This is hands down the best tutorial of this tune out there. Some people spend like 15 minutes explaining the open roll, and others blow past the tricky bits, but the pacing here is perfect, for me anyway.
Jim. I want to tell you that i appreciate you so much. I had a really rough time last may. I completely blew my knee out and had surgery 3 weeks after getting divorced, moving alone from Tennessee to North Carolina, and getting stuck alone on the mountian for 2 months, unable to go anywhere... I bought a banjo a week before surgery and im so glad i found you here. I tried learning 10 years before but times were different then and i gave up. You completely got me thru the tough times and i learned very easily with your videos! thank you so much for everything you do here. You are a national treasure.
I hope you don't take this the wrong way Jim, but I subscribed to your channel just to watch and listen to you teach. As I've said before, I've been pickin' the banjer for more than 35 years but I often come here just to listen to you teach. The way you peer into the camera gives me the feeling that you're directly connected to your students and it gives a really great personal connection to them in my opinion. Foggy Mountain Breakdown isn't the easiest easy tune to learn but you make it easy because of the way you chip it into small chunks and ask your students to stop there and practice. I think your teaching method is absolutely amazing Jim, and I wish I had you and UA-cam way back when I first picked up the banjo. Well done, Jim, and thanks for taking the time to build confidence in so many new pickers. You have a very kind soul Jim.
+Bud M. Thanks. I've always been a bit reluctant to teach via video since the personal interaction is gone. The goofy stuff seems to help me connect...
Looking through some videos a few months ago I came across your video on "You want to learn Bluegrass Banjo" Hell Yeah!!! I went out a week later and bought a banjo.. My brothers all play guitar and I was never interested.. But I love the sound of the banjo.. I think I always have.. Anyhoo... I'm leaning rolls at the moment.. I haven't gotten to your second Cripple Creek lesson yet.. Soon.. But I really like the way you teach.. I wish I could find someone like you here in Australia!!!
Nicely done. I have studying with you since early March. It is important to go back over early lessons to assure authenticity of what you are doing.! Also, let’s you gauge progress. Thanks, neighbor.
Long time finger picker guitarist here. I bought my first banjo a couple weeks ago, some 1970's japanese made thing they used to sell here in Australia. Drove out to some guys farm in woop woop, got her cheap off facebook marketplace..nice bloke. She seems to stay in tune and makes a hell of a racket. Drives my wife crazy so I have to stuff a sock behind the bridge. This is the best channel to learn for us knuckleheads..love it mate!!
I have been going through your videos for 9 weeks and have accomplished what I thought that would not be possible! Thanks for posting Jim! You are a great instructor!
Bought a banjo, watched Your video for 2 Hours and got the notes down. Now rinse and repeat till I get the speed right. Loved your video, Jim. For me you are the Bob Ross of banjo.
Jim, Your the Greatest !! I became disabled 12 yrs ago and I used to play banjo a little, I have lost all feeling on my right side and live 24/7 in Chronic pain. 10 major operations but my nerves in my neck are pinned along my spine, Ripped apart nerves can NOT be repaired. Doctors say something happened as a Vietnam Vet but I receive $0.00 from the U.S.M.C. , As u can see in my picture I rehab Hurt Squirrels but the ones that live with us can't be returned to the wild. They would die so They live in our home free like kings LOL, I want to thank you for taking your time to teach slowly , Living in Chronic Pain I have lost my ability to remember thing anymore. So I watch and watch your videos as much as I can. If you view my UA-cam page, DUNCAN the squirrel was born with Brain Disorder, I have had him to two specialist that say he will never be able to jump straight in trees, so, he will live a wonderful life with my wife and I. He travels with us up to Blue Ridge, GA. where we have some land.Thank you my friend, GOD BLESSSteve
Mr Pankey, thank you for doing these video banjo lessons. I have been working on your lessons for almost 2 years now. I keep in mind from beginner video lesson one. Practice like bushing your teeth every day. Best advice from a pro to a beginner. Your a great man! You put smiles on peoples faces.
Hey Mr. Pankey, I am about three weeks into playing my first banjo, and I have already pretty much mastered your version of Cripple Creek, and Banjo in the Hollow, and am now halfway through this version of Foggy Mountain Breakdown. My wife is thoroughly impressed with how quickly I've picked up this instrument. I must say, you are absolutely a phenomenal teacher, and I really appreciate your first ten lessons and this one as well. I am absolutely stoked to continue learning from your excellent lessons here. You have brought a lot of joy to me up here in rural Ontario in just the past few weeks alone; I've always wanted to play the banjo but never had the confidence that I could conquer the instrument. With your brilliant teaching style I have all of the confidence in the world that I can play with pride this instrument. My wife has been kind enough to order me a Gold Tone Cripple Creek 100 banjo as an upgrade to my Amazon banjo (which required hours of tinkering and a new head to set up, and has a terrible warble to the sound at the best of times), because she's so impressed with the speed of my learning. Anyway, thank you for these excellent lessons, I greatly appreciate your time and effort in producing these. Cheers!
Just spent 2 hours on this after neglecting my practice and that was hard work.. My hands are getting stiff so back at it tomorrow..Started back in February on your videos every day but family commitments drew me away but determined to get back on it.. cheers Jim for being a great teacher...
Hey Jim, just wanted to say thanks! I bought a Deering Goodtime Classic 15 years ago with thoughts of learning to play. I picked for a few weeks and learned rolls and a couple easy songs that I never really played right. A couple weeks ago I got the itch to try it again and found this video. A night or two here and there turned into a handful of evenings over that last couple weeks and tonight I finally got the last roll down then….I played Foggy Mountain Breakdown! Finally, a song that other people can recognize! You’re a GREAT teacher! Please, keep it up!
