I tried to learn banjo 50 years ago. Took lessens at a local music shop for 6 months. Bought several beginner books and learned to play a lot of the beginner tunes, but found it difficult to improve. Put the banjo down, joined the military, went to school, got married, had several kids and so on... Last year my kids bought me a nice student banjo in the hopes I would pick it up again, I still didn't (insert any excuse, or all the excuses you hear). Last month I finally dug out my old banjo (it was my grandfathers, a 1930 Kay). I have started anew and I am practicing smarter now, and am playing better than I ever had. I have been taking several of your videos very seriously and have backed up to true beginner steps (Stop Wasting Time, 7 Mistakes, etc.). I am solely focusing on practicing slow and with a purpose to fix my mistakes before I move ahead...tedious, yes, noticeable improvement in ability, absolutely. I can see your method working to push me past the wall I have hit every time i have cracked open my banjo case over the years. I'm 65 next month. I don't have the time to become a master at this, but I do feel I can build a library of great songs that I could play around family and friends and stop hiding my banjo in the basement. Thanks for your on point instruction, Gary C.
So, just bought my first banjo....and, at 65 years old, first instrument ever as a matter of fact. I ran across your video series "30 Days of Banjo." After watching the first three episodes, it seems like it something that is completely achievable! And so it begins!
Don't worry too much about having super skills, most of the funnest jams and songs we love don't have intensely complicated instrumentals, just keep learning one song at a time and you'll always have it with you
Thanks for emphasizing this. It keeps my desire to play like Earl Scruggs in perspective! At 73 I doubt that will ever happen but I’m focused on playing one favorite tune at a time correctly - like you say. Taking up the banjo at my age really means enjoying every step of the journey (however long is left) from listening to great players playing great music to the satisfaction of making one baby step after another.
Thanks Eli, Just picked up a Banjo at 70 years old. Fingers are full of arthritis and old man working hands. So it has been a little hard trying to get my rolls down. Keep banging the 1st string trying to hit the 2nd so I get frustrated. I get what your saying. Slow down, ain't in any race so why rush it and screw up. So trying to slow down tomorrow during practice. I guess speed will come in its good old time. No need to rush it. Thanks again for the help... dave
Your honest comments about practising to get better, playing for fun, and not wasting your time are so refreshing, Mr. Gilbert. You are an excellent teacher. I look forward to my banjo sessions and your tutorials every day. I am led by the dream of playing at a little log cabin I built in the woods near my home where I boil maple syrup in the spring with my friends. I have played piano for years, but the vision of playing the banjo well on the porch next to the woodshed motivates me to follow your method. At 57, I am enjoying this in a deep way that I have not experienced in quite a number of years. Thank you so much from Northern Ontario, Canada!
I agree that concentrating on the problems pays off. If you hear someone else practice scales, you will often hear that they have a problem with one or two notes. The note may be articulated incorrectly or not fretted cleanly.
i am 86yrs old got my first banjo and been practising from your 30 days programme, got through it and feel i am progressing, i would like to know if you do any tabs for five string for "sweet sixteen" in finbar feury style if not thanks for your help with the 30 days its inspired me to keep going and learning
Well I bought my first banjo in 1978, now I own a Fender cleartop, a very expensive instrument that I havent played in perhaps 30 years. Forgotten how to play cripple creek and foggt mtn breakdown and dualling banjos...used to be pretty good. Now starting at "zero". So at 76.9 years old...I'll keep you posted! Jessica
Been playing music for 42 years. Banjo is my 8th instrument to learn and Eli has made it so easy to learn. The best advice for practicing is, “practice does NOT make perfect. Perfect practice makes perfect.” Eli is a genius when it comes to teaching and is one of the best instructors I’ve ever seen online. Thanks for the lessons and keep up the great work Eli. 👍
Hi Eli I'm at Day 15 of your 30 Days of Banjo, series. Its hard to go slow...we want to be "there" and play the rolls that we feel when listening to the banjo music. But then I listen to a recording of Cripple Creek and it brings me back to earth, my goodness 160 is fast!!! So you are right and its like a saying I heard when learning to ride a motorcycle....first you get good, then you get fast! Thanks for your work on these videos. I am enjoying them ALOT!!
You make a lot of good valid points… For years I tried to play following tablature, but that is just not for me, So since I play by ear, I decided to concentrate on developing my own style of playing, I don’t try to mimic Earl Scruggs, Sonny Osborne or JD Crowe, I do realize that by some standards. my banjo playing might be considered not right, but I played in a band at retirement centers for years until this covid thing hit, I’m not professional nor trying to be. I just enjoy playing bluegrass banjo…. BTW, I’m 82
I've been working on Clinch Mountain Backstep for a while -- every so often I spend my whole practice time playing it through slooooowwwwly, as slow and as smooth as I can make it. The next day, without fail, when I pick it up again at a faster tempo, it sounds better than it ever has before
I'm learning 'Boil them Cabbage Down' as a first song. I can play the basic song with no problem. I've just started on the slide. I will definitely use this practice method because my first attempt to get this down has been difficult.
What a crappy start today. Nothing seemed to be working. Slowed down to 60 bpm on pieces I had gotten up to 80, then slowly built back up. This was a very valuable video.
You make a lot of sense! I played banjo starting about 40 years ago, my teacher was a student of John Hickman and he was (is still) GOOD. I then stopped around 25 years ago. I'm taking lessons now and it's a LOT HARDER NOW! I completely agree that I should focus on the wrong notes. I get that. Thanks for your good advice.
