Understanding the Bluegrass Style Five String Tenor Banjo and the Plectrum Four String Banjo: History and Playing Differences

Two different tools for two different jobs. Please allow me to give you the history of these two popular banjo styles: the bluegrass style five string tenor banjo and the plectrum four string banjo. This article will explore their origins, tuning differences, and the unique playing techniques required for each.

History of the Banjo

The origins of the banjo can be traced back to Africa, brought there by slaves. The original instruments had gut strings and were plucked, not strummed. They were suited for use in small ensembles but were not competitive with louder instruments like horns and drums when bands began to include them.

During the transition, banjo players innovated by removing the fifth string, switching to metal strings, and using a pick to strike the instrument, making it much louder. This transformation led to the development of the tenor banjo, which is tuned the same as a viola and is commonly used in genres like Dixieland and musical theatre.

Five String Banjo: Bluegrass Style vs. Traditional Old-Time Style

The five string banjo, often associated with bluegrass and country music, has its own rich history and unique playing techniques. In the bluegrass style, this banjo is played with a thumbpick and fingerpicks on the index and middle fingers, using a syncopated rolling fingerpicking style. This style is typically played at very fast tempos, requiring advanced finger dexterity and timing.

In contrast, the traditional old-time style of playing the five-string banjo involves a percussive "door-knocking" motion called "frailing" or "clawhammer." This technique uses the flat back of a fingernail to strike the long strings on the downbeats while the thumb plays the fifth string as a drone or additional melody notes on the offbeats. Some old-time players opt for a two-finger technique using the thumb and index finger for fingerpicking.

Plectrum Four String Banjo

The plectrum four string banjo, often played with a flatpick, focuses on rhythm and harmony. The player strums chords up and down the neck, creating a rhythmic backbone for other instruments. While both banjos have their unique characteristics, the choice of which one is more difficult to play often comes down to personal familiarity and practice.

Tuning and Playing Techniques

Both banjos are tuned differently, but once beyond basic strumming, the difficulty level tends to be more about technique rather than the instrument itself. The five string banjo in bluegrass style requires mastering a complex syncopated pattern, while the plectrum banjo in its traditional role focuses on rhythmic accuracy and chord proficiency.

Conclusion

The choice between a bluegrass style five string tenor banjo and a plectrum four string banjo often comes down to personal preference and the genre of music one wishes to play. Both instruments have rich histories and require unique skills to master. Whether you're drawn to the fast-paced and finger-dexterous style of bluegrass or the rhythmic and harmonious approach of plectrum playing, there's an ideal banjo for your musical journey.

Understanding the differences can help you make an informed choice and enhance your overall playing experience. No matter which style you choose, remember that practice is the key to proficiencies in any musical instrument.

So, which banjo style do you think is the easiest to play? What’s your experience with these instruments? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below!

Keywords: banjo, bluegrass, tenor banjo