Ah Jim--my family hears me in here practicing banjo and fussing at you half the night. You're like a good friend that i can rewind and play again and again until we're in perfect agreement. You are definitely the best banjo player on TH-cam.
I'm blessed to have an hour and a half lunch break in the middle of the day so I get my practice in at work so my wife won't have to hear it till it's pretty and polished.
I used to play the banjo years ago. I'm a very old man now and have made up my mind to get back into it, with my son on guitar. You have been the best teacher by that far that I have found.Thank You!
I don't know how it is for everyone else but three months of lockdown, then the tier system, lockdown again now I'm self isolating because my brother has covid and I'm in a tier 3 area. This year has got me real real down but learning the banjo and learning from you is the happiest I've been all year, I hope you have the best Christmas ever and if I could send you a Christmas card with a banjo on it I would, you've made life better for a lot people ❤️
I've learned how to play drums, keyboard, and bass over the past 25 years. I picked up the banjo a couple weeks ago and finished the learn to play bluegrass series yesterday. I have to say that this has been the most fun learning process. Thanks so much for putting these series together! My neighbor plays guitar and I've sent him a couple songs to learn, so this play backup banjo series is exactly what I was hoping for. Love it!
C'mone Everybody, go to Jim's Patreon site and give him a couple bucks ( www.patreon.com/jimpankey ) putting out all these vids are a lot of work, jus' sayin'--he also has tabs and stuff there. Can't get taught any cheaper.
Thanks so much. My son mentioned patreon to me a couple of years ago and I set it up, but never tried to do anything there until a few months ago. It's not that I don't appreciate folks wanting to help, but I'm stubborn about asking for money. Patreon seemed fairly passive and I decide, what the heck. Like a line from Bob Dylan's Forever Young - "May you always do for others, and let others do for you."
I'm in the process of learning the banjo using your beginner lessons. I decided to look at the beginner backup lessons for a minute out of curiosity. This first lesson really ties a lot of strings together in my mind thinking ahead to when I feel competent to play with others. You answered a lot of questions about how to approach that day. Now, back to cripple creek!
Jim. I asked for a banjo for my 50th birthday. I can strum a guitar and play the main chords but always was fascinated with the banjo. I went to Ireland and many of the bars had a banjo included. I thank you for leading me through this virus while learning the banjo. You have kept me sane without any sports to watch. My kids are even starting to stay in the same room when I play so I must be getting better. Thanks again.
When I’m playing any instrument I’m following who ever is either singing or playing lead at that time. If you can’t sing I run through the song and words in my head as I play. That’s another way just saying. Thanks Jim for showing these lessons.
I started following you a few weeks ago when I bought my first banjo. I've been playing bluegrass bass for years, but the banjo was a frightful monster that I had no hope of playing. I'm far from what I'd call really playing, but I can at least feel like there's hope. Your videos are by far the best available on TH-cam.
@@JimPankey I really think there are people out there that are just so unhappy with themselves, they have a need to make other people unhappy. Then and only then do they have any enjoyment in their lonely, ugly life... "One persons smile is worth 10,000 frowns.." You are the Bob Ross of the Banjo...And I mean that as a compliment. Your newest fan... Dave
Hi Jim I went to the open banjo seminar and then open Jam in Canton GA Saturday. I didn’t have the nerve to join in but hopefully soon. It was so much fun listening. That is my new goal to get where I can jump in and do some back up. I take some lessons from Jim Duck Adkins and I am working on learning the major G F D positions and vamping. Man is it hard! Anyway this series is perfect for me. You are a fantastic teacher and mentor Thank you for all these great videos! Mark
Hi Jim, Just wanted to add my appreciation to these many wonderful comments. Wish I could sit on the porch, watch the lightning bugs and play banjo with ya!
Hi Jim, I love your lessons. I've been learning from your videos for about three months and can play eight songs now . It's funny your new set up your wife put together for you reminded me of your first lesson when you said practice , practice, practice. Drive everybody nuts, and I DID . That's when my wife set me up in the garage. LOL Thank you and keep doing your stuff. You're The Man !
Best bluegrass banjo first lesson I've found. I really appreciate it. Many thanks Jim. I'm Practising with an open G tuned acoustic guitar . My new banjo arrives in a few days.
