Pulled the Trigger on the Mountain Bike

I know you just can't wait to know what I bought. I should let you all take bets. I bet some of you already have bets going. So, what did I get?

Did I buy the Jamis? Maybe I got the Trek? Maybe I got the Ironhorse that I didn't tell you about? Maybe it was the Motobecane that Richard showed me on eBay. I really liked the looks of the Gary Fisher - maybe it was that one? Okay, okay... enough teasing.

I bought a bike! Heck, I bought two bikes! I bought a bike for me, and one for Tina too. We've already put a few miles on them today and I can hardly wait to ride again.

Tina isn't nearly as picky as I am. She just wanted a bike. She saw one, it fit her, she rode it - liked it - done! Gee, why can't I be like that. She wound up with a Giant Rincon. She liked the blue color. It fit her quite well, but she did opt for a better seat. I figure it's her butt, she should know what feels right, and I honestly don't want anything to discourage her from riding. I suppose it's her Mother's Day gift, and Birthday, and Christmas -- just kidding.

I bought the Specialized Hardrock Sport Disc. Yes, I know, I had looked a all kinds of bikes. Test rode higher end stuff, cheaper stuff, and had worried and stressed about the varying quality of components, but I took the advice of Bob and Richard and went with the bike that just felt the best. Nothing else I rode really felt as right as the Hardrock. I'm happy, and oddly, I'm not feeling any of the buyers remorse that I usually feel when I make a big purchase. I did my homework. I annoyed my friends. I carted my family to nearly every bike shop I could think of. I tried several bikes. I followed my gut on this one. I'm glad I did!

I'd also like to thank Dalton Bicycles for their patience throughout this whole process. I had been going in there for probably 6 months just looking at bikes trying to decide exactly what I want. In the end I got treated right, and Jason and Ross were very helpful and made us feel welcome. I believe in supporting the local stores and they made it easy to do that.

So, without further ado, here we are with our new bikes.

The Search for a Mountain Bike

It's been years since I've ridden a bike. Well, with any seriousness, but for about a year I've been wanting a bicycle. I've looked at all sorts. I've made good use of my friends in the education process too. Richard Williams and Bob Bowden have probably had enough of me and probably sigh in frustration every time they see an instant message from me.

Here are the bikes I've looked at locally:

The first I tried was a HardRock Sport Disc from Specialized. It is also the least expensive bike I've considered. The fit was good and the components seemed good at that price point. I wasn't really thrilled about the red paint on the model at the shop, but it looks better in person. The same shop also carried Giant, but they didn't have a Yukon in my size to check out. The whole sizing aspect of this purchase process would become a sticky issue when it came to trying out bikes in particular models

The next bike on my list was the Gary Fisher Wahoo Disc. The riding position is a little different on this bike, but it felt pretty good too. The Fisher had a good feel too. However, once again the dealer didn't have a Wahoo in my size. They did have a Marlin that was was able to try. It was the same frame and layout, just different components. One thing that struck me as odd was though the specs online stated certain things, but the Wahoo at the shop was slightly different. For instance the front derailleur on the bike was a Shimono SIS, but according to the specs it should have been a Shimano Acera. While I'm not entirely sure it makes much of a difference, it was just puzzling to a neophyte mountain bike purchaser.

Trek's 6000 was another bike I liked, but, as usual, there wasn't a 6000 in stock at the dealer. They did have a 4900 (basically the 2006 version of the 6000) for me to try. It had a great feel, and seemed like a very well made bike. This bike had some nice features, and I wish I could have just bought it, however the 4900 was on hold for another customer. As a matter of fact, when I walked through the door I saw the salesman putting a tag on a bike - turns out it was the 4900 - just my luck!

The last bike on my list today is the Jamis Durango 2.0. It's probably the better of the bikes that I've considered. It's in a higher price point ($775) than the others. I've also considered the Durango 1.0 (same price range of the others).

It has been my goal to buy a bike by the end of this month, but as I get closer to making a real decision I'm starting to get anxious about having the bike. Of the bikes above I feel drawn to the Specialized. It just felt really good when I was riding it. I'm almost ready to grab that one, but I want the most value for my hard earned money. I'm hoping I can get the dealer to get close to my budget with the Specialized Hardrock Pro Disc.

