been through these first videos for a while and through a few other songs.
Thought I'd take some in person lessons, and the instructor asked me how many years I'd been playing. I told him two months, and he was SHOCKED. He said to keep doing what I'm doing.
You're the best Jim. Thank you for making the world a better place.
That makes me happy! You did me proud. 😊
Finally finished the 10 lessons and a few other random tunes from your videos. I can't thank you enough. Living in a California city, there are basically no banjo teachers in my area so your videos certainly came to the rescue. THANK YOU JIM!!
It's always exciting to hear from folks that made it through the whole series! Where abouts in Cali?
Orange County. Right between Los Angeles and San Diego
Cal City is like Pinon Hills. It is between other places. I am down the road from you Chris. I always start with : do you know where____________ is? " No, well how about____________
Thank you Jim. If I could get my hands on a Wurlitzer prize I would give it to you!! You have made it to where “I play my banjo” instead of “my banjo playing me”. As a beginner I will tell you that my patients and confidence were wound up tighter than all 5 of these strings combined. Until I came across this series of lessons. I have tried playing several times before but just got frustrated and thought that I would pursue brain surgery or becoming an astronaut instead.
Mr. Pankey,
I'm a Brazilian who got really into Bluegrass a long while ago and who also got a banjo as a B-day gift back in 2016. I play the guitar, but my first attempts at the banjo were...well, I sucked. A Lot (as you normally do whenever you're learning something). So, I let it go and moved on, like I normally do whenever I quit something. That happens a lot.
Anyway, about a month ago I decided to give it a shot again once I stumbled upon your channel by accident. Turns out I've finished all the 10 lessons and I can play them songs just as nice as you'd expect - who'd have thought the guitar experience paid off at the end of the day?
Music is, as Zappa said it once, the best, so I'd like to thank you with all my heart for allowing me to learn how to play the banjo through your teachings. I know things on the internet don't tend to mean much, but as someone who never writes comments on anyone's videos, I wanted to let you know you truly changed my life for the best. Thank you for being this amazing teacher. I'm addicted to the banjo, that's just, again, the best and that's thanks to you. I'm your fan for life.
PS. I'll even consider trying the "peanuts in a cola" thing someday...maybe...I'll wait another 3 years and let you know.
Take care!
Thanks for your kind comments. Humbled.
Thank you Jim and greetings from the Swiss alps.I have had my Banjo for a few years now but your channel was the spark that lit my bluegrass fire.
Just finished your final lesson a little over 2 weeks from starting and i feel i now have the confidence to continue learning.Merci, Danke & Grazie.
I'm glad you're enjoying it! That's awesome. Don’t forget to print your certificate. 😊
I always wanted to learn to play the banjo but I never tried to do it because I thought it would be too hard. I have never played any type of instrument. I came across your banjo lessons in April and I showed my husband and I told him I think I could learn to play using your videos. You inspired me to buy a banjo and give it a try. My banjo arrived in May and I have done all of the lessons. I am able to play the 3 songs at a slower speed of course, and now I need to continue to improve on them and work on increasing my speed. Thank you for your lessons!!
Thanks for letting me teach and encourage you!
Jim just wanna let you know I really appreciate this series
Thanks for watching and letting me teach you 😊
Thanks Jim. I've been a bluegrass fan and a lover of banjo music for over a quarter century. I've played almost every bluegrass instrument from autoharp to mandolin through the years but have never been able to make anything stick. I got my first banjo a week ago and started playing along with you. Now I'd rather play banjo than almost anything else. I've even started adding the words to cripple creek. Thank you for making it easy to want to keep practicing and getting better.
Fantastic! Thanks for letting me teach you!
well here i am at the end of lesson 10. ok that short cut with the 1, 2, strings open going into the the D7 is like you were reading my mind. i was having a hard time changing fast enough. Thanks for your great teaching I am looking forward to Jed Clampett and all my other favorite bluegrass songs you have posted
Congrats! thanks for sticking with the program. Keep me posted on your progress.
Jim Pankey thanks for the lessons coming from Guitar and can play all three songs in only three weeks. Took me years to learn the guitar. You really can explain things in a n understandable way that makes it a joy to learn. Thanks again,
Thanks for letting me teach you 😊
My Dad just passed away last week and I got his old banjo. Ive never played a stringed instrument at all and in a week I can get through cripple creek. I feel like the way you break it all down helped me tremendously so thank you. I wish now I had started years ago and could have played with my dad but I was uninterested until now.
