The Picky Fingers Banjo Podcast

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   Marc Horowitz (aka the "Banjo Whisperer") is a fantastic player in both 3-finger and clawhammer styles: he came up in the  '60's folk scene in NYC, and became an in-demand sideman and session player, playing on commercials, movie soundtracks, and folk and pop music records, and many more. He's a teacher, and lists a guy named Bela Fleck among his former students. He's a setup technician, personally entrusted by Steve Martin to maintain Steve's stable of instruments. Marc now works as a design consultant with Gold Tone Banjos, and helped bring into existence their flagship Bluegrass Heart model. Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, Sullivan Banjos, and Bluegrass Country Radio   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This is a re-mix of an interview from 2018 that was originally released as a 2-part episode. Ryan Cavanaugh is best known for his innovative approach to playing jazz on the 5-string banjo, his tenure with legendary saxophonist Bill Evans's band Soulgrass, and his genre-defying solo recordings. Through his mastery and creativity, he has truly pushed the boundaries of what is possible on the instrument. He is currently working on solo projects, and touring with Jeremy Garrett of The Infamous Stringdusters.   Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, Sullivan Banjos, and Bluegrass Country Radio   Ryan on the web: www.ryancavanaughbanjo.com   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   Graham Sharp is a prolific, award-winning banjo player, singer, and songwriter, best known as a founding member of the Steep Canyon Rangers, as well as several of his own solo records. One constant of the Rangers' sound through the years is the presence of Graham's expert banjo picking, whether that means hot licks on a fast bluegrass tune, tasteful support of a down-tempo song, or even navigating double banjo performances alongside the band's longtime collaborator Steve Martin.   Sponsored by Elderly Instruments, Peghead Nation, Bluegrass Country Radio, and Sullivan Banjos   Graham on the web: https://grahamsharp.com/ https://www.steepcanyon.com/   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com  

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   It's a Re-mixed episode! The new-and-improved version of this classic interview with the great Mike Munford. Mike is best known for his recordings and performances with Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen, as a banjo setup guru, and an afficionado of prewar Gibson flathead banjos. His thrilling style of playing earned him the 2013 IBMA Banjo Player of the year award. Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, Bluegrass Country Radio, and Sullivan Banjos.   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com    

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   Bob Carlin is among the world's top innovators and prolific performers of clawhammer banjo, and is best known for his solo recordings, collaborations with artists such as Bruce Molsky, Cheick Hamala Diabate, John Hartford, Erynn Marshall, and as a longtime member of the legendary Hartford String Band. He also enriches the banjo world through his substantial work as an author, folklorist, and instructor.   Sponsored by Elderly Instruments, Peghead Nation, Sullivan Banjos, and Bluegrass Country Radio   Photo by Mac Carbonell   Bob on the web: http://www.bobcarlinmusic.com/   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com  

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This episode features Tim Ellis, a wonderful bluegrass banjoist best known for his years performing & recording with Jim & Jesse and the Virginia Boys. He has also worked as a sideman for various other professional groups and recording sessions, and released an album under his own name titled "Banjo Serenade."   Sponsored by Elderly Instruments, Peghead Nation, Bluegrass Country Radio, and Sullivan Banjos.   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast Today we have a follow-up episode to #152, which featured the engineers behind the innovative ToneDexter product, by Audio Sprockets. In this one, host Keith Billik demonstrates what ToneDexter can do, by programming wavemaps using every combination of 3 different banjo pickups (by K&K, Schatten, and EMG) and 5 different microphones (by Rode, Behringer, Shure, Audio Technica, and Mesanovic). Sponsored by Elderly Instruments, Peghead Nation, Sullivan Banjos, and Bluegrass Country Radio Episode Time Codes: Intro & explanation of WaveMap Shootout - 03:40   Microphone Base Samples (Not using ToneDexter): Rode NT5 (Small diaphragm condenser) - 12:27 Behringer ECM8000 (Omnidirectional measurement microphone) - 17:27 Shure SM57 (Dynamic cardioid) - 22:29 Audio Technica AT4047(Large diaphragm Condenser) - 27:05 Mesanovic Model 2 (Figure 8 ribbon) - 31:46   Pickup Base Samples (Not using ToneDexter): K&K Banjo Twin - 40:38 Schatten BJ-02 - 47:13 EMG ACB Barrel - 53:47   Wavemap Samples   K&K Pickup wavemaps: Rode NT5 - 42:18 Behringer ECM8000 - 43:18 Shure SM57 - 44:16 Audio Technica AT4047 - 45:14 Mesanovic Model 2 - 46:14   Schatten Pickup WaveMaps: Rode NT5 - 48:26 Behringer ECM8000 - 49:29 Shure SM57 - 50:32 Audio Technica AT4047 - 51:38 Mesanovic Model 2 - 52:42   EMG ACB Barrel Pickup WaveMaps: Rode NT5 - 55:02 Behringer ECM8000 - 56:08 Shure SM57 - 57:16 Audio Technica AT4047 - 58:22 Mesanovic Model 2 - 59:30   Conclusion + Keith's Reaction - 1:00:36   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com  

