Converse "G" tuning

[Ian Bell]

Still having fun with my copy of "The Green Book", but I have a question for the Converse aficionados out there — and I know you're out there... In the fingering chart for the key of G, Frank seems to be telling me to retune the instrument to what sounds like a pretty bizarre (to the ear) tuning. He doesn't actually say to do it but the indicated fingering only works if you do. Am I missing something?

— Puzzled in Paris

[Tim Twiss]

What page...28? If so...no retuning. You are still in a "Rice "tuning, but playing in G. Always go by the flag of the thumb string. Unless I missed your point...??

That is one of the innovations of this book...one tuning, many "keys".

[Joel Hooks]

Yep, I believe Tim is correct.

In fact, I was playing the "violin" pieces in the back of  Buckley, and other D pieces in as if the banjo was pitched in A, and not in "Briggs.'"  When I went to my first Gathering, Most people transposed and did not play as written.

I guess that is the Classic banjoist in me, cause that's how it was done in the 70s+.

[Ian Bell]

Duh - Never mind...I was starting on the wrong note (G#) - despite the fact that Frank had plainly told me to flatten all the "G"s and "A"s Thanks Gents.  I really have to stop thinking of this a s a diatonic instrument! I know better than that. Good thing I'm among friends.

[Tim Twiss]

I still think that the interpretation of those in the back of the Buckley are up for grabs. They are direct fiddle lifts...little arrangement help. When I transcribe a fiddle piece, I usually look for where the thumb string will get its greatest adavantage and go from there. The Converse book actually prepares you you deal with stuff wherever...I read in C, Bb, Eb....The Greenie has some good lessons.