I am brand new to the banjo. I've played guitar for years. Banjo has called to me off and on since I ws a teenager, but I always had a reason why i shouldn't buy and try another instrument. Yesterday, I just felt joy and a few serendipitous things happened to point me to these lessons and a Deering Goodtime 2, so I bought it yesterday. On my first day, I found my learning edge on Day 5. y bog problem is that I have trouble hearing a high G pitch from my Thumb on the 5th string, because I "expect" the roll to sound from low to high pitches, so when I hear that high G from my thumb, it throws me off. I never knew how much of my feedback was dependent on hearing the right notes.... with banjo, I am trying to make my feedback come through the physical patterns my fingers are making in the order they play.
Yes, Eli, i am 72 and have always wanted to play the banjo. I am presently on you 30 day course on Bile em cabbage down. Never played a stringed instrument before. I really want to learn but no one around to help. What the best for me to do. Thanks man
I wish Eli lived in my neck of the woods. i have a feeling he could turn me into a banjo player with in a year. 8 years and not where i want to be. THANK YOU ELI !!!
I am the PERFECT example of what you are saying. I picked up the banjo at 51, now I am 70. When learning songs; I focused on memorizing and speed. Kept learning song after song, thinking that mistakes will take care of themselves over time. I played/practiced everyday for 15 years and just became a sloppy player. I put the banjo down for about the last 4 years, just picking it up occasionally. I am going to start over again and STRICTLY follow your expert advise. Thanks!
Hi Eli. I've just bought a banjo, & I am on day 2 of your 30 days of Banjo. I am really enjoying the lessons . I have just watched this video, & found it most helpful, especially the part about practising slowly, & also about not trying to learn a whole song but rather breaking it down into small sections. I would like to thank you for your great lessons. Paul Lucas.
Great video. I always slow down what I'm playing to get it right. I started out making some bad mistakes, but with slowing down, I finally am getting rid of the bad mistakes I started with before I had a teacher.
An excellent discourse on the why and how of practicing. This is great advice for anyone trying to learn any instrument, not just the banjo and should be passed on to other teachers to pass on to their students. I'm taking a third swing at learning the banjo as life keeps knocking me off track. I keep coming back to it though. Hopefully I will be able to stay the course this time.
Hi banjo players and friends. The video lessons from ELI Gilbert, are absolutely the best lesson about your position right hand and advanced technique left hand, and more, with songs and instrumentals. Regards Pavel
well I have had my banjo hanging on the wall for quite some time always seemed a little intimidated by it until I started your 30 day absolute beginners course. been at it for about 3 weeks on day 16 /17. there has been a noted improvement as filtered down by my wife. totally have been enjoying learning and playing watching you video. But I do get frustrated at times when I think I'm getting a little more hang of some of it then bamb what the heck did I do. good thing i started watching why your not getting better video. I have been slowing down making sure I am using the right state of mind while practicing. it is a life saver for me and if it takes me 61 days to get through the 30 days i'm having fun and enjoying the progress. Thanks so much for your videos they are great! But I need to stop neglecting ny Ric 360 and the les Paul.
I learned to play solos on my banjo , but didn't realize i needed to play backup to enjoy playing with others . I found your videos on playing chords and have dug the banjo out again with a new approach for a new year . Thanks for helping me dust it off!
I appreciate your take on the difference between practice and playing for your own enjoyment. Your explanation demystifies some of the difficulties I am having in making progress. Thank you for the words of encouragement...they are helpful. Also an observation. I think that a large portion of your 30-Day students consists of us folks within 5 years either way of their 70's. Sure, learning is difficult, and we all experience running into brick walls, but at least we are running in a good herd. We ALL need to stay strong! Thanks for the guiding hand.
I’m working on learning to restring my banjo. Got my first one Thursday and snapped string trying to tune. I expected more resistance as I tightened it. 😁
Mr. Gilbert, not only have I enjoyed your patient and honest approach to teaching the banjo, but I find that your emphasis on correcting mistakes with slow and focused practising has application outside playing the banjo. This approach to other, in fact most areas of one's life seems to be the surest way to build success. Thank you!
I'm working on working by way through the 30 days of banjo! Played guitar for years and have always wanted to play the banjo. Got mine awhile back and have started working on it for real. Never realized how hard it would be to change my mind set from guitar to banjo, but I'm getting there!!!
Greetings! I am working on establishing a solid foundation re: approach both mentally, physically, and spiritually. Please don't let that alarm you ... I can promise you that I am not learning Kum Ba Ya from the Mel Bay booklet that came with my banjo ... your tutorials on here are reaally fantastic for me in that regard ... a definite cut above the others I've sampled ... and definitely appreciated ... I am currently working on timing incorporating a metronome. Also, I am also trying to at least lay a slight but knowledgeable foundation on clawhammer style - I really enjoy both ... ... regarding clawhammer, I only have a resonator right now and I am diligently devoting some time to get my hands - especially my right "claw" getting in between the strings with more of a downward ergo hammer ergo slightly more top down ... love the site!!!
Now in my sixties and playing for about 25+ years come to the realization that this, like so many things in life, is about character. One of the things I noticed first about you was your focus. That is what helps you excel. It's a gift, but also a discipline. Just got the drum machine to do some "focused" work with that.
What's been difficult to find is advise or relevant tips on how to play effectively, productively with positive results. Sometimes it's nice to just listen to advice without the Banjo on my lap. Videos like this give me a lot to think about and time to assess & plan so when I do sit down to play or practice, I have a goal and my attitude, when playing is much better because I've set goals. Thank you Eli !!!