Yes, he is very generous. I have been playing just two years and started at age 51. I learned from the Wayne Erbsen books first. I have played almost every day from 30 minutes to one hour for two years. I have learned Dueling Banjos from the Geoff Howland book and plenty from the Wayne Erbsen books.. I have the Foggy Mountain Break Down in the Earl Scruggs book, but every time I looked at it I thought "nah" not today, and did another song such as Ground Hog , or Down The Road. Ok now it is time to learn this from your video. Three months I reckon. I am from the UK and now live in Taiwan. I pretty much have the only banjo in the whole country. Your videos reach far and wide Mr Panky. In three months I will be blasting this in the parks of Taipei just over the small sea border from Communist China. THANK YOU Mr Jim Pankey , in three months my banjo will sing this song.
@@JimPankey I Pretty much got it down now , just needs to be more smooth, so a month ahead of schedule. I bought your tab after listening only for two weeks. I will now buy your tab for the Foggy Mountain Breakdown expansion pack and Country Roads as I can sing that one. I will post it next week. I think learning by watching is best then when it is pretty much down buy your tab to clean up the playing。 Or I get tab addicted..
Ive had to watch this a dozen times to absorb it all, but I have to agree with previous comments that call it a comprehensive tutorial. Thanks for all you do Sir!
No mater what playing level you may be at or type of banjo we can all learn from Jim. I appreciate his easy way of explaining proper playing techniques. His not afraid to share his talents as we all develop our own. Everyone keep on picking!
Just picked up a copy of the TAB. Thanks for putting this tutorial and TAB together. I am 17 days into my Banjo journey. I am bouncing from your beginner class and Eli's. Having an absolute blast getting 2-4 hours a day of practice! Thanks for taking so much time laying out a catalog of tutorials. Kudos!
I never thought I'd be able to play foggy mountain breakdown, but your fantastic teaching style really helped me break it down and me get through it--thanks! Your tab book was also a very helpful reference for this :)
I've been talking about picking up a banjo for years, well my wife surprised me with one for Christmas. I've been watching all your videos, you make it look so easy! And really after just a week it's not too bad. Thanks Jim for breaking it down so nicely.
I'm 59 and I've played drums in rock bands for 40 yrs(geezer! I'm lookin at what I just wrote! Damn I'm old) but I've wanted to front my own country gospel band forever and if not now I'll never do it so I've been playing banjo now less then a month. I do practice and I know I have to learn what chords go together 1 4 5 and how to know that naturally, without thought, how to get comfortable picking and with finger picks, how to do all the rolls n all so thanks jim you have a comfortable relaxed way of teaching. I had to wait today at the dmv and brought the banjo and practiced in my car for hours before getting in to do my business. I like doing the licks but its putting everything together that a lil tough the fingers and brain dont necessarily agree but I know it takes time like drumming does. Well see in coupla yrs if I can do it. Thanks again jim.
This is absolutely the best tutorial for this song on the internet! I've seen quite a few, tried playing by ear, but you explained it simple and perfectly. Greetings from Poland for all banjo fans!
Thank you for the lesson. I’ve had my banjo for about a month now and been watching your videos. I’m working on foggy mountain breakdown. You make it simple to learn. The biggest problem is me lol. The fact that I’m 64 years old don’t help me a lot. I know the entire song now. I just want to make it sound better. The speed may never come but I really enjoy playing the banjo. I appreciate all the time you put into these lessons.
Tom Tom- I am right with you at 65- may never be good at it but am having tons of fun with this new world, and can't help but think memorizing these songs will help a person stay sharp. This was my first song and the reason I picked this instrument. After learning this song I went back and took his 10 beginner lessons, and added a few more songs- and am finding the hardest thing is to get my work done- before I pick up the banjo! It's good to see people like Jim who share their talent in such an entertaining and human way! Good luck to us both!
Love your lessons and tutoring, you are by far the best instructor that I have found on UA-cam yet, I have tried other instructors and until I found you almost gave up,now I'm enjoying it and loving what I'm learning, thank you so much for doing this, oh yeah my 6 yr old grandson was able to play the first part of Foggy Mountain brake down ! Now thats awesome.Thank you again.
Mr Jim I try to go the website you posted and I wanted to donate 20.00 $, when I did it went through, but then it reversed it. If the website doesn't work anymore I will be happy to mail you a money order for that amount, I know you've had some health problems, and I really like your lessons, I would like to donate as I learn. Please give address are let me know how, Thank you, Kim
I literally just started playing consistently three weeks ago and this is by far one of the most technical pieces I’m learning. You taught me how to play cripple creek and the first part to rainbow connection. You’re a great teacher can’t wait to learn more with you
I got my Banjo for Christmas; about 3 weeks ago. I was just able to finish playing this for the first time! WoW! I NEVER thought I would be able to play this tune! I am in love with the banjo. Thanks for teaching in such an easy way.
You Sir do an outstanding job teaching. I came back to playing for years and years of absence and your step by step is so much appreciated. I am actually going unlearning some muscle memory in my picking rolls and am loving it. Thank You!!!
The reason I picked up learning the banjo was to play "Foggy Mountsin Breakdown" because Earl Scruggs is my hero. After watching your video, I discovered to my absolute delight that I CAN PLAY THAT!!!!! Thank you so much for this video!!!!!