Now that I've tried out a few bikes, and in the process of negotiating prices less than MSRP, I can hardly wait!!!

New Railroad Video

Although we had a slight breeze and the pollen count was nearly 6,000 today I decided to record this tune and share it. It's probably not as polished as some of my other tunes, but I really like the song.

Hope you enjoy it!

Pinewood Derby

Over the past couple of months Samuel and I have had the opportunity to build a Pinewood Derby car for Cub Scouts. I had promised myself that I'd make sure Samuel had plenty of help building a car, and make sure we could make it as speedy as possible.

He got his kit from the Scouts and Samuel drew several designs for the car. After going over the designs with him he decided on a shape and we cut it out. Samuel handled the bulk of the sanding and I cleaned and shaped areas that were difficult for him.

Painting was fun. It was Samuel's first time using spray paint, so needless to say we painted - sanded it all off - painted - sanded - painted - sanded. You get the idea. He finally got the hang of it and he settled on a red car with a black bottom. I thought it looked really good. We added pin-striping from the auto-parts store and a number from the original kit.

I took charge of the wheels and axles. I figured if there was to be a major contributing factor to the outcome of any of these races the wheels and axles were going to be a major link. The kit comes with four nails that are used for the axles. I carefully cleaned the burring and flashing from them and smoothed them out - finally using 1500 grit sand paper. I also beveled the heads slightly. The wheels, just plastic, came with mold marks and flashing from the manufacturing process. I cleaned those up as well.

Mounting wheels and axles turned out to be a bit trial and error and a lot of guess work at first, but I finally managed to get them in straight. The car held a good straight line and the wheels didn't wobble or pull in or out on the axle. I applied graphite to the wheels, axles and anywhere else I thought might be a contact point.

My other job was adding weight to the car. The maximum weight is 5 ounces. Not wanting to go over I settled on 4.8 ounces and hoped the scales used at the race wouldn't weigh heavier than mine.

Race #1

We took our car to the race. Weighed in at 4.8 ounces as I had hoped. I made sure everything was still straight on the car and Samuel and I checked it in.

Samuel won both of his races at the Pack Race and was 2nd place in the Tiger Cubs and tied for 3rd for all the divisions. I was thrilled, he was happy, but he came into this race knowing that he would have a fast car, and really expected to do well. He obviously had some confidence in our design and building skills. His first run down the track took 2.67 seconds. His second run was a bit faster at 2.65 seconds.

A nice surprise was getting 3rd place in Best of Show! As many times as we had sanded and painted, we really didn't expect much in terms of looks. We were just proud to get a decent coat of paint on it. The pinstripes must have been just the trick.

Race #2

This was the District Race. Unfortunately I didn't get to attend this one, but Tina filled in for me and they headed out for the race early this past Saturday morning. Samuel won 4 of 8 heats, and had an average time of 2.327 seconds - his best time was 2.310 seconds. The average scale speed was 212.5mph, his fastest was 214mph. Speedy!!!

The final results put Samuel in 5th place. He was only 0.343 seconds from the 1st place car. I was thrilled! For a couple of first timers building a Pinewood Derby car I think we did pretty good. We didn't have a lot of tools, or any way to test the car. With the exception of cutting out the car at the pack meeting on the band saw, everything we did was by hand or with small hand tools. Neither of us really qualify as "highly competitive" either. We just wanted to have a good time! We have the car on display here at home now, and we can hardly wait until next year.

If you've got a boy that's Cub Scout age, you should really get involved - even if only for the Pinewood Derby. It's a lot of fun for a Dad and Son!

-=Jim

Interview - World Wide Bluegrass

About a month ago Becky Taylor from World Wide Bluegrass asked if I would be available for an interview on her show. Interview? Me? Internet Radio? Well, sure, why not. Looked like a good opportunity to get a little publicity and have some fun at the same time.