I really enjoyed this video for the common sense approach to practice or playing. I have been using 30 days along with a banjo teacher who has endorsed this progression to learning banjo for the first time.
I play with a group of musicians at church. I was asked to learn a special version of "I'll Fly Away" on the banjo. I am hoping to be ready with this piece by our next outing on September 30th. I already use the slow method and I don't use the focus method just yet, but I will now!! Thanks for the tips!!!
I just happened upon Eli's videos and have found them to be my salvation with the banjo. I bought my first banjo about 1970 when there was no internet, no youtube, no videos, etc. All that existed was a few books with tablature and nobody to help. Needless to say that I learned the limited amount of banjo improperly and, of course, without success. I put the banjo down and later found that it had a twisted neck. I got rid of it but recently after finding Eli's videos, I bought a new banjo (intermediate quality) and have tried to forget everything I have previously learned. I'm working through the beginning course by the book and methodically. I've joined patreon and subscribed to everything. In addition to the beginners course, I watch this type of video to listen to the logic about mistakes, etc. as I was an expert at mistakes. So all of this blabber to say that I appreciate this series and at 67 years of age, I hope to actually learn to play properly. Thanks, Eli.
I can only speak for myself, but I certainly appreciate what you do for us less talented players and taking the time to teach us. I have good days and I have days when I want to sling my banjo thru the wall, lol. But I truest want to get good on my banjo. And I have noticed a vast improvement in my picking since the 30 days of banjo teaching you put out. So I wish to thank you
I’m just starting the banjo and have got into your 30 day lessons… I’ve been playing the guitar for about 30 years so I’ve got a bit of a start but, the banjo is new and exciting to me it’s even rekindled my guitar playing as it was getting a bit stale… So thanks for your videos and keep up the good work… Cheers from Scotland….🏴
Thanks man… this is great advice I am learning cripple creek right now (ironically) I have jump past the one part to fast. I’m going to go back and do it over now slower..I’m 3 weeks in now and have achieved some good results. Thanks for the tips..
I haven't played in 21 years and I'd like to start playing again so I put some new stings on and I turned it then found your channel. So needless to say I'm staring from the basics... 🪕
Oh man. This was older than I thought. I sure appreciate your teaching style. I just stumbled my way into this video looking for your day 6 video. I bought a banjo at the age of 42 and have decided to lean it. Great videos. Thanks
Thanks for the tips! Need good guidance like yours. Working on day 7 and was trying to play both measures through and was getting frustrated with all the mistakes. I will slow down and just work on my mistakes and do one measure at a time.
I I am very grateful for you and your videos Eli. Right now I am still working on keeping time without a metronome hammer on and pull offs. This video was something I really needed to hear as I’ve been trying to go to fast myself. Thank you for this.😊
Excellent and clear video Eli. Great job. I'm a beginner and I'm working on Boil Them Cabbage Down. I can play it all the way through very slowly and I'm having trouble with smooth transitions form the opening slide to the fingering.
Learning John Hardy using only thirds up and down the neck. Then playing same tune using the 4th string (or the 3rd string) as the drone string instead of the 5th string. Incorporates some single string fingering and other adjustments to keep from using the same finger on the right hand twice in a row. Good practice, but start slow.
I'm on day 4 of your 30 Days of Banjo and really digging it. This has been my first four days of banjo ever. I was especially pleased that the first lesson didn't feature the first string, as I snapped it setting the banjo up. I was, you guessed it, moving too fast and admittedly very excited. After taking my first steps on the 4 string banjo, I'm back to 5. Anyway, right now I'm struggling with keeping a finger (sometimes 2) on the head. They're moving around a lot and as we're learning new picking/pinching movements I don't think I've found my happy place for those fingers. I appreciate the playing and practicing distinction. Thank you for your videos with all the small encouragements and wisdoms throughout.
I am on day 10 and you are right. I try to go too fast. Thanks for posting this and all the others. I am pretty dedicated when I decide to do something but I also try to learn too much too fast.
I have been trying to play Banjo just for the fun for a number of years. I have made little progress and this video really tells me why in a number of ways. THANKS!
Finally a guy who i can relate to! I have been playing the banjo for about 3 years, but didn't stick to praticing, so for the last 2 years, i haven't gotten any better! Now i'm trying from scratch again, and i really love your lessons. I',m from Denmark, and right now i'm trying to learn "No Mother or Dad"!
So, just bought my first banjo....and, at 64 years old, not my first instrument as have been dabbling on guitar for many years I ran across your video series "30 Days of Banjo." After watching the first three episodes, it seems like it something that is completely achievable! And so it begins! 8 Eli Gilbert Banjo
Hi Eli. I just got in on the last few minutes of your simulcast with Jody Hughes and Jim Pankey today and had to subsribe here. You guys were great by the way. This is an awesome lesson.Sometimes I feel like I practice too slow and create mistakes rather than eliminate them, but I don't want my speed too fast either. Thus I practice slow and as a beginner I try not to practice more than one or two measures at a time. Great lesson.
What I am practicing now is Cripple creek. The mistake I make is on the slide from 2-4, I always shorten it or feel like I do. I can play the whole tune with some confidence, not a lot of speed , however that slide bothers me, thus the practice. Also working on the first few measures of Foggy mountain breakdown. One measure at a time.
