So you want to learn how to play the banjo but you start your research only to find there are two types of banjo, so which one is the right fit for you?

First let's look at the history.

The banjo is a stringed instrument that has its roots in the American South and it gains its punchy and snappy tone from the resonator drum that the rest of the instrument is built around. There are different variations of the banjo but the two standard banjos which are commonly used are the tenor and the five string banjo.

Tenor Banjo

The tenor banjo is a 4 stringed banjo that is primarily used for Irish folk and traditional music. It is tuned in perfect fifths, and the two most common tunings are either GDAE or CGDA. The former GDAE tuning is more common in Ireland as it links the banjo with the tuning of other instruments used in Irish music such as the mandolin, fiddle and bouzouki. The latter CGDA tuning is more common in other European folk traditions. This style of play is based around playing melody lines and individual notes, usually in quick succession, with a standard plectrum.

Five String/ G Banjo

The five string or G Banjo has five strings and it is primarily used for American Country and Bluegrass music. It is tuned gDGBD with the purpose of the strings producing a G major chord upon an open strum. Other tunings do exist for the instrument but the G tuning is by far the most common tuning that is used in regular play and tuition materials. This style is based more around familiarising yourself with the chord shapes and finger picking, either with your bare fingers or more commonly with plastic or steel finger picks

So to conclude, it all depends on what type of music you want to play. If you want to play traditional Irish music then the Tenor banjo would be the better fit for you, however if it's more bluegrass or country then then the 5 string / G banjo is the better option. 

Rory

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