At 70 and beginning Banjo to play at my senior center with the other geezers on their guitars I'm looking forward to learning to play this and make them all have to adjust their pacemakers. Seriously I learned so much from your instruction and look forward to learning more. Thank you.
Just want to say thank you Jim here from the uk i started playing banjo a month ago thinking i would never be able to play but your lessons are perfect and have got me going and im enjoying every minute of it i prays you sir thankyou once again
I'm so glad i stumbled upon you - aged 58 & six weeks in on my first banjo with zero experience of playing any instrument, with the exception of random three finger picking on my son's 3/4 acoustic guitar that I somehow naturally gravitated to......I reckon I was born to pick banjo, the rolls come naturally to me - however my stumpy sausage-like fingers are causing a real issue struggle with chords, but I'm getting there.
My dad always played the banjo for me when I was a little girl. This was my favorite song. Always tried to get him to teach me but he never would. He passed away a few years ago and left me his banjo, but I haven't had the heart to go back in his house to get it. Been thinking the last couple of days about going to get it and learning to play. I can play several other instruments, so I have a rudimentary understanding of music at least. Glad I came across this video. Hope to watch others in the series.
I like the way you teach banjo. I always learned more from someone taking their time and break it down slowly and teaching that way. I enjoy these very much and hope to get better over time. Keep up the good work. Thanks again....
Amazing video! I a brand new to banjo but I have been a multi instrumentalist for about 3.5 decades and this is hands down one of the best tutorials I've found.
I’ve watched about 40 million videos on how to play this song, but I didn’t get any of it. This is the first tutorial that actually takes you along each step and truly teaches you how. Excellent job!
I’m doing the reverse roll but with the video,lol! Got that one down pat!! Absolutely love the way you take the time to show us and explain at the same time! Please don’t stop,I’m learning so much! Hugs from Quebec,Canada!!
Jim, I just got my banjo a week ago, I have played and sometimes taught guitar for many years. Your teaching is fantastic and I can now play cripple creek and various other tunes to a acceptable level (a bit slow but it's still early days). I wish I had your talent for teaching by talking sense to people and clearly letting them know exactly what is needed to learn a tune. I am so pleased I found you when I searched for banjo lessons! Best wishes from Scotland !
Learning to pick, your vids are the least complicated and I made progress I never thought possible. I'm 58 and could not imagine beginning this late but, I enjoy it even if I'm never as proficient as Jim Panky he makes you feel it's possible.
I got a banjo about 5 years ago. I got too intimidated by bluegrass playing and ended up going the overhand route. Now it's time to finally learn my rolls and sir.... I love your lessons. Thank you so much.
I started banjo last month and from watching you, i have already learned three songs. Im not fast with them yet but I'm getting there. Thank you so much for being such a great teacher. Love the vids!!!
From Singapore. I was in Savannah last year and enjoyed the Southern hospitality. And I have been watching a whole bunch of banjo lessons online and yours is really personal and connected, showing your great love for your music! It's really difficult to learn to play the banjo back here in the far East, let alone buy a banjo. But your video is really encouraging and I will probably buy one epicphone that is being sold here.
There's so much that I like about what you're doing. Your beginner series has made learning very accessable. I'll have to admit, however, that the G lick in this song kicked my ass for quite awhile until I played it back repeatedly in slow motion. I just wanted to say thanks, and I hope you keep up the effort. It's very much appreciated.
Holy smokes I learned it. I took my time to practice (it took me almost two months to make it through the video) but I can play it now with only a couple bad notes! Maybe another month and it'll be flawless! You rock Jim
Thank you for your lessons!You make this stuff a little less intimidating, I've been following your lessons for about 2 years and have decided, hey I might really be able to do this!God bless you Sir
Wanted to learn banjo ever since I first heard this tune in the movie as a kid. Got my instrument March 2nd and began the included instructions and CD lessons- they were great and I learned beginning rolls, a few chords and timing techniques and was just starting on songs when I remembered this video that was one of the factors in getting my banjo in the first place. Thought I'd take an Easter break and give this a shot- could always come back to it later. On Friday I started and had it locked Tuesday- granted a waltz version, but still, had all the licks in the right direction. I even had to look in the first 10 lessons to understand the forward reverse roll starting with 5. Not to knock the original course, just for me personally, I think the book I had was kind of a crutch- and by using your technique of small bites, adding on, repeating up to the new stuff- watching listening and hearing you play was for me, far superior in memorizing the licks. So kind of bass ackwards- I will now start your first 10 lessons, while continuing to practice this--my first month of practice was like learning a stringed instrument--but over the past few days- with your instruction- that instrument now actually sounds like a banjo---granted, a banjo in slow motion- but without slides and hammer-ons, the picture is still black and white- no color. Just like you say--I think I'm hooked---and thank you for helping me get there!
thank you so much!! i just started playing the banjo last December and thanks to your lessons i have learned a lot and always look forward to playing every day! your lessons have helped me very much. thank you again!
Thanks Jim! It‘s taken me two weeks to learn You are my Sunshine and this. This one was much easier after the struggle last week. Now I have five songs to practice. Great teaching!
I got a banjo 3 months ago never having played an instrument before. If anyone told me I’d learn foggy mountain breakdown (even the simple version) in that short amount of time, I’d have laughed. Thank you very much, Jim, for all your lessons. (I did the first 10, then ‘you are my sunshine’, then this, and now dissecting your ‘groundspeed’ lesson lick by lick to learn it.)
Thank you for wettin my whistle gonna give that ole banjo a dusting off learn a lick or two. I checked two others they hit the target but yours hit da bullseye God bless
I just bought my first banjo. It's an open back 5 string (I'll get a bluegrass one some day) Your videos are helping me so much! And you're a great teacher. Your videos actually get me playing. Thank you!