That was totally awesome Jim, I been wondering about back up banjo and you lay it out there how to learn pretty good. You are a great teacher and I truly enjoy your lessons, I am a beginner just been playing two months now and learning from you I had never even held a banjo in my life. I am on lesson 8 of your beginner series, once I get through lesson 10 I will jump over to your back up lessons . Cannot thank you enough Jim .... Don from Alberta Canada.
I am so thankful you post this video it has been driving me crazy trying to figure out how to play backup. Is such a great area that not many people cover
Thanks for these videos. I live in a part of Canada where no one really plays or teaches banjo so these videos really help a lot, and they're pretty fun too
Great video Jim. Since most of our time picking and singing with friends will be spent just backing up other pickers or vocals, this is a primary skill that will be used most. Please give us more!
Hey Jim, I just learned something today. They said to attach strap to banjo above the neck to keep strap from pulling on the neck. Made sense to me so I re-did mine. Just thought it was good advice. Keep those vids coming bro. Thanks. Just got a fender FB59 today it is awesome, better than my Gold Tone BG-250F I think. Prettier too....
Yeah, I've seen people attach the strap that way, but it's not as comfortable for me. If the neck it attached properly it should never be an issue anyway. ...and if it's good enough for Earl, it's more than good enough for me. :) The Fender FB59 is a pretty one. :)
Thank you for all the effort you're putting into these free courses. I got a banjo like two years ago as a B-day gift but never had a chance to learn to play it. But I'm feeling like THIS time I'll learn at least some songs, which would be a great start, so thanks for that!
Hi Jim, this is so cool! Thank you Mrs Pankey 👏👏 My son play guitar and I’ve wanted to play along with him. This will help us. By the, your beginner series has been a blessing. You really have got me started. Thank you Jim 🙏
Thank you Jim! To practice alternate roll and talk at the same time is a very good advice! I am a guitarplayer that usually dont sing much, so this was a challenge! :-D
I'm just learning how to play the banjo. I have been playing guitar for a long time and have already done a quite a bit of alternating rolls,so that has helped a lot. I really appreciate you putting this on for me to be able to learn from. I really think I can learn this with your help! I think you area really good teacher and fun to listen to! I'm trying to take this really slow and learn it the right way. Thanks for all you do to help people try to learn as easy as possible!! I know several people that have given up on the banjo because it just came too hard for them!! Thanks alot Jim!!!
Right on time Jim, was playing with a friend the other day and wanted to learn how to back up and sing. This is perfect, will await some more lessons! Thank you for your offerings
My goodness, I thought I'd be the first to comment because you only posted an hour and a half ago but many people were before me. Thank you for doing this, Jim, it's exactly what I need and I'll practice and look forward to the next lesson.
Looks always easier when you do it! But when you’re a beginner like me,it’s actually harder than it looks! 😉 But hey,I like a new challenge! Keep ‘em coming Jim!
@Jim Pankey Hi Jim. Yesterday I saw page where one could donate for the lessons. But now can’t find it. Can you either pm me or inform how I can chip in a few quid for the Jim Pankey kitty . Thanks. Bob Arlan Ps via euros if poss
Hey Jim, I've played rhythm guitar for a long time but had a wall hanger banjo that I learned a couple chords and could strum along, but during this period of social isolation, (insert banjo joke here) I started taking it a little more with it and discovered your videos. Like other's have said, it's like learning from a friend sitting around the living room! Really appreciate your style. This one in particular was really informative, turns out it's the exact same approach I take to playing the guitar, so now it's back to practicing those rolls! I'm sure you are aware, but if anyone else is interested, there are a number of guitar websites that have "lead sheets" or the same thing you used, lyrics and chord changes over the top. Pretty easy to find a song you know to practice with. I do have one question that i'm sure you've answered before, but I'm a new subscriber... what's up with the head of your banjo? I haven't seen that tuning peg arrangement before.
I like your style of teaching Jim... "have fun"... I've played other instruments for decades never picked on a banjo but got one for Christmas and learning with you Jim. Thanks so much.
Looks like I need to get into singing. I did wonder when a chord should be changed, now I know. The only thing is I better sing soft or will be banned, just like I was banned from playing my fiddle. So far nobody is telling me off for playing banjo. Having a great time playing banjo, and I do really like Roll in my sweet babies arms, and later on going to have a go at Mountain Dew. Thank you so much love playing banjo, and maybe singing. :)
Now this is the type of stuff I like to see, always wanted to play backup. Sadly I don't have the time at the moment to practice since college finals are next week and we are winding down from summer classes, I'll definitely practice this when I do though! Cant Thank you enough for these videos
Oh boy!...been awaiting this one for a while now. Thanks Jim...Been working at Bugle Call Rag and Groundspeed and making good progress. A day with a new Pankey vid is like Christmas morning to me. Can't wait to dive in!