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast This Bonus episode is a recording of a "Fireside Chat" session from the 2024 Great Lakes Music Camp, featuring legendary banjoist (and Bluegrass Boy) Bob Black! Bob shares his stories and experiences of his time playing and working for Bill Monroe in the mid-1970's.   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com Bob Black on the web: www.banjoy.com  

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This episode will tell you everything you want to know about ToneDexter, an innovative product from Audio Sprockets for live acoustic musicians that gives you the tone of a microphone, with the simplicity of using a pickup! Here to discuss that, as well as ToneDexter's many other features, are James May and Josh Bennett, the engineers and developers behind the product. Stay tuned for part 2 of the ToneDexter episode, which will feature audio clips using various pickup & microphone combinations using the ToneDexter's wavemap technology!   Sponsored by Elderly Instruments, Peghead Nation, Sullivan Banjos, and Bluegrass Country Radio   Tonedexter on the web: www.tonedexter.com Josh Bennett website: https://joshbennett.com.au/   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   Bob Black is a legendary bluegrass banjoist, best known for performing & recording with Bill Monroe, Kenny Baker, his current band Banjoy, and many others! He is a true master of the traditional bluegrass style, and was an innovator of the melodic style of playing fiddle tunes on banjo. He is also an author, and has written several books about his time as a Bluegrass Boy, a biography of Roland White, and others. Sponsored by Bluegrass Country Radio, Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos.   Bob on the web: www.banjoy.com Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com  

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   Brad Campbell began playing professionally when he was just a teenager, and went on to tour, record, and perform with bands such as Gary Adams & the Bluegrass Gentlemen, Wendy Smith & Blue Velvet, and finally landed his dream gig playing with Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver. Brad is the very definition of hard-driving bluegrass banjo with huge tone and impeccable timing!   Sponsored by Elderly Instruments, Peghead Nation, Bluegrass Country Radio, and Sullivan Banjos   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This episode is a new-and-improved remix of Episode #26 from May of 2019, featuring banjo phenom Jens Kruger. Jens is the longtime banjoist and composer with acclaimed bluegrass group The Kruger Brothers, and has inspired a generation of musicians with his dazzling, inventive, and soulful playing. He is also an innovator in banjo design, and works in that capacity for Deering Banjos. Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, Sullivan Banjos, and Bluegrass Country Radio.   Jens on the web: https://www.krugerbrothers.com/   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com  