Thank you so much for putting your lessons on youtube Jim! I just bought a banjo in March and I am really enjoying it. I’m sure I wouldn’t like it so much if I didn’t have such a good teacher🍎😀
Love your lessons and the way you break them down for us who are trying to have some fun and learn a bit along the way. And, by the way, when I slow this down to half speed... You are quite reminiscent of Foster Brooks... Sounds like you've been hittin' the moonshine... Love it! Play on!
Thank you so much for this tutorial. I finished a bluegrass banjo class last semester and I have trouble following what some tab and other tutorials have to say, but this felt like being back in class. I'm getting a hang of it now, but I still need to practice!
Thanks Jim, It took me about 5 days to learn each section and practice them individually but now I have it. I just need to work on putting them all together. I've been playing banjo for about 6 days now and this video has helped me learn my first song.
In these trying times, one needs to keep their head, & I couldn't think of anything better than to listen to Foggy Mountain Breakdown. The 5 string banjo...a true American instrument contrived from the mind of an American, and I just can't help but smile when I hear someone laying it down with a 5 string banjo. As a drummer, bassist & guitarist, I (in my old age) felt compelled to buy me a beginner-esque banjo with a mute & picks. Your vid is the one I went with and for good reason...its as simple a lesson as a lesson on FMB can be, & I took off my (now grown) kid's Act 1 toy guitar's low E string & replaced it with a 10 gauge string tuned to a high G. Therefore I have a miniature lil 'geeter' tuned to a banjo. (I just tuned down the A string so that it doesn't resonate) and I'm having a great time learning from your vid, Jim....the perfect thing for my demeanor during these Convid 19 times. By the time my banjo arrives, I should be ready enough to practice on my own because of you, friend. Thx a whole bunch now......hear?
If you would like a TAB for this video I did share it here: sellfy.com/p/vE6V/
Thank you!
I bought it.great intro as well thnks.. :)
This is hands down the best tutorial of this tune out there. Some people spend like 15 minutes explaining the open roll, and others blow past the tricky bits, but the pacing here is perfect, for me anyway.
Thanks 😊
He’s definitely my number one go to
Jim is the man
Jim. I want to tell you that i appreciate you so much. I had a really rough time last may. I completely blew my knee out and had surgery 3 weeks after getting divorced, moving alone from Tennessee to North Carolina, and getting stuck alone on the mountian for 2 months, unable to go anywhere... I bought a banjo a week before surgery and im so glad i found you here. I tried learning 10 years before but times were different then and i gave up. You completely got me thru the tough times and i learned very easily with your videos! thank you so much for everything you do here. You are a national treasure.
I hope you don't take this the wrong way Jim, but I subscribed to your channel just to watch and listen to you teach. As I've said before, I've been pickin' the banjer for more than 35 years but I often come here just to listen to you teach.
The way you peer into the camera gives me the feeling that you're directly connected to your students and it gives a really great personal connection to them in my opinion. Foggy Mountain Breakdown isn't the easiest easy tune to learn but you make it easy because of the way you chip it into small chunks and ask your students to stop there and practice.
I think your teaching method is absolutely amazing Jim, and I wish I had you and UA-cam way back when I first picked up the banjo. Well done, Jim, and thanks for taking the time to build confidence in so many new pickers. You have a very kind soul Jim.
+Bud M. Thanks. I've always been a bit reluctant to teach via video since the personal interaction is gone. The goofy stuff seems to help me connect...
How could any of that be taken the wrong way? Hahaha... It's a wonderful compliment to his teaching style, and I agree wholeheartedly!
Lol. Why would that be taken the wrong way? Jim’s obviously not a sociopath. 😂
Yup thanks Jim.
Looking through some videos a few months ago I came across your video on "You want to learn Bluegrass Banjo" Hell Yeah!!! I went out a week later and bought a banjo.. My brothers all play guitar and I was never interested.. But I love the sound of the banjo.. I think I always have.. Anyhoo... I'm leaning rolls at the moment.. I haven't gotten to your second Cripple Creek lesson yet.. Soon.. But I really like the way you teach.. I wish I could find someone like you here in Australia!!!
The fact that you take time to respond to people shows your dedication to making this teachable to everyone. Well done.
Thanks. I try to respond when I can. Sometimes I just don’t have an answer... :)
Nicely done. I have studying with you since early March. It is important to go back over early lessons to assure authenticity of what you are doing.! Also, let’s you gauge progress. Thanks, neighbor.
It's like having an old friend teaching me in my home. Love the videos, love the tabs.....Thanks, Jim
Long time finger picker guitarist here. I bought my first banjo a couple weeks ago, some 1970's japanese made thing they used to sell here in Australia. Drove out to some guys farm in woop woop, got her cheap off facebook marketplace..nice bloke. She seems to stay in tune and makes a hell of a racket. Drives my wife crazy so I have to stuff a sock behind the bridge. This is the best channel to learn for us knuckleheads..love it mate!!
I have been going through your videos for 9 weeks and have accomplished what I thought that would not be possible! Thanks for posting Jim! You are a great instructor!
Thanks for letting me teach you
Bought a banjo, watched Your video for 2 Hours and got the notes down. Now rinse and repeat till I get the speed right. Loved your video, Jim. For me you are the Bob Ross of banjo.
Keep picking! You've got this.
My dad is teaching me this right now and whenever I get done what he wants me to, I come here immediately to learn more... im addicted to the banjo
Awesome! Would love to hear you play.