Hi Jim, love your beginners lessons, I've found them brilliant. Love it when the cats' stroll past! What's the roll you do in this one - 3212 or 3252 (alternating on 3 then 4 etc)? Or something else? Have tried looking for the links but failed to come across them. If you've chance to come back to me when you've a spare moment, it would be greatly appreciated ). Thanks
Really a lot of fun learning this way, did your 10 basics and working through these ones now. I'm wondering if it's possible to do John Hartfords Gentle on My Mind? It seems like a really good tune for moving on from the basic lessons plus using it for these back up playing lessons. I realize it's not Bluegrass but it a heck of a song. Love your work Jim.
@@JimPankey Thanks, even if it doesn't fit the bill it's a good one for me to try and figure out. The 1988 video with Glen Campbell actually gives a lot of clues for about how to go about it but I'm not there yet. Still waking old skill up....and I really like your arrangements. Looking forward to all your available material! Thx again.
Hi Jim. Thanks much for the videos. Does the song book have to be specifically for Banjo? Can I use a songbook written for guitar chords and play those same chords on the banjo? I would like to play some songs on the Banjo while my dad plays guitar, and was wondering if we should be playing the same chords on both instruments.
Jim Pankey that’s great! I was hoping that there wasn’t some sort of music theory based transcription necessary that I don’t fully understand about this being an F instrument that one being a concert pitch instrument. ?!? Whew!
Hi again. This is great! With my guitar and uke I've always printed out songs with the chords and lyrics and learned how to strum them. With my banjo I've meticulously written out every note to learn it but have struggled sometimes to hear how it all fits. This is a light bulb moment that I can do this. The first week I had my banjo I printed a couple of songs out (one was Skip to My Lou) and attempted to play it. I could strum it but couldn't work out the bluegrass tab at all. Now I know more about roll patterns it makes more sense. Does it work with any roll pattern or vary depending on the song?
Hey Jim, I have a question for you.. I’ve recently acquired a Deering goodtime banjo & was wondering what gauge strings I should use when I change the originals? By the way, you are an amazing teacher & I follow all your lessons from here in the UK. Keep the good work up Jim coz your the man!
@@JimPankey gosh jim, I ALWAYS need more practice! Do you have any advice on how to get faster at rolls - I mean, yeah just practice them 1000 times... but do you suggest a metronome or a set amount of time to practice a roll for in a continuous fashion?
I so appreciate this, Jim. Discovered the other day that I really needed to learn how to do just this very thing, in order to play with others! Any tips on how to increase my tempo--any practice tips? I feel like my fingers are so slow.
I have been reviewing the backup banjo series again. It seems to be a little easier to get the concept now that I have some experience. Can you tell me if there is a roll pattern that will work with 6/8 time? I play hymns with a group from church and I haven't been able to play with the group on these hymns. Any help will be appreciated. Thank you for the great effort you do for us!!
Great video Jim. This backup series is going to be really wonderful. I can already feel that there is fun-ah-happnin' to be able pick up my banjo and start pickin' along with any song, which is my goal and my hope in learning the banjo. I am an absolute beginner but you are giving me the confidence already that I can do this! Thanks so much Jim for all of your lessons that equip all of us with the skills that are so necessary AND FUN to play the banjo.😊🪕🪕🪕🙂
Jim, I wish you would show your finger picking pattern(s) that you use at the beginning of each video. You are a great teacher, but it's frustrating me to try to figure out what strings you are playing for each lesson.
Hiya Jim! First of all, thank you for another wonderful lesson. You're a truly amazing teacher. I have a quick question.. I tried playing this with a capo on the second fret to fit my singing voice, but it makes shorty mc shortstring (high G?) sound really out of tune. How could I best work my way around this issue? x
im on lesson three in the series but i was wondering if i can paly backup just with this first technique? ( i am gonna learn the others, but i like the simplicity of this one.)
Ah Jim--my family hears me in here practicing banjo and fussing at you half the night. You're like a good friend that i can rewind and play again and again until we're in perfect agreement. You are definitely the best banjo player on TH-cam.
