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Interesting read. What would you suggest a complete beginner do to learn the tenor banjo in this case? Which resources do you recommend?
David; I am currently editing–and putting into TAB–the Emile Grimshaw tenor book from the 1920s; it’s realistically a year away from publishing though. I frankly don’t know any other tenor books that have the TAB included. If you read music or are open to learning, there are plenty of resources; I especially recommend Harry Reser’s method book, and could send you a PDF copy if you’d like. I highly recommend finding a teacher to help you with any of the method books; it’s the rare individual who can effectively learn without some kind of guidance, but teachers are a rare resource. What is your musical background?
Well I noticed that you give lessons.. I currently play “old-time” frailing… mostly by ear, some tablature is involved. I take the art and tradition very seriously, which is why I appreciate your blog. I’ve always loved late 19th-early 20th century music. One of my favorite composers is AJ Weidt. I took piano as a kid, so I know the notes, but i’m very slow. Lets say, that its like if I could recite the russian alphabet, but not really know what the words mean.
I actually purchased my tenor banjo some time ago to adapt local fiddling traditions to the banjo, but i needed money, so i sent it to a music store to try and sell it, to no avail. Seeing ad my financial troubles have mostly been settled, I decided to take my banjo back and play the music that is closer to my heart. The banjo is currently on its way, but I plan on changing the strings to learn and play jazz/ragtime
I am always motivated when it comes to learning music, but I’d like at least a few lessons to begin with to set me on the right path.
Well, since you already know A.J. Weidt, maybe his tenor compositions would be a good place to start. Your biggest challenges would be learning to use a flat pick, and of course the new tuning. Have you considered the plectrum banjo? It is tuned mostly the same as what you’re used to, and a lot of the music from that time period transfers over really well. You could even use the same banjo; just detune and disable the fifth string, and voila! A “plectrum banjo!” In either direction, I would be honored to help you get started.
So should I just dive in (in regards to AJ Weidt?). I know that Rob Mackillop tabbed out a number of his compositions for the tenor banjo. I ordered that one book from Mel Bay (the only tenor banjo tutor that seems to be easy to find on Amazon) to get used to reading sheet music again. I may get in touch mid to late march. I’ll have a go at it myself for a few weeks and that way, I’ll have a list of questions and so on. Thanks.
Well, I’ve always been a big believer in learning the music that is already out there as a way of learning the banjo; I say go for it! Discovering the Classic repertoire 8 years ago really put me into high gear. Your familiarity with his writing style will work in your favor. Keep me posted as to your progress!
Interesting read. What would you suggest a complete beginner do to learn the tenor banjo in this case? Which resources do you recommend?
David; I am currently editing–and putting into TAB–the Emile Grimshaw tenor book from the 1920s; it’s realistically a year away from publishing though. I frankly don’t know any other tenor books that have the TAB included. If you read music or are open to learning, there are plenty of resources; I especially recommend Harry Reser’s method book, and could send you a PDF copy if you’d like. I highly recommend finding a teacher to help you with any of the method books; it’s the rare individual who can effectively learn without some kind of guidance, but teachers are a rare resource. What is your musical background?
Well I noticed that you give lessons.. I currently play “old-time” frailing… mostly by ear, some tablature is involved. I take the art and tradition very seriously, which is why I appreciate your blog. I’ve always loved late 19th-early 20th century music. One of my favorite composers is AJ Weidt. I took piano as a kid, so I know the notes, but i’m very slow. Lets say, that its like if I could recite the russian alphabet, but not really know what the words mean.
I actually purchased my tenor banjo some time ago to adapt local fiddling traditions to the banjo, but i needed money, so i sent it to a music store to try and sell it, to no avail. Seeing ad my financial troubles have mostly been settled, I decided to take my banjo back and play the music that is closer to my heart. The banjo is currently on its way, but I plan on changing the strings to learn and play jazz/ragtime
I am always motivated when it comes to learning music, but I’d like at least a few lessons to begin with to set me on the right path.
Well, since you already know A.J. Weidt, maybe his tenor compositions would be a good place to start. Your biggest challenges would be learning to use a flat pick, and of course the new tuning. Have you considered the plectrum banjo? It is tuned mostly the same as what you’re used to, and a lot of the music from that time period transfers over really well. You could even use the same banjo; just detune and disable the fifth string, and voila! A “plectrum banjo!” In either direction, I would be honored to help you get started.
So should I just dive in (in regards to AJ Weidt?). I know that Rob Mackillop tabbed out a number of his compositions for the tenor banjo. I ordered that one book from Mel Bay (the only tenor banjo tutor that seems to be easy to find on Amazon) to get used to reading sheet music again. I may get in touch mid to late march. I’ll have a go at it myself for a few weeks and that way, I’ll have a list of questions and so on. Thanks.
Well, I’ve always been a big believer in learning the music that is already out there as a way of learning the banjo; I say go for it! Discovering the Classic repertoire 8 years ago really put me into high gear. Your familiarity with his writing style will work in your favor. Keep me posted as to your progress!