Are you interested in playing the banjo? Did you know that the instrument was created by enslaved Africans and their descendants in the Caribbean and colonial North America?

Join renowned educator, multi-instrumentalist, ethnomusicologist, and advocate for Black string band music, Joe Z. Johnson, for a fun, informative, and beginner-friendly banjo workshop. Discover the fascinating African and African American roots of the banjo, an instrument created by enslaved Africans and their descendants in the Caribbean and colonial North America.

Workshop Objectives:

1. Explore the African and African-American origins of the banjo and its role in shaping old-time music.

2. Gain hands-on experience playing the banjo, mastering the fundamentals of the instrument under the guidance of experienced teaching artist mentors like Joe Z. Johnson.

3. Learn to play your first banjo tune, developing a strong foundation for further musical growth and exploration.

Black Banjo and Fiddle Fellowship (BBFF) Goals:

By participating in this workshop, you will contribute to the larger objectives of the BBFF program which include:

• Deepening your knowledge of African American banjo and fiddle playing in the evolution of old-time music

• Developing a critical understanding of the historical context of Black banjo and fiddle origins and their contributions to the genre.

• Cultivating cultural sensitivity and appreciation for the African roots of these instruments.

• Fostering a supportive community of learners and musicians passionate about preserving and promoting this vital aspect of American musical heritage.

Workshop details:

• Classes will be held on Zoom. The link will be provided upon receipt of registration fee and tuition.

  • Registration Fee can be added to your cart by clicking here.

Join the Black Banjo and Fiddle Fellowship Beginning Banjo Workshop and become a part of a vibrant musical tradition that continues to inspire and enrich the lives of musicians and listeners alike.