It may make the banjo sound better, but what about the overall group sound?
The bottom-line effect of those tricks is to put more sound energy into the attack, over a wider spectrum than you would otherwise get. Whistle and harp players need to do that to be audible, but how often do you need the banjo to sound louder and less focused?
"Whistle and harp players need to do that to be audible."
Do you think that is the only reason? Fiddle players do it too but not for audibilty purposes.
Hi, Mirek - a great idea, especially for solo playing. I've used it when playing solo mandolin, and guitar (for song accompaniment too, on both), and I have seen and heard Martin Carthy do it on guitar (it was him I learned it from). With other players around some of the effect can get lost, unless you're all playing through good p.a. More power to both your elbows!
Cut and strike on banjo
Cut and strike on banjo
Here is my article about the cut and strike on Irish & Celtic banjo:
http://banjosessions.com/?p=242
Any comments appreciated. The positive ones are welcomed on the Banjo Sessions page too
Thanks
Mirek
# Posted on October 3rd 2011 by Mirek Patek
Re: Cut and strike on banjo
It may make the banjo sound better, but what about the overall group sound?
The bottom-line effect of those tricks is to put more sound energy into the attack, over a wider spectrum than you would otherwise get. Whistle and harp players need to do that to be audible, but how often do you need the banjo to sound louder and less focused?
# Posted on October 3rd 2011 by Jack Campin
Re: Cut and strike on banjo
"Whistle and harp players need to do that to be audible."
Do you think that is the only reason? Fiddle players do it too but not for audibilty purposes.
# Posted on October 3rd 2011 by Nicholas Jelinek
Re: Cut and strike on banjo
Hi, Mirek - a great idea, especially for solo playing. I've used it when playing solo mandolin, and guitar (for song accompaniment too, on both), and I have seen and heard Martin Carthy do it on guitar (it was him I learned it from). With other players around some of the effect can get lost, unless you're all playing through good p.a. More power to both your elbows!
# Posted on October 3rd 2011 by Jim Younger
Re: Cut and strike on banjo
Thanks for sharing your article, Mirek!
I'll definitely read it through carefully as soon as I get some extra time off!
Would love to read more articles from you!
# Posted on October 3rd 2011 by Mattias Holm
Re: Cut and strike on banjo
Thanks for your work Mirek, I too will be reading more thoroughly later in the day.
# Posted on October 4th 2011 by All Moldy