Forum - Banjo Ben Clark

Getting my "chops" back!

#1

After time away from banjo, I’m glad to find Banjo Ben and this community. Great stuff!

I’ve been playing banjo on and off for almost 50 years. My most recent hiatus started about 8 years ago. Over that 50 years, I started with the Scruggs book and record, but I’ve also had the opportunity to learn from some amazing, notable teachers. I won’t drop names, but ya’ll would recognize them.

I don’t say this to brag, but I’ve been blessed to learn quite a bit over the years. I’m not a beginner. BUT I’ve put the banjo down for quite a while. I now want pick again, and my hands / fingers need to re-learn. My old-aged hands and arthritis are 8 years advanced, but I can do this.

Questions for you all: What should I focus on to re-limber my hands? (esp right hand) Been focusing mostly on slow, even rolls with my right hand. I just want to get back to that “in the pocket” rolling groove, and I’ll be fine.

Thank you!

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#2

Hi @marshall.ponzi Marshall welcome to @BanjoBen 's Forum
I always encourage newcomers to the website to work through the Beginner Learning path at their own pace. This gives you an opportunity to get a feel for the framework of the structure of the website and a way to get familiar with Ben’s teaching style. The Rolls Section might be a good place for you to start. But I’d also encourage you to check out the Intermediate and Advanced sections to see if you can find a Lesson that offers you a challenge a goal to work towards. When you feel comfortable post a video in the Video Swap Section and Ben will give you some feedback

#3

I think you’re on the right track, welcome back! I do think if you try to play a lot at top speeds you’ll skip some ground, so a patient approach will be good. I’d also find a lesson on the site that really resonates with you to begin working on. I was recently reminded of this solo I taught that just has some great groove/pocket: https://banjobenclark.com/lessons/higher-ground-banjo-lesson-banjo-intermediate

I don’t know what your skill level is, so you want to avoid right now tackling something beyond your level, so choose accordingly.

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