I tried to learn the guitar and failed and was told the banjo was harder to play... but I always wanted to play one, so I got a banjo and was told to Watch your videos. You brake it down and make it so simple ,and now I can play the banjo.
Almost 60 myself and always enjoyed playing acoustic guitar since around 14, I played almost always for self enjoyment. (Drummer and there was always a country music gig somewhere in Tulsa area in the mid 80's). I learned that I really should have learned a bit of banjo FIRST. I'm a definite beginner and absolutely love Jim's instruction! Very good "therapy" for me.
Holey cow. Ok Jim I am gonna comment. I have had a banjo for 5 years and absolutely love the sound, but never learnt much over that time and it sat in my wardrobe getting old right along with me. I found a bunch of different videos this year on the net and all seemed ok, but none really made me want to play, they just made feel a little slow :-) The I discovered your first video and it sparked me into picking it up, cleaning it off and playing just a little bit everyday. I am 57 now and all I want to do is to be able to play some songs with confidence. Damn if your style didn't strike a chord. I chuckle every time I watch and I feel good about playing and not being great, just having a go. It doubt I can hold any kind of timing together, but damn I love the sound and I really appreciate the guidance and way you think. A little bit everyday is all it takes, your lessons are pretty much the right size (for me) in terms of difficulty and stuff to learn. It has only been a few months but you know what, I feel absolutely terrific when I get bunch of notes together properly. Cheers for that, I can't thank you enough, not sure how these new rolls are going to fair, but its the right time for some new stuff. Wish I could shake your hand. For me and everyone young and old that you are inspiring, you have our gratitude for sure. All the best. Rick
Dear Rick, Hope you doping well. Please let me introduce myself my mamy is Iza, 37 years old and I try to learn play on the banjo based on Mr. Jim support on you tube. It's amazing how Jim can teach,I never play on any instrument before. I still can't play.. only do what MrJim shows on wideo slowly or a litle bit fastest but I still cannot anything else. But I know Mr.Jim is fantastic nad I'll fo it, I will be play on the banjo 😊. Wish you Greatest sound, fantastic play. I just start my adventure palying on the banjo and I'd love it, please don't giveup, greetings from Poland 😊
Rick, you described my situation perfectly. Jim, I agree with everything Rick said. I've been watching your videos and playing 30 minutes per day for just a month. I can't say I'm good yet, but I am having fun playing and love your videos and your style. Thank you. Jeff
Hang on a second while I take off my picks... That's better, can't type with them on. Every morning I get out of bed and I just can't wait to pick up my banjo again. That's down to you Mr Pankey with your incomparable teaching. It's like being taught by a favourite uncle. My heartfelt thanks, again
I'm from Minnesota, and was never much of a Bluegrass man. Just didn't hear a lot of it. But while listening to bands like The Avett Brothers and Trampled by Turtles (out of Duluth) I fell in love with the banjo. I've never played an instrument and can't really read music but bought a banjo recently. Searched UA-cam and found your lessons and thought ,"yep, this is the guy." It's been about 5 weeks, and although I'm struggling I'm loving every minute of it. Liking the banjo has opened me up to music I normally wouldn't listen to. Thanks man.
Im an italian exchange student in the US and i bought a banjo so i could learn a little about american culture, thank you for your lessons, i really enjoy them, and i’m learning super fast too! Thank you for being kind 🙏🏻
I remember when I got my banjo for the first time really wasn't that long ago but I had no idea what to do with it. now it's crazy I'm actually playing it and it don't sound too bad. I couldn't have done it without you Jim. you made your instructions super clear and I've never had so much fun learning from someone keep doing what you're doing man this world loves you for it.
DearJim, please record and keep continuation you lessons because no one can do to this and teach as you can. You'r students players need you and thank you for your support.
Jim, you've added a lot of joy to my life. I've had a banjo for several years but never had found a teacher, and tried to teach myself from books. Your videos are engaging and fun, and I've learned so much! Still can't believe that I'm playing Cripple Creek with the "fancy bits" like the hammer-ons and pull-backs and whatnot. I'm impressing even myself! My son is learning from your videos too and my goal is to be able to play Dueling Banjos with him before long! "Practice, practice, practice!" Thanks again ,Jim. You're a blessing. God bless.
Jim let me start by saying I hope you are doing well an are in the fast lane for recovery, I didn't you where having any problems until I got deeper into the videos. Anyways hope everything things going well .Started lesson 6 yesterday and working very hard on those patterns. You Sir are an excellent teacher I thank you much for it. Take care until next I ask you for more help. Tim
I have watched about every beginning bluegrass banjo video on UA-cam and I even had some lessons from my late uncle who was a great bluegrass banjo picker, but I just couldn't get it. I gave up hope that I could ever play a banjo. Then I discovered your video series. I still suck, but at least now I suck at actually playing all of Cripple Creek and I suck less every day. No other videos online come close to yours. Your instructions are top-notch.
Hello Mr.Pankey! Thank you so very much for all you are doing. I for one appreciate it very much. Not so much my son though as he told me today to learn a new song haha. So onward I go to banjo in the hollow. My brother bought me a used 4 string banjo around 30 years ago as I had confided in him that I like the banjo. I plunked away on it for about ten years but I prefer the sound of a 5 string so I traded it in for a brand new 5 string. Then I ran into some difficulties and couldn't play it. I couldn't even pick it up, I was so weak. 10 years of physio therapy, acupuncture and chiropractor later, here I am playing cripple creek with a big smile on my face :) Thanks again and may God bless you with all the good things.
Jim, thus is the best set of lessons. I have found. You are an outstanding teacher. You make it fun. (Even if I get frustrated. I will get it right! Even if it takes till Im 85. (Next year).
Jim, I was taking banjo lessons from a teacher at a music school, he was good but I took 5 lessons and still couldn’t play a song so luckily I found you online, now l can play cripple creek, albeit l am still smoothing it out but l will get there, thanks so much, keep up the good work
Got my first banjo at the young age of 50. I believe that if I had not found Jim Plankeys videos. I wou8be able to get it. But I am. Slowly be surely. Thank you Jim. Amazing
I have just started playing the banjo. I'm 66 yes old and have been drumming for 56 yrs. I always wanted to play the banjo. Your vids are great. I am now up to #4 and playing Cripple Creek. Thx again
The banjo has been intriguing to me for year’s since I was a child listening to bluegrass with my parents growing up in West Virginia. But once I saw Jerry Garcia ripping on one it was a bucket list for me. I just had my 50th birthday and my wife got me a Savannah from a local pawn shop. I just looked at it and smiled not knowing what the heck to do I got on UA-cam and bam there you were. Sir you have made it so basic and simple that I haven’t put it down I just watched episode 5 and holy crap I can’t wait to get it down. Now by no means am I going fast but I’m having the time of my life. Thank you for sharing your time and skills
Jim, I have wanted to play a banjo since i was 8. I was never able to have a banjo or a teacher for that matter. I'm 36 now and was able to finally get my first banjo. Finding you here as a teacher has brought my dream to life. Thank you so much for taking the time for the tutorials. You are the reason the banjo will live on.
Jim for president! Seriously, very helpful videos at a pace I can comprehend as a new banjo player. Thanks so much for making them. You are the Internet's banjo teacher.
