How to Play Earl Scruggs Songs on the Banjo

By eHow Arts & Entertainment Editor

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Earl Scruggs' trademark three-fingered picking style and forward roll were featured in all his songs, whether with Bill Monroe or with the Foggy Mountain Boys. Here is how to play a simple banjo song in Earl Scruggs' style, incorporating the open "G" chord, the "C" chord and the "D7" chord.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

  • Banjo
  • Thumb pick
  • Finger picks
  • Banjo strap (for playing standing up)

Picking the Scruggs Way

Step1
Strum the top three strings (the third, fourth and fifth strings) with your right thumb.
Step2
Pick the second string (the next one up from the bottom) with your right index finger.
Step3
Pluck the bottom (bass, low "D") string with your right middle finger.

Playing the Song

Step1
Play the Earl Scruggs roll at a slow, trotting pace, leaving your left hand off the frets. (See "How to Play the Earl Scruggs Banjo Roll" under Related eHows.) This is the open "G" chord. Repeat this several times.
Step2
Place your left middle finger on the fourth string (topmost long string, high "D" string) at the second fret and play the Scruggs roll twice. This is the "C" chord.
Step3
Repeat the Scruggs roll several times with an open "G" chord.
Step4
Put your left middle finger on the third (middle, "G") string at the second fret and play the Scruggs roll twice more. This is the "D7" chord.
Step5
Lift your finger and play the Scruggs roll several more times with the open "G" chord. Repeat Steps 2 through 4, sliding your left middle finger on the "G" string from the second to the third fret as you play the "D7" chord.
Step6
Finish by gently strumming the banjo strings.

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eHow Article: How to Play Earl Scruggs Songs on the Banjo

eHow Arts & Entertainment Editor

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