First Lessons Banjo

First Lessons® Banjo is an ultra-easy, beginner-friendly guide to five-string banjo in three-finger style G tuning, suitable for all ages and skill levels. The book provides extremely detailed, step-by-step instructions on foundational techniques—such as pick usage and finger motion—that are often ignored in other manuals. Designed for absolute beginners, this is simple enough for small children to use, even with no musical experience.


There are many detailed photos, several from the player's point of view, not from in front of the banjo. First Lessons® Banjo covers the most basic rolls, the Alternating Thumb Roll and two Forward Rolls, plus the three basic chords and the relative minor chord. All musical examples are presented in tablature, with the melody notes in boldface type so the student knows which notes to emphasize.  All arrangements include lyrics, a vital feature for novices learning ear training to pick out the melody from surrounding fill notes. Several tips and suggestions for the proper mental approach are included to improve playing by ear, arranging, and speed-reading tablature at an earlier stage in the student's development. These suggestions are not found in any other banjo instruction book.


The 'finale' arrangement is “Cripple Creek”, a popular banjo standard that, when mastered, should give the novice a great sense of accomplishment. The accompanying audio download includes all tabbed examples, with the rhythm instruments and lead banjo in separate channels. The recording features each song played at three tempos: very slow, medium, and full performance speed with guitar, mandolin, and bass accompaniment. The up-tempo accompanied versions are all together at the end of the recording, making it ideal for listening. This also allows the student to play along with interesting arrangements in sequence without skipping around the recording. Includes access to online audio and video.