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   Johnny Baier is one of the world's foremost performers, entertainers, and educators of the 4-string tenor and plectrum banjos. A true virtuoso and student of the traditions of the instrument, Johnny lays down some serious knowledge for any of you unfamiliar with the 4-string banjo world! He is also the director of the American Banjo Museum in Oklahoma City, a 2019 inductee into the American Banjo Museum Hall of Fame, and a board member of the Steve Martin Banjo Prize.   Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, Sullivan Banjos, and Bluegrass Country Radio   Johnny on the web: https://americanbanjomuseum.com/   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   Welcome back to Ned Luberecki, the star of Episode #13! Since our last interview, Ned has continued boldly taking the banjo to places no man has gone before! His primary performing gig is with the Becky Buller Band, which just released "Jubilee" which reached #1 on the Billboard Bluegrass charts! Ned is also a 2024 inductee into the American Banjo Museum Hall of Fame! Whew! Sponsored by Elderly Instruments, Peghead Nation, Paige Capos, and Sullivan Banjos   Ned on the web: www.nedski.com   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com   Buy Official Picky Fingers Merch!! www.banjopodcast.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   Rachael Davis is an incredible singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist - including some mad clawhammer banjo skills! She is currently Nashville-based and has toured far and wide, but she was raised in Michigan, where she became and remains a folk music legend! She is best known for performing & recording her original solo material, with Shout Sister Shout! (swing & jazz with members of Steppin In It) and with her vocal-based supergroup the Sweet Water Warblers (also featuring May Erlewine and Lindsay Lou).    Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, Paige Capos, and Sullivan Banjos   Rachael on the web: https://www.rachaeldavis.com/ https://sweetwaterwarblers.com/   T SHIRT SALE all discontinued colors, and Small/Extra Small shirts of ALL sizes are only $12! Visit www.banjopodcast.com   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   Randy Barrett is a great banjoist in both 3-finger & clawhammer styles, a singer, songwriter, educator, and author. He is best known for his three solo recordings, and his performances with Big Howdy, a Washington, D.C.-based bluegrass band, and as President of Bluegrass Country Radio. His recent book "On Banjo" was a collaboration with, and an examination of the banjo style of, the late great Ben Eldridge. Sponsored by Paige Capos, Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos   Randy on the web: https://www.randybarrett.net/   $12 T-shirt Sale on Discontinued colors and Small/Extra Small sizes!   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   In this demonstration episode, Keith runs down the list of all the major effects food groups and gives a live demonstration of what they all sound like with acoustic banjo! 03:01 - Intro, overview of episode 15:17 - Dry Banjo Sound (EMG ACB Barrel pickup through Grace Design Felix Preamp) 16:57 - Octave effect (TC Electronics Sub n Up) 21:38 - Envelope Filter (Smokin Amp Co.) 24:58 - Phaser (Whirlwind Rochester; clone of MXR Script Logo Phase 90) 32:25 - Chorus (Boss CE-2W; recreation of Boss CE-2 and CE1) 35:08 - Flanger (Hartman Flanger; clone of Electro Harmonix Electric Mistress [non-deluxe]) 37:27 - Delay (Boss DD-20 Gigadelay) 52:08 - Reverb (TC Electronics Hall of Fame) 58:19 - Compressor (Analogman Bi-Comprossor; 2-channel clone of Ross Compressor and Orange Squeezer) 1:00:49 - Overdrive (Barber Direct Drive) 1:02:31 - Uni Vibe (Pink Floyd demo) 1:06:42 - mic vs pickup and blending (Sennheiser e904)   Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, Paige Capo, and Sullivan Banjos   Questions? Contact the show at pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   With the unexpected passing of banjo legend Jim Mills (December 18, 1966 – May 3, 2024), we revisit this interview originally released as Episode #111.   This episode features the incomporable Jim Mills, one of the top banjo players of his generation and a purveyor of the traditional Scruggs-style of playing. Jim has won the IBMA Banjo Player of the Year award a record 6 times, as well as numerous Grammy awards. He has also established himself as one of the top experts, collectors, and dealers for Pre-War Gibson Mastertone banjos, a subject which he wrote a book about! 

