Local banjo tuition
Banjo lessons in Northumberland and the Scottish Borders
Local banjo lessons—based in Berwick-upon-Tweed—are structured to be accessible for students wanting to learn the banjo and for experienced students wishing to consolidate and further advance their skills. Banjo lessons are focused primarily on Scruggs and melodic 5 string banjo and will encompass all aspects banjo playing across popular genres such as bluegrass and folk music, with the opportunity of also exploring genres such as blues and classical music. Banjo students will also learn how to improvise and will develop their skills along with recordings of authentic folk instruments such as the fiddle and mandolin. Specific learning techniques for the banjo are outlined below, as are answers to common queries about learning to play the banjo with a local music tutor.
Banjo lessons
Solid technical foundation including left hand development incorporating slides, hammer-ons and pull-offs, and extensive knowledge of the right hand roll patterns that are essential for good banjo playing.
Vital chord shapes for playing Scruggs and melodic banjo will be taught by your banjo tutor, both as open chords and closed chords for playing up the neck.
Ability to emphasise melody notes in order to play effective 5 string banjo and popular songs such as Duellin Banjos and Take me Home Country roads.
Option to explore different styles of banjo, such as traditional banjo, claw hammer and single string technique.
Your local banjo teacher will help you to learn how to improvise, both through the use of roll patterns and solo banjo using the CAGED system.
Structured learning based on the Alfred Complete 5 string banjo method, with standards such as Cripple Creek, Grandfathers Clock and Will the Circle be Unbroken.
Banjo student testimonial
“I have been studying banjo online with Wayne for the past 5 years. I wasn’t sure how online lessons would be but they have worked very well indeed. I was a complete beginner in every sense but with Wayne’s patient guidance I have come a long way and have learned so much. Our lessons together are always relaxed and informative and we have covered a wide variety of music. When I’ve been discouraged Wayne has always been extremely supportive and has kept me going always building up my confidence. Wayne has been a great teacher for me and I would highly recommend him as a teacher.”
Common banjo lesson queries
Discover how you can learn to play the banjo with a local tutor
Can I only play bluegrass on the banjo?
No. There are genres outside of bluegrass which can be explored on the banjo, such as classical, music, blues, Christmas and Celtic music. Even rock classics such as ‘Hey Joe’ can be played on the banjo!
If I can’t play fast can I still play the banjo?
Yes. Like for any instrument there are a range of styles that can be played which incorporate both fast and slow tunes. Indeed most fast banjo tunes can be played at a slower, moderate tempo and sound just as effective.
Is the banjo best played solo or in a band?
Either. You can learn to play the banjo as an effective solo instrument to create challenging and wonderful expressive tunes, or provide effective accompaniment in a folk board. There is also a range of play-along banjo material that allows the player to play both lead solos and accompaniment to bluegrass classics such as ‘Cripple Creek’ and ‘Will The Circle Be Unbroken’.
Where is Morrison Music Tuition located?
Morrison Music Tuition is located in Berwick-upon-Tweed, right on the border between north Northumberland and the eastern Scottish Borders.
If I can't attend a local banjo lesson can I learn online?
Yes. Trying to locate an experienced banjo tutor in your local area can be a very challenging and frustrating experience. The internet allows access to expertise which is flexible and can fit in with a busy lifestyle. In terms of teaching, achieving required goals and fulfilling your full potential, there is no difference between learning to play the banjo in-person or online.