Clawhammer Question & Answer

I'm obviously partial to clawhammer, although I do play both styles, but if you're still trying to decide which style is best suited for you, consider exactly what you want to do with the banjo once you've mastered the basics.

If you are thinking of playing in a bluegrass band or joining in a regular bluegrass jam, then it's a "no brainer"; learn the three finger approach.

If you envision yourself using the instrument to backup your voice in a solo setting, play "old time" string band music, perform with a fiddler, accompany group singing, or just play at home by yourself, then go with the clawhammer style.

Above all else, decide what "turns you on" about the banjo. If it's Scruggs, Fleck, Furtado... learn bluegrass style. If you find yourself loving folk singers, string bands, or contemporary singers like Gillian Welch... learn to frail!

Don't let someone else make the decision for you. Follow your heart!










Thanks... Mike