Hi Guys, Just passing by again

[Rob MacKillop]

Glad to see this site thriving like I knew it could. I still pass by every now and then, watch the videos and read the forum posts, although I decided to abandon my brief, but interesting (for me), period with a fretless, gut-strung banjo. I loved and still love the music, but found I just couldn't get the right hand technique. My index and middle fingers, right hand, just started hurting. I'd spent decades getting a loose and relaxed technique on lutes and early guitars, but holding the fingers is a fixed position for stroke-style playing just proved too weird and awkward. Such a shame, because, as I said, I love the music. But at least I have the videos on this site to enjoy.

I haven't found anymore references to minstrel players visiting Edinburgh, but what I did find (and posted here) I thought was fascinating. There really was a craze for minstrel groups here in Scotland, and within months of it all taking off in the States.

Anyway, just saying hello to my buddies here. Keep plucking!

[Tim Twiss]

Hey Rob, glad you stopped by. I hope this spot is a refreshing part of your internet travel.
You should keep the fretless and go for the fingerstyle stuff...you're a natural.

[Rob MacKillop]

Thanks Tim. Yes, I need to look into the fingerstyle repertoire from the early period. I did, however, sell the Enoch Journeyman. I'd prefer something more period in style. Any suggestions on instrument and repertoire?

[Carl Anderton]

Rob said "Any suggestions on instrument and repertoire?"

Well, I started a "Classic" style Ning Banjo group, you should join us there, Rob.

http://classic-banjo.ning.com/

The repertiore is Ragtime, and various things like cakewalks, marches, etc. etc. I love the style and it's very evocative of the turn-of-the-century.

Original instruments are fairly common and affordable, I paid about $800 for my 1894 Elias Howe Superbo model and about the same for an SS Stewart banjeaurine.

http://www.bernunzio.com/index.php

Carl

[Rob MacKillop]

Thanks, Carl. I'll look into it.

Rob