Hello Jim :) When my son's guitar teacher lent him his banjo for the Summer I went looking for some videos. As soon as I saw you I knew that playing was going to be a whole lot of fun. Well, 5 weeks on and unfortunately my son has decided the banjo isn't for him but I can play Cripple Creek and loved learning how to play so much that I now have my own banjo!
Found my son busy looking for videos for his guitar! He'd tuned it up and was ready to play :) This morning he came to show me a d major! You've inspired him, thank you Jim :)
Mr. Pankey, I would like to thank you very much for your lessons. I found myself at ground zero for Hurricane Ida without electricity or internet connection for two weeks. What I did have was what I remembered from lessons 1-5, so that’s what I practiced between removing fallen limbs, running a generator, and surviving in a truly primitive situation. I credit this for helping me make it through with a wee bit of sanity. Thank you.
Thank you sincerely Jim! My wife gave me a Deering Good Time banjo before our daughter was born Now with this social distancing, I've picked it up and gone further in two weeks than in the last 16 years -with your help. You are filling this tough time with joy and melody. The gratitude I feel is huge!
Jim, thank you for your time and effort. My beautiful wife bought me a banjo 3 weeks ago and you have helped me get my brain and fingers communicating to produce my version of antiquated notes. Hopefully in a month's time I can string a good tune.
I have to tell you that you may have saved my sanity. What I have left anyways. I started learning how to play the banjo 30 years ago but had to give up my banjo after a few months due to finances. I started again when I found your videos. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for putting these on here free of charge. You are one of the best teachers and THE best online. I’ve watched several over the years but yours is the only ones I felt comfortable enough to try. I’m playing cripple creek, slowly and sometimes “plinky”, but I’m playing nonetheless. Again, thank you.
Jim, I'm having so much fun. You are the most wonderful teacher. I can't believe that I'm playing Cripple Creek. So looking forward to what's coming. Thank you and God bless you.
Jim These videos are fantastic , I have been this far and go back and repeat them over and over because I haven't got them quite yet and certainly not smooth either , the great thing besides your teaching is being able to go back over the lessons an unlimited amount of times. Thank you for putting them up
Thank you so much Jim. I am learning so much from you. I learned to play guitar at 40 years old and always wanted to play the banjer. I had a Washburn banjer when I was young and drinking, so I never learned to play and sold it. Since I have found your instructional videos I purchased a jida or lida ( not sure ) and now I'm learning at 60 years old. You are a GOD send as I don't have money for lessons. Keep up the good work and GOD BLESS YOU.
Hi Jim, I really enjoy your lessons. It’s obvious that you also teach in real life. I love the way you build your lessons, combining techniques and songs so naturally. Your modesty shows in really taking the teachers position instead of showing off how well you can play as the obvious skilled musician that you are. And your humour, including these deep looks in the camera really makes me laugh. Keep up doing the good work. Greetings from a fellow musician in Holland 🙋🏼♀️ 🌷
Hi Jim, I have started playing the banjo and have finally been able to log in and supply a comment. I am in my 60's have never played the banjo I am truly grateful for your lessons and your teaching technique easy to follow and learn how to play. I am on lesson five now coming along slowly and practice practice practice. Hope I can play as smooth sas you some day. Thanks so much. Don
Jim, I am a Senior Citizen in my 70's and your instructions are so clear I have had a banjo for 5 years and absolutely love the sound, but never learnt much over that time You have made my banjo experience great.You are the most wonderful teacher.I am very greatful for the videos and all the help Thanks 1
You said to keep coming back to the videos and I will sir. They're great I am progressing very well. Had my banjo for a few months but I have gotten so much better this last week or so following your lessons. I am very grateful Jim.
Hey Jim, I will be 71 this year and I find myself reinventing my life. When God gives me lemons, I make lemonade :-) I think the first banjo song I write will be called "Lemonade". I am up to lesson 6 and I can't tell you how much joy you are bringing into my life. Last night I was up late watching a movie and I kept grabbing my banjo every so often and I just get lost in it, lol. I am progressing very well and my speed is getting surprisingly fast. I hope someday we can meet at a festival or some venue. Till then, thanks for sharing the song in your heart. Warmly, Mike Florio
Hi Jim! Love how you teach, thank you! In lesson six, I was practicing at work and showing one of my coworkers the pull off. He said it looked like a booger flick!!! Hahaha made me laugh so hard , I had to take a break! Thank you for your instructions! For someone who had never picked up a stringed instrument, my husband says I am doing great!!!
Jim, glad you're doing all these videos. Way back in the late '70's and early '80's I tried the Banjo. I gave it up when I had to sell the banjo. Always wanted to get back to it but... Now I am in my middle '70's myself and am now just about ready to take on Lesson #6. Found out my right-hand trigger finger is fooling with me. 'Gee, do I really want to do this?' Then you showed how you kinds let your ring finger tag along. That's a relief! It's slow going for sure but I am willing to stay with it. I replay the lessons so much I'm gonna' wear out UA-cam. 😂 Thanks again for your channel.
Hi Jim, 66 and just starting. took 4 months to get cripple creek according to lessons 1-4. i was feeling good til I realised this is a massive pond I just jumped into. gonna stick with it, thanks
Jim, lm pushing 75 Been a mediocre guitar player for 50 yrs. Been saying id like to try banjo and my sons gave me one for chriistmas. Love your vidios. All i can do to keep from jumping ahead. Feel like lm doing quite well at lession 6 in 6 weeks. Good health and God bless you.
Jim, I call you my banjo teacher. Your lessons are the best. I'm a born-in-Kentucky-grew-up-in-the-Appalachian-Mountains-of-North-Carolina girl and I love blue-grass. I was scared to even try to learn the banjo, but you are giving me practical help and inspiration as I learn. Thank you!
Jim, you’re the best! I took banjo lessons when I was 14 after 8 years of piano lessons. I didn’t stay with it, mainly because I struggled with my cheap rent-to-own banjo that was really a mess. The action was terrible; nut was so high that the strings cut my fingers trying to press nearly a quarter inch to the fretboard, and my tension 5th tuning peg wouldn’t stay tight. It’s been sitting in the closet for 45 years. I knew I couldn’t get anything for it in that condition, and I still want to play, so I took it in and got a complete setup, drum tightened, new bridge and strings, new geared 5th string peg and the action fixed. I never got past Cripple Creek all those years ago, and it took me about a week to get back to where I left off. Having a blast practicing with your video lessons. I’m determined to learn Foggy Mountain Breakdown after I get Cripple Creek polished. Just wish I could find my copy of Earl Scruggs and the 5 String Banjo. I may have to cough up another $35 to get a new one. Thanks for the inspiration and helping me get back to it! PS. I bought a Ukulele a month before I got my banjo fixed and have learned a bunch of songs already on it. Enjoyed your ukulele videos too!
Today is my day one for this video. I’ve watched lesson 1-5 over and over again until I got it right. Love your videos and the way you teach it’s making learning the banjo easy and fun. Thank you very much Mr. Jim
Thank you so much for the great lessons 2 months since I picked up my first banjo truly majorly addicted to your lessons thanks for making the banjo make sense.
