Banjo Lessons: FAQ
What do you teach?
Old-time clawhammer/frailing banjo. Lessons will often focus on source music from the Southeastern U.S. Topics include tunes, songs, playing in jams. I teach all levels: from beginners with no music experience to advanced players who just want a little brush-up; from folks who want to play a song or two to those consumed with old-time music fever.
Where do lessons take place? Are lessons online or in-person?
Most lessons are online over Zoom during this pandemic, though depending on the current virus danger and mutual convenience, it may be possible to arrange in-person outdoor lessons at my house in the Ravenna neighborhood of Seattle.
Once the virus danger diminishes, I will also be back to teaching in person at Dusty Strings Music School in the Fremont neighborhood of Seattle. Schedule to be determined.
How much?
Contact me for pricing. The cost varies depending on whether you are taking lessons through Dusty Strings or from me directly.
How long is a lesson?
45 minutes to an hour, depending on how carried away we get, or on what we decide is right for you.
Philosophy/method
I love old time music, and want to share with my students how wonderful it is. I want to help people become independent learners; I show my students how to figure out things on their own from listening and watching and, of course, playing. I teach you to recognize patterns and put them together to make banjo music. Most of the music I play isn’t written down anywhere, as it comes from a folk tradition, so I don’t use tablature or written music, but teach people to learn by ear, although at the beginning levels especially, I do write some things down. You go home with a recording of the lesson, with the tunes talked through, played slowly and up to speed.You can bring your own recording devices–iPhone, video camera, whatever–or we can use my computer to record.
Scheduling
Lessons are currently available on Tuesday or Saturdays. We can schedule a regular lesson or just one here and there. Most adult learners find that every two weeks is a good interval, but many people like longer or shorter intervals between lessons, depending on what they are working on. I recommend starting with one lesson, and from there we can discuss a schedule that works for you.
Missed and cancelled lessons
No charge if you cancel up to 24 hrs in advance. Full price for no-shows and last-minute cancellations. with it.
Sounds exciting! I can’t wait to start!
Contact me, and we’ll plan the lesson that’s right for you.