I took an early lunch to come home and set everything up. Found my way to the World Wide Bluegrass chatroom, and from there Becky contacted me through Google Talk. After fiddling with my settings on this end and discovering that I had somehow changed my recording settings from Mic to Line in we were on the air.

Becky provided such an introduction I almost wondered who she was bringing on. Turns out it was me. We discussed my early interest in banjo and music and how I learned. There was talk about some of the other bands I've performed with through the years, and about the current group I'm with, The Lone Mountain Band.

Becky played a couple tunes from Highway of Regret (Ten Mile Tennessee and Stoney Creek) and I also had the opportunity to play a few banjo tunes live. For those that are interested, my 3-finger bluegrass selection was Ring of Fire. I played to clawhammer tunes: Cluck Old Hen and Angeline the Baker.

We also spent some time talking about the Banjo Lounge and what I'm trying to do there. Becky is one of the moderators at the Banjo Lounge and has been very helpful in promoting the "Lounge."

Everyone was very great there, Becky, Gracie, and everyone in the Chatroom. I hope I didn't scare away too many of their listeners with my playing and scattered comments.

Be sure to visit World Wide Bluegrass!

-=Jim

The Georgia State Yo-Yo Championship

I've been some part of the GSYYC for several years now. I've done everything. I've watched, hungout, organized it, judged it. promoted it, built the websites, and even somehow managed to participate from long distances.

Yes, long distances. Over the past few years I've had music jobs that have coincided with the day of the contest. It's tough, but the paying job has to come first, even though I enjoy seeing my yoyoing friends. I plan everything, I get sponsors, I build the website, I seek sanctioning, I put together rules and a tricklist, and everything else that has to be done. Then as it approaches the day of the event I hand everything off to Rob Tsou. Rob's a great guy. He takes my effort, and then turns it into a real contest. Even though I have some mental attachment to the event, I know I can trust Rob to make it run as planned. This year Rob did all of the major planning. Best of all I got to attend and participate!

Dick Stohr flew down to assist. Frankly, we couldn't manage this without Dick. He's got a lot of experience with contests, and the tools (spreadsheets, wireless microphone, etc) to make everything easy on us. I can honestly say without Dick we'd have to work a lot harder than we might have to.

Congratulations to all the winners! You can read the results at Yoyoing.com. Samuel Pankey, age 6, was the photographer assigned to the freestyle event, so be sure to check out the pictures. I wish I could have had more time to meet everyone. Maybe next year.

I did put together the website for the contest, which you can see by clicking on the logo at the top of this post. That logo was also featured on some very limited Duncan Freehand Zero sidecaps provided by Greg Cohen, owner of Infinite Illusions! I'm not sure, but I think there are less than 20 sets of these! Everyone that got a set of these needs to take the time to thank Greg for making these. They're great!

The contest is held in conjunction with the Atlanta Jugglers Association's Groundhog Day Juggling Festival. Because of this we have access to a large venue, and an audience that we wouldn't have. It's a great way to show off the hobby and attract new players from a group that's already predisposed to the manipulation of objects.

I was asked to be a judge, and I had reservations about it, but I agreed. I'm glad I did. It was a learning experience, but I also discovered that when I compared my scores to the other judges I wasn't out of line at all. There were differences, of course, but nothing that skewed the contest unfairly. That was a relief. I'm a lot of things to a lot of different people (good and bad things), but I hope to always remain fair and just, especially when scrutinizing people that give their all in a competition. (That goes for yo-yoing, music, or any other contests where I'm called upon to judge.)

I know I've already mentioned Infinite Illusions, but they were at the festival with all sorts of yo-yos and juggling equipment. I wound up spending my allowance on a Yo-Yo Factory 401K yo-yo. I had been wanting something new, and this one came highly recommended by Rob. Though I have more expensive yo-yos in my collection (you can see part of the collection here) it represents the most I've ever spent on a single yo-yo. I am glad to report that it has quickly become a favorite!

I hope to see you all again next year at the GSYYC!

-=Jim

Blast from the Past!!!