Just keep hitting that rewind button and we'll figure this stuff out together. I need the practice! LOL Thanks for the kind words.
Yes lmao he and I drive my wife crazy😁
I'm blessed to have an hour and a half lunch break in the middle of the day so I get my practice in at work so my wife won't have to hear it till it's pretty and polished.
I used to play the banjo years ago. I'm a very old man now and have made up my mind to get back into it, with my son on guitar. You have been the best teacher by that far that I have found.Thank You!
Thanks for letting me help you learn ☺️
I don't know how it is for everyone else but three months of lockdown, then the tier system, lockdown again now I'm self isolating because my brother has covid and I'm in a tier 3 area.
This year has got me real real down but learning the banjo and learning from you is the happiest I've been all year, I hope you have the best Christmas ever and if I could send you a Christmas card with a banjo on it I would, you've made life better for a lot people ❤️
I’m glad I could add a ray of sunshine to 2020. 😷
I've learned how to play drums, keyboard, and bass over the past 25 years. I picked up the banjo a couple weeks ago and finished the learn to play bluegrass series yesterday. I have to say that this has been the most fun learning process. Thanks so much for putting these series together! My neighbor plays guitar and I've sent him a couple songs to learn, so this play backup banjo series is exactly what I was hoping for. Love it!
That's awesome! Thanks for watching and letting me teach you!
C'mone Everybody, go to Jim's Patreon site and give him a couple bucks ( www.patreon.com/jimpankey
) putting out all these vids are a lot of work, jus' sayin'--he also has tabs and stuff there. Can't get taught any cheaper.
Thanks so much. My son mentioned patreon to me a couple of years ago and I set it up, but never tried to do anything there until a few months ago. It's not that I don't appreciate folks wanting to help, but I'm stubborn about asking for money. Patreon seemed fairly passive and I decide, what the heck.
Like a line from Bob Dylan's Forever Young - "May you always do for others, and let others do for you."
Jim thank you im 60 and just learning you make it so good to learn thank you again
Glad I can help 😊
I'm in the process of learning the banjo using your beginner lessons. I decided to look at the beginner backup lessons for a minute out of curiosity. This first lesson really ties a lot of strings together in my mind thinking ahead to when I feel competent to play with others. You answered a lot of questions about how to approach that day. Now, back to cripple creek!
Glad it wasn’t too confusing!
Jim. I asked for a banjo for my 50th birthday. I can strum a guitar and play the main chords but always was fascinated with the banjo. I went to Ireland and many of the bars had a banjo included. I thank you for leading me through this virus while learning the banjo. You have kept me sane without any sports to watch. My kids are even starting to stay in the same room when I play so I must be getting better. Thanks again.
Not sure why it showed up as Gabby. I’m Gabby Dad!!
I'm glad you're picking! Thanks for letting me teach you. 😊
I made it! Slower, but still .
No one home but me and the dog! She is not complaning! 😊 thank you from Johanna in Sweden!
Yay!!
It's an honor to call you my friend, Jim!
Call me later... I’ve got a good nugget of truth for you. :)
When I’m playing any instrument I’m following who ever is either singing or playing lead at that time. If you can’t sing I run through the song and words in my head as I play. That’s another way just saying. Thanks Jim for showing these lessons.
Good tip! Thanks for watching!
I started following you a few weeks ago when I bought my first banjo. I've been playing bluegrass bass for years, but the banjo was a frightful monster that I had no hope of playing. I'm far from what I'd call really playing, but I can at least feel like there's hope. Your videos are by far the best available on TH-cam.
Thanks for the kind words. You've got this!
How can anybody give this man a thumbs down , Jim, you are brilliant, your teaching technique is perfect, well done buddy.
It’s ok. I realize my instruction isn’t for everyone. 😊
@@JimPankey I really think there are people out there that are just so unhappy with themselves, they have a need to make other people unhappy. Then and only then do they have any enjoyment in their lonely, ugly life... "One persons smile is worth 10,000 frowns.." You are the Bob Ross of the Banjo...And I mean that as a compliment. Your newest fan... Dave
This was exactly what I needed to hear for the skills I am looking to improve at the moment. Thank you Jim!
Glad it was helpful!
Ah awesome, I've been thinking more lately that it would be cool to know how to backup. This is gonna be perfect!
Seems like I was just in time. :)
people, this video is the very best advise anyone can give you. Love it Jim
Thanks so much!
