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Step 1
The first step is to choose the right banjo for you. It may have a resonator on the back, or you may choose a model with no resonator, which gives you a softer tone (great for dorms or places where you may not wish to disturb the neighbors). If you plan on performing in public, choose the resonator model for volume and clarity.
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Step 2
Banjo players have many choices when tuning, but the open G tuning is most commonly used. Tuning is easy with any of the many digital banjo tuners on the market. There are several tuners available free on the Internet. For a quick download that is user friendly try Digital Guitar and Banjo Tuner from Guitar & Drums. Download, install and you are ready to tune. Click on Main menu and tuning types. Choose open G tuning. Click your cursor on the first string of the digital tuner and you will hear a D tone. Tune your first string to that note.
Click on the next four strings and tune each one. Strum your index finger across the five strings and you should hear a G chord. -
Step 3
Strumming is the first technique you'll need to learn. Some players strum with their middle finger, some with the index finger. Each has advantages. You will quickly discover as you strum which finger or fingers are easiest for you. Strum down across the four main strings and hold your thumb in position to catch and pluck the fifth string as your strumming finger leaves the first four strings. Practice strumming and thumbing until you can play at a moderate tempo.
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Step 4
Now let's learn the two chords you will need to play a song. The first is the C chord. Place the index finger on second string first fret. Second finger on fourth string second fret and third finger on first string second fret. Strum and hear a C chord. Practice playing the open G chord and then move to the C chord. Now try the D7 chord. Place the index finger on the second string at first fret and second finger on third string the second fret. Strum and hear the D7 chord. Practice strumming the three chords moving from one to the other until the chord changes are smooth.
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Step 5
Practice the basic strum. Down with your index or middle finger across the four strings, with the thumb held steady in a position where it will pluck the 5th string as it moves past. Hold the thumb straight out and do not bend it to strike the 5th string. Establish a rhythm which has three parts. Sing it a few times to get the rhythm: Dum-Dih-Dee, Dum-Dih-Dee. Strum down on the strings with Dum. Strike the 5th string with the thumb on Dih, and strum across the strings with Dee.
Practice that simple rhythm until you can follow the beat you have established and can move smoothly from one chord to the other. Use this simple strum technique and master the C and D7 chords. You will soon be ready to play your first song. Look for a basic song book with banjo chords and begin applying what you have learned to some basic songs. Your banjo adventure is under way.