Thank you so much Jim! I've grown up in Minnesota with my dad's band playing traditional Irish, bluegrass, old time, and gospel at different times over the years. I've done a lot of singing myself, choir in school, chanties with my drinking buddies, and karaoke... but for whatever reason I was always afraid to pick up an instrument. One day I just decided to buy a banjo, on an impulse... and once it was delivered I discovered your videos. You're a fantastic teacher, you helped me learn quickly and jump right into the fun part. Thanks to you, I'm not scared anymore.
You have made my banjo experience great. I think I need a little humor in my lessons and seeing your head come out of the top/left corner gives me a smile every time. Also they seem to be the appropriate complexity/length for my little brain and big clumsy fingers. Thanks!
Love your teaching style Jim. Have been playing Banjo for 6 weeks. (Only following your lesson for 4) If I keep going at this rate I'll be playing cripple creek at my local folk session in 2 weeks time.
I really appreciate these videos! I know they’re a few years old but I’m just now finding them getting my banjo out that I’ve had for probably 15 years. The shop gave my parents 4 free lessons for me when they bought it for me for Christmas, but I was always too scared to go! So thank you for doing these videos for people like me! They’re very appreciated! ❤️
Big thanks to you Jim! I went through this stage where I switched back to guitar then got lil lost in life , what not. And re- continued the previous lessons I was doing under your wonderful instruction . I do believe that there is good banjo teachers but many of them aren't very good tutors I have found. Until I come across your intersting and bouncy methods of simple fun playing. Love it! Cheers from down Under
@@JimPankey thankyou mate, and when I have sharpened up on my playing . Then I'm keen to post a video. Thankyou again. Funny thing is there this Australian film called The proposition made me feel so drawn to the sounds of the Banjo ussed in the film. Including deadwood into to the series. Always ever present banjo in westerns and folk / fantasy type movies I have noticed that . Wonderful instrument. Guitars are unique too but I find guitars are difficult but fun to play.
Jim you are awesome I just picked up a banjo 6 days ago and at 39 years old never playing before I can almost play cripple creek thanks to you I gotta work on this lesson an my speed but thank you so much
Jim I'm 53 never play anything. My wife passed on in 2009 by had given me a banjo for Christmas a year or so before I lost her. Just took it in and had it gone through. I can't read music but because of you I can now play Cripple Creek and Man of Constant sorrow. Ready for lesson 6 tomorrow. Thanks Man, My late wife would be impressed and every time I pick it up I think of her.
Hi Jim my name is Denny Holmes I am 54 and the banjo is the most cool's thing to me I have always wanted to learn I am now on lesson 6 no I am not a fast leaner but you are the best at teaching I would of never learned if it was not for u I even buyed a new banjo just to learn and I found u thank you very much I wish I could meet u just to shake your hand thank you again JIM u the best.
Listening to you and practicing this stuff is so rewarding. Sitting on the dock at my in-law’s cabin picking away. Thanks man for putting these beggining lessons out there, sincerely.
I started playing banjo since mothers day. My younger brother inspired me to learn, and I love hearing him play his banjo. He's been playing for 6 years now. Just wanted to say thank you for these lessons! They are so clear and they keep you interested without being TOO challenging moving forward. Anyway, THANK YOU!!
Bought a banjo on a whim after doing a bluegrass tour here Downunder (I'm a Singer/Guitarist). Boy am I glad I stumbled on your lessons - the banjo's quite a mind bed for a Guitar player, you're making it work for me. No aspirations to play in public much just for fun & that's what you teach. Thx Subscribed
Jim, am new to the banjo and 73 years old, but am dedicated to doing this. Am trying online lessons, and also using your teaching method. They differ some, but I love the way you make the skills develop through each lesson instead of just throwing the song out there. It is a developmental process that is very encouraging with small steps on each lesson. You are the best.
I can't even say how much I appreciate you making these videos, I bought a banjo on impulse and after only a week of an hour here and there I can already play cripple creek!
I’m 47 and just got my banjo this week and I’m really glad I found your lessons. Already on lesson 6 and I can play cripple creek “somewhat”, thanks to you!
Having a fabulous time one month into owning my first string instrument. Look forward to sitting there listening to you over and over again. Never gets old. Thank you
Still here crushing banjo practice and getting oh so much better. I gotta thank you a million cause I played cripple Creek for my 90 year old great grandfather and hearing cripple creek made him start to sing. Can’t wait for the next lesson.
Thanks, Jim. I've been sitting in my basement basically getting personal lessons from you for almost a month now!. . . My wife knows what I'm talking about when I say "Jim Pankey says..."
I don't comment much, but I just wanted to say "THANK YOU" for all your awesome videos! I'm older than a half century now, but I've always wanted to play the banjo. I finally got one only a short while back & I went searching for instruction on UA-cam; that's when I came across your channel. Now there are many other videos out there, but yours are the best! I just love your happy vibe & kind, smiling face; and you really explain things so well - and with lots and lots of encouragement. I appreciate that so much!! You really helped me know that I CAN do this if I just practice enough and take my time. Your instructional style is just perfect & now I am doing FAR better at this than I ever thought I could do - thanks to you! I am thrilled to be playing! I'm gonna keep at it of course & I look forward to learning more and more. I will always be grateful for you and your videos that helped me so much Jim - you are a real blessing!! THANK YOU!!!!
Thanks so much Jim,..I too am in my senior years and have experienced a rejuvinvation to learning to play a happy toe tapping sounding instrument. The banjo lessons are great!
Hi Jim. I had a banjo for Christmas and leaned cripple creek from your videos. I'm up to 6 now. I'm getting there with your help. Thanks for the great tuition 👍
You are the best! I can play cripple creek yay! Not very fast yet but I'm so happy. I'm from Liechtenstein living in London.. Greetings to the states. Thank you so much for making these lessons Jim
Hi Jim, I want to say how much I enjoy your videos.I am a new player and the fun way you present the material has helped me a great deal. I hope you continue to teach. Bernie
Hey Jim, I purchased your tab book but I don't know if it was supposed to be a download or if it was sent by mail. Anyway I didn't receive it yet. I ordered it on July 12th
Hey Jim, I found you series about six weeks ago (I've had a banjo for a few years but just.couldn't.get.the.hang.of.it). You've changed that completely, I hang out now to knock off each day, play thru the weekly lesson and then practice, practise, practise. Thanks for taking the time to show a bloke how to play.
Howdy jim its me johnny the hillbilly from Tennessee like i said I allways wounded to play the banjo and now I'm learning my better half told me that i sounding pretty good and i couldn't have done it without you so god bless you and keep up the good work your hillbilly johnny from Tennessee
Wow. I was trying to play that, having never played any instrument before. Was sure I couldn't do it. No coordination, fingers too fat, too much to think about at the same time. But I kept at it, half an hour here, fifteen minutes there. And then, tonight, bam! I was playing this at a speed I never would have thought possible. And, in just 6 lessons, it opened up a world for me! All this, in six-seven week since I got that banjo. Thank you, Jim!
Hey Jim, Newbie banjo student here; I absolutely love your videos and your teaching style. You have the rare skill of transforming the complex into something that can be understood and executed. Please keep these videos coming. Gerry
Jim, these lessons are great. I recently retired and often thought the banjo would be cool to learn. I played chords on guitar as a young person, but my picking hand was too dumb to learn much (or as a kid I just didn't want to practice). Thanks so much for these videos. I love the humor, the practical info and the leaning over to talk is just great.....