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   Chris Coole has made a name for himself as one of the top clawhammer banjoists in Old Time and Acoustic music. He is best known for playing in bands such as The Lonesome Ace Stringband and  the Foggy Hogtown Boys, collaborations with the likes of Ivan Rosenberg, Erynn Marshall, and John Showman, as well as his solo work. He is also a talented songwriter and instructor, and has an interesting perspective on studying an Appalachian art form in his hometown of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.   Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Paige Capos, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos   Chris on the web: https://chriscoole.com/ https://lonesomeace.com/   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com  

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This episode features Jim "Wild Jimbo" Pankey, who has played both 3-finger and clawhammer style professionally for many years with the Hamilton County Ramblers and other groups. These days, Jim is a top banjo influencer through his instructional Youtube channel, and has helped thousands of banjoists all over the world in developing their skills through his humorous and informative video content.   Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Paige Capo, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos   Jim on the web: www.jimpankey.com https://www.youtube.com/wildjimbo   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com  

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This episode features Kevin Kniebel, a talented banjoist, singer, and songwriter who performs and records with the jamgrassy old time band Pert Near Sandstone! PNS brings some great songwriting and arrangements to their high-energy, foot-stomping enthusiastic old timey sound, which makes them one of the top must-see live bands on today's festival scene. Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Paige Capos, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos Kevin Kniebel on the web: https://pertnearsandstone.com/   Buy Picky Fingers Merch!! https://www.banjopodcast.com/shop/   Learn banjo from Keith (and many other fantastic instructors) at Midwest Banjo Camp!   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com  

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This episode features Colton Powers, an outstanding bluegrass banjoist and singer, best known for his recordings and performances with Seth Mulder & Midnight Run. Colton also attended East Tennessee State University, where he honed his hard driving banjo picking style!   Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Paige Capos, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos   Colton on the web: https://midnightrunbluegrass.com/   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This is a "Freshly Picked" episode, featuring the new album "Labor of Lust" by Kyle Tuttle. Kyle is best known for being featured on Episode #18, as well as his performances and recordings with the Jeff Austin Band, the Lil Smokies, and now the Grammy Award-winning Molly Tuttle and Golden Highway! This album shows Kyle stretching his legs as not only a banjo player, but also a songwriter and producer. Check it out! Sponsored by Elderly Instruments, Peghead Nation, and Sullivan Banjos   Kyle on the web: https://www.kyletuttle.com/   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This episode features Brian Alley, a great player in both the 3-finger and clawhammer styles. He is best known for performing and recording with his band: Portland, Oregon-based band Never Come Down. NCD have been gaining major steam on the bluegrass/jamgrass scene, and have a new record to be released in early 2024 titled "Greener Pastures" (produced by Chris Pandolfi).   Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos.   Brian on the web: https://nevercomedownband.com/   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This episode features Ken Perlman, an innovative banjoist who blazed the melodic clawhammer trail. He is also known for his efforts in learning, preserving, and teaching various other fiddle music traditions, particularly that of Prince Edward Island. Ken is also one of the foremost leaders in banjo education: he authored of scads of instructional books, and is the camp director for three of the most popular banjo camps in the country. Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos   Ken on the web: www.kenperlman.com   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This episode features Sam Armstrong-Zickefoose! Sam is a multi-faceted musician adept at both clawhammer and 3-finger playing, as well as composing, singing, and songwriting. They currently perform with one of the top jamgrass bands on the scene The Lil Smokies. Check it out!   Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos   Sam on the web: https://samazmusic.bandcamp.com/album/spark-in-your-smile   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com   Buy Picky Fingers Merch! www.banjopodcast.com  

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   It's a Freshly Picked episode, featuring the debut EP "Off the Edges" from Michigan-based bluegrass adjacent band Wilson Thicket! Keith sits down with all four members of Wilson Thicket to discuss this landmark dazzling, groundbreaking work of art, including the banjoist who happens to be... Keith himself! Wilson Thicket also features Aaron Markovitz (guitar, mandolin, vocals), Jason Dennie (mandolin, guitar, vocals), and Scott Kendall (upright bass). Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos   Wilson Thicket on the web: www.wilsonthicket.bandcamp.com www.wilsonthicket.com   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   A "Freshly Picked" episode about the new album from banjo legend Alan Munde! Alan and Keith go through several tracks on the album and discuss Alan's approach to the compositions and arrangements.  Sponsored by Elderly Instruments, Peghead Nation, and Sullivan Banjos   Alan on the web: https://almundesbanjocollege.com/   Get the new Wilson Thicket EP "Off the Edges!" www.wilsonthicket.bandcamp.com   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com    

