How to Play the Banjo

Want to learn how to play the banjo? A descendent of early drums, the banjo has a rich and intriguing history. Throughout this history, various banjo playing styles have developed. While playing any musical instrument involves personal expression through performance techniques, knowing several basics of banjo playing can help any aspiring player become more proficient.

Top And Bottom Strings
A banjo is naturally in an open G tuning, which is an order of GDGBD, from the bottom string to the top string. The string nearest to the top of the banjo is actually the bottom string. The top string is the D closest to the bottom of the banjo, and this is also referred to as the first string, with the G near the top of the banjo referred to as the fifth string. Therefore, from top to bottom, a banjo's tuning is DBGDG. That seems confusing, but you'll become more comfortable with it over time.

Playing Rolls
Typically, banjos are played with the fingers. In this way, banjos are similar to the classical guitar and bass guitar. The rolling technique involves using the thumb, index finger and middle finger. To perform a roll, you must first assign a finger to a string, so all notes played on the string will be played with the same finger. Assuming you're playing a five-string banjo, practice plucking the fifth string with your thumb. When you are comfortable doing so, try using your middle finger to pluck the fourth string.

Once you are able to alternate between these two strings and fingers, try using your index finger to pluck the third string. To play a roll, experiment with musical patterns by placing your left hand on the frets in any arrangement you please. Be sure to alternate strings and fingers while playing a sequence. When you are comfortable playing rolls on the top three strings, try assigning fingers to the bottom two strings. Remember, only the thumb, index and middle finger are to be used at this rolling stage.

Playing Chords
Folk, rock, blues and jazz songs are often built around chords. In their simplest form, chords are three-note combinations built from the same scale. It is indeed possible to play a chord using the rolling technique, but playing a chord by strumming is different. Banjos are tuned to open G. What this means is that, when you play all five strings at once, without placing fingers on any frets, the G chord will sound.

If a banjo is nearby, pick it up and try it. You can experiment with different rhythms by alternating the up and down strokes of your hand and switching the speed. If the G chord becomes boring, add C to the mix. To play the C chord, place your index finger on the first fret, third string. Holding your index finger in place, put your middle finger on the second fret, on the bottom string. Finally, while holding the other fingers in place, put your ring finger on the second fret, second string. The ring finger was not used in rolling, but chords often require its help. Sound the C and G chords, and alternate between the two. Numerous books have banjo chord charts, and many chords are only variations of a three-note combination.

A Word About Picks
Banjos are typically played with finger picks. These are plastic, pointed devices placed on the thumb, index and middle finger. Picks allow for chords and individually sounded notes to resonate clearly. If a beginner, steer clear of these for awhile. Get the feel of playing with the fingers, and, when ready, experiment with different sizes and styles of finger picks. Learning how to use picks is an experimental process, but the fingers used in rolling or strumming do not change.

While chords and rolling patterns can be learned rather easily, the process of learning to play the banjo never ends. This is the joy of the banjo! Learning new banjo styles and techniques can last a lifetime. A good deal of practice is required to learn banjo, so don't be frustrated with slow results.