I have had a banjo for over ten years now, and have enjoyed tooling around on it at a very basic level (tried using a tutorial book), but after coming across your lessons, this is the first time I have made a purposeful, regularly scheduled attempt at gaining knowledge/skill at playing. Your teaching in the videos is clear and helpful, as are your demonstrations. The pace is good, as well- though I typically repeat a lesson twice (or even thrice) to be sure that I have the techniques cemented in my mind. It’s good to have things to practice that will help me to improve my playing. Thank you for putting these instructional videos out there for those of us who want to learn this fun instrument but who are not- for any number of reasons- meeting for in-person lessons with a banjo teacher.
All righty! Got all the bits of cripple creek down pretty well now, though I need to practice more precision with my strumming (my thumb pic keeps hitting the drum of the banjo on the five string...oops). Now to learn that new roll!
Just keep in mind that you're learning more than just Cripple Creek here. You'll use these techniques from now on in everything else you learn to play. :)
@@JimPankey Yes exactly! That's why I love your technique so much. I've started watching some other tutorials for basic songs and they'll do a roll and I'll be like "Hey! I know that one already!" But it gives the benefit of immediately being able to play a recognizable song, which is super rewarding to be able to do after only a few weeks of practice. Thank you so much for these videos! I'm so excited to keep learning more!
You are probably the best banjo techer i came across on youtube. Ive played guitar for years and have always wanted a banjo. Bought one finally just a few days ago and had trouble wrapping my head around it with some of the other peoples "lessons" but as soon as i found your videos i seem to be picking it up extremely fast. Thank you so much!
Hi Jim, Thank you so much for doing these easy to learn lessons, you do it with encouragement, telling me " you got this" I bought a new Jameson banjo and it arrived on the 21st of Sept and I have never played one before. Today I played cripple creek all the way thru without mistake using your lessons. my fingers hurt like the dickens the first 8 days but now i play for 2 hrs over and over and no pain at all. so, I bought a 1000 dollar fender concert tone 58 today and It is scheduled to arrive on Tuesday, I tried it out at the store and for some reason the"hammer on" and "pull off" and the slides are very easy, both to perform as well as the sound is much more predominate so I figured the 129 dollar banjo was great to start on and now that I have a few roll patterns that are going well I need something that emphasizes the notes I am playing. Foggy mountain break down I'm heading yer way. with a little help from my Friend Jim < BIG GRIN>
Jim, I reiterate what others have said because it sums your lessons up really well: You are the Bob Ross of banjo! I actually became interested in playing the banjo recently after playing a pirate game called Sea of Thieves. Not a poetic or rather interesting way to start a new craft, but it hooked me all the same. After a cursory search on google and youtube I was referred to your channel and these tutorials. At first not having been interested in playing bluegrass, I thought I could at least learn some basic techniques, but that quickly became a passion for me and I have lost myself in your instructional videos and any style of music that I can play! It is such a beautiful sounding instrument and thankfully my girlfriend has been very supportive and tolerant of my practicing every day. Anyways, I just wanted to say thank you and to be so bold as to actually make a request. The video game I first heard and became interested in playing banjo has its own music. After many hours spent searching the internet, reddit and such, I still have not come across any instructions or even tabs for the shanty's. There is one specifically I feel could be a beginners speed called "Becalmed" and I was wondering if you had some time you could tab it out or make a video on how to play it? I know this is a huge request, but I any many others would very much appreciate it and I would see to reposting a link to it across reddit and the forums. If not, I completely understand and I wanted to express my gratitude to your wonderful videos! Link for the banjo portion of Becalmed: ua-cam.com/video/tlMy2Avhm5k/v-deo.html
Thanks so much. And thanks for giving me a chance to teach you banjo. I'm probably not going to head down the video game music rabbit hole. Most of the time the arrangements in those games are just not banjo friendly, but you also have to keep in mind that I generally play and teach things I'm familiar with. It's a stretch for me to go out and learn something new that I'm unlikely to play again - for the sole purpose of creating a very niche UA-cam instruction video.
New to banjo. I’ve taken 7 community education classes and learned the instrument very basically. The teacher told us to try your videos as well. I’m loving them! I’m up to lesson 6 and I have improved! I love your style. You’re cool! Thanks!
I tried to learn the guitar and failed and was told the banjo was harder to play... but I always wanted to play one, so I got a banjo and was told to Watch your videos. You brake it down and make it so simple ,and now I can play the banjo.
Thanks for letting me teach you 😊
Jim, is a one of a kind guy who loves to play the banjo!
Thanks :)
No lessons even compare to these. I knew this was the guy was going to teach me the banjo when i saw the overalls
Will Campbell yeah, the overalls signal this guy is bone fide
Jim, I am a Senior Citizen in my 70's and your instructions are so clear even I can learn from them. Thanks for making life fun!
I'm 63 and just beginning. Love it's teaching
My sentiments exactly!
Almost 60 myself and always enjoyed playing acoustic guitar since around 14, I played almost always for self enjoyment. (Drummer and there was always a country music gig somewhere in Tulsa area in the mid 80's).
I learned that I really should have learned a bit of banjo FIRST. I'm a definite beginner and absolutely love Jim's instruction! Very good "therapy" for me.
Hey Jim...please keep the lessons coming.
Tony (UK)
There are four more in this series and then a lot more on my channel
Holey cow. Ok Jim I am gonna comment. I have had a banjo for 5 years and absolutely love the sound, but never learnt much over that time and it sat in my wardrobe getting old right along with me. I found a bunch of different videos this year on the net and all seemed ok, but none really made me want to play, they just made feel a little slow :-)
The I discovered your first video and it sparked me into picking it up, cleaning it off and playing just a little bit everyday. I am 57 now and all I want to do is to be able to play some songs with confidence. Damn if your style didn't strike a chord. I chuckle every time I watch and I feel good about playing and not being great, just having a go. It doubt I can hold any kind of timing together, but damn I love the sound and I really appreciate the guidance and way you think. A little bit everyday is all it takes, your lessons are pretty much the right size (for me) in terms of difficulty and stuff to learn. It has only been a few months but you know what, I feel absolutely terrific when I get bunch of notes together properly. Cheers for that, I can't thank you enough, not sure how these new rolls are going to fair, but its the right time for some new stuff. Wish I could shake your hand. For me and everyone young and old that you are inspiring, you have our gratitude for sure. All the best. Rick
Well said. I agree 100%. I'm still struggling with CC all the way through let alone in time. I'm just happy Jim is patient :)
Dear Rick, Hope you doping well. Please let me introduce myself my mamy is Iza, 37 years old and I try to learn play on the banjo based on Mr. Jim support on you tube. It's amazing how Jim can teach,I never play on any instrument before. I still can't play.. only do what MrJim shows on wideo slowly or a litle bit fastest but I still cannot anything else. But I know Mr.Jim is fantastic nad I'll fo it, I will be play on the banjo 😊. Wish you Greatest sound, fantastic play. I just start my adventure palying on the banjo and I'd love it, please don't giveup, greetings from Poland 😊
Same here! Almost the exact same story. Thanks so much Jim for these light hearted videos. They really help.
Rick, you described my situation perfectly.