Just picked up my banjo almost a week ago now after like 5 years of not playing. Been practicing and playing like crazy lately! Currently working on perfecting cripple creek. Next goal is to start learning Foggy mountain or Reuben!
Thanks so much for your teaching. I bought my dad a banjo many many years ago. He took some lessons and loved to play. He died several years ago and I’ve always wanted to hear that banjo again. So 2 weeks ago, I picked up the banjo, tuned those old strings and went online and found you. I just bought new strings and plan to re-string it soon. (By the way, I’m a 68 year old grandma but am loving it.) Thanks so much for reaching me. -Roni Squire
Thanks for these videos. I'm definitely going to take your advice as I'm about to return to the banjo for the 5th time in 20 years. The reason I kept giving up is frustration. All the things you say are true and for me, it's always trying to play too fast; because that's what I think the song is supposed to sound like. Foggy Mountain Breakdown doesn't sound right at 100 bpm, so I play it fast, over and over with a lot of mistakes and tension. One thing that gave me encouragement was to record myself playing a song at a speed where I could play the song perfectly; which was typically about 1/2 speed. Then, I play the recording back and speed up the recording. It would sound like a professional! That was great reinforcement that my timing was good, and all notes were played with the proper spacing. But, I could never stick it out and play within my ability. I want to play Sled Ridin' like Jim. I want to play Petty Coat Junction like Earl. But, I'm not that good. I would also try and play songs beyond my ability. Why am I trying to play Are You From Dixie by Butch? Or Bobby's Hee Haw Theme Song? Up to speed no less?!! That's not realistic. This time, I'm going to learn songs measure by measure (great advice!) at a speed that I can manage (with metronome). Thanks again for the great videos!
I just found this video and yes very helpful, I have played the saxophone for about 25 years and learning something new always helps so we I heard the banjo being played again about a week ago and always wanted to play it I bought one so now I’m trying to learn it but like most people we want to play it now, can’t be done leaning slower always works. Thank for the tip. Mark
I love your videos more and more. This particular one is so true. I try and concentrate on the areas that need work to improve my playing. I'm not always successful at doing this, simply because I just love playing, but when I'm strict on myself, I knuckle down and just repeat the difficult areas and YES... It does pay off. I've also took a step back recently and begun playing slower as I'm finding it more beneficial to concentrate on accuracy over speed. Thank you for all your great videos and keep them coming it's teaching me a lot. BTW, I love your pickin' 👍
Congrats Jon, you're our String Giveaway Winner for this lesson! Send me a message through email, facebook, or instagram and we'll get you some strings!
I needed this one. I am struggling with my left hand reach with my miniature hands. Now I know I just have to keep working on the notes that are difficult until they aren't difficult.
I do enjoy watching your videos, am currently learning Clinch mountain and am really battling with it, thanks for the tip in breaking it down... will try that
I am learning three- finger style after many years of playing clawhammer. I really liked your comment on practicing one measure at a time. It takes me back to my 5th-grade saxophone instructors' way of teaching. I admit I have not been doing it that way, now I will try that again and maybe I will see some progress. Thanks, Keith
Man, I'm glad watched this video when I was just first getting started on the banjo a few months ago. Some of principles here have, I think, really helped me to avoid bad practice habits. It's still tempting to try to play things as fast as I possibly can, even imperfectly - and I do, some - but I'm quick to then slow down and drill over the correct notes to make sure I'm not reinforcing bad habits. Anyway, great advice, thanks Eli.
Playing my first banjo at 55! A gift from my husband, using the left hand with fingers in frets is my current keep practicing mode, 5 lessons from your you tube videos and totally enjoying it! Lots of relative practising.
![7 Bad Habits! Bluegrass Banjo Right Hand Technique [pt. 2]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/WwfK8XuKocc/mqdefault.jpg)
I tried to learn banjo 50 years ago. Took lessens at a local music shop for 6 months. Bought several beginner books and learned to play a lot of the beginner tunes, but found it difficult to improve.
Put the banjo down, joined the military, went to school, got married, had several kids and so on...
Last year my kids bought me a nice student banjo in the hopes I would pick it up again, I still didn't (insert any excuse, or all the excuses you hear). Last month I finally dug out my old banjo (it was my grandfathers, a 1930 Kay). I have started anew and I am practicing smarter now, and am playing better than I ever had. I have been taking several of your videos very seriously and have backed up to true beginner steps (Stop Wasting Time, 7 Mistakes, etc.). I am solely focusing on practicing slow and with a purpose to fix my mistakes before I move ahead...tedious, yes, noticeable improvement in ability, absolutely. I can see your method working to push me past the wall I have hit every time i have cracked open my banjo case over the years. I'm 65 next month. I don't have the time to become a master at this, but I do feel I can build a library of great songs that I could play around family and friends and stop hiding my banjo in the basement.
Thanks for your on point instruction,
Gary C.
So, just bought my first banjo....and, at 65 years old, first instrument ever as a matter of fact. I ran across your video series "30 Days of Banjo." After watching the first three episodes, it seems like it something that is completely achievable! And so it begins!
Don't worry too much about having super skills, most of the funnest jams and songs we love don't have intensely complicated instrumentals, just keep learning one song at a time and you'll always have it with you
Try Jim pankey on u tube
Gives me hope. I'm only 55 and in the same position!
53 and just bought my first banjo. The saying old dog new tricks comes to mind every time I pick it up
I am 65 also. never played an instrument and am about to buy my first banjo. any suggestions
This has nothing to do with banjo. This is for EVERY INSTRUMENT. Amazing, brutal advice.