In 1987 & 1988 I lived in Athens, Georgia where I met up with a fiddle player named Andy Carlson. For a short while we played a five hour set together on Sundays for breakfast, lunch and about $40 a piece for our efforts at a restaurant call Skeeters. Why? For no other reason other than it was fun. It's quite sobering to think about the amount of time that has passed since then. I really miss playing with Andy sometimes. It was so much fun.

We've gotten together a few times since then, but not often enough. Since our Athens tenure Andy has moved on to bigger things. Primarily he's over the Music Department at Denison University in Ohio. About seven years ago (which coincides to about the same time I started playing with the Lone Mountain Band) he started a bluegrass program for the students.

Wednesday, out of the blue, I got an email from Andy telling me his Bluegrass Ensemble would be in Dahlonega, Georgia (a little over and hour from me). I knew I had to go. He had also suggested that I bring a banjo. Shucks, I never leave home without one anyway, so Friday evening I tossed the banjo in my car, loaded up the family and made the short drive through the mountains to The Crimson Moon in Dahlonega. It's a small venue, but cozy, and everyone was very friendly.

When we got there the group was already playing, but I spotted a couple of other folks I knew - Earl Murphy (Andy's Grandpa) and Dennis Helmrich. I spoke with them a moment then found me a spot to listen to the concert. The students were quite capable musicians, and the music was great. Vocals were clean, and the arrangements were clever.

Andy had a spot saved for me on the second set, so I did three numbers and blundered my way through each of them. You can see me struggling in the picture there with Andy on guitar. Never the less it was a lot of fun and the crowd was appreciative. The students were polite and didn't push me off the edge of the small stage or openly make fun of my lack of musicianship. Obviously graciousness and politeness still thrive among the music students at Denison.

I dug around in the Wild Jimbo Archives and came up with a photo of Andy and I from 1988 at Skeeter's; the now long out of business restaurant where we played. Golly, I hope we had nothing to do with it's demise.

The short drive really paid off in a lot of good feelings and good memories. I hope it's not another 10 years before we do it again!

-=Jim

Boots!

Maybe it's just nostalgia, or maybe even a mid-life crisis, but whatever it is I'll take it. I've not had a pair of cowboy boots in a very long time. It's not like I never wore them though, it was the footwear of choice for me for years. I've had more than my share of boots and I'm not entirely sure how I came about not having boots. Oh, there's a pair of cowboy like work boots suitable for trudging through the odd pasture, or through the woods, or into the dungeon when the combination of space heater, microwave oven and electric griddle get the best of a breaker, but they're not anything I'd slip on as casual attire.

This wasn't just some passing fancy either. Heck, I was married in a pair of boots. Oddly enough, that was the last decent pair of boots I had. I bought them specifically for the wedding, and wore them about 5 years. They were very nice, super soft, caribou hide Dan Post boots. So, what happened to these special boots? I was at a music store hanging out and the shop owner commented on my boots. I jokingly offered to sell them to him. He chuckled and asked, "How much?" Like the bonehead I am I told him $100. I went home barefooted.

A few months ago I wandered into the Corral West store looking for a jacket and this gentleman was behind me trying on boots. He asked me "What size boots do you wear?" I told him and he tossed me a pair and insisted I try them on. I figured if a customer was this sold on these boots and liked them so much that he would suggest them to a complete stranger, I should try them. Holy moly! These were comfortable. My boots never felt this good! They were Ariat Cobalt XR Pros. I had never heard of the brand, but of course I hadn't shopped for boots in 15 years. I had to have these boots!

So each time we'd go by Corral West I'd stop in, try out the boots and wonder what was stopping me from biting the bullet and taking them home. The last time we were there Tina said, just stick them in lay-away and each time we come by we'll pay a little on them, and it'll be like they're free. I sure like the way she thinks.

Samuel, our son, loves boots too, and a couple of days ago he announced that his were too small. Ok, so he needs boots too. So, with Christmas money in hand we head to the western store to get him a pair of boots and pick up mine. While we were their Tina found a pair of boots that she wanted so all three of us spent our holiday allotment on boots. Yes, all three of us bought Ariat boot. As I've already noted, mine is the Cobalt XR Pro. Samuel's pair is the Heritage Crepe and Tina finally opted for the Canyon style.