Glad you’re learning now! Thanks for letting me teach you.
Hi and hello from sweden!
Im playing Crippel Creek for my whole family and they love it!!
I got my banjo for my 35 th birthday 2 of januari! you are a realy good teacher!!
Many thanks! 😊
Thanks for letting me teach you! Would love to hear you play. 😀
Yes, now i got nervous! 😆 now I have to practis even more!!
It sounds realy good when Im alone and my head doesent interfear whith my fingers!
How do I send you a video? Can I send to messenger maby?
Big thanks again! 😀
Best regards Johanna
Most folks just share them here on RUclips.... or Instagram
I think everyone can se and hear it then?
And I dont have instagram.
I’ll se what I can do 😊
(Sorry about my spelling)
@@johannaandersson2298 you can share videos, but keep them unlisted - like this one: ruclips.net/video/J7Y-qZPwl3w/видео.html
Jim you can't quit on us lol we need these lessons you do such a wonderful job making it pretty easy. One month ago bought a banjo (cheap one) and have learned three songs, at 53 yrs young never played nothing but a radio but have wanted to play banjo for 35 years but thought I could never learn it. Thanks to u I'm doing it, gotta long way to go but it's a real joy thank you very much for taking time to do these lessons for us that are in that little screen u bend down to look at
I have wanted a banjo for years and finally got one. Someone turned me on to these videos and you've made learning so much fun. Thank you for taking the time to teach beginners what you know. I have enjoyed your videos tremendously and would not be where I am without your excellent instruction. I appreciate you.
Thanks for letting me teach you ☺️
Sweet shirt dude! And thank you so much for this series, really easy to follow. My Cripple Creek slide still sounds a bit off, but I guess that comes with practice.
Lol same problem here, man.
I think the best part about your videos is how you break down a full song into the most simple techniques so people who've never picked up a banjo before can just watch through this series and get to this level by the end of it.
Hello, Jim I am back and I have had my banjo 8 weeks and with your expert lessons and teaching process I have had the best time of my life never ever though I would be able to play the banjo now I have a long with to go in this adventure but I really feel good about all of this thank you very much Jim Pankey
I'm glad to be part of your banjo journey! Congrats on making it to lesson 10. Be sure to print your certificate!
@@JimPankey Wow super cool it is like my first airplane flight with out a instructor in the airplane They call it Solo flight certificate, thank you again Jim.
Jim, Just "rolled" into lesson 10. I discovered your lessons back in January of 2022. My Dad played guitar, mandolin and banjo. He passed about 5 years ago. When I was visiting my Mother last year I saw his banjo and decided I wanted to learn to play it. Your lessons have been very valuable to me in that your method of teaching kept me challenged but allowed for success in that I never wanted to give up. I retired last year, a little late in learning something like this but a whole lot more fun than watching TV. Thanks again Jim, Hope all is well with you.
Thanks for letting me teach you! You've got this!
Thanks Jim. I've been at it for 8 days now. What you have done for me is sensational. I can play all the rolls and bits and now the challenge is to play your real time version of Cabbage at end of lesson 10, before I move on. I'll then see if I can put banjo on some of my songs. Thanks again
Super simple easy to follow directions and it took me two weeks for the first lesson. I played rhythm guitar for 55 years, hurt my right wrist and now after 15-20 min of playing guitar my wrist is on fire. I found that I can use my thumb and fingers with no problem. I decided to learn banjo and the first lesson was like putting ice scates on a pig. I learned new names to call my banjo, none of them I can spell but I stuck with it. This was 9 weeks ago and I just finished the 10th lesson. I can play all of the songs in the lessons plus you are my sunshine. None are up to speed but I have them. Thang you for getting me started and convincing me I can do this. I'm off to the races now and may never be a triple crown winner but I'm having a blast playing for the people in my neighborhood.
I should have known by your shirt choice that this song would be SO MUCH FUN! My only complaint is that I haven't been able to get any sleep because when I finally put my banjo down and go to bed... I'm still pickin it in my head :-D Thank you so much for these addicting lessons! I'm 3 weeks in and can't believe I can play 3 songs already, plus an old hymn arrangement I was able to compose using all the stuff I've learned. You are seriously the best!