Hi Jim I went to the open banjo seminar and then open Jam in Canton GA Saturday. I didn’t have the nerve to join in but hopefully soon. It was so much fun listening.
That is my new goal to get where I can jump in and do some back up.
I take some lessons from Jim Duck Adkins and I am working on learning the major G F D positions and vamping. Man is it hard! Anyway this series is perfect for me. You are a fantastic teacher and mentor Thank you for all these great videos!
Mark
Just keep going to those jams!
I like your singing, Jim!
Thanks!
@@JimPankey .
Hi Jim, Just wanted to add my appreciation to these many wonderful comments. Wish I could sit on the porch, watch the lightning bugs and play banjo with ya!
That would be fun!
I really like your videos. So wholesome and genuine. Thanks for posting
Glad you like them!
You are awesome! I learned how to play the banjo from your videos! Thank you very much !!! Long live Jim ! :)
Fun ain't it?
Ho bwoy, I just got to the end of your beginners class and stumbled on this.
Back down the rabbit hole I go!!
You got this!
@@JimPankey I Got this!!
Glad you are back with more lessons!
It's good to be back. :)
Hi Jim, I love your lessons. I've been learning from your videos for about three months and can play eight songs now . It's funny your new set up your wife put together for you reminded me of your first lesson when you said practice , practice, practice. Drive everybody nuts, and I DID . That's when my wife set me up in the garage. LOL Thank you and keep doing your stuff. You're The Man !
Garage ain't so bad - especially if you've got a banjo! :)
Thank you Jim for doing this kind of lessons from time to time.
Glad to do it. :)
Thanks jim. I like your style of keeping things simple. I’ve had a guitar 10 yrs and just dusted it off and changed the strings. You are most helpful.
Meant to say banjo. My bad.
Keep me posted on your progress!
Thanks! I really appreciate the simplicity in these lessons. Looking forward to the next, as always!
You're welcome. Stay tuned for more. :)
Thank Jim, You just said word for word what my local teacher is telling me, but with a few extra comments that helped me. looking forward to lesson 2
I love it when a plan comes together. :D
Thanks for posting this. I’m supposed to be playing banjo with some others for the first time tomorrow and this gets the gears turning.
Hopefully you'll be able to put some of the ideas to use. :)
Fantastic Jim. There are a lot of guys teaching, but you are the best for breaking it down and that’s makes it easy for me to learn
Thanks 😊
Best bluegrass banjo first lesson I've found. I really appreciate it. Many thanks Jim.
I'm Practising with an open G tuned acoustic guitar . My new banjo arrives in a few days.
Glad you like them!
That was totally awesome Jim, I been wondering about back up banjo and you lay it out there how to learn pretty good. You are a great teacher and I truly enjoy your lessons, I am a beginner just been playing two months now and learning from you I had never even held a banjo in my life. I am on lesson 8 of your beginner series, once I get through lesson 10 I will jump over to your back up lessons . Cannot thank you enough Jim .... Don from Alberta Canada.
Thanks for the kind words. Keep me posted on your progress.
I am so thankful you post this video it has been driving me crazy trying to figure out how to play backup. Is such a great area that not many people cover
Glad you liked it. Stay tuned for more. :)
Thanks for these videos. I live in a part of Canada where no one really plays or teaches banjo so these videos really help a lot, and they're pretty fun too
Happy to be part of your learning process. :)
Great video Jim. Since most of our time picking and singing with friends will be spent just backing up other pickers or vocals, this is a primary skill that will be used most. Please give us more!
Oh, for sure more to come. :)
Just thee best teacher!!!
So helpful and easy to understand!!!
Thanks for letting me help you learn ☺️
SO GOOD!!!! Thank you so much for teaching such a simple, but great way to play!
You’re welcome!
Great stuff Jim, you really know how to unlock the mysteries of the banjo for me. A great teacher, thanks man.
You're welcome! Keep Picking!
Thanks Jim. I'm just learning, and your videos make it fun. :-)
Glad to help
Hey Jim, I just learned something today. They said to attach strap to banjo above the neck to keep strap from pulling on the neck. Made sense to me so I re-did mine. Just thought it was good advice. Keep those vids coming bro. Thanks. Just got a fender FB59 today it is awesome, better than my Gold Tone BG-250F I think. Prettier too....