Does this sound like a commercial for Ariat and Corral West? Probably, but we're all thrilled with our new boots. We're also happy to have discovered a new brand that is incredibly comfortable - beyond anything I've ever had on my foot! Perhaps it's just the nostalgic mid-life crisis along with the fact that it's just darn nice to have a nice pair of boots again! I'm excited, can't you tell?

-=Jim

Winter Wonderslam

Tina (my lovely wife) heard an advertisement on the radio regarding a concert that was going to feature the band Family Force 5, a rock group from the Atlanta area. Mind you, I'm not exactly what you'd call a rock and roll concert goer. I've been to less than a handful of concerts in my life, but this was different.

It was different in the respect that I knew of the drummer, Jacob Olds. He's the boyfriend of Bethany Dick. Some of you may remember that Bethany played with the Lone Mountain Band for about a year as a regular guest.

A few months ago I heard about a Family Force 5 video that Bethany was in, so I went looking for it. You can watch it on their MySpace site. I recommend it, but even more, my son Samuel recommends it!

Now, back to the concert...

I realize most concerts are not the place you'd consider taking a 6 year old for an outing, and though I thought it would be a lot of fun, I really needed to get an idea of what I should expect, so I got in contact with Bethany, realizing she'd be my best source of information regarding what we might hear or see at the concert.

She indicated that Family Force 5 shows were fun with a lot of dancing, and no bad language or content. She warned that the show would also be loud. This was good news. I was still concerned about the other groups, but she explained that the other groups were Christian and played what I figure would be best categorized as Christian rock. It was Toby Mac's Winter Wonderslam Tour. I figure at this point that Samuel and I would go to the concert. Ticket prices were well within my budget, and we wouldn't have to drive too far, so I figured this would be a great "father-son" outing and a great first-time rock concert experience for Samuel.

Samuel had the bright idea to take earplugs, and we're glad we did. It was loud, but honestly, we had a blast. The other groups (Hawk Nelson, Ayiesha Woods, The Afters and Toby Mac) were great and Family Force 5 was awesome!

We hung around after the concert and met Jacob (Crouton) and talked with him a minute or so, got autographs and the picture of him and Samuel. I felt as if I should know him after spending so much time with Bethany, and knowing what a great person she is. He was as nice as I had expected and hoped for.


Oh, I almost forgot. Here are some pictures of the Family Force 5 show!

Family Force 5

-=Jim

I set up a Flickr Account

As long as I can remember I've liked to take pictures. Granted, I'm not good at it, but I do like to press the button and make the camera do that clicky sound. However, in the thousands upon thousands of pictures I've taken I found a few that I'd like to share, and you can find them on Flikr.

Feel free to leave a comment or two, and don't hesitate to shoot me message if you see something you really like.

Wild Jimbo's Flickr

See you again soon.

Music from My Past

It all started out Sunday. My Dad's Church was having their homecoming meeting and he had decided it would be fun to have me and his sister (my Aunt) come play and sing. Well, that sounds pretty safe, right? It did to me too - at least until it occurred to me that the three of us haven't played together in 20 years. Shucks, Dad probably hasn't played guitar in 7 or 8 years. Now, back then, 20 years ago, we were playing fairly regularly, and had a "set list" of sorts.

Sunday morning comes, I carry banjo and my Dad's guitar to church. I carry them to the back and get in tune. Dad casually walks through and checks to see if everything was ready. I told him it was. He heads back out front. I follow.

Service begins as usual, and then we're announced. Dad and I walk to the back to grab my banjo and his guitar. Dad strums a chord to make sure the guitar is "close enough" - his fingers a bit clumsy from the lack of practice - hey, it's just 8 years, how bad could it be? :) I worry that he'll have some difficulty. I know he'll be there, regardless of what my aunt throws at us; I'm just all to aware of what his fingers are going to be feeling.