Your enthusiasm for the banjo makes me smile so much, and reminds me that good exists in the world!
Thanks. :)
you are the best teacher i've found. i'm really surprising myself how i'm learning from you. your technique is just what i need! and also, i sold my cheap banjo on ebay and went and got an rk r35 from geoff holwald. i don't know how good of a deal i got- i guess he made money, and that's good, i wanted him to- but i think he picked me out a good one! at first i was attracted to the rk r36, but he steered me to the rk r35 because it had a better sound and was a little cheaper.......anyway, i love it! and i love praticing! i hope you continue your lessons. if i lived closer i'd take lessons from you in person! thanks! you're great!
You may inspire me to sell my cheaper Washburn, an okay beginner, but I'm looking for something better...
I just bought a baby blue banjo from Geoff’s son!
hello mister pankey i always wanted to learn an instrument. in search i discovered the sound of the banjo. the next search was a teacher. unfortunately the banjo is not played so often in Austria. then I found her videos. at the beginning i had to learn to listen, then i learned to play. Many thanks. All the best for you
Thanks for letting me teach you!
Dear Mr. Pankey, I just wanted to say thank you very much, your lessons got me into learning to play the banjo, it was a lot of fun, and I will definitely continue, so thank you again
Thanks for letting me teach you banjo!
oh ky god Jim, i just bought a banjo in a charity shop last wednesday and 1 week on im playing at lesson 10! im absolutely obsessed and you've made it so easy to learn! thank you soo much from rainy england!
Awesome!! Don’t forget to print your certificate. 😀
Just went through these lessons. Thank you. No on to easy Jed Clampett. Finally after 10 years I picked it up. Great how you get us playing a little something right off to get hooked.
Awesome! Congratulations on making it thru the lessons!
Hey, thanks Jim I've finished up your video series at Navy "A" School, there's no off base liberty due to covid and your videos have really helped me make the most of my spare time here. I appreciate the work you do!
Awesome! What’s your rating? Oh, and TYFYS!
Thank you for how you teach!!!! A lot of the online videos are not nearly as broken down to the basics for beginners like me! Thanks to quarantine I played through the 10 beginner lessons in 1 week cause I was captivated. Ill never recommend those boring books to anyone. Your lessons make learning fun.
Thanks. Keep working on those first tunes until you really have them down. You’ll do great!
Someone said in one of your past lessons that you've mastered teaching simplicity and man were they right. I have always had a hard time understanding any type of lesson and I've taken to yours much faster than anyone else's because you choose to say things in ways that are easy to understand and repeat things that need to be repeated. I'm 21 right now and some day I will be a banjo master and you will be the person I mention whenever someone asks how I got so good. Thank you very much for these lessons.
Oh gosh, thanks so much. I'm glad I've been able to help you learn!
Jim, you've got me seriously hooked! I'm writing from Derbyshire, England and have made it to lesson 10 now, practicing every day and loving every minute. Your beginner series has a great mixture of new techniques and things already covered in previous lessons so I never get worried about trying the next thing. Thank you, I'm off to check out some more of your videos!
Thanks for letting me teach you! Congratulations on making it to lesson 10!
Thank you so much Jim! I've had my banjo about 3 months and just finished these lessons. You're a great teacher! It has been truly a great experience. My 80 year old grandfather's father played banjo, but my grandpa never learned. Thanks to you I've been able to play him some songs on my banjo that his dad used to play for him. When I played Cripple Creek for him the for first time he got emotional and said, "it sounds like daddy's back in the house." So thank you very much Jim! I plan on purchasing your tab books and a t-shirt soon so everyone knows who the best banjo teacher on RUclips is!
-- John
Hey! Thanks for watching. So glad you’re learning the banjo! Hang in there.
hows it going
Thank You Jim. I've just finished lesson 10. I'm not doing bad, but I've heard a lot better. I'm having fun, and that's what counts. I got interested in 5 string banjo watching Buck Trent.He liked to show off, but he was very talented. So in 1966, I special ordered a custom banjo from Gibson, [ rb250 ].It took eight weeks to get here. It's got special pearl inlays, cherry sunburst finish and Scruggs tuners. Its a B-U-T. [ beauty ]. I took lessons from a guy named Harold Streeter. After about 4 weeks I found myself practicing during my lessons. my heart wasn't in it, so I decided to quit.I waited 20 or so years and started taking lessons again. The instructor wasn't very good or clean .I stopped after 3 lessons.This is where you came in. The banjo has been in its case , except for a few times until now.About 4 or 5 weeks ago, I found you on the internet, and here I am. I'm doing good. I just wanted to thank you. You got me going again. I'm 76 years old, and having fun, and at my own pace. When I'm struggling, I put it down and come back to it later.I would like to learn the Scruggs tuners. Do you teach them.Reply if you would. Thanks again Jim.