Thanks for emphasizing this. It keeps my desire to play like Earl Scruggs in perspective! At 73 I doubt that will ever happen but I’m focused on playing one favorite tune at a time correctly - like you say.
Taking up the banjo at my age really means enjoying every step of the journey (however long is left) from listening to great players playing great music to the satisfaction of making one baby step after another.
You might be the best teacher I've ever had for anything. You are truly talented.
Thanks Eli, Just picked up a Banjo at 70 years old. Fingers are full of arthritis and old man working hands. So it has been a little hard trying to get my rolls down. Keep banging the 1st string trying to hit the 2nd so I get frustrated. I get what your saying. Slow down, ain't in any race so why rush it and screw up. So trying to slow down tomorrow during practice. I guess speed will come in its good old time. No need to rush it. Thanks again for the help... dave
Your honest comments about practising to get better, playing for fun, and not wasting your time are so refreshing, Mr. Gilbert. You are an excellent teacher. I look forward to my banjo sessions and your tutorials every day. I am led by the dream of playing at a little log cabin I built in the woods near my home where I boil maple syrup in the spring with my friends. I have played piano for years, but the vision of playing the banjo well on the porch next to the woodshed motivates me to follow your method. At 57, I am enjoying this in a deep way that I have not experienced in quite a number of years. Thank you so much from Northern Ontario, Canada!
I agree that concentrating on the problems pays off. If you hear someone else practice scales, you will often hear that they have a problem with one or two notes. The note may be articulated incorrectly or not fretted cleanly.
This is just good advice for life in general tbh. Thank you in particular for elucidating the difference between Play and Practice
i am 86yrs old got my first banjo and been practising from your 30 days programme, got through it and feel i am progressing, i would like to know if you do any tabs for five string for "sweet sixteen" in finbar feury style if not thanks for your help with the 30 days its inspired me to keep going and learning
Well I bought my first banjo in 1978, now I own a Fender cleartop, a very expensive instrument that I havent played in perhaps 30 years. Forgotten how to play cripple creek and foggt mtn breakdown and dualling banjos...used to be pretty good. Now starting at "zero". So at 76.9 years old...I'll keep you posted! Jessica
Learning Scruggs, two finger chords up the neck. Struggle with timing. Love banjo!
Been playing music for 42 years. Banjo is my 8th instrument to learn and Eli has made it so easy to learn. The best advice for practicing is, “practice does NOT make perfect. Perfect practice makes perfect.” Eli is a genius when it comes to teaching and is one of the best instructors I’ve ever seen online. Thanks for the lessons and keep up the great work Eli. 👍
Hi Eli
I'm at Day 15 of your 30 Days of Banjo, series. Its hard to go slow...we want to be "there" and play the rolls that we feel when listening to the banjo music. But then I listen to a recording of Cripple Creek and it brings me back to earth, my goodness 160 is fast!!! So you are right and its like a saying I heard when learning to ride a motorcycle....first you get good, then you get fast! Thanks for your work on these videos. I am enjoying them ALOT!!
Eli your point of view on the practicing is an eye opener . This will help me immensely .
You make a lot of good valid points… For years I tried to play following tablature, but that is just not for me, So since I play by ear, I decided to concentrate on developing my own style of playing, I don’t try to mimic Earl Scruggs, Sonny Osborne or JD Crowe, I do realize that by some standards. my banjo playing might be considered not right, but I played in a band at retirement centers for years until this covid thing hit, I’m not professional nor trying to be. I just enjoy playing bluegrass banjo…. BTW, I’m 82
I've been working on Clinch Mountain Backstep for a while -- every so often I spend my whole practice time playing it through slooooowwwwly, as slow and as smooth as I can make it. The next day, without fail, when I pick it up again at a faster tempo, it sounds better than it ever has before
I'm learning 'Boil them Cabbage Down' as a first song. I can play the basic song with no problem. I've just started on the slide. I will definitely use this practice method because my first attempt to get this down has been difficult.
What a crappy start today. Nothing seemed to be working. Slowed down to 60 bpm on pieces I had gotten up to 80, then slowly built back up. This was a very valuable video.
You make a lot of sense! I played banjo starting about 40 years ago, my teacher was a student of John Hickman and he was (is still) GOOD. I then stopped around 25 years ago. I'm taking lessons now and it's a LOT HARDER NOW! I completely agree that I should focus on the wrong notes. I get that. Thanks for your good advice.
I am brand new to the banjo. I've played guitar for years. Banjo has called to me off and on since I ws a teenager, but I always had a reason why i shouldn't buy and try another instrument. Yesterday, I just felt joy and a few serendipitous things happened to point me to these lessons and a Deering Goodtime 2, so I bought it yesterday. On my first day, I found my learning edge on Day 5. y bog problem is that I have trouble hearing a high G pitch from my Thumb on the 5th string, because I "expect" the roll to sound from low to high pitches, so when I hear that high G from my thumb, it throws me off. I never knew how much of my feedback was dependent on hearing the right notes.... with banjo, I am trying to make my feedback come through the physical patterns my fingers are making in the order they play.
Yes, Eli, i am 72 and have always wanted to play the banjo. I am presently on you 30 day course on Bile em cabbage down. Never played a stringed instrument before. I really want to learn but no one around to help. What the best for me to do. Thanks man
I wish Eli lived in my neck of the woods. i have a feeling he could turn me into a banjo player with in a year. 8 years and not where i want to be. THANK YOU ELI !!!
