Hi John, That is totally understandable and what you have to realize is we all go through that phase of impatience and frustration at our seemingly lack of progress. But if your putting in the time to study and practice then trust me you are making progress even although it may not seem like you are.
You have to remember you are learning a new skill that requires you to multitask. That is a lot of information for your brain to process.
There is so much information to absorb. It takes Patience, Perseverance and Practice, lots of it to learn to play banjo.
So here’s my advice. Work your way through Ben’s Beginner Learning Track. Don’t waste time measuring your skill level with how others are doing,
For now focus ALL your energy on learning the roll patterns in Ben’s Banjo Roll Studies and The Banjo Fret Hand Techniques. These are the key fundamental skills you will need to move forward. If you follow this learning track you will be learning to play some simple tunes as you go. Making progress at your speed and skill level.
Don’t rush through this section take your time and absorb what Ben is teaching you. If you find a task is too difficult, Slow down, break things down to a manageable level. One measure, half a measure or even one note at a time. I still do this when I am struggling.
As for learning the mechanics if it’s killing you Slooooow Down. The best way to practice roll patterns is with a metronome or as I much prefer TablEdit using .tef files. Once you have a grasp of playing rolls practice them whilst watching TV. By doing this you are allowing the brain to begin the process of multitasking. Eventually the brain will do this on auto pilot leaving you to focus on the fretting hand.
Remember the key to progress is listening. Listening to the melody, to yourself and to others in a band.
Now stop fretting and go have some fun.