Yeah, I've seen people attach the strap that way, but it's not as comfortable for me. If the neck it attached properly it should never be an issue anyway. ...and if it's good enough for Earl, it's more than good enough for me. :) The Fender FB59 is a pretty one. :)
@@JimPankey Ahhh, I concur :)
picked up a banjo at the start of covid19 and with your amazing videos I am doing pretty good. thanks
Fantastic!
Keeping with it I hope? How're you sounding?
Jim is a great teacher.
Excellent presentation!
Thanks 😊
Thank you for all the effort you're putting into these free courses. I got a banjo like two years ago as a B-day gift but never had a chance to learn to play it. But I'm feeling like THIS time I'll learn at least some songs, which would be a great start, so thanks for that!
You're welcome! You can do it. :)
Hi Jim, this is so cool! Thank you Mrs Pankey 👏👏 My son play guitar and I’ve wanted to play along with him. This will help us. By the, your beginner series has been a blessing. You really have got me started. Thank you Jim 🙏
Glad I can help 😊
I sure like your teaching. Backup banjo I like it don't cha know.
Glad you enjoy it!
Thank you Jim.
Always learn a lot from you.
You're welcome. Thanks for watching!
Another outstanding lesson. You the man, Jim!
Thanks!
Thank you Jim! To practice alternate roll and talk at the same time is a very good advice! I am a guitarplayer that usually dont sing much, so this was a challenge! :-D
Just keep practicing and singing. It gets easier.
I'm just learning how to play the banjo. I have been playing guitar for a long time and have already done a quite a bit of alternating rolls,so that has helped a lot. I really appreciate you putting this on for me to be able to learn from. I really think I can learn this with your help! I think you area really good teacher and fun to listen to! I'm trying to take this really slow and learn it the right way. Thanks for all you do to help people try to learn as easy as possible!! I know several people that have given up on the banjo because it just came too hard for them!! Thanks alot Jim!!!
Thanks for letting me help you learn. 😀
Right on time Jim, was playing with a friend the other day and wanted to learn how to back up and sing. This is perfect, will await some more lessons! Thank you for your offerings
Glad to help! :)
This is useful and also quite funny...I'd got to lesson 8 recently when I realised I had finger ones on backwards..no wonder they kept falling off ;-)
Glad you got that sorted out. ☺️
If I had ta pick one person ta sit on a front porch drinkin iced tea and pickin banjers with, it'd be Mr. Pankey! 😉
Thanks! I'm up for some iced tea!
Love your lessons! This one is by far the toughest one for me but I’ll keep at it. Appreciate what you do. Keep ‘em coming!
You can do it!
Thanks for this Jim, I'm only at lesson 4 and on the verge of being able to play foggy mountain, this video will help with momentum.
You're welcome. Keep on picking!
My goodness, I thought I'd be the first to comment because you only posted an hour and a half ago but many people were before me. Thank you for doing this, Jim, it's exactly what I need and I'll practice and look forward to the next lesson.
You're welcome. Thanks for watching!
Thank you I've been playing I've been picking around on a banjo
Glad I could help!
Looks always easier when you do it! But when you’re a beginner like me,it’s actually harder than it looks! 😉 But hey,I like a new challenge! Keep ‘em coming Jim!
Just keep at it; it'll get easier.
Good stuff Jim. Good new information. Taking the next step. Thanks!
You're welcome.
Finally getting around to put some effort into this
Awesome!
Loving these lessons Jim Keep’em coming
Thanks 😊
@Jim Pankey Hi Jim. Yesterday I saw page where one could donate for the lessons. But now can’t find it. Can you either pm me or inform how I can chip in a few quid for the Jim Pankey kitty . Thanks. Bob Arlan Ps via euros if poss
😊Link is in the description, and now it’s here. www.patreon.com/jimpankey
Hey Jim, I've played rhythm guitar for a long time but had a wall hanger banjo that I learned a couple chords and could strum along, but during this period of social isolation, (insert banjo joke here) I started taking it a little more with it and discovered your videos. Like other's have said, it's like learning from a friend sitting around the living room! Really appreciate your style. This one in particular was really informative, turns out it's the exact same approach I take to playing the guitar, so now it's back to practicing those rolls! I'm sure you are aware, but if anyone else is interested, there are a number of guitar websites that have "lead sheets" or the same thing you used, lyrics and chord changes over the top. Pretty easy to find a song you know to practice with.
I do have one question that i'm sure you've answered before, but I'm a new subscriber... what's up with the head of your banjo? I haven't seen that tuning peg arrangement before.
