Essential Building Block of Bluegrass Banjo Backup - Two Measure Roll Pattern

Will teaches two measure banjo roll patterns in the keys of G, C, and D with variations and embellishments. These roll patterns help unlock the mystery of down-the-neck banjo backup. Master these patterns and you'll be able to play along with just about any standard three chord bluegrass song.
The basic two measure right-hand roll pattern featured in this video is: 1-3-1-2-3-1-2-3-1-2-3-1-2-3-1-3. (1 refers to the thumb of the right hand, 2 to the index finger, and 3 to the middle finger.) Across the G chord, this pattern is played beginning on the 3rd string (low G) and then the 1st string (high D). Then there are three forward rolls played across the 5th string (high G), 3rd string (low G), and 1st string (high D). The last two notes are a reset playing the 5th string and then the 1st string. This resets the pattern so you're thumb will be ready to begin the pattern again for the next two measures.
The variation of this two measure pattern begins the same for the first measure but ends with a forward reverse roll in the second measure. That right hand pattern is 1-3-1-2-3-1-2-3-1-2-3-1-3-2-1-3.
#banjo #bluegrass

[@hounddog905]

Good lesson, thanks for sharing.

[@fsfreds7]

this is great

[@judwatkins9478]

At about 3:00 you demonstrate a roll that doesn't match the 1-3-1 pattern, bottom of your screen. I've watched this demo in slow speed, but I don't see how the #'s fit what you're playing.

[@bloomfieldbluegrass]

I've rewatched it to make sure that it's right and it is. Here's another way of stating what I'm doing. Begin by plaing the Thumb (1) on the G string. Next is the middle finger (3) on the high D string. Then the forward roll continues with the thumb (1) on the high G string, then index finger (2) on G, then middle finger (3) on high D. I hope that helps.

[@ruthmoore3367]

I was confused but now I realize the numbers refer to finger number, not string number.

[@judwatkins9478]

Thank you for this reply clarifying that numbers refer to plectrum hand fingers, not strings. I will practice this drill correctly and let you know how it goes. Again, thank you.​@@bloomfieldbluegrass