I had my banjo (Tele-Star long neck) since college (40 years) been working and it has sat in the closet. Retired in December and restrung it. Followed all 10 of your lessons, playing every day as you say and heck, I play better than I ever did. Nice approach and I can do all, even Boil the Cabbage Down (but not at 3/4 speed yet...). Doing some Claw style as well to mix it up - it's all good. Now time for a new banjo. Thanks for these videos!
I have started working with my banjo again. Jim I found your lessons and I really liked them. I will be working through your other videos. You really have helped me! Thank you for all your hard work. I know how valuable knowledge is being a martial arts teacher. One day I hope to meet you and jam a little using things you taught me on here!
Congratulations on making it thru all 10 lessons! You're now a yellow belt!
Thank you so much for these delightful videos, Mr. Pankey! I picked up the banjo on a whim not too long ago but I was overwhelmed with learning how to play. Your lessons were so accessible and positive. You are truly a very talented Banjo player and teacher. Thank you for these wonderful 10 lessons, they have helped me gain confidence on the banjo and now I am starting to really gain momentum. Thank you for giving me a headstart! You have really made a difference in my little world.
Thanks for the kind words. Glad to be a part of your banjo journey.
I have to thank you too... I'm an old fart, so while I practice every day I wake up, I still have some "teaching my brain" to do. Your videos have been a huge help, more than I can say. Your method of teaching is friendly and bright. Thank you for the virtual encouragement and your virtual ability to get us through our self doubts. I ain't perfect, and sometimes I'm a tad cranky towards my fingers (darn little misbehaving rascals!) but I am actually learning and improving. Wow. .. Thank you! You've made a difference in my life .. and as I read here, quite a few others as well.
Thanks for letting me be part of your banjo journey. Congratulations on making it to lesson 10.
I’m having trouble reaching for the hammer on with middle
finger. Is it ok to use next finger instead Will that create a complication down the road
I was ready to sell my banjo after locking it up for 7 years in the closet because I gave up. Learned 3 songs by your videos and really appreciate your training videos
That’s awesome!
Hi Jim from Leeds in the UK. Well I've completed your ten beginners lessons during lockdown and I'm on my way to becoming a banjo player. A big thank you. You're one of the good guys.
So glad I can help! Keep picking and be sure to keep me posted on your progress. 🔥
Thanks Jim. You make learning the banjo just so much fun. I have found other people’s lessons can be boring but yours are so clear and enjoyable. I tell everyone they should learn the banjo with Jim Pankey. I’m ready to check out your other songs now. Thanks again.
An epidemic of banjo learning has been created in our home. Thanks Jim.
These videos are some of the best tutorials I’ve ever watched. I play guitar very well. Finally got a banjo and what a difference it is. Thankful I found these and thank you!!!!
Thanks for letting me teach you 😊
God bless you Jim. Loved your relaxed, easy steps approach to teaching banjo. I’m never going to be a great player but hey I’m enjoying having a go! Many thanks for taking the time to share your talents and encourage us novices. Much appreciated! Geoff in UK.
Hey Jim. Thanks for the lessons! 49 years old and got my first banjo. Off work for Christmas, and have practiced around 4 hours a day. I can play cripple creek!
Your videos have been awesome.
Jim, thank you so much for teaching us how to play the banjo. If it wasn't for you, my banjo would have propably been catching dust for some time by now. You were the only one I could find on youtube that takes the time to explain every basic thing about the banjo and really motivates people to learn. Once again, thank you very much for your tutorials and I'm excited to go and learn a lot more new songs!
So glad to hear you’re learning! Keep picking!
