Customer Reviews

Banjo Picking Styles

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While the price may be off-putting at first, I was pleasantly surprised to see what was included once it arrived.

The book layout is concise, but well written. Nothing is left to the imagination. The comprehensive six-CD collection feature the songs at both slowed and at-speed pacing. Breaks, tricky fingering, and techniques are all thoughtfully explained in detail. Typical variations are also outlined, with even some tips for improvisation on a few songs. Scales, single-string picking and triplets are also covered.

If you learn primarily by seeing or hearing, you'll have your bases covered. If you learn by seeing, you'll have to shell out extra for the DVD. Though the DVD features many fewer songs, it has to be my one complaint--for this much money you should getting everything. Though the 80's visual's are almost worth the price of the DVD alone.

That said, this book is definitely not for beginners. However, if you've played the banjo for some time and want to take it to the next level--look no further.

Bela does a great job, showing and explaining the differences between three finger style , melodic , single string styles on the very first song.he also has picked songs from a wide selection of albums he has recorded, he also has selected different genres eg. bluegrass, jazz,newgrass,fiddle tunes. he shows using different tunings and different keys. this instruction book and cds .are a must for those who wish to progress from the Scruggs style to the melodic to the single string style. Christopher Jarvis

Bela Fleck is a true genius on the 5-string. Although he primarily leans towards jazz these days, his ability to play straight bluegrass is amazing. This book will take you through both levels of playing. Picking the way Bela picks will give you insight into his style and allow you to take the parts you like and incorporate them into your own playing.