Jim, Your the Greatest !! I became disabled 12 yrs ago and I used to play banjo a little, I have lost all feeling on my right side and live 24/7 in Chronic pain. 10 major operations but my nerves in my neck are pinned along my spine, Ripped apart nerves can NOT be repaired. Doctors say something happened as a Vietnam Vet but I receive $0.00 from the U.S.M.C. , As u can see in my picture I rehab Hurt Squirrels but the ones that live with us can't be returned to the wild. They would die so They live in our home free like kings LOL, I want to thank you for taking your time to teach slowly , Living in Chronic Pain I have lost my ability to remember thing anymore. So I watch and watch your videos as much as I can. If you view my UA-cam page, DUNCAN the squirrel was born with Brain Disorder, I have had him to two specialist that say he will never be able to jump straight in trees, so, he will live a wonderful life with my wife and I. He travels with us up to Blue Ridge, GA. where we have some land.Thank you my friend, GOD BLESSSteve
Mr. Jim thankful for everything you teach and the way you break down and simplify each lesson . I am 59 and just started playing thank you.
Thanks for letting me teach you ☺️
You are my hero.
I've spent the last 8 years not playing my banjo. You just made me pick it up again and remember how amazing it feels to get this.
Mr Pankey, thank you for doing these video banjo lessons. I have been working on your lessons for almost 2 years now. I keep in mind from beginner video lesson one. Practice like bushing your teeth every day. Best advice from a pro to a beginner. Your a great man! You put smiles on peoples faces.
Thanks for letting me teach you ☺️
14:15 for practice
You’re the best teacher ever, I’ve learned so much from you in only a week and now I can play songs all day long
Awesome! Keep picking. :)
Hey Mr. Pankey, I am about three weeks into playing my first banjo, and I have already pretty much mastered your version of Cripple Creek, and Banjo in the Hollow, and am now halfway through this version of Foggy Mountain Breakdown. My wife is thoroughly impressed with how quickly I've picked up this instrument. I must say, you are absolutely a phenomenal teacher, and I really appreciate your first ten lessons and this one as well. I am absolutely stoked to continue learning from your excellent lessons here. You have brought a lot of joy to me up here in rural Ontario in just the past few weeks alone; I've always wanted to play the banjo but never had the confidence that I could conquer the instrument. With your brilliant teaching style I have all of the confidence in the world that I can play with pride this instrument. My wife has been kind enough to order me a Gold Tone Cripple Creek 100 banjo as an upgrade to my Amazon banjo (which required hours of tinkering and a new head to set up, and has a terrible warble to the sound at the best of times), because she's so impressed with the speed of my learning. Anyway, thank you for these excellent lessons, I greatly appreciate your time and effort in producing these. Cheers!
Thanks for letting me help you learn 😀
I got very into bluegrass music the past few years so I purchased a banjo and I can not thank you enough for these videos!
Awesome! You've got this!
Foggy Mountain Breakdown, my nemesis and the reason I started, you've given me hope here :-) Thanks, great video/lesson
Glad to help!
Just spent 2 hours on this after neglecting my practice and that was hard work.. My hands are getting stiff so back at it tomorrow..Started back in February on your videos every day but family commitments drew me away but determined to get back on it.. cheers Jim for being a great teacher...
You taught me cripple creek and now foggy mountain breakdown. Thank you for being such a great teacher!
Hey Jim, just wanted to say thanks! I bought a Deering Goodtime Classic 15 years ago with thoughts of learning to play. I picked for a few weeks and learned rolls and a couple easy songs that I never really played right. A couple weeks ago I got the itch to try it again and found this video. A night or two here and there turned into a handful of evenings over that last couple weeks and tonight I finally got the last roll down then….I played Foggy Mountain Breakdown! Finally, a song that other people can recognize! You’re a GREAT teacher! Please, keep it up!
Thanks for letting me help you learn!
Earl Scruggs was my cousin and I wasn't able to really pick his brain on the art he mastered. I did learn some. I enjoy watching your videos.
Thanks for watching 😊
Jim, your online banjo tutorials make learning how to play the banjo so much easier than other tutorials.
Yes, he is very generous. I have been playing just two years and started at age 51. I learned from the Wayne Erbsen books first. I have played almost every day from 30 minutes to one hour for two years. I have learned Dueling Banjos from the Geoff Howland book and plenty from the Wayne Erbsen books.. I have the Foggy Mountain Break Down in the Earl Scruggs book, but every time I looked at it I thought "nah" not today, and did another song such as Ground Hog , or Down The Road.
Ok now it is time to learn this from your video. Three months I reckon.
I am from the UK and now live in Taiwan. I pretty much have the only banjo in the whole country. Your videos reach far and wide Mr Panky. In three months I will be blasting this in the parks of Taipei just over the small sea border from Communist China. THANK YOU Mr Jim Pankey , in three months my banjo will sing this song.
Would love to hear you play! 😀
@@JimPankey At the end of March I will send you a link playing this. Good or bad I will send it. Thank you.
@@JimPankey I Pretty much got it down now , just needs to be more smooth, so a month ahead of schedule. I bought your tab after listening only for two weeks. I will now buy your tab for the Foggy Mountain Breakdown expansion pack and Country Roads as I can sing that one. I will post it next week. I think learning by watching is best then when it is pretty much down buy your tab to clean up the playing。 Or I get tab addicted..
Ive had to watch this a dozen times to absorb it all, but I have to agree with previous comments that call it a comprehensive tutorial. Thanks for all you do Sir!
Glad I could help!