HI JIM, Been following all your videos for bluegrass banjo lessons and found your style of teaching most enjoyable and with
practice and more practice I'M confident I will be playing my banjo at a reasonable level quite soon as your lessons are a
shortcut for me and thousands of banjo enthusiast's learning the banjo Thanks' you JIM. 🪕
Thanks for letting me help 😀
Hey Jim, I made it through Lesson 10! I didn't think I could catch on as well as I did when I first started. But, you're a great teacher! I found an old Kay banjo in my parents garage and got it fixed up. Have wanted to learn to play since I was in high school but never got the opportunity. Now that I'm 60, I better get going before I miss my chance. I found an old Kay banjo in parents garage and got it fixed up. Just started playing on December 22nd and have my 9 year old grandson learning too. I'm already thinking about an upgrade!
Congratulations on getting through all ten! Thanks for letting me teach you!
Well Jim, I think that I have just about got this one nailed.
Just in time, I'm starting to feel sick from the smell of boiled cabbage in my sitting room for the last week!
So, onward and upward. Jed Clampett here I come.
Thankyou Jim
Congrats on making it through the whole Series. I should send out certificates. lol
Never has learning anything been such fun. You have a rare gift
It was slow going for me! These videos took me a solid 6 months to go through, with practice and life happening. 6 months isn't too bad! I'm definitely eager to learn more. Keep at it! And thank you so much, Jim!
Great! Yup, it’s not a race. Take your time. You’ve got this.
This series has been so much fun! I only got my banjo a little over a week ago, and I am loving it.
I remember watching Hee Haw when I was young and thinking the banjo was soooo cool! It looked so difficult to play, but I always thought one day maybe I could learn. My wife got me an inexpensive banjo this past Christmas. I happened upon one of your videos and watched it. It wasn't the first one in the series, but the way you were teaching made me think I should find your first video and give you a shot. It is February 15th, I'm 50 years old, and I'm playing Cripple Creek fairly fast with a few mistakes here and there. I am getting better at the other songs as well and having loads of fun! Thank you, JIm! You are a natural teacher! This was a "bucket list" type of accomplishment you helped me with. May you find much success and joy in your current and future endeavors!
Thanks for letting me teach you ☺️
Hey Jim yes your an awesome teacher, I've been learning 8 months now, and followed your 10 lessons, can now play cripple creek, banjo in the halls and boiling cabbage down, not perfect yer but not bad, and now starting Ballard of he'd clampet. Thanks for all your videos keep up your great work. Phil from the UK
Good job getting through the entire series!
Jim Pankey cheers Jim, I'd Never even picked up a banjo 8 months ago, and now an nearly on 4 songs, keep up the good work, and so will l
Hey Jim, Ive been playing solely clawhammer for a while now and I've wanted to branch out but I'd always found the bluegrass style to be intimidating. Your lessons really helped me overcome that and now I'm having a blast cruising with 3-finger style!
Thanks for letting me help!
Thank you so much, Jim! I'm 72, and just learning to play the banjo. When I started with lesson one, I didn't hold out much hope of ever being able to play...but after all 10 and MANY hours of practice, I can do them all! Not quite up to speed, but i'm better than i was! I can't wait to get out there and try some of your other lessons. I love your folksy teaching style! Please do more for us 'beginners. Thanks, again.
Brother, I just wanted to say thank you. Everything you’ve offered in these videos has really meant a lot to me. Thanks Jimmy.
Glad I could help! Congratulations for making it thru the entire series!
Thoroughly enjoy ALL your videos. They have been very helpful in my adventur with the Gibson Epiphone 5 string my Uncle Jack gifted me. THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH !!!!
Congrats on making it to lesson 10! Don’t forget to print your certificate.
Jim, so many thanks for these videos. I can't believe how far I've come, when in the beginning, I thought just doing the alternate roll seemed impossible, let alone putting fingers on the fretboard at the same time. Now 4 weeks later, I'm attempting to smooth out the three songs you've presented to us. You're videos are simply the best and quite entertaining. I have a new friend in you and am looking forward to working thru many of your others as I progress along. A big THANK YOU!!!
So glad I can help! Please keep me posted on your progress.
@@JimPankey Will do! Again, many thanks for sharing your mastery of a fantastic instrument. I've always admired it, but always assumed it was beyond me.