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This episode features Chris Warner, a banjo player best known for his performing and recording with Jimmy Martin, as well as his several great solo albums! Chris perfectly exemplifies the Jimmy-approved style of hard-driving bluegrass banjo, and is also an in-demand banjo setup tech and neck builder. Check it out! Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, Sullivan Banjos, and Daily Banjo Licks   Buy Picky Fingers Merch at www.banjopodcast.com Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com  

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This episode features Janie Rothfield, a world-renowned banjoist, fiddler, composer, and educator. Janie has lived in many places, learning from the folks she meets along the way, and tells all about how that has shaped her style on both fiddle and banjo.   Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos   Janie on the web: https://janierothfield.com/janie-story   Buy Picky Fingers Merch! at www.banjopodcast.com   Contact: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com    

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   In this special episode, Keith chats with Chris Warner AND Tom Adams: two banjo greats in their own right, but who also happen to both be veterans of Jimmy Martin's Sunny Mountain Boys band. They share their experiences in dealing with Jimmy from both a personal and professional standpoint, all from a banjo player's perspective!   Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos   NEW MERCH! www.banjopodcast.com/shop   Keith & Picky Fingers interviewed by Brent Davis and profiled in Bluegrass Standard Magazine  

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast This episode features Tabitha Agnew Benedict, a banjo-playing product of Northern Ireland best known for performing and recording with the Foreign Landers and Cup O'Joe, as well as the all-female British bluegrass band Midnight Skyracer! Tabitha has a creative and masterful approach to playing not only traditional-style bluegrass, but also her own original compositions and interpretations of traditional American and Irish fiddle tunes. Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Sullivan Banjos, and Elderly Instruments   Tabitha on the web: https://www.tabithabenedictmusic.com/   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com  

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This episode features Ben Eldridge, the highly influential banjo player best known for his work with the groundbreaking band The Seldom Scene, with whom he performed and recorded for several decades. Ben's blending of driving bluegrass playing with cascading melodic passages and tasteful accompaniment has made him an inspiring player for newer generations of banjoists. Ben also played and recorded with Cliff Waldron, Tony Rice, and more! Ben also has a new book out, co-written with Randy Barrett, titled On Banjo - Click HERE for a link to purchase. Also on this episode is Ben's wife Barbara Eldridge, who graciously assisted in both the questions and storytelling for the interview. Thanks Barb!   Sponsored by Elderly Instruments, Peghead Nation, and Sullivan Banjos   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast This episode features Tom Adams, one of the most influential banjo players of his generation! Tom is best known for his exciting, energetic, creative, and driving banjo style which earned him multiple IBMA Banjo Player of the Year awards. He is best known for his performances and recordings with such artists as Jimmy Martin, The Johnson Mountain Boys, Blue Highway, Rhonda Vincent and the Rage, Michael Cleveland, and many more.   Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos   Tom on the web: www.adamscountybanjo.com   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com  

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This episode features John Bullard, a performer and author who has dedicated his efforts toward playing authentic renditions of classical music on the banjo! John discusses his background learning bluegrass banjo and classical guitar, and the decision to combine the two passions.   Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos   John on the web: www.johnbullard.com   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This episode features Casey Henry! Casey has been exposed to banjo music her entire life (via her parents Murphy and Red Henry), and has been teaching and playing professionally since her teenage years. She is best known for her performances and recordings with such groups as Uncle Earl, the Dixie Bee Liners, Casey & Chris and the Two Stringers, and her many lessons taught both privately and through the Murphy Method instructional platform.   Sponsored by Sullivan Banjos, Elderly Instruments, and Peghead Nation   Casey on the web: www.caseyhenry.net   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com  

