A Study In Banjo Lessons

Posted by Nick Niesen on October 26th, 2010

Ah, I remember the good old days when I had my first banjo lesson. Actually, it wasn?t exactly my first lesson. I had been using the internet to improve my ?skill? for a while, and I was slightly conceited since I thought I had some idea about what I was doing. I watched videos of a real expert playing the banjo while the tabs were available as well. I learned a few songs and techniques that sounded interesting, but that was about the extent of my knowledge.

When I had my first real lesson, it broke down all those illusions I had of being a decent player. I tried to show off, but as soon as his deep eyes met mine I missed a chord. It was my first time to ever play any instrument in front of anyone, and I didn?t think I would get nervous. After all, I?ve always been a gifted public speaker. The only one in the room was my teacher, and I was having a terrible time.

I?m having a hard time seeing my future in banjo playing, especially since I can?t even whack up the ginger to play something in front of my own teacher. He?s a nice guy, and he can play the banjo like no other. He?s already taught me several exercise I can use for my next lesson. It?s also a great experience just to watch him play, since his skill far outweighs mine. I just hope I will sound at least slightly more decent the next time I have a lesson.

But if I always freeze up when I try to play at my lessons, I?m worried that my instructor will never be able to give me the help I truly need. It?s impossible to get feedback and constructive criticism if everything I play is absolute garbage. I think I will start recording my lone practice and playing it back for him. Hopefully I won?t freeze up just knowing that he will be listening to it soon?