I am the PERFECT example of what you are saying. I picked up the banjo at 51, now I am 70. When learning songs; I focused on memorizing and speed. Kept learning song after song, thinking that mistakes will take care of themselves over time. I played/practiced everyday for 15 years and just became a sloppy player. I put the banjo down for about the last 4 years, just picking it up occasionally. I am going to start over again and STRICTLY follow your expert advise. Thanks!
Hi Eli. I've just bought a banjo, & I am on day 2 of your 30 days of Banjo. I am really enjoying the lessons . I have just watched this video, & found it most helpful, especially the part about practising slowly, & also about not trying to learn a whole song but rather breaking it down into small sections. I would like to thank you for your great lessons. Paul Lucas.
Great video. I always slow down what I'm playing to get it right. I started out making some bad mistakes, but with slowing down, I finally am getting rid of the bad mistakes I started with before I had a teacher.
This has an element of truth for me.
Foggy mountain breakdown is really tricky…. So I keep slowing it down to cope….
Good advice for a practice routine, and applicable to most of life.
You're a pretty good teacher. I wish I'd had internet years ago when I first started banjo pickin'.
I bought a Fender banjo many years ago an now that I’m retired, I want to pursue the instrument! Your vid’s are very encouraging! Thanks!
An excellent discourse on the why and how of practicing. This is great advice for anyone trying to learn any instrument, not just the banjo and should be passed on to other teachers to pass on to their students. I'm taking a third swing at learning the banjo as life keeps knocking me off track. I keep coming back to it though. Hopefully I will be able to stay the course this time.
I am practicing playing different chords as back up and working on being able to keep up with the needed speed.
Having problems with the pull offs and you’re right, I need to practice just that
Hi banjo players and friends.
The video lessons from ELI Gilbert, are absolutely the best lesson about your position right hand and advanced technique left hand, and more, with songs and instrumentals.
Regards Pavel
well I have had my banjo hanging on the wall for quite some time always seemed a little intimidated by it until I started your 30 day absolute beginners course. been at it for about 3 weeks on day 16 /17. there has been a noted improvement as filtered down by my wife. totally have been enjoying learning and playing watching you video. But I do get frustrated at times when I think I'm getting a little more hang of some of it then bamb what the heck did I do. good thing i started watching why your not getting better video. I have been slowing down making sure I am using the right state of mind while practicing. it is a life saver for me and if it takes me 61 days to get through the 30 days i'm having fun and enjoying the progress. Thanks so much for your videos they are great! But I need to stop neglecting ny Ric 360 and the les Paul.
I learned to play solos on my banjo , but didn't realize i needed to play backup to enjoy playing with others . I found your videos on playing chords and have dug the banjo out again with a new approach for a new year . Thanks for helping me dust it off!
I appreciate your take on the difference between practice and playing for your own enjoyment. Your explanation demystifies some of the difficulties I am having in making progress. Thank you for the words of encouragement...they are helpful. Also an observation. I think that a large portion of your 30-Day students consists of us folks within 5 years either way of their 70's. Sure, learning is difficult, and we all experience running into brick walls, but at least we are running in a good herd. We ALL need to stay strong! Thanks for the guiding hand.
I’m working on learning to restring my banjo. Got my first one Thursday and snapped string trying to tune. I expected more resistance as I tightened it. 😁
Mr. Gilbert, not only have I enjoyed your patient and honest approach to teaching the banjo, but I find that your emphasis on correcting mistakes with slow and focused practising has application outside playing the banjo. This approach to other, in fact most areas of one's life seems to be the surest way to build success. Thank you!
I'm working on working by way through the 30 days of banjo! Played guitar for years and have always wanted to play the banjo. Got mine awhile back and have started working on it for real. Never realized how hard it would be to change my mind set from guitar to banjo, but I'm getting there!!!
I just bought a banjitar to cut corners and will return it. I ordered a banjo and am eager to learn.
Great advice! I need to slow down an focus on smaller sections until I get it down. Thank you!
Tremendously good advice. This guy is beyond his years.
Greetings! I am working on establishing a solid foundation re: approach both mentally, physically, and spiritually. Please don't let that alarm you ... I can promise you that I am not learning Kum Ba Ya from the Mel Bay booklet that came with my banjo ... your tutorials on here are reaally fantastic for me in that regard ... a definite cut above the others I've sampled ... and definitely appreciated ... I am currently working on timing incorporating a metronome. Also, I am also trying to at least lay a slight but knowledgeable foundation on clawhammer style - I really enjoy both ... ... regarding clawhammer, I only have a resonator right now and I am diligently devoting some time to get my hands - especially my right "claw" getting in between the strings with more of a downward ergo hammer ergo slightly more top down ... love the site!!!
Glad I watched this. I'm definitely trying to play too fast. Practicing a lot, so I'll slow it down until I get it right.
Now in my sixties and playing for about 25+ years come to the realization that this, like so many things in life, is about character.
One of the things I noticed first about you was your focus. That is what helps you excel. It's a gift, but also a discipline.
Just got the drum machine to do some "focused" work with that.
What's been difficult to find is advise or relevant tips on how to play effectively, productively with positive results. Sometimes it's nice to just listen to advice without the Banjo on my lap. Videos like this give me a lot to think about and time to assess & plan so when I do sit down to play or practice, I have a goal and my attitude, when playing is much better because I've set goals. Thank you Eli !!!
Thank you!
Great advice.. being on day 7 of your 30, I probably am trying to practice much to fast and too long. I will try to take this advice to heart.
