Book review: Peter Pardee, Banjo picking - a complete method

Thanks to Dublin banjoist Conor Daly for his review of this stimulating work of 5-string instruction:

Published in 2006, it would appear to represent the school of less conventional approaches to banjo instruction, rather like the late Paul Hawthorne's Gestalt banjo: volume one. I've always been a fan of going back to basics as a way to refine technique, and whenever something new and unique like this comes along I usually can't resist acquiring it. The thing I particularly like about it is the very graduated approach it takes, giving very solid advice on hand position in the beginning stages, progressing through to painfully slow right-hand exercises, all the way to intermediate, advanced, and 'extreme' sections.

This is all good stuff and the sections of roll permutations are like daily banjo vitamins to supplement your musical nutrition. What you won't find here is the usual approach of tab-reading basics, banjo construction, and a few basic rolls followed by arrangements of stock tunes with possibly some backup licks. Experienced players should not be put off by the mind-numbing Zen-like exercises, as they can only make one a better player with an even sharper sense of timing.

This all goes hand in hand with my belief that a banjo is a drum first, then a melody maker second; and while it doesn't get into the nitty gritty of right-hand technique the way Gestalt banjo does, it is a great aid for beginners and experienced players alike. If you are looking for a quick, painless approach to get you 'up and running' and playing in jam sessions or a band ASAP, do not get this book. On the other hand, if you are serious about playing the banjo and are willing to sacrifice some Blood, Sweat, and Tears to become a solid player and just need some sound advice and direction, then this will go a long way towards achieving that goal. It also comes with a very helpful audio CD.

I purchased my copy on amazon.co.uk but it is available through many online vendors.

BIB editor's note: As a Mel Bay publication, this book should be readily available from music stores; but anyone who likes the 5-string should check out this online source in particular.

Update 13 Jan. 2017: Since the above note was written, the domain thebanjoman.com has expired, so the online source the BIB recommended no longer exists.