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast Riley Baugus is one of the top Old Time clawhammer banjoists, singers, guitarists, and open-back banjo builders out there on the scene today! He is best known for his solo work, as well as collaborations with Dirk Powell, Robert Plant, Alison Krauss, T-Bone Burnett, and many more! Recorded at Midwest Banjo Camp. Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos   Sale on all Picky Fingers Merch! Go to www.banjopodcast.com and use coupon code "summer23" for 23% off your entire order! Valid now through August 31.   Riley on the web: www.rileybaugus.com   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   Today's episode looks at the "behind-the-scenes" journey of making the best banjo book in existence: The Masters of the 5-String Banjo! Published nearly 40 years ago and written by banjo legends Tony Trischka & Pete Wernick, the book featured everything a true banjo nerd could want to know: in-depth interviews with the top players of the day, tablature of signature tunes, detailed photos, and a comprehensive table with details on nearly 50 additional professional banjo players.    Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos.   Tony on the web: www.tonytrischka.com Pete on the web: www.drbanjo.com   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com  

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This episode's guest is the great bluegrass banjoist, author, and educator Murphy Henry! Murphy made a name for herself with her energetic banjo playing and singing, and has broadened her reach in recent years to writing (including her 2013 book "Pretty Good For a Girl" about the history of women in bluegrass) and of course teaching: she founded The Murphy Method, which has taught untold scores of banjo players worldwide, along with a steady stream of private students.   Sponsored by Elderly Instruments, Peghead Nation, and Sullivan Banjos   Murphy on the web: www.murphymethod.com   Contact the Show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com    

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This episode features legendary banjoist Butch Robins! Butch played several years with Bill Monroe, and is also well known for his stints with the New Grass Revival, Leon Russell, and his excellent solo recordings, among others. Topics include his views on bluegrass timing, stories about Bill Monroe, his famous pre-war flathead RB-4, and what he REALLY thinks of Billy Strings.   Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Sullivan Banjos, and Elderly Instruments   Butch on the web: www.butchrobins.com   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This episode features Victor Furtado, a fantastic young clawhammer player who performs and records with The Wildmans as well as his own solo material. Victor is taking clawhammer banjo to brave new places, and demonstrates many of his innovative techniques! He is a winner of the Steve Martin Banjo prize, and a graduate of the Berklee College of Music.   Sponsored by Sullivan Banjos, Elderly Instruments, and Peghead Nation   Victor on the web: www.victorfurtado.net   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   Enjoy this replay featuring the legendary banjoist Alan Munde! This interview originally aired 6/22/2018 in two parts as episodes 6 & 7.   Alan needs no introduction- he is among the most influential banjo players, composers, and instructors of his generation. After playing with Jimmy Martin, Alan went on to record and perform under his own name, as well as with legendary bands such as Country Gazette, and taught thousands of students during his time at South Plains College.   Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Sullivan Banjos, and Elderly Instruments.   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com Explore the power of the pentatonic scale- a musical device that you've undoubtedly heard many times, but may not know how to take advantage of in your own composing, improvising, and general playing. Topics: What is a pentatonic scale, and how is it constructed? Why is it important, and how is it used? Why does it work the way it does? When you learn major pentatonic scales, you're also learning minor pentatonics! Melodic style pentatonics in the keys of Bb, F, C, G, and D 5 closed-position pentatonic shapes you can use in any key Song & audio examples   Download the tablature sheet here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/tab-sheet-119-83045957   Sponsored by Sullivan Banjos, Peghead Nation, and Elderly Instruments   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   Welcome to a Freshly Picked episode featuring a discussion with the incredible bluegrass/jazz/avant garde banjoist Ryan Cavanaugh about his new EP titled "Screams Electric" - and he does just that! The album features Ryan's typically amazing banjo prowess, as well as Doug Belote (drums), Kevin Scott (bass), Billy Cardine (electric Dobro), and Roger Tipping (electric piano).   Sponsored by Sullivan Banjos, Elderly Instruments, and Peghead Nation.   Ryan on the web: www.ryancavanaughbanjo.com   Link to Alan Epstein's bluegrass ensemble class in Saratoga Springs, NY: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/school-of-music-bluegrass-ensemble-class-with-alan-epstein-tickets-621948674227   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   This episode features Ben Krakauer, a creative and distinctive banjo player, composer, ethnomusicologist, and educator. Ben is best known for playing with Old School Freight Train (a band that became David Grisman's backup band for a tour!), his two all-original instrumental solo albums, and as a music professor at Warren Wilson College.   Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos   Ben on the web: www.benkrakauer.com   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   In this episode, we welcome Cameron DeWhitt back to the show! (Listen back to episode #82 for our previous podcaster vs. podcaster episode)   Cameron is a wonderful clawhammer/pitchfork style banjo player, performer, educator, and podcaster. Their podcast "Get Up In the Cool" is among the most popular in the world for a wide variety of old time and related music. Their band, The Tall Poppy String Band, has a fantastic album out and is playing tour dates across the country. Cameron also has some online banjo workshops scheduled, including the one that nobody asked for about playing rags on clawhammer banjo!   Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos   Cameron on the web: www.camerondewhitt.com www.pitchforkbanjo.com https://getupinthecool.fireside.fm/ www.tallpoppystringband.com   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   Today we have a Freshly Picked Epiosode featuring "Things Are Simple" by Bill Evans! With this appearance on the podcast, Bill secures his lead as world record holder for featured Picky Fingers appearances (currently at 3). We chat about his new album, and plenty of other updates including his family's scary brush with fate, his Peghead Nation courses, other musical projects, songwriters wandering off into the desert never to be seen again, and why he believes his dog witnessed a murder in Louisiana.   Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, and Sullivan Banjos   Bill on the web: www.billevansbanjo.com   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   The Picky Fingers Banjo Podcast is now 5 years old! In this episode, guest host (and featured guest from Episode #1) Davey Jones turns the mics on Keith, and subjects him to the torment and humiliation that is normally reserved for Keith's interview subjects. Learn all about the man behind the voice that usually just gets to be the one asking the questions! Keith discusses his background in music, his rise to small-time superstardom with bands such as Hot Toe Mitty, Lindsay Lou & the Flatbellys, and now Wilson Thicket.   Sponsored by Sullivan Banjos, Peghead Nation, and Elderly Instruments   Keith Billik on the web: www.banjopodcast.com www.wilsonthicket.com   email the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   Welcome to a "Freshly Picked" episode, featuring a discussion with podcast veteran and banjo phenom B.B. Bowness! She will be taking us on a banjo-centric tour of the new Mile Twelve album titled "Close Enough to Hear," which was just released on February 3, 2023. There are some great songs and sounds on the album and, needless to say, some incredible banjo playing!   Sponsored by Peghead Nation and Elderly Instruments   Mile Twelve on the web: www.miletwelveband.com   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com  

