This time around, I thought I’d speak of a resource for banjo players that I love: the Banjo Newsletter. I was introduced to this publication many years ago but back then I didn’t take the time to subscribe. Now, however, I am an avid subscriber and I love it.
The Banjo Newsletter is a resource full of articles on banjo players, columns written by banjo players, and loads of tablature. I am a 5-string bluegrass picker, and the magazine certainly caters to my style of picking, but the neat thing about the magazine is that it also features information on different styles of banjo playing. If you are a true fan of the banjo in general, you’ll appreciate learning about the different facets of the instrument. And if you play other styles such as old time or frailing or clawhammer, you’ll find just as many resources about your style as you’ll find on the bluegrass style.
For me, one of the neat things about reading the articles is seeing the pictures of the many personalities. It’s nice to put a face to a name, you know? And, reading their “spin” on how or why they pick the way they do is very informative and helpful. I also like reading the commentary and articles written by everyone from beginning pickers (see the column written by the Banjo Diva!) to seasoned professionals. Of note in particular is the “Beginner’s Corner” by Eddie Collins. He has been contributing to the B.N.L. for many years, and has now come out with a book containing all the articles he has written over the years. I’ll be picking this up for sure.
Click over the website of the Banjo Newsletter at: www.banjonews.com and check it out. I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do.