Progressive Banjo Method provides an easy and enjoyable introduction to the world of Banjo playing. No previous knowledge of music or banjo playing is necessary. Both melody and chord playing are covered along with picking sequences, music reading, theory and great arrangements of well known songs.
Through the course of the book, you will learn how to play chords in both open position and movable shapes, vamps and finger rolls, and all the essential techniques for both rhythm and melody playing. You will also learn how to use thumb and finger picks as well as how to create your own arrangements. All examples sound great and are fun to play. By the end of the book you will be well on your way to being an excellent banjo player.
To develop good timing habits right from the start, it is recommended that you use a metronome or drum machine with all the examples in the book until you can play them easily from memory.
The best and fastest way to learn is to use this book in conjunction with:
- Buying sheet music of your favorite recording artists and learning to play their songs. By learning songs, you will begin to build a repertoire and always have something to play in jam sessions.
- Practicing and playing with other musicians as often as possible.
- Learning by listening to your favorite recordings. Start building a collection of albums of players you admire or wish to emulate. Try playing along with one of them for a short time each day. Most of the great banjo players have learned a lot of their music this way.
In the early stages it is helpful to have the guidance of an experienced teacher. This will also help you keep to a schedule and obtain weekly goals.