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   Today's guest is the world-renowned, award-winning, snappy dressing banjoist, singer, songwriter, guitarist, and educator Joe Newberry! Per usual, Joe is eloquent and generous in discussing his career, banjo style, songwriting approach, and his collaborations with mandolinist Mike Compton and fiddler April Verch. Recorded at the 2022 Great Lakes Music Camp at Camp Blodgett on the shores of Lake Michigan.   Sponsored by Peghead Nation, Elderly Instruments, and Banjo Summit   Joe on the web: https://www.joenewberry.biz/   Contact the show at pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com   Theme music composed and performed by Keith Billik - available (with banjo tablature!) from www.banjopodcast.com  

www.patreon.com/banjopodcast   For this Bonus episode, I have a quick chat about the upcoming Banjo Summit with Jake Schepps, an extraordinary banjo player in his own right, and the Director of the Banjo Summit! About Banjo Summit: 2-day online banjo workshop aimed at teaching accessible techniques to add color to your traditional playing or take you beyond bluegrass. Regardless of your favorite styles, the Banjo Summit will expand your expertise and inspire countless new ideas that will raise your playing to new heights.    Faculty include BB Bowness, Wes Corbett, Matt Flinner, Adam Larrabee, Greg Liszt, Jayme Stone, a concert with Jake Blount, and a special guest lecture from the indomitable Jens Kruger.     Visit www.banjosummit.org to enroll and learn more.   *** Use code “Pickyfingers” for a 10% discount ***   Contact the show: pickyfingersbanjopodcast@gmail.com