The world of melodic jazz Banjo soloing is revealed in this comprehensive method which leads a student from basic intervals to advanced theoretical concepts and finally to a firm foundation in jazz fundamentals. Included areover 90 exercises and examples written in both tablature fingerings and standard music notation which show how scales and arpeggios are used and how they apply to real playing situations. Every five-string Banjoist can benefitfrom the information contained in this breakthrough volume whether they aspire to jazz or just want to find out more about the possibilities and structure of the Banjo.Starting with basic intervals 'Straight-Ahead Jazz for Banjo' shows the structure of all basic chord types and qualities and matches these to the scales that generate them. The book's basic concept model is to treat the five-string Banjo'spotential in an inclusive technical context so that the student can make use of open and fifth strings to create a smooth legato style. Each of the 90+ exercises are recorded with a metronome and progress to 16 additional examplesof original jazz phrases in a variety of keys. Topics include functional major and minor key harmony diminished and augmented scales and how they are used and the integration of altered scale substitutes in the art of jazzimprovisation. It stresses listening and learning in a logical structured manner with an example of a daily practice plan.The unique emphasis of the book is on the fingerings which make the instrument work for youtechnically and thus open up added possibilities for the development of a student's personal style. This long-awaited volume will surely bring new focus and perspective to any Banjo style and will be a classic reference for manynew generations of Banjoists. Includes access to online audio.

A Complete Guide for Beginning and Advanced Banjo Players-These two 2-hour DVDs will give you everything you need to discover the heritage and master the techniques of the Clawhammer Banjo. Ken Perlman celebrated tutor and Clawhammer authority leads you step-by-step through this exciting style of Banjo playing including:Basic left and right hand positionsSimple chordsThe brushThe Bumm-titty strumPull-offs and slidesSyncopationWhen you feel you have got to grips with the basics the second DVD then raises your playing to yet another level of expertise including:Double thumbingQuick slidesFretted pull-offsHarmonicsGrace notesImprovisationIn theprocess of learning the skills of the instrument you will also be introduced to over 80 Banjo favourites and authentic tunes building a repertoire to match the library of techniques on offer in this comprehensive tutorial.

Alan Munde has long been a major artist in the 5-string Banjo world. Here for the first time is the book and audio download combination of Munde's unaccompanied playing from his popular Solo Banjoproject. The book contains entire as-played-by versions with many variations of 12 bluegrass standards and 3 Munde originals including the popular Peaches and Cream in harmony! Audio download availableonline.