Hey thanks! Those are Cheat-a-Keys. You can see them here: th-cam.com/video/iC32XNCa_jA/w-d-xo.html
I like your style of teaching Jim... "have fun"... I've played other instruments for decades never picked on a banjo but got one for Christmas and learning with you Jim. Thanks so much.
Glad you're enjoying the lessons!
Looks like I need to get into singing. I did wonder when a chord should be changed, now I know. The only thing is I better sing soft or will be banned, just like I was banned from playing my fiddle. So far nobody is telling me off for playing banjo. Having a great time playing banjo, and I do really like Roll in my sweet babies arms, and later on going to have a go at Mountain Dew. Thank you so much love playing banjo, and maybe singing. :)
Sing Out! It'll help and you'll get better at it. Glad you're enjoying the lessons.
nice one Jim, I did not know you did the "back up" lessons.
Glad you found them.
Hi Jim, i´m brazillian and was struggling to find good banjo teachers. I love your videos and your simplicity while talking us through the lessons
Thanks!
Love it as always Jim. Keep it up!
That's the plan. Not sure yet how many in this series I'll do, but stay tuned. :)
Jim in just starting again lol finally getting my banjo setup. Does a wheelchair count close enough to for a straight back chair?
Of course! You may have to figure out how to work around the arms on it… but that should be a breeze!
Now this is the type of stuff I like to see, always wanted to play backup. Sadly I don't have the time at the moment to practice since college finals are next week and we are winding down from summer classes, I'll definitely practice this when I do though! Cant Thank you enough for these videos
It'll be right here when you're ready. Good luck on your finals!
Keep up the amazing work your videos really help me love ya brother and God bless!
Glad to help! Keep pickin'!
Thanks Jim!
Thanks for watching!!
Oh boy!...been awaiting this one for a while now. Thanks Jim...Been working at Bugle Call Rag and Groundspeed and making good progress. A day with a new Pankey vid is like Christmas morning to me. Can't wait to dive in!
Have fun! Glad you are learning some tunes.
Extremely helpful
Thanks 😊
You are so very helpful. Thank you!
Glad I can help 😀
You’re the best on banjo guy on TH-cam………by far
Thanks ☺️
Hi Jim, love your beginners lessons, I've found them brilliant. Love it when the cats' stroll past! What's the roll you do in this one - 3212 or 3252 (alternating on 3 then 4 etc)? Or something else? Have tried looking for the links but failed to come across them. If you've chance to come back to me when you've a spare moment, it would be greatly appreciated ). Thanks
It’s just an alternating roll… the very first one I teach in my beginner series.
Try 32514251
Thank you!
Jim it would be awesome to play back up
You can do it!
Another great lesson!
Thanks 😊
Really a lot of fun learning this way, did your 10 basics and working through these ones now. I'm wondering if it's possible to do John Hartfords Gentle on My Mind? It seems like a really good tune for moving on from the basic lessons plus using it for these back up playing lessons. I realize it's not Bluegrass but it a heck of a song. Love your work Jim.
I’ll ponder on that one. Could be fun.
@@JimPankey Thanks, even if it doesn't fit the bill it's a good one for me to try and figure out. The 1988 video with Glen Campbell actually gives a lot of clues for about how to go about it but I'm not there yet. Still waking old skill up....and I really like your arrangements. Looking forward to all your available material! Thx again.
Love this guy 👍
Thanks Aaron!
Hi Jim. Thanks much for the videos. Does the song book have to be specifically for Banjo? Can I use a songbook written for guitar chords and play those same chords on the banjo? I would like to play some songs on the Banjo while my dad plays guitar, and was wondering if we should be playing the same chords on both instruments.
I used to do that all the time. If a book says go to C then go to C on the banjo. You've got it!
Jim Pankey that’s great! I was hoping that there wasn’t some sort of music theory based transcription necessary that I don’t fully understand about this being an F instrument that one being a concert pitch instrument. ?!? Whew!
I think this series will be really good. Thanks for starting at square one.
I'm looking forward to getting this series out here. I've put it off too long.
Hi again. This is great! With my guitar and uke I've always printed out songs with the chords and lyrics and learned how to strum them. With my banjo I've meticulously written out every note to learn it but have struggled sometimes to hear how it all fits. This is a light bulb moment that I can do this. The first week I had my banjo I printed a couple of songs out (one was Skip to My Lou) and attempted to play it. I could strum it but couldn't work out the bluegrass tab at all. Now I know more about roll patterns it makes more sense. Does it work with any roll pattern or vary depending on the song?
Glad this was helpful! Yes! You can use any roll you like!
Hey Jim, I have a question for you.. I’ve recently acquired a Deering goodtime banjo & was wondering what gauge strings I should use when I change the originals? By the way, you are an amazing teacher & I follow all your lessons from here in the UK. Keep the good work up Jim coz your the man!
I’d just just a standard light set from Martin or D’Addario
Jim Pankey thanks Jim
jim: "we are going to go a medium tempo" (proceeds to play an alternating thumb roll faster than I have ever played it in my life) 🤣
Guess that means you need some more practice? :)
@@JimPankey gosh jim, I ALWAYS need more practice! Do you have any advice on how to get faster at rolls - I mean, yeah just practice them 1000 times... but do you suggest a metronome or a set amount of time to practice a roll for in a continuous fashion?
I so appreciate this, Jim. Discovered the other day that I really needed to learn how to do just this very thing, in order to play with others! Any tips on how to increase my tempo--any practice tips? I feel like my fingers are so slow.
It's something you just have to learn to relax and go faster. You'll get it. The main thing is to try.
@@JimPankey Gotcha. Thanks!
So much to learn, so little time!
Start today. It won't take that long. :)
I have been reviewing the backup banjo series again. It seems to be a little easier to get the concept now that I have some experience. Can you tell me if there is a roll pattern that will work with 6/8 time? I play hymns with a group from church and I haven't been able to play with the group on these hymns. Any help will be appreciated.
Thank you for the great effort you do for us!!
I generally think of 6/8 hymns as 3/4
@@JimPankey Thank you Jim, I will try using one of the 3/4 patterns you shared with us in the later backup lessons
Hello Jim How many lessons do you have for the Banjo classes to complete the course if a lessson is taken per week. Thanks. Your a great teacher
I’m not sure I understand the question. I have a lot of lessons out here - enough to keep you busy for a long time.
Great video Jim. This backup series is going to be really wonderful. I can already feel that there is fun-ah-happnin' to be able pick up my banjo and start pickin' along with any song, which is my goal and my hope in learning the banjo. I am an absolute beginner but you are giving me the confidence already that I can do this! Thanks so much Jim for all of your lessons that equip all of us with the skills that are so necessary AND FUN to play the banjo.😊🪕🪕🪕🙂
You’ve got this! Keep me posted on your progress.
Another great lesson! I just wish you were my neighbor.
I can be your youtube neighbor :)
Jim Pankey I'll take it!
It seems your Bluegrass Songbook is a collector’s edition that’s hard to find!
I’ve had it since at least 1980
Great video. Beginner banjo player in Sweden. How is the alternating banjo roll played?
I explain that in my Beginning Bluegrass Banjo series
Jim Pankey thank you I found It. Thats gonna help a lot with backup 😀
Jim, I wish you would show your finger picking pattern(s) that you use at the beginning of each video. You are a great teacher, but it's frustrating me to try to figure out what strings you are playing for each lesson.
I have tabs for 90% of everything I post. I also explain everything I do past the first demo in the video.
But with backup, if I say a particular roll name I’m expecting that you already know the rolls.
Ok Jim what is the Tesla looking lightbulb time traveling telephone equipment on the dresser?
Probably something my son built. Was his old room.
Hiya Jim! First of all, thank you for another wonderful lesson. You're a truly amazing teacher. I have a quick question.. I tried playing this with a capo on the second fret to fit my singing voice, but it makes shorty mc shortstring (high G?) sound really out of tune. How could I best work my way around this issue? x
Check this out: Jim talks about Using a Banjo Capo th-cam.com/video/bf0PuH3EOnk/w-d-xo.html
im on lesson three in the series but i was wondering if i can paly backup just with this first technique? ( i am gonna learn the others, but i like the simplicity of this one.)
Yes you can!
@@JimPankey Awesome, thanks!
Hi Jim, is the alternating roll a 3 2 5 1?
Yup
👍
🤙🏼
Hey Jim, it looks like your wife also gave you one of those little bells up behind the globe. What happens if you ring it?
Oh that.. yeah, if ring that there's this guy that jumps up from behind the night desk and announces, "Empty Arms Hotel!!!"
@@JimPankey Ha ha, had to look up the reference.
thanks from wakes
Thanks for watching. 😊