The man is a brilliant teacher and in my humble opinion the best banjo teaching videos on the internet, Thanks jim 😀 👍
Thank you for the very kind words.
Thank you Jim !! Your teaching style has made it a joy learning the banjo at 60 yrs. young.
Very welcome!
Enjoying this video.
Thanks!!!
I really like the way you teach the song in pieces. Even I can understand it.
Undoubtedly the best banjo teacher on the internet and what a lovely lovely guy as well, Thanks jim 😀
☺️
No mater what playing level you may be at or type of banjo we can all learn from Jim. I appreciate his easy way of explaining proper playing techniques. His not afraid to share his talents as we all develop our own. Everyone keep on picking!
Thanks Carl!
Jim you are a GOOD Dude! Thank you for your time and passion with the banjo!
Awesome! Wanted to learn this for a long time. This is the best instructional on UA-cam.
That's what I'm talking about! I could never get it before, now I'm catching on, thanks, Jim!
Thank you so much! I been claw hammering for a decade but only dabbled in 3 finger picking. Your teaching style is just perfect! Thank you!
You're welcome. Glad to help!
Just picked up a copy of the TAB. Thanks for putting this tutorial and TAB together. I am 17 days into my Banjo journey. I am bouncing from your beginner class and Eli's. Having an absolute blast getting 2-4 hours a day of practice! Thanks for taking so much time laying out a catalog of tutorials. Kudos!
Have fun!
I never thought I'd be able to play foggy mountain breakdown, but your fantastic teaching style really helped me break it down and me get through it--thanks! Your tab book was also a very helpful reference for this :)
Thanks!
Thanks for watching and the support!
Hvala!
Nema na čemu!
I've been talking about picking up a banjo for years, well my wife surprised me with one for Christmas. I've been watching all your videos, you make it look so easy! And really after just a week it's not too bad. Thanks Jim for breaking it down so nicely.
I'm 59 and I've played drums in rock bands for 40 yrs(geezer! I'm lookin at what I just wrote! Damn I'm old) but I've wanted to front my own country gospel band forever and if not now I'll never do it so I've been playing banjo now less then a month. I do practice and I know I have to learn what chords go together 1 4 5 and how to know that naturally, without thought, how to get comfortable picking and with finger picks, how to do all the rolls n all so thanks jim you have a comfortable relaxed way of teaching. I had to wait today at the dmv and brought the banjo and practiced in my car for hours before getting in to do my business. I like doing the licks but its putting everything together that a lil tough the fingers and brain dont necessarily agree but I know it takes time like drumming does. Well see in coupla yrs if I can do it. Thanks again jim.
You can do it!
This is absolutely the best tutorial for this song on the internet! I've seen quite a few, tried playing by ear, but you explained it simple and perfectly. Greetings from Poland for all banjo fans!
Glad it helped!
only on lesson two, but looking forward to playing this some day!.
very informative videos. Thanks for taking the time to post.
Thank you for the lesson. I’ve had my banjo for about a month now and been watching your videos. I’m working on foggy mountain breakdown. You make it simple to learn. The biggest problem is me lol. The fact that I’m 64 years old don’t help me a lot. I know the entire song now. I just want to make it sound better. The speed may never come but I really enjoy playing the banjo. I appreciate all the time you put into these lessons.
I'm so glad I can help you learn!
Tom Tom- I am right with you at 65- may never be good at it but am having tons of fun with this new world, and can't help but think memorizing these songs will help a person stay sharp. This was my first song and the reason I picked this instrument. After learning this song I went back and took his 10 beginner lessons, and added a few more songs- and am finding the hardest thing is to get my work done- before I pick up the banjo! It's good to see people like Jim who share their talent in such an entertaining and human way! Good luck to us both!
Love your lessons and tutoring, you are by far the best instructor that I have found on UA-cam yet, I have tried other instructors and until I found you almost gave up,now I'm enjoying it and loving what I'm learning, thank you so much for doing this, oh yeah my 6 yr old grandson was able to play the first part of Foggy Mountain brake down ! Now thats awesome.Thank you again.
Thanks for letting me teach you ☺️
Mr Jim I try to go the website you posted and I wanted to donate 20.00 $, when I did it went through, but then it reversed it. If the website doesn't work anymore I will be happy to mail you a money order for that amount, I know you've had some health problems, and I really like your lessons, I would like to donate as I learn. Please give address are let me know how, Thank you, Kim
I literally just started playing consistently three weeks ago and this is by far one of the most technical pieces I’m learning. You taught me how to play cripple creek and the first part to rainbow connection. You’re a great teacher can’t wait to learn more with you
Thanks for letting me be a part of your banjo journey 😀
Jim, thanks so much for these lessons. I hope you and the family are keeping well and safe.
You're so welcome! Thanks, you too!
You are a wonderful teacher!
Your style is so easy to understand and follow
Thank You!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you! 😃And thanks for watching.
I got my Banjo for Christmas; about 3 weeks ago. I was just able to finish playing this for the first time! WoW! I NEVER thought I would be able to play this tune! I am in love with the banjo. Thanks for teaching in such an easy way.
You Sir do an outstanding job teaching. I came back to playing for years and years of absence and your step by step is so much appreciated. I am actually going unlearning some muscle memory in my picking rolls and am loving it. Thank You!!!
Thanks for letting me teach you 😀
Truly the Bob Ross of banjo teachers. You got me into banjo and I'm starting to get the hang of stuff so thanks a lot from England 👍
thank you for the highest of praise :)
The reason I picked up learning the banjo was to play "Foggy Mountsin Breakdown" because Earl Scruggs is my hero. After watching your video, I discovered to my absolute delight that I CAN PLAY THAT!!!!! Thank you so much for this video!!!!!