Thank you so much for this series! I am 58 years old, have never played any musical instrument in my life, and can't read music. We had a banjo laying around the house, and being from Kentucky, I've always loved the sound of the banjo, especially in bluegrass. So during this stay-at-home time, I decided to try to learn to play banjo. But teaching myself was hard, and I was about to give up when I found your channel. You are the best banjo instructor on the internet! Your 10 lessons for beginners have been fabulous, and although I still can't play fast or without mistakes, I can play! I'm going to keep practicing what I've learned in these 10 lessons, and then look for more by you! Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Kathleen, congrats on making it through the 10 lesson series. Would love to hear you play!
Thanks Jim Pankey!!! Still working on right hand speed but i can play banjo at a beginners level now!! Love this play list.
That’s great to hear! Keep me posted on your progress.
I bought a banjo 6 months ago and can already play very well. Thanks Jim, you're the best teacher!
Thanks so much, Mr. Pankey! I have wanted to learn the banjo since I was 7 years old and now I finally have those begining tools under my belt. I've taken my time going through your videos and practiced almost every day. Now I can go through most of it pretty smoothly. I'll make sure I'm a little smoother and then check out your other videos. I really appreciate you relaxed manner your hit-the-ground-running teaching style.
Thanks again!
Thanks for letting me teach you! Congratulations on making it through the entire 10 lesson series!
Hi Jim, I've been watching your lessons over the last month and it's been amazing. You're an exceptional teacher and I greatly appreciate the effort you put into these videos. As many others I haven't had the best of times during the pandemic, but your videos and your personality really help me keep a positive mindset, thank you very much for that! On top of that the Banjo is the most fun instrument I ever laid hands on, and my journey just began. I'm looking forward to learning more from your videos, keep it up! Greetings from Germany:)
Thanks for watching and letting me teach you! 😊
Thank you so very much for learning me to play the banjo Jim. I have thoroughly enjoyed your first 10 lessons & I am looking forward to learning more from your other videos. I also enjoy your live Q&A videos.
Thanks for letting me teach you!
Thanks Jim,you really helped a 75 yr. old get started again.it finally makes sense.and i'm finally see some hope for my playing !.George
Thank you so much! I started playing banjo on Monday with your lesson 1. Finished lesson 10 on Friday (I did have a leg up since I have played finger style guitar for about 35 yrs). Today, Saturday, I went to the music shop of a fairly famous fiddle player here in Oklahoma to try out better banjos. He walked into the room where I was playing and said "Sounds good!" I replied "Thanks! I started Monday." He couldn't believe it! You did for me in a week what it would have taken a teacher 2 months to teach. I can't thank you enough. I also learned your foggy mountain breakdown. Will continue to devour anything else you have on RUclips. I just wish there were 100 more lessons. You're the best!!!
Very cool about the fiddle shop! Glad BB approved. Keep at it, once you get a feel for it you should be able to figure out anything without my help. :)
Thank you, Jim. Your lessons came up in my feed and I pulled out my old banjo - an RK-20. Had so much fun playing again I bought a RK-35. I love your teaching style. Thanks!
Thanks for watching! Congrats on the 35. 😊
I can see how so many people have benefited from these lessons and I'm one of them. Bitter sweet ending for sure!
Doesn’t have to end here… just the end of this getting started series. Pretty much everything on my channel should be fair game for you now.
Jim!!! A million thank yous sent your way!! I can play three whole songs thx to you and I bought a new banjo and it came today!! Beyond thrilled...your shared joy and love of teaching shines through to all of us blessed enough to listen and follow along!
I wish you well always and forever.
Thanks for letting me help you learn 😀
fun, fun, fun! Thanks for another great lesson, Jim! I can play three pieces now. After a few days of practicing these three, I'm going to take a look at Jed Clampett. . . thanks again!
You can do it!
Jim just thought I'd drop a line to say thank you for getting me enjoying the banjo...love your lessons 1 to 10 just learned the shave and haircut and enjoying practicing..think I saw the misses tap her foot earlier ha ha....keep up the good work from Wales UK...
Die besten Banjolessons die ich gefunden habe. Vielen herzlichen Dank und beste Grüße aus München.
Bernd Hess
Vielen Dank!
Jim thank you for posting these. I just watched all 10 lessons and I don’t even own a banjo, just excited to learn. I am going to get one this week. My brother and I are going to learn together.
You can do it!
Many thanks JIm. Only been playing for 10 weeks now (one lesson per week) and can't believe how much you've taught me. Love the way you present it too. Now off to clean my teeth :-)