We meet my Aunt who's already made her way to the front with her little notebook (list of songs). She mentions something about how it's been a while. We play 3 songs, and it's just like old times. It's funny how this stuff stays in your head after so long. Everything was there. It was the same as it ever was... same same same. Other than the fact that we're all 20 years older, it was like a trip back in time.

The next day I discovered some old cassette tapes of me when I'd have been probably 15 or 16 years old. It was fun though kind of strange, listening to myself as a teenager that was just coming to terms with what would turn out to be the instrument I'd spend the rest of my life with. That said, I'll just post a link to one of those tunes.

These would have been from '78 or early '79, so I'd have been playing around a year (since I started banjo in the fall of '77).

Foggy Mountain Breakdown
Fox on the Run

..and from a little later that year: Long Gone

Thanks for listening!

Recent Yo-yo Stuff About Me!

A few days ago Mário Troise, a yo-yo designer for Vulto (a Brazilian Yo-Yo Company), contacted me to do an interview. A couple of emails later and it's done, and on their website! It's a huge honor for me to be featured in Brazil by such a prominent yo-yo maker.

You can read the interview here: Vulto

Drinking Straw Quality Control

Perhaps I should have titled this post the LACK of Drinking Straw Quality Control! Where will this end? I'm 43. I've used drinking straws as long as I can remember. I remember using paper straws, but mostly plastic ones. For the better part of my life I've had pretty much no problems with a straw. Oh, occasionally I'd happen upon one that had been bent and cracked, but that was obviously not a QC issue.

However, over the past year I've encountered several straws that were sealed on one end.

Apparently during the cutting process the end gets fused. Or maybe this is just the first or last straw in a run. Either way since the first one of these I got earlier this year I've had a half dozen of them. So, if I don't get one before the end of the year that's averages out to one every 2 months. While I'll admit to eating out more than I should, that part of my life hasn't changed. The Straw QC program obviously has.

Now, it's not a big deal to get another straw, but if you don't spot the problem you're in for a surprise as soon as you try to take a sip. Tonight's amusement was trying to get the straw to stay in the glass.

So, you straw manufacturers out there, get your act together. It's time for a ZERO DEFECTS policy on straws!

They Told Me To Stall

Some of you know that I play banjo in a bluegrass band. Some of you could care less. Some of you even know that I yo-yo. Some of you might even know that our band features a yo-yo segment. Some of you didn't know that, but now you do...

The job was your ordinary, run of the mill, evening gig that was an opening event to a fall festival for the John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, NC. Brasstown's a tiny place, so this festival is huge doin's for everyone. We were booked for their concert series, and it's just a great place to play the type of music we play. The crowds are generally very interested in Bluegrass and Old-Time music - many are musicians. All in all, it's probably one of the best places we play.

Our guitar player and I rode together and we arrived on time. We set up what little gear we had, and tuned up. My phone rings and it's the other half of the band - the bass player and the mandolin player. They're late... and they suggest we stall. I told them to step on it and make up the time. Of course that's no small feat going thru the gorge on Hwy 64 by the Ocoee River... curvy, and a lot of tourists. I realized that when I suggested that they should hasten, but I wasn't particularly optimistic.

Stall... it's really hard to stall with an auditorium full of people that are waiting for their entertainment.

Yo-yo....

I begin some small talk with the front row and begin to yo-yo a bit. Only reason I'm chatting with the front row is we don't have sound yet. They're amused. I chat. I yo-yo. I smile A LOT.

As I yo-yo I watch the wave of attention slowly spread through the auditorium. It begins with an elbow... a "hey look"... and it just spreads. I finish some simple trick without knocking out an eye and there's a smattering of applause. Okay... this stall may work.

I talk some more, now I've picked up my volume a bit with my "school teacher voice" and continue. No super complicated stuff. These are just things I can do in my sleep. By now the mic is set up and I can talk to the whole auditorium.

What now...

I fall back on the basics. I walked the dog... jumped it through the hoop... and finished with a dogbite. I thought I'd go deaf from the applause. They like this stuff?

Well... if they like that I thought. I introduce the Man on the Trapeze... his brother... their sister... and finish up with the Mother-In-Law bouncing off the floor. More applause, but this time with laughter... amazing.

