I got some really neat presents this year for Christmas, but the coolest gift by far would have to be the sweet five-string banjo that Tammy got me.

It’s a cheap one, perfect for learning without making too much of a financial commitment, just like I wanted. Finding someone who teaches banjo locally is pretty much impossible, so luckily it also came with an instructional DVD.

I’m finding the free tutorials at FolkOfTheWood to be very helpful in learning the basics. Also, BanjoHangout.org is basically THE site for everything banjo-related.

I’ve been messing around with it, trying to get a feel for the thing, learning some basic rolls… It’s tricky! I’ve ordered some picks and a tuner, so within the next few days I can start practicing in earnest.