Banjo
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How to play
Before you start playing the banjo, you’ll have to tune it. Tuning a banjo may sound intimidating, but it is actually fairly simple. There are a few different ways to do it so you can choose the one that works best for you:
What’s included
- Denver 5-String Closed Back Banjo
- Yorkville black hardshell Banjo carrying case
- This video teaches you two ways to tune a banjo: without a tuner or with a tuning app.
- Listen along by ear and learn to tune the banjo as the instructor provides notes and sounds so that you can match them.
- You can use an electronic or digital tuner if you have access to one.
- Here’s a YouTube video that demonstrates how to tune the 5 string banjo.
Now that you’ve tuned the banjo, you’re ready to start playing!
- Here are a few techniques on how to strum a banjo.
- Learn a few techniques on banjo picking (bluegrass) for beginners.
Transportation and storage instructions
To prevent the banjo from getting scuffed, chipped, and bumped around, always transport the instrument in its carrying case. In fact, when you’re not playing the banjo, it’s better to keep it in the case just to be safe!
Do not store the instrument in very cold or hot environments. Please keep it away from direct sunlight, heaters, radiators and A/C units.
Do not leave the banjo in a hot, humid car or outside on snowy or wet ground. This kind of treatment could damage the sound of a banjo and warp the wooden components.
Care instructions
To wipe down the banjo, use a soft, dry, microfibre, lint-free cloth. This will help pick up any dust and/or oils that may have accumulated on the body, fingerboard, and strings.
Do not polish the body or oil the fingerboard. Staff at the library will take care of those tasks!
Do not use any of the following household or personal cleaning products on the instrument:
- soap
- hand sanitizer
- liquid disinfectant
- disinfecting wipes
- multi-purpose cleaners
- alcohol