Early Banjo Etudes

This collection of ten etudes is firmly rooted in the 19th Century tradition. It ventures no further in technique
than was common practice of that time. The harmonies, melodies, and rhythms are consistent with banjo publications found 1850-1880. For all practical purposes, it is an extension of that period. These ten etudes cover a variety of styles found in banjo music. I included a straight eighth note Juba style,
dotted rhythms, dactyl and anapaest rhythmic motifs, 6/8 timing, minor keys, syncopation and waltzes. Pieces are put together to reflect balanced and simplistic forms. The technique draws directly from the 19th Century banjo tutors, especially the Converse Analytical of 1886. It is
in that publication that he defines the Combination and the Hammer Movement as the essential building blocks of Stroke Style Technique. The Combination is simply a Strike, and is notated with a solid line above the notes. If one is careful to place the Strike as indicated, the character of the piece will become known to the player. If one observes the
articulations of the Pull Offs and indicated positions, the physicality of the piece becomes apparent.