I really enjoyed this video for the common sense approach to practice or playing. I have been using 30 days along with a banjo teacher who has endorsed this progression to learning banjo for the first time.
Eli............you're speaking directly to me. thanx for this basic.
I play with a group of musicians at church. I was asked to learn a special version of "I'll Fly Away" on the banjo. I am hoping to be ready with this piece by our next outing on September 30th. I already use the slow method and I don't use the focus method just yet, but I will now!! Thanks for the tips!!!
I just happened upon Eli's videos and have found them to be my salvation with the banjo. I bought my first banjo about 1970 when there was no internet, no youtube, no videos, etc. All that existed was a few books with tablature and nobody to help. Needless to say that I learned the limited amount of banjo improperly and, of course, without success. I put the banjo down and later found that it had a twisted neck. I got rid of it but recently after finding Eli's videos, I bought a new banjo (intermediate quality) and have tried to forget everything I have previously learned. I'm working through the beginning course by the book and methodically. I've joined patreon and subscribed to everything. In addition to the beginners course, I watch this type of video to listen to the logic about mistakes, etc. as I was an expert at mistakes. So all of this blabber to say that I appreciate this series and at 67 years of age, I hope to actually learn to play properly. Thanks, Eli.
I can only speak for myself, but I certainly appreciate what you do for us less talented players and taking the time to teach us. I have good days and I have days when I want to sling my banjo thru the wall, lol. But I truest want to get good on my banjo. And I have noticed a vast improvement in my picking since the 30 days of banjo teaching you put out. So I wish to thank you
I’m just starting the banjo and have got into your 30 day lessons…
I’ve been playing the guitar for about 30 years so I’ve got a bit of a start but, the banjo is new and exciting to me it’s even rekindled my guitar playing as it was getting a bit stale…
So thanks for your videos and keep up the good work…
Cheers from Scotland….🏴
You said this perfectly… something that I’ve been struggling with for a while now. Thank you!!! Such a simple concept, but so important.
Thanks for the lesson. I’m focusing on the areas I need to work on, playing them slowly until my tempo is right. Thanks for another good lesson!
Thanks man… this is great advice I am learning cripple creek right now (ironically) I have jump past the one part to fast. I’m going to go back and do it over now slower..I’m 3 weeks in now and have achieved some good results. Thanks for the tips..
I haven't played in 21 years and I'd like to start playing again so I put some new stings on and I turned it then found your channel. So needless to say I'm staring from the basics... 🪕
Oh man. This was older than I thought. I sure appreciate your teaching style. I just stumbled my way into this video looking for your day 6 video. I bought a banjo at the age of 42 and have decided to lean it. Great videos. Thanks
Thanks for the tips! Need good guidance like yours. Working on day 7 and was trying to play both measures through and was getting frustrated with all the mistakes. I will slow down and just work on my mistakes and do one measure at a time.
I just began two weeks ago...your technique is masterful....so glad I found you!
Thanks for the video. Really helps put things in perspective when I’m frustrated with my progress
I’ve taken up the banjo at age 72. I’m loving it and you’re my teacher. I learn a lot by the way you present the lessons and tips. Thank you.
Thanks for the info on patient and slow practice, I have been making every mistake mentioned.
I I am very grateful for you and your videos Eli. Right now I am still working on keeping time without a metronome hammer on and pull offs. This video was something I really needed to hear as I’ve been trying to go to fast myself. Thank you for this.😊
I agree playing slowly is key. Speeding up while playing alone is also hard.
1:46 "And at that speed, it's almost difficult to make a mistake..."
Hold my beer.
Terrific video, Eli! Actually good advice for ANYONE learning a new instrument!!
Right now I'm working out a lead break for When the Saints. Also working getting my f and d shapes smooth and easy
Excellent and clear video Eli. Great job. I'm a beginner and I'm working on Boil Them Cabbage Down. I can play it all the way through very slowly and I'm having trouble with smooth transitions form the opening slide to the fingering.
Learning John Hardy using only thirds up and down the neck. Then playing same tune using the 4th string (or the 3rd string) as the drone string instead of the 5th string. Incorporates some single string fingering and other adjustments to keep from using the same finger on the right hand twice in a row. Good practice, but start slow.
Learning to slow down and and practice each note without mistakes.
That’s the way!
Ouch. This hit home hard. Sometimes the best advice is the the advice that's hard to hear
Your right it's repetitive and pretty soon the speed will come naturally great videos keep them coming
I'm on day 4 of your 30 Days of Banjo and really digging it. This has been my first four days of banjo ever. I was especially pleased that the first lesson didn't feature the first string, as I snapped it setting the banjo up. I was, you guessed it, moving too fast and admittedly very excited. After taking my first steps on the 4 string banjo, I'm back to 5. Anyway, right now I'm struggling with keeping a finger (sometimes 2) on the head. They're moving around a lot and as we're learning new picking/pinching movements I don't think I've found my happy place for those fingers. I appreciate the playing and practicing distinction. Thank you for your videos with all the small encouragements and wisdoms throughout.
I am on day 10 and you are right. I try to go too fast. Thanks for posting this and all the others. I am pretty dedicated when I decide to do something but I also try to learn too much too fast.
Im on day 6 of 30's days to play the Banjo by Eli. So far so good. Just trying to learn the basics and get better everyday.
Thank you I needed these reminders! It's easy to get caught up practicing to fast.
I have been trying to play Banjo just for the fun for a number of years. I have made little progress and this video really tells me why in a number of ways. THANKS!
Finally a guy who i can relate to! I have been playing the banjo for about 3 years, but didn't stick to praticing, so for the last 2 years, i haven't gotten any better! Now i'm trying from scratch again, and i really love your lessons. I',m from Denmark, and right now i'm trying to learn "No Mother or Dad"!
Love that song!
Gonna say it again. This is his best lesson!
So, just bought my first banjo....and, at 64 years old, not my first instrument as have been dabbling on guitar for many years I ran across your video series "30 Days of Banjo." After watching the first three episodes, it seems like it something that is completely achievable! And so it begins!
8
Eli Gilbert Banjo
This is the scolding i needed
Hi Eli. I just got in on the last few minutes of your simulcast with Jody Hughes and Jim Pankey today and had to subsribe here. You guys were great by the way. This is an awesome lesson.Sometimes I feel like I practice too slow and create mistakes rather than eliminate them, but I don't want my speed too fast either. Thus I practice slow and as a beginner I try not to practice more than one or two measures at a time. Great lesson.
What I am practicing now is Cripple creek. The mistake I make is on the slide from 2-4, I always shorten it or feel like I do. I can play the whole tune with some confidence, not a lot of speed , however that slide bothers me, thus the practice. Also working on the first few measures of Foggy mountain breakdown. One measure at a time.
Just picked up my banjo almost a week ago now after like 5 years of not playing. Been practicing and playing like crazy lately! Currently working on perfecting cripple creek. Next goal is to start learning Foggy mountain or Reuben!
Thanks so much for your teaching. I bought my dad a banjo many many years ago. He took some lessons and loved to play. He died several years ago and I’ve always wanted to hear that banjo again. So 2 weeks ago, I picked up the banjo, tuned those old strings and went online and found you. I just bought new strings and plan to re-string it soon. (By the way, I’m a 68 year old grandma but am loving it.)
Thanks so much for reaching me.
-Roni Squire
Thanks for these videos. I'm definitely going to take your advice as I'm about to return to the banjo for the 5th time in 20 years. The reason I kept giving up is frustration. All the things you say are true and for me, it's always trying to play too fast; because that's what I think the song is supposed to sound like. Foggy Mountain Breakdown doesn't sound right at 100 bpm, so I play it fast, over and over with a lot of mistakes and tension. One thing that gave me encouragement was to record myself playing a song at a speed where I could play the song perfectly; which was typically about 1/2 speed. Then, I play the recording back and speed up the recording. It would sound like a professional! That was great reinforcement that my timing was good, and all notes were played with the proper spacing. But, I could never stick it out and play within my ability. I want to play Sled Ridin' like Jim. I want to play Petty Coat Junction like Earl. But, I'm not that good. I would also try and play songs beyond my ability. Why am I trying to play Are You From Dixie by Butch? Or Bobby's Hee Haw Theme Song? Up to speed no less?!! That's not realistic. This time, I'm going to learn songs measure by measure (great advice!) at a speed that I can manage (with metronome). Thanks again for the great videos!
Fantastic teacher. So grateful to have found your series and channel.
I just found this video and yes very helpful, I have played the saxophone for about 25 years and learning something new always helps so we I heard the banjo being played again about a week ago and always wanted to play it I bought one so now I’m trying to learn it but like most people we want to play it now, can’t be done leaning slower always works. Thank for the tip. Mark
I love your videos more and more. This particular one is so true. I try and concentrate on the areas that need work to improve my playing. I'm not always successful at doing this, simply because I just love playing, but when I'm strict on myself, I knuckle down and just repeat the difficult areas and YES... It does pay off.
I've also took a step back recently and begun playing slower as I'm finding it more beneficial to concentrate on accuracy over speed.
Thank you for all your great videos and keep them coming it's teaching me a lot. BTW, I love your pickin' 👍
Thanks Jon! Sounds like you’re on the right track!
Congrats Jon, you're our String Giveaway Winner for this lesson! Send me a message through email, facebook, or instagram and we'll get you some strings!
That is excellent advice. Thank-you! I needed to hear that as a beginner.
I needed this one. I am struggling with my left hand reach with my miniature hands. Now I know I just have to keep working on the notes that are difficult until they aren't difficult.
I do enjoy watching your videos, am currently learning Clinch mountain and am really battling with it, thanks for the tip in breaking it down... will try that
Brutal truth. Practice takes time. A lot of time.
I am learning three- finger style after many years of playing clawhammer. I really liked your comment on practicing one measure at a time. It takes me back to my 5th-grade saxophone instructors' way of teaching. I admit I have not been doing it that way, now I will try that again and maybe I will see some progress. Thanks, Keith
Thanks Keith, best of luck!
Man, I'm glad watched this video when I was just first getting started on the banjo a few months ago. Some of principles here have, I think, really helped me to avoid bad practice habits. It's still tempting to try to play things as fast as I possibly can, even imperfectly - and I do, some - but I'm quick to then slow down and drill over the correct notes to make sure I'm not reinforcing bad habits. Anyway, great advice, thanks Eli.
Thank you, I probably needed to hear this. I also need reminded of this over and over lol
Well I really appreciated your honesty because it is so true true true. Lots packed into your banjo sermon, needed this to keep me moving forward.
I have trouble keeping in time from the transition to and from vamping. I appreciate your knowledge and your willingness to share it.
Playing my first banjo at 55! A gift from my husband, using the left hand with fingers in frets is my current keep practicing mode, 5 lessons from your you tube videos and totally enjoying it! Lots of relative practising.