That’s awesome!
At 70 and beginning Banjo to play at my senior center with the other geezers on their guitars I'm looking forward to learning to play this and make them all have to adjust their pacemakers. Seriously I learned so much from your instruction and look forward to learning more. Thank you.
Thanks for letting me help you learn 😊
Just want to say thank you Jim here from the uk i started playing banjo a month ago thinking i would never be able to play but your lessons are perfect and have got me going and im enjoying every minute of it i prays you sir thankyou once again
You can do it!
I'm so glad i stumbled upon you - aged 58 & six weeks in on my first banjo with zero experience of playing any instrument, with the exception of random three finger picking on my son's 3/4 acoustic guitar that I somehow naturally gravitated to......I reckon I was born to pick banjo, the rolls come naturally to me - however my stumpy sausage-like fingers are causing a real issue struggle with chords, but I'm getting there.
So excited you’re playing!
My dad always played the banjo for me when I was a little girl. This was my favorite song.
Always tried to get him to teach me but he never would.
He passed away a few years ago and left me his banjo, but I haven't had the heart to go back in his house to get it.
Been thinking the last couple of days about going to get it and learning to play.
I can play several other instruments, so I have a rudimentary understanding of music at least.
Glad I came across this video. Hope to watch others in the series.
Be sure to start with my beginner series. You can do it!
Nothing like spending a Saturday learning a new song, courtesy of Mr Pankey. Can't get much better than this.
Thanks for letting me help you with your Saturday 😊
I like the way you teach banjo. I always learned more from someone taking their time and break it down slowly and teaching that way. I enjoy these very much and hope to get better over time. Keep up the good work. Thanks again....
Glad I can help!
Your welcome Jim....
You're a great teacher. I'm from Brazil and I whack all of your videos. Thanks for that.
Amazing video! I a brand new to banjo but I have been a multi instrumentalist for about 3.5 decades and this is hands down one of the best tutorials I've found.
Thanks ☺️
finally picked up my banjo after purchasing it MANY years ago. This video content is awesome, thanks a lot!
Awesome! Thanks for watching. 😊
you're a really good teacher. i'm a guitarist, just got a banjo last week. your video is exactly what i was looking for. thanks, i'm rollin!!
I’ve watched about 40 million videos on how to play this song, but I didn’t get any of it. This is the first tutorial that actually takes you along each step and truly teaches you how. Excellent job!
I’m doing the reverse roll but with the video,lol! Got that one down pat!! Absolutely love the way you take the time to show us and explain at the same time! Please don’t stop,I’m learning so much! Hugs from Quebec,Canada!!
Jim, I just got my banjo a week ago, I have played and sometimes taught guitar for many years. Your teaching is fantastic and I can now play cripple creek and various other tunes to a acceptable level (a bit slow but it's still early days). I wish I had your talent for teaching by talking sense to people and clearly letting them know exactly what is needed to learn a tune. I am so pleased I found you when I searched for banjo lessons! Best wishes from Scotland !
Thanks for the kind words and thanks for watching! 😊
Learning to pick, your vids are the least complicated and I made progress I never thought possible. I'm 58 and could not imagine beginning this late but, I enjoy it even if I'm never as proficient as Jim Panky he makes you feel it's possible.
I'm so glad I can help you learn! Keep me posted on your progress. :)
Hi Jim fantastic job could watch you all day
Thanks!
I got a banjo about 5 years ago. I got too intimidated by bluegrass playing and ended up going the overhand route. Now it's time to finally learn my rolls and sir.... I love your lessons. Thank you so much.
You can do it!
I'm still working on your beginning lessons but am so excited to have found you. You make the learning so wonderful.
Glad you're enjoying the videos! Keep on picking!
I started banjo last month and from watching you, i have already learned three songs. Im not fast with them yet but I'm getting there. Thank you so much for being such a great teacher. Love the vids!!!
You can do it!
From Singapore. I was in Savannah last year and enjoyed the Southern hospitality. And I have been watching a whole bunch of banjo lessons online and yours is really personal and connected, showing your great love for your music!
It's really difficult to learn to play the banjo back here in the far East, let alone buy a banjo. But your video is really encouraging and I will probably buy one epicphone that is being sold here.
Please keep me posted on your progress.
There's so much that I like about what you're doing. Your beginner series has made learning very accessable. I'll have to admit, however, that the G lick in this song kicked my ass for quite awhile until I played it back repeatedly in slow motion. I just wanted to say thanks, and I hope you keep up the effort. It's very much appreciated.
Thanks for letting me teach you! ☺️
Holy smokes I learned it. I took my time to practice (it took me almost two months to make it through the video) but I can play it now with only a couple bad notes! Maybe another month and it'll be flawless! You rock Jim
That's great!
Thank you for your lessons!You make this stuff a little less intimidating, I've been following your lessons for about 2 years and have decided, hey I might really be able to do this!God bless you Sir
You're very welcome! You can do it!