Rock the baby.... Eiffel Tower... yup... you guessed it - Rock the Baby on the Eiffel Tower. Chuckles and Applause from the crowd.

Out of the corner of my eye I noticed that the rest of the band had arrived and was ready to come on. I finished up with some simple 2 handed stuff. Applause again...

About that time the EmmCee begins introducing the band and they join me on stage. 30 seconds later I've ditched the yo-yos, strapped on a banjo and I kick off the first song of the night...

Is there a lesson to be learned here, or perhaps a moral to this story?

I have no clue... but I do know that it doesn't take fancy tricks to entertain folks. What it took for me, was honest chatter with the audience and good old fashion stuff they could recognize.

So, the next time you're out there waiting for your bandmates to show up, and you're told to stall. Grab a yo-yo and just talk to the crowd. The rest will take care of itself.

The Doc Stock Banjo Method...

...or Any jerk can play the banjo so why not you too?

Lesson 1: Beat It!

The most common mistake of the beginning banjo player is to play too gently. True, musical instruments require great care and special handling, but banjos should not be confused with these. There are three basic licks that are used in playing the banjo: the hit (abbreviated h in tablature), the harder hit (H), and the beat (B). Learn these three licks, and soon you'll be able to play anything! Remember -- Hit 'em again, hit 'em again, harder, harder!

Lesson 2: Stage Presence

A dignified stage presence will do more than anything else to create the impression that you are a serious, professional musician. This is to be avoided at all costs--you have a reputation to maintain, after all! While playing on stage, you should: (1) slouch, (2) drool, (3) pick nose, (4) bump fiddler, (5) cross eyes, (6) pour beer on self, and/or (7) stare off into space. The more you can do at once, the better.

Lesson 3: Tuning your banjo

Musicians make a very big deal about "getting in tune." Fortunately, you're a banjo player, and therefore need not be so hung up. There are three basic ways to tune a banjo:

1. With a tuning fork: Tap the fork on a hard surface. Listen to the clear bell-like tone. Make sure none of your strings duplicate this tone.
2. With an electric tuner: Tap the tuner on a hard surface. Continue as with method (1).
3. With a fiddle: Tap the fiddle on a hard surface. Continue as above.

Lesson 4: Tunes and Tablature

It's a well-kept secret that there are really only four tunes in old-time music: the G Tune, the A Tune, the D Tune, and the C Tune. It's an even better-kept secret that these four tunes sound exactly the same. Tablature is a simplified form of musical notation used by musicians to preserve music on paper. Avoid all tablature--you will get nowhere as a banjo player by imitating musicians.

Lesson 5: Drugs & Banjo Playing

Just say, "Why not?"

Lesson 6: Playing with Musicians

Playing with musicians is always scary for the beginning banjo player. You should not be intimidated, though, because musicians like to have a banjo player or two around. Even the most mediocre group of musicians will sound great by contrast when a banjo player is added. So get in there and start jamming!

Lesson 7: Banjo Paraphernalia

• A capo allows the banjo player, once out of tune in one key, to quickly be out of tune in any other key.
  
• A case protects your banjo from abuse, except when it is being played. This is really unimportant, but where else can you put all your cool bumper stickers?
  
• A dog will follow a banjo player around and keep everyone uncertain as to which is responsible for the odor.
  
• Beer is the experienced banjo player's favorite liquid to spill on the dance floor, dancers, and/or musicians. Sometimes it is filtered through the kidneys first.

Lesson 8: Name That Tune

As mentioned previously, there are only four tunes, and they all sound the same. It is definitely uncool, however, to let on in public that you know this, so here's a list of titles for The Tune: Turkey in the Straw, Bug in the Taters, Bonaparte Crossing the Turnpike, Fire on the Mountain, Billy in the Lowground, Drugs in the Urine Sample, Christ on a Crutch, Monkey in the Dog Cart, Logs in the Bedpan, Ducks in the Millpond, Pigeon on a Gate Post, Water on the Knee.

