Free Banjo Lesson 01
Exercise 1-1: Basic Forward Roll
The Basic Forward Roll consists of two right hand forward rolls (Thumb, Index, Middle - TIM). The first one begins on the 3rd string. The second begins on the 5th string. The last two notes are played by the thumb (3rd string) and middle finger (1st string). Practice with the MIDI file until you can play it smoothly. Be sure to use the right hand fingering shown under the tablature. When you can play it 10 times in a row with no mistakes, you're ready for the next exercise.
Play it.
Exercise 1-2: Forward Reverse Roll
The Forward Reverse Roll contains both the forward (TIM) and reverse (MIT) roll patterns. The first half of the measure is TIMT. It begins and ends on the 5th string. The last half of the measure is the reverse roll. It begins and ends on the 1st string. Again, ten times with no mistakes before you move to the next exercise.
Play it.
Exercise 1-3: Forward Reverse Roll In C
This is exactly like Exercise1-2 with one exception. You must play a C chord with your left hand. Actually, it's not a complete C chord but it's enough for right now. The left hand fingering goes like this: First finger on 2nd string behind fret 1. Third finger on 1st string behind fret 2. Remember to stay behind the fret, not on it. Also, be sure to press the string all the way to the fret board. If you don't, you will hear a buzzing sound. Ten times with no mistakes and play it smoothly - give each note equal timing.
Play it.
Exercise 1-4: Forward Reverse Roll In D
Like the Forward Reverse Roll In C, this exercise requires that you play a chord. D7 is used now. First finger on 2nd string behind fret 1. Middle finger on 3rd string behind fret 2. Remember, stay behind the frets and press hard. This pattern begins on the 3rd string.
Play it.
Exercise 1-5: Changing Chords: G to C
The banjo is tuned to a G chord. When you play a roll with no left hand fingering, you're playing in G. But, there are few songs that use only one chord. Therefore, you must learn to change chords while playing. It is important that you be able to play the right hand part without looking because you will need to look at your left hand to make the changes. Don't lift your left hand fingers too far from the strings. One inch should be plenty. Lifting your fingers too far will make the chords harder to find.
Play it.
Exercise 1-6: Changing Chords: G to D7
Just like the last exercise except you change to D7 instead of C.
Play it.
Exercise 1-7: Changing Chords: G to D7 to G
Make a complete chord progression. Putting it all together, a half measure in G followed by a half measure of D7 and back to G for one whole measure.
Play it.
When you have mastered all of the exercises, you are ready to play Rollin' Along.
Play it slow.
Play it medium.
Play it fast.
© Gary Shepherd -- 2003