Wanted to learn banjo ever since I first heard this tune in the movie as a kid. Got my instrument March 2nd and began the included instructions and CD lessons- they were great and I learned beginning rolls, a few chords and timing techniques and was just starting on songs when I remembered this video that was one of the factors in getting my banjo in the first place. Thought I'd take an Easter break and give this a shot- could always come back to it later. On Friday I started and had it locked Tuesday- granted a waltz version, but still, had all the licks in the right direction. I even had to look in the first 10 lessons to understand the forward reverse roll starting with 5. Not to knock the original course, just for me personally, I think the book I had was kind of a crutch- and by using your technique of small bites, adding on, repeating up to the new stuff- watching listening and hearing you play was for me, far superior in memorizing the licks. So kind of bass ackwards- I will now start your first 10 lessons, while continuing to practice this--my first month of practice was like learning a stringed instrument--but over the past few days- with your instruction- that instrument now actually sounds like a banjo---granted, a banjo in slow motion- but without slides and hammer-ons, the picture is still black and white- no color. Just like you say--I think I'm hooked---and thank you for helping me get there!
Thanks for letting me teach you 😊
thank you so much!! i just started playing the banjo last December and thanks to your lessons i have learned a lot and always look forward to playing every day! your lessons have helped me very much. thank you again!
You'll have to post a video of your progress! I bet others beginners would love to hear! I know I would.
i will definitely work on it sir!!
Thanks Jim! It‘s taken me two weeks to learn You are my Sunshine and this. This one was much easier after the struggle last week. Now I have five songs to practice. Great teaching!
Awesome. Thanks for letting me teach you 😊
I got a banjo 3 months ago never having played an instrument before. If anyone told me I’d learn foggy mountain breakdown (even the simple version) in that short amount of time, I’d have laughed.
Thank you very much, Jim, for all your lessons. (I did the first 10, then ‘you are my sunshine’, then this, and now dissecting your ‘groundspeed’ lesson lick by lick to learn it.)
Fantastic! You’ll have to share some videos of your progress.
Jim, I gotta do that, yeah, if only to link back to your page and tell folks where to go to learn.
Just received a banjo for christmas, your channel is awesome! I love the way you split your lesson and take the time to explain clearly/show .
Thanks for letting me teach you. 😊
Amazing tutorial. I'm learning this an hour before going camping with some buddies and feel like I've k own the song forever. Thank you so much
Have fun picking it!
Jim thanks to you this is the 5th song I’ve learned from your teaching! I really appreciate your simple teaching I just picked up banjo 2 months ago!
Fantastic!
Thank you for wettin my whistle gonna give that ole banjo a dusting off learn a lick or two. I checked two others they hit the target but yours hit da bullseye God bless
I just bought my first banjo. It's an open back 5 string (I'll get a bluegrass one some day) Your videos are helping me so much! And you're a great teacher. Your videos actually get me playing. Thank you!
u can play B/G on an open back, no problem
a lot of open backs allow you to add a resonator
I am new to the banjo and I am having so much fun learning with your videos, they’re extremely helpful and patient. Thank you, Jim!!
I'm glad you like them!
thanks to you I can now play this right through. you're an amazing patient teacher
Glad I could help!😊
Thank you so much for putting your lessons on youtube Jim! I just bought a banjo in March and I am really enjoying it. I’m sure I wouldn’t like it so much if I didn’t have such a good teacher🍎😀
Thank you for all the help Jim. :) You're the greatest teacher I've come across and I've learnt a lot from you. Thanks again!!
Love your lessons and the way you break them down for us who are trying to have some fun and learn a bit along the way. And, by the way, when I slow this down to half speed... You are quite reminiscent of Foster Brooks... Sounds like you've been hittin' the moonshine... Love it!
Play on!
Thanks. 😊. Yup, slowed down is amusing.
What a fantastic tutorial! Learning with you reminds me of when I was a kid sitting around playing music with my uncles. Thanks so much.
Thanks for letting me teach you
Great videos, they help this ole banjo player get better and learn new things.
Thank you so much for this tutorial. I finished a bluegrass banjo class last semester and I have trouble following what some tab and other tutorials have to say, but this felt like being back in class. I'm getting a hang of it now, but I still need to practice!
Glad I could help! 😊
Thank you from Spain Jim for your amazing class and your incredible patience !! I love it.
😊thanks for watching
@@JimPankey I'm watching and learning banjo line of Foggy Mountain Breakdown.😉
Thanks Jim, It took me about 5 days to learn each section and practice them individually but now I have it. I just need to work on putting them all together. I've been playing banjo for about 6 days now and this video has helped me learn my first song.
Awesome!
This is great. I've been playing that lick wrong for a year. It sounds so much more authentic now. It really rolls. Thanks, Jim!
Glad I could help!
You're a great teacher, Jim! Love your patient and informative teaching style. I'm finally getting the hang of this tune!
So glad you're getting it!
In these trying times, one needs to keep their head, & I couldn't think of anything better than to listen to Foggy Mountain Breakdown. The 5 string banjo...a true American instrument contrived from the mind of an American, and I just can't help but smile when I hear someone laying it down with a 5 string banjo. As a drummer, bassist & guitarist, I (in my old age) felt compelled to buy me a beginner-esque banjo with a mute & picks. Your vid is the one I went with and for good reason...its as simple a lesson as a lesson on FMB can be, & I took off my (now grown) kid's Act 1 toy guitar's low E string & replaced it with a 10 gauge string tuned to a high G. Therefore I have a miniature lil 'geeter' tuned to a banjo. (I just tuned down the A string so that it doesn't resonate) and I'm having a great time learning from your vid, Jim....the perfect thing for my demeanor during these Convid 19 times. By the time my banjo arrives, I should be ready enough to practice on my own because of you, friend. Thx a whole bunch now......hear?
Please keep me posted on your progress
Putting the clawhammer down and picking up 3 fingers, you were the first I thought of to break into it, thanks
Such a good lesson from a really inspiring teacher! Thanks Jim, you rule!
Thanks for letting me teach you 😊
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