Beginning Clawhammer Banjo with Molly Tenenbaum

This class gets you started with the old-time clawhammer banjo, including tuning, making the basic frailing (“bum-ditty”) pattern, playing chords, accompanying songs, and adding some melody notes. Each class will give you a tune or song so you can make music immediately while also practicing techniques to build on. Although the class emphasizes learning by ear, it will provide some written materials to help you remember, as well as links to source recordings for further learning. Skills Needed: None! What to Bring: 5-string banjo in playable condition, tuner, recording device (smartphone or other), paper and a pen or pencil. Need to rent a banjo? Dusty Strings has an affordable rental program. Please come to the shop or call (206) 634-1662 as rental banjos are subject to availability. Teacher: Molly teaches old-time clawhammer banjo (also called “frailing” or “overhand” style). A banjo teacher since 1987, Molly guides students to be independent players and learners, emphasizing old-time traditional repertoire from diverse sources. She deeply loves old-time music and is always excited to get students involved in the music and the community. Molly has been playing old-time banjo since she was a teenager and has since performed around the Pacific Northwest with bands including The Queen City Bulldogs and Dram County. She’s taught locally and nationally at camps including American Banjo Camp, Augusta, and The Festival of American Fiddle Tunes.