Lesson 9: Three Myths Dispelled

• Myth Number 1: It takes hard work and talent to play the banjo. Fact: The only talent most banjo players have is a talent for avoiding hard work.
• Myth Number 2: You can make good money playing the banjo. Fact: People will frequently pay you much better money to stop.
• Myth Number 3: Your banjo will make you friends wherever you go. Fact: This is only true if you never go anywhere.

Lesson 10: The Universal Banjo Tune

----H----B---h---B----------H-------B---B-H--------
--h---H--B---------B--------H---H---B-H-B---H------
---------B-----h-----B------H-B---------B-----H----
-----------h-----------h----------h----------------
------------------------------------------------B--
h=hit it! H=hit it harder! B=beat it!

This article was reprinted from the February 1990 issue of The Daily Clog, Julie Mangin, editor.

My Collection of Banjos

Over the years I've started a small instrument collection. The crazy part is I attempt to play most of these from time to time. I have very few (well none really) museum pieces. All are tools and all are fun to play!

All My Banjos - More than I can play in a day.

Ramsey Woody - An amazing Banjo - Very Loud - A blast to play!

Price Knight - Beautiful Wood, Beautiful Tone!

Stelling Gospel - My prize. #777, formerly Ralph Stanley's. See it in Master's of The Five String

Nechville Phantom - Fantastic Tone - Great Looks

Ramsey Minstrel - Big mellow sound - I Love it!

George C. Dobson Victor - A-Scale and a treat to play.

Unknown Mini/Piccolo Banjo - Wow, it's tiny!

I hope you enjoyed looking at all the banjos!

-=Jim

How to Practice: A Music Lesson

Here's another lesson I wrote when I was active in #guitar on dalnet many years ago. I hope you find it helpful!

1. Goals

A. Long Range Goals

What precisely is it that you really want to accomplish? Is it your goal to be a professional performer or teacher? You need to decide. Or perhaps you'd be just as happy as an amateur musician, for there's nothing embarrassing about that. Many people have enjoyed music for years just playing for their own pleasure.

B. Weekly Goals

Regardless of your long range goals you'll need some weekly goals. Having a goal to work toward reduces boredom as well as gives purpose to all the practicing. I'd recommend no more than 3 goals per week - examples could include: memorizing a piece of music, smoothing left hand movements in a difficult passage of music, etc. If you meet your goals before the week is up you can always modify or choose another goal.

C. Daily Goals

What do I plan to accomplish today? This is VERY important. It's the one thing that keeps you from sitting and "noodling." Too many people spend too much practice time not practicing. An example of a daily goal could be as simple as: I will learn the first eight measures of the piece I've chosen. (tip: When practicing don't criticize! That's why you are practicing. Negative comments to yourself only distract you from your goal - comments like: "This is awful" or "I'll never learn this". Rather - identify what you think is giving you the problem this will help you reach your goal.)

2. Practice Schedule

A. How much time will I spend today?

Only you can decide this. But let me help. Time is very important in the overall scheme of things; regardless of how efficient your practice time is time will come into play. Let's just make some comparisons, then some simple math. First, you are good at what you do a lot. When was the last time you fell down while just simply walking? Probably not in a long time, why? Because you've spent a great deal of your life walking. So let's assume it takes you 2500 hours to be a "good" guitar player (I'm not sure if 2500 is correct and I won't define "good"). If you are practicing a half hour a day it will take you approximately 13.7 years to be a "good" guitar player. So if you want to speed that up a bit, simply bump your practice up to an hour a day. Voila, seven years. Not happy with that? What about 3 hours a day? What about 6? I think you see where I'm heading?

B. Is that time consistent with the goals I have set?

Remember that very first long term goal you set? Is the practice time you've scheduled enough to meet that goal? Remember your goals!

C. When have I scheduled this practice session?

You know better than anyone when you are best at learning new things. Some musicians learn best with their practiced scheduled throughout the day; others learn well in a single session. Which ever you choose schedule a regular time to do it. Don't just say, "I need to practice 2 hours today, sometime, at least before I go to bed." Make a time slot for it, and stick by it. By doing that you can avoid interruptions.

3. