How to Play Forward and Reverse Banjo Rolls

Playing forward and reverse rolls is what every banjo player should learn to do. It is very much a part of the sound that makes Blue Grass so distinctive. It does take some practice, but with this eHow, you get on your way. Remember this: learning music is a life-long thing. Have fun while you're doing it.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Strike the third string with your thumb pick.

2. Use your first finger to strike the second string.

3. Utilize your second finger to strike the first string.

4. Sound the fifth string with your thumb pick.

5. Pluck the first string with your second finger.

6. Do the same plucking motion with your second finger on the second string.

7. Go to the third string and strike it with your thumb pick.

8. Return to the second string with your first finger.

9. Repeat the above pattern over and over, making sure that every note sounds clearly. As you become more comfortable, you will be able to add more speed.

10. Increase the speed of your playing and until it becomes smoother. The forward and reverse rolls on the banjo will sound more like a song, or a portion of it. If you listen to music that includes banjos, you will recognize the forward and reverse rolls of the banjo as part of the accompaniment.

11. Change the key of the forward and reverse rolls that you play on a banjo to match the song that's being played.

12. Start playing along to songs that are familiar to you, which will allow you to more easily concentrate on playing the forward and reverse rolls in the proper places in the song. Take heart: with time and practice, you'll be able to play forward and reverse rolls on you banjo with ease and with whatever song you choose.

Resources

• Folk of the Wood describes learning forward and reverse rolls.
• Fred Wilharm demonstrates forward and reverse banjo rolls.