Jim, I agree with everything Rick said. I've been watching your videos and playing 30 minutes per day for just a month. I can't say I'm good yet, but I am having fun playing and love your videos and your style. Thank you. Jeff
Jim may or may not be the most technically proficient banjo player on Earth, but he IS the best teacher on Earth.
Thanks. 😊
Hang on a second while I take off my picks... That's better, can't type with them on.
Every morning I get out of bed and I just can't wait to pick up my banjo again. That's down to you Mr Pankey with your incomparable teaching. It's like being taught by a favourite uncle.
My heartfelt thanks, again
Only guy on UA-cam that actually teaches the banjo!
Thanks!
I'm from Minnesota, and was never much of a Bluegrass man. Just didn't hear a lot of it. But while listening to bands like The Avett Brothers and Trampled by Turtles (out of Duluth) I fell in love with the banjo. I've never played an instrument and can't really read music but bought a banjo recently. Searched UA-cam and found your lessons and thought ,"yep, this is the guy." It's been about 5 weeks, and although I'm struggling I'm loving every minute of it. Liking the banjo has opened me up to music I normally wouldn't listen to. Thanks man.
Thanks for letting me teach you!
Im an italian exchange student in the US and i bought a banjo so i could learn a little about american culture, thank you for your lessons, i really enjoy them, and i’m learning super fast too! Thank you for being kind 🙏🏻
How exciting! Thanks for letting me teach you ☺️
My grandkids gave me a banjo for Christmas/Retirement because I always wanted one. Your videos are very helpful. Thank you!!
Thanks for watching!
I remember when I got my banjo for the first time really wasn't that long ago but I had no idea what to do with it. now it's crazy I'm actually playing it and it don't sound too bad. I couldn't have done it without you Jim. you made your instructions super clear and I've never had so much fun learning from someone keep doing what you're doing man this world loves you for it.
So glad I can help you learn to play!
DearJim, please record and keep continuation you lessons because no one can do to this and teach as you can. You'r students players need you and thank you for your support.
Thanks again Jim about 7 weeks now & thru lesson 6. Enjoying very much.
Thanks for letting me teach you 😊
Jim, you've added a lot of joy to my life. I've had a banjo for several years but never had found a teacher, and tried to teach myself from books. Your videos are engaging and fun, and I've learned so much! Still can't believe that I'm playing Cripple Creek with the "fancy bits" like the hammer-ons and pull-backs and whatnot. I'm impressing even myself! My son is learning from your videos too and my goal is to be able to play Dueling Banjos with him before long! "Practice, practice, practice!" Thanks again ,Jim. You're a blessing. God bless.
So glad I can help you learn. Thank you for letting me teach you.
Jim let me start by saying I hope you are doing well an are in the fast lane for recovery, I didn't you where having any problems until I got deeper into the videos. Anyways hope everything things going well .Started lesson 6 yesterday and working very hard on those patterns. You Sir are an excellent teacher I thank you much for it. Take care until next I ask you for more help. Tim
Thank you. Thanks for letting me teach you. 😀
I have watched about every beginning bluegrass banjo video on UA-cam and I even had some lessons from my late uncle who was a great bluegrass banjo picker, but I just couldn't get it. I gave up hope that I could ever play a banjo. Then I discovered your video series. I still suck, but at least now I suck at actually playing all of Cripple Creek and I suck less every day. No other videos online come close to yours. Your instructions are top-notch.
Thanks so much. Glad I can help you!
Hello Mr.Pankey! Thank you so very much for all you are doing. I for one appreciate it very much. Not so much my son though as he told me today to learn a new song haha. So onward I go to banjo in the hollow. My brother bought me a used 4 string banjo around 30 years ago as I had confided in him that I like the banjo. I plunked away on it for about ten years but I prefer the sound of a 5 string so I traded it in for a brand new 5 string. Then I ran into some difficulties and couldn't play it. I couldn't even pick it up, I was so weak. 10 years of physio therapy, acupuncture and chiropractor later, here I am playing cripple creek with a big smile on my face :) Thanks again and may God bless you with all the good things.
Jim, thus is the best set of lessons. I have found. You are an outstanding teacher. You make it fun. (Even if I get frustrated.
I will get it right! Even if it takes till Im 85. (Next year).
You can do it! 😊
Jim, I was taking banjo lessons from a teacher at a music school, he was good but I took 5 lessons and still couldn’t play a song so luckily I found you online, now l can play cripple creek, albeit l am still smoothing it out but l will get there, thanks so much, keep up the good work
Thanks for letting me teach you 😊
I am really growing in confidence. Lessons are just brilliant.
That’s exciting to hear! Keep going. 😊
Someone gave thumbs down on every comment which makes them look bad, it's not even worth commenting. Good job Jim, keep 'em coming!
Got my first banjo at the young age of 50. I believe that if I had not found Jim Plankeys videos. I wou8be able to get it. But I am. Slowly be surely. Thank you Jim. Amazing
Keep on picking!
I have just started playing the banjo. I'm 66 yes old and have been drumming for 56 yrs. I always wanted to play the banjo. Your vids are great. I am now up to #4 and playing Cripple Creek. Thx again
The banjo has been intriguing to me for year’s since I was a child listening to bluegrass with my parents growing up in West Virginia. But once I saw Jerry Garcia ripping on one it was a bucket list for me. I just had my 50th birthday and my wife got me a Savannah from a local pawn shop. I just looked at it and smiled not knowing what the heck to do I got on UA-cam and bam there you were. Sir you have made it so basic and simple that I haven’t put it down I just watched episode 5 and holy crap I can’t wait to get it down. Now by no means am I going fast but I’m having the time of my life. Thank you for sharing your time and skills
Thanks for letting me teach you ☺️
Jim, I have wanted to play a banjo since i was 8. I was never able to have a banjo or a teacher for that matter. I'm 36 now and was able to finally get my first banjo. Finding you here as a teacher has brought my dream to life. Thank you so much for taking the time for the tutorials. You are the reason the banjo will live on.
Thanks for letting me teach you!
Jim for president! Seriously, very helpful videos at a pace I can comprehend as a new banjo player. Thanks so much for making them. You are the Internet's banjo teacher.
President? Man, I thought we were friends. 🤣
You’re invited to the first bluegrass jam in the Oval Office!
Hello Jim :) When my son's guitar teacher lent him his banjo for the Summer I went looking for some videos. As soon as I saw you I knew that playing was going to be a whole lot of fun. Well, 5 weeks on and unfortunately my son has decided the banjo isn't for him but I can play Cripple Creek and loved learning how to play so much that I now have my own banjo!
That's great! Too bad about your son giving it up, but glad it got you going. :)
Found my son busy looking for videos for his guitar! He'd tuned it up and was ready to play :) This morning he came to show me a d major! You've inspired him, thank you Jim :)
Mr. Pankey, I would like to thank you very much for your lessons. I found myself at ground zero for Hurricane Ida without electricity or internet connection for two weeks. What I did have was what I remembered from lessons 1-5, so that’s what I practiced between removing fallen limbs, running a generator, and surviving in a truly primitive situation. I credit this for helping me make it through with a wee bit of sanity. Thank you.
I glad I could help ☺️
Thank you sincerely Jim! My wife gave me a Deering Good Time banjo before our daughter was born Now with this social distancing, I've picked it up and gone further in two weeks than in the last 16 years -with your help. You are filling this tough time with joy and melody. The gratitude I feel is huge!
