ISBN 9781619115651. 8.75 x 11.75 inches.

This is a unique collection of drills for all three popular three-finger banjo styles: Scruggs, Single String and Melodic. There are over two hundred sixty exercises ranging from beginner to advanced levels. The physical exercises include finger strengthening, increasing position changing speed, agility and hand-eye coordination. There are detailed aspects of technique not addressed in any other book such as pick depth control, controlling the pick angle for the best tone, stabilizing the right hand and improving economy of motion in both hands. Musical exercises include roll exercises, roll combinations, modern (post-Scruggs) rolls, scales and scale patterns in both single-string and melodic styles, chord scales, fretboard positions for the G scale over the entire fretboard and triad and seventh chord formations. Location of root, seventh and minor tonal centers are shown in chord formations and in the fretboard patterns. Melodic quasi-chord formations are revealed which have never been codified in any other book. Mental tips which enhance focus and dozens of theory tidbits are featured.

ISBN 9781610658645. 8.5 X 11 inches. This book is designed to aid the novice attempting to learn the 5-string banjo using 3-Finger Style, where the strings are picked by three fingers (thumb,index and middle) of the right hand. Upon completing this volume, you will have learned how to combine left-hand notes with right-hand patterns so as to perform bluegrass style solos and back-up. You will also have the foundation needed to explore other styles of music, such as blues and jazz. No prior knowledge of music or any musical instrument is needed to learn from this method. Enough detail is given to allow the beginner to fully grasp each concept. In addition, exercises are designed to facilitate a gradual increase in the student's understanding and dexterity. When a new concept is presented for the right hand, the left hand performs previously learned tasks. Likewise, a new left-hand technique is demonstrated with familiar right-hand patterns. This instructional technique is used throughout the text. Includes access to online audio.