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The Art of the Zither-Banjo with David Wade by Tom Ryan
I was very pleased to see seven zither banjos all ready to play, plus
the supporting materials that David had prepared. He was quite surprised
when all twelve who booked to attend actually turned up - must be
something about zither banjos! David ran through the history of this
wonderful instrument, including the links to Alfred Cammeyer and Sir
Arthur Sullivan (the Sullivan of Gilbert and Sullivan), and what
happened when they met. We had a go at chord progressions, sliding
between each rather than taking fingers off as in classical playing.
David had produced a 16 page booklet for everyone, showing some history
plus exercises and some tunes. As with all good things – they come to an
end and the workshop was over before we had really got going. Excellent
preparation and attention to detail by David made this first zither
banjo workshop a success.
Classic Banjo with Elias Sibley by Brian Dingley: The original workshop was intended to be based on the works of Tarrant Bailey Jnr. but circumstances caused this to be altered to a more general classic banjo session. About ten students and several observers enjoyed Elias’ instruction and assistance in playing two pieces (both notated for 1st and 2nd banjo) by Herbert J. Ellis. Changing 1st and 2nd parts around wihin the group allowed all students to play both parts. This was followed by a discussion on the mechanics and merits of scale exercises using a sheet specially prepared by Elias. The workshop closed with a question and answer session.
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Chord Melody on Plectrum Banjo with Howard Shepherd by Claude Burvenich Howard was so kind to email us before the Rally a sheet-music with the chords of Whispering that he wanted to explain to us in the workshop and it was nice to be able to be prepared. We played this tune together with some new ideas. Howard also showed us some possibilities for beginning and ending plectrum banjo tunes which will be useful in many circumstances. Because we were only two students, it was very personalised and friendly. Come and try Bluegrass Banjo with Keith Kerans by Tom Ryan: As the title suggests, this was aimed at anyone, including people who had never played a banjo before. Keith quickly demonstrated that it was possible to play a tune using just two chords and some forward rolls, and the tune was recognisable; the only fingers used were the first finger and the thumb!! The first piece was Go Tell Aunt Rhody for which Keith handed out tablature: some people who had never picked up a banjo before in their lives were soon playing it - a testament to Keith and to their musical skills generally. Keith’s teaching style was very relaxed, honest and open - a joy to watch. He had obviously done a lot of preparation for this workshop and it showed. He stressed the importance of keeping a steady rhythm when playing bluegrass, and not to try to play too quickly at the start. All good advice – a thoroughly enjoyable workshop. We also had tablature for another 9 tunes. Thanks Keith! |