Awesome! Keep me posted on your progress.
@@JimPankey Will do!
Jim, thank you for your time and effort. My beautiful wife bought me a banjo 3 weeks ago and you have helped me get my brain and fingers communicating to produce my version of antiquated notes. Hopefully in a month's time I can string a good tune.
Thanks for letting me teach you!
I have to tell you that you may have saved my sanity. What I have left anyways. I started learning how to play the banjo 30 years ago but had to give up my banjo after a few months due to finances. I started again when I found your videos. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for putting these on here free of charge. You are one of the best teachers and THE best online. I’ve watched several over the years but yours is the only ones I felt comfortable enough to try. I’m playing cripple creek, slowly and sometimes “plinky”, but I’m playing nonetheless. Again, thank you.
Jim, I'm having so much fun. You are the most wonderful teacher. I can't believe that I'm playing Cripple Creek. So looking forward to what's coming. Thank you and God bless you.
Jim These videos are fantastic , I have been this far and go back and repeat them over and over because I haven't got them quite yet and certainly not smooth either , the great thing besides your teaching is being able to go back over the lessons an unlimited amount of times. Thank you for putting them up
Thanks for letting me teach you ☺️
Thank you so much Jim. I am learning so much from you. I learned to play guitar at 40 years old and always wanted to play the banjer. I had a Washburn banjer when I was young and drinking, so I never learned to play and sold it. Since I have found your instructional videos I purchased a jida or lida ( not sure ) and now I'm learning at 60 years old. You are a GOD send as I don't have money for lessons. Keep up the good work and GOD BLESS YOU.
Thanks for letting me teach you 😊
Hi Jim, I really enjoy your lessons. It’s obvious that you also teach in real life. I love the way you build your lessons, combining techniques and songs so naturally. Your modesty shows in really taking the teachers position instead of showing off how well you can play as the obvious skilled musician that you are. And your humour, including these deep looks in the camera really makes me laugh. Keep up doing the good work. Greetings from a fellow musician in Holland 🙋🏼♀️ 🌷
Glad you’re enjoying the videos. Thanks for watching. 😊
Hi Jim, I have started playing the banjo and have finally been able to log in and supply a comment. I am in my 60's have never played the banjo I am truly grateful for your lessons and your teaching technique easy to follow and learn how to play. I am on lesson five now coming along slowly and practice practice practice. Hope I can play as smooth sas you some day. Thanks so much. Don
Thanks for letting me teach you.
Jim, I am a Senior Citizen in my 70's and your instructions are so clear I have had a banjo for 5 years and absolutely love the sound, but never learnt much over that time You have made my banjo experience great.You are the most wonderful teacher.I am very greatful for the videos and all the help
Thanks
1
Thanks for the kind words. So glad you found my channel. Thanks for watching. 😊
You said to keep coming back to the videos and I will sir. They're great I am progressing very well. Had my banjo for a few months but I have gotten so much better this last week or so following your lessons. I am very grateful Jim.
Thanks for letting me teach you ☺️
Hey Jim, I will be 71 this year and I find myself reinventing my life. When God gives me lemons, I make lemonade :-) I think the first banjo song I write will be called "Lemonade". I am up to lesson 6 and I can't tell you how much joy you are bringing into my life. Last night I was up late watching a movie and I kept grabbing my banjo every so often and I just get lost in it, lol. I am progressing very well and my speed is getting surprisingly fast. I hope someday we can meet at a festival or some venue. Till then, thanks for sharing the song in your heart. Warmly, Mike Florio
Thanks for letting me teach you 😊
Hi Jim! Love how you teach, thank you! In lesson six, I was practicing at work and showing one of my coworkers the pull off. He said it looked like a booger flick!!! Hahaha made me laugh so hard , I had to take a break! Thank you for your instructions! For someone who had never picked up a stringed instrument, my husband says I am doing great!!!
Wonderful! Thanks for letting me teach you!
I'm 39 years old and have picked guitar since I was 14. Always wanted to learn how to pick a banjo...and you have taught me. Thank you so much!
Thanks for letting me teach you!😊
Jim, glad you're doing all these videos. Way back in the late '70's and early '80's I tried the Banjo. I gave it up when I had to sell the banjo. Always wanted to get back to it but... Now I am in my middle '70's myself and am now just about ready to take on Lesson #6. Found out my right-hand trigger finger is fooling with me. 'Gee, do I really want to do this?' Then you showed how you kinds let your ring finger tag along. That's a relief! It's slow going for sure but I am willing to stay with it. I replay the lessons so much I'm gonna' wear out UA-cam. 😂 Thanks again for your channel.
Glad I can help! Keep me posted on your progress.
Another cracking lesson! Thanks so much for teaching me Cripple Creek.
Thanks for letting me teach you ☺️
Hi Jim, 66 and just starting. took 4 months to get cripple creek according to lessons 1-4. i was feeling good til I realised this is a massive pond I just jumped into. gonna stick with it, thanks
It's a big pond, but it sure is fun. :) Glad you're learning!
Jim, lm pushing 75
Been a mediocre guitar player for 50
yrs. Been saying id like to try banjo and my sons gave me one for chriistmas. Love your vidios. All i can do to keep from jumping ahead. Feel like lm doing quite well at lession 6 in 6 weeks. Good health and God bless you.
Take your time. Approach banjo fresh - like you’ve never played. You’ve got this.
Superb stuff.
Charging through your lessons. Thank-you for your time and great teaching
Keep me posted on your progress ☺️
@@JimPankey
Will do Jim!
Jim, I call you my banjo teacher. Your lessons are the best. I'm a born-in-Kentucky-grew-up-in-the-Appalachian-Mountains-of-North-Carolina girl and I love blue-grass. I was scared to even try to learn the banjo, but you are giving me practical help and inspiration as I learn. Thank you!
Thanks for letting me teach you!
Jim, you’re the best! I took banjo lessons when I was 14 after 8 years of piano lessons. I didn’t stay with it, mainly because I struggled with my cheap rent-to-own banjo that was really a mess. The action was terrible; nut was so high that the strings cut my fingers trying to press nearly a quarter inch to the fretboard, and my tension 5th tuning peg wouldn’t stay tight. It’s been sitting in the closet for 45 years. I knew I couldn’t get anything for it in that condition, and I still want to play, so I took it in and got a complete setup, drum tightened, new bridge and strings, new geared 5th string peg and the action fixed.
I never got past Cripple Creek all those years ago, and it took me about a week to get back to where I left off. Having a blast practicing with your video lessons. I’m determined to learn Foggy Mountain Breakdown after I get Cripple Creek polished. Just wish I could find my copy of Earl Scruggs and the 5 String Banjo. I may have to cough up another $35 to get a new one.
Thanks for the inspiration and helping me get back to it!
PS. I bought a Ukulele a month before I got my banjo fixed and have learned a bunch of songs already on it. Enjoyed your ukulele videos too!
Don’t skip the other lessons in this series to get to FMB. Skills you need for it I’ll cover in the next lessons here.
Jim Pankey I won’t miss any of your videos! Loving every minute of it!
a year later and im amazed at the progress ive made with my banjo. Thank you for being my teacher!!
Thanks for letting me teach you! ☺️
Cheers for the lessons, really getting a lot from them! I don't think I need to tell my neighbours though, pretty sure they already know...
I bet they enjoy your banjo playing. 😊
Today is my day one for this video. I’ve watched lesson 1-5 over and over again until I got it right. Love your videos and the way you teach it’s making learning the banjo easy and fun. Thank you very much Mr. Jim
Thank you so much for the great lessons 2 months since I picked up my first banjo truly majorly addicted to your lessons thanks for making the banjo make sense.
You're very welcome! Thanks for letting me teach you!
Thank you so much Jim! I've grown up in Minnesota with my dad's band playing traditional Irish, bluegrass, old time, and gospel at different times over the years. I've done a lot of singing myself, choir in school, chanties with my drinking buddies, and karaoke... but for whatever reason I was always afraid to pick up an instrument. One day I just decided to buy a banjo, on an impulse... and once it was delivered I discovered your videos. You're a fantastic teacher, you helped me learn quickly and jump right into the fun part. Thanks to you, I'm not scared anymore.
Thanks for letting me teach you 😊
Thanks Jim for your input, from a 77 year old who has taken up the Banjo once again after many years of it laying idle.
Glad you are playing!
You have made my banjo experience great. I think I need a little humor in my lessons and seeing your head come out of the top/left corner gives me a smile every time. Also they seem to be the appropriate complexity/length for my little brain and big clumsy fingers. Thanks!
Jim, You explain the chords and technique better than anyone, thank you. You've inspire me.
Thanks!
Love your teaching style Jim. Have been playing Banjo for 6 weeks. (Only following your lesson for 4) If I keep going at this rate I'll be playing cripple creek at my local folk session in 2 weeks time.
I really appreciate these videos! I know they’re a few years old but I’m just now finding them getting my banjo out that I’ve had for probably 15 years. The shop gave my parents 4 free lessons for me when they bought it for me for Christmas, but I was always too scared to go! So thank you for doing these videos for people like me! They’re very appreciated! ❤️
Glad you’re learning! Thanks for letting me teach you. 😊
Big thanks to you Jim! I went through this stage where I switched back to guitar then got lil lost in life , what not. And re- continued the previous lessons I was doing under your wonderful instruction . I do believe that there is good banjo teachers but many of them aren't very good tutors I have found. Until I come across your intersting and bouncy methods of simple fun playing. Love it!
Cheers from down Under
Thanks for letting me teach you 😀
@@JimPankey thankyou mate, and when I have sharpened up on my playing . Then I'm keen to post a video. Thankyou again. Funny thing is there this Australian film called The proposition made me feel so drawn to the sounds of the Banjo ussed in the film. Including deadwood into to the series. Always ever present banjo in westerns and folk / fantasy type movies I have noticed that . Wonderful instrument. Guitars are unique too but I find guitars are difficult but fun to play.
Thank you, Jim. I am really enjoying your videos .
Thanks for letting me teach you 😀
Jim you are awesome I just picked up a banjo 6 days ago and at 39 years old never playing before I can almost play cripple creek thanks to you I gotta work on this lesson an my speed but thank you so much
Thanks for letting me teach you ☺️
Jim I'm 53 never play anything. My wife passed on in 2009 by had given me a banjo for Christmas a year or so before I lost her. Just took it in and had it gone through. I can't read music but because of you I can now play Cripple Creek and Man of Constant sorrow. Ready for lesson 6 tomorrow.
Thanks Man, My late wife would be impressed and every time I pick it up I think of her.
Glad to hear that you’re learning. I know she would be so impressed. Proud of you.
I’m a youngster trying to learn and I’m getting used to the banjo and loving it. I plan on keeping the banjo alive for generations to come
Hi Jim my name is Denny Holmes I am 54 and the banjo is the most cool's thing to me I have always wanted to learn I am now on lesson 6 no I am not a fast leaner but you are the best at teaching I would of never learned if it was not for u I even buyed a new banjo just to learn and I found u thank you very much I wish I could meet u just to shake your hand thank you again JIM u the best.
Listening to you and practicing this stuff is so rewarding. Sitting on the dock at my in-law’s cabin picking away. Thanks man for putting these beggining lessons out there, sincerely.
Keep on picking!
I started playing banjo since mothers day. My younger brother inspired me to learn, and I love hearing him play his banjo. He's been playing for 6 years now. Just wanted to say thank you for these lessons! They are so clear and they keep you interested without being TOO challenging moving forward. Anyway, THANK YOU!!
Bought a banjo on a whim after doing a bluegrass tour here Downunder (I'm a
Singer/Guitarist). Boy am I glad I stumbled on your lessons - the banjo's quite a mind bed for a Guitar player, you're making it work for me. No aspirations to play in public much just for fun & that's what you teach. Thx Subscribed
Thanks for letting me teach you 😊
Jim, am new to the banjo and 73 years old, but am dedicated to doing this. Am trying online lessons, and also using your teaching method. They differ some, but I love the way you make the skills develop through each lesson instead of just throwing the song out there. It is a developmental process that is very encouraging with small steps on each lesson. You are the best.
Thanks for letting me help you learn!
I can't even say how much I appreciate you making these videos, I bought a banjo on impulse and after only a week of an hour here and there I can already play cripple creek!
Great to hear! Please keep me posted on you progress.
I’m 47 and just got my banjo this week and I’m really glad I found your lessons. Already on lesson 6 and I can play cripple creek “somewhat”, thanks to you!
Great job!
Ive watched your tutorials months before I actually bought my banjo. Now I actually have one and get to learn
Keep me posted on your progress 😊
Having a fabulous time one month into owning my first string instrument. Look forward to sitting there listening to you over and over again. Never gets old. Thank you
Wonderful! Thanks for letting me teach you!
Still here crushing banjo practice and getting oh so much better. I gotta thank you a million cause I played cripple Creek for my 90 year old great grandfather and hearing cripple creek made him start to sing. Can’t wait for the next lesson.
That's great!!
Thanks, Jim. I've been sitting in my basement basically getting personal lessons from you for almost a month now!. . . My wife knows what I'm talking about when I say "Jim Pankey says..."
Thanks for letting me teach you banjo 😊
I don't comment much, but I just wanted to say "THANK YOU" for all your awesome videos! I'm older than a half century now, but I've always wanted to play the banjo. I finally got one only a short while back & I went searching for instruction on UA-cam; that's when I came across your channel. Now there are many other videos out there, but yours are the best! I just love your happy vibe & kind, smiling face; and you really explain things so well - and with lots and lots of encouragement. I appreciate that so much!! You really helped me know that I CAN do this if I just practice enough and take my time. Your instructional style is just perfect & now I am doing FAR better at this than I ever thought I could do - thanks to you! I am thrilled to be playing! I'm gonna keep at it of course & I look forward to learning more and more. I will always be grateful for you and your videos that helped me so much Jim - you are a real blessing!! THANK YOU!!!!
Thanks so much Jim,..I too am in my senior years and have experienced a rejuvinvation to learning to play a happy toe tapping sounding instrument. The banjo lessons are great!
So glad to be part of your banjo journey!
Hi Jim. I had a banjo for Christmas and leaned cripple creek from your videos. I'm up to 6 now. I'm getting there with your help. Thanks for the great tuition 👍
Awesome! Keep it up!
You are the best! I can play cripple creek yay! Not very fast yet but I'm so happy. I'm from Liechtenstein living in London.. Greetings to the states. Thank you so much for making these lessons Jim
So glad I can be part of your banjo journey. 😊
Jim i am in my seventies and spent big money on lessions and you have made it easy to understand thank you so much
Thanks.
He even replies to comments, he’s a cool dude very greatful for the videos and all the help
Hi Jim, I want to say how much I enjoy your videos.I am a new player and the fun way you present the material has helped me a great deal. I hope you continue to teach. Bernie
Thanks for the kind word! Glad you're learning. :)
Hey Jim, I purchased your tab book but I don't know if it was supposed to be a download or if it was sent by mail. Anyway I didn't receive it yet. I ordered it on July 12th
Bern Noseworthy you should have got an email with the download link just moments after you purchased it.
Hey Jim, I found you series about six weeks ago (I've had a banjo for a few years but just.couldn't.get.the.hang.of.it). You've changed that completely, I hang out now to knock off each day, play thru the weekly lesson and then practice, practise, practise. Thanks for taking the time to show a bloke how to play.
So glad I can be part of your banjo journey!
Howdy jim its me johnny the hillbilly from Tennessee like i said I allways wounded to play the banjo and now I'm learning my better half told me that i sounding pretty good and i couldn't have done it without you so god bless you and keep up the good work your hillbilly johnny from Tennessee
Thanks for the kinda words. Ain't it great when family likes what you're doing?
This the first time I've ever picked up a banjo and you make it so easy to learn.
Thanks for letting me teach you 😊
Thank you, Jim. I've wanted to play the banjo for years and finally notched my first tune. You have so good at breaking it down to help me learn.
Glad to help! Keep me posted on your progress.
Wow. I was trying to play that, having never played any instrument before. Was sure I couldn't do it. No coordination, fingers too fat, too much to think about at the same time. But I kept at it, half an hour here, fifteen minutes there.
And then, tonight, bam! I was playing this at a speed I never would have thought possible. And, in just 6 lessons, it opened up a world for me! All this, in six-seven week since I got that banjo.
Thank you, Jim!
Awesome!
Hey Jim,
Newbie banjo student here; I absolutely love your videos and your teaching style. You have the rare skill of transforming the complex into something that can be understood and executed. Please keep these videos coming.
Gerry
I love this guy's lessons. What a skilled and generous teacher.
Jim, these lessons are great. I recently retired and often thought the banjo would be cool to learn. I played chords on guitar as a young person, but my picking hand was too dumb to learn much (or as a kid I just didn't want to practice). Thanks so much for these videos. I love the humor, the practical info and the leaning over to talk is just great.....
Thanks for letting me teach you!
I have had a banjo for over ten years now, and have enjoyed tooling around on it at a very basic level (tried using a tutorial book), but after coming across your lessons, this is the first time I have made a purposeful, regularly scheduled attempt at gaining knowledge/skill at playing. Your teaching in the videos is clear and helpful, as are your demonstrations. The pace is good, as well- though I typically repeat a lesson twice (or even thrice) to be sure that I have the techniques cemented in my mind. It’s good to have things to practice that will help me to improve my playing. Thank you for putting these instructional videos out there for those of us who want to learn this fun instrument but who are not- for any number of reasons- meeting for in-person lessons with a banjo teacher.
Thanks for letting me help 😊
You're lessons are awesome 😃😃😃 Thankyou so much 🙏
Gosh, thanks. And thanks for watching.
All righty! Got all the bits of cripple creek down pretty well now, though I need to practice more precision with my strumming (my thumb pic keeps hitting the drum of the banjo on the five string...oops). Now to learn that new roll!
Just keep in mind that you're learning more than just Cripple Creek here. You'll use these techniques from now on in everything else you learn to play. :)
@@JimPankey Yes exactly! That's why I love your technique so much. I've started watching some other tutorials for basic songs and they'll do a roll and I'll be like "Hey! I know that one already!" But it gives the benefit of immediately being able to play a recognizable song, which is super rewarding to be able to do after only a few weeks of practice. Thank you so much for these videos! I'm so excited to keep learning more!
These are far and above the best banjo lessons I have ever found!!
You are probably the best banjo techer i came across on youtube. Ive played guitar for years and have always wanted a banjo. Bought one finally just a few days ago and had trouble wrapping my head around it with some of the other peoples "lessons" but as soon as i found your videos i seem to be picking it up extremely fast. Thank you so much!
Thanks for letting me help you learn! Please keep me posted on your progress.
My boyfriend bought me a banjo for Xmas - loving your lessons from Australia x
Thanks for watching, and thanks for letting me teach you!
Hi Jim, Thank you so much for doing these easy to learn lessons, you do it with encouragement, telling me " you got this" I bought a new Jameson banjo and it arrived on the 21st of Sept and I have never played one before. Today I played cripple creek all the way thru without mistake using your lessons. my fingers hurt like the dickens the first 8 days but now i play for 2 hrs over and over and no pain at all. so, I bought a 1000 dollar fender concert tone 58 today and It is scheduled to arrive on Tuesday, I tried it out at the store and for some reason the"hammer on" and "pull off" and the slides are very easy, both to perform as well as the sound is much more predominate so I figured the 129 dollar banjo was great to start on and now that I have a few roll patterns that are going well I need something that emphasizes the notes I am playing. Foggy mountain break down I'm heading yer way. with a little help from my Friend Jim < BIG GRIN>
Jim, I reiterate what others have said because it sums your lessons up really well: You are the Bob Ross of banjo! I actually became interested in playing the banjo recently after playing a pirate game called Sea of Thieves. Not a poetic or rather interesting way to start a new craft, but it hooked me all the same. After a cursory search on google and youtube I was referred to your channel and these tutorials. At first not having been interested in playing bluegrass, I thought I could at least learn some basic techniques, but that quickly became a passion for me and I have lost myself in your instructional videos and any style of music that I can play! It is such a beautiful sounding instrument and thankfully my girlfriend has been very supportive and tolerant of my practicing every day.
Anyways, I just wanted to say thank you and to be so bold as to actually make a request. The video game I first heard and became interested in playing banjo has its own music. After many hours spent searching the internet, reddit and such, I still have not come across any instructions or even tabs for the shanty's. There is one specifically I feel could be a beginners speed called "Becalmed" and I was wondering if you had some time you could tab it out or make a video on how to play it? I know this is a huge request, but I any many others would very much appreciate it and I would see to reposting a link to it across reddit and the forums. If not, I completely understand and I wanted to express my gratitude to your wonderful videos!
Link for the banjo portion of Becalmed:
ua-cam.com/video/tlMy2Avhm5k/v-deo.html
Thanks so much. And thanks for giving me a chance to teach you banjo.
I'm probably not going to head down the video game music rabbit hole. Most of the time the arrangements in those games are just not banjo friendly, but you also have to keep in mind that I generally play and teach things I'm familiar with. It's a stretch for me to go out and learn something new that I'm unlikely to play again - for the sole purpose of creating a very niche UA-cam instruction video.
New to banjo. I’ve taken 7 community education classes and learned the instrument very basically. The teacher told us to try your videos as well. I’m loving them! I’m up to lesson 6 and I have improved! I love your style. You’re cool! Thanks!
Oh wow. Where are you taking classes? Thanks for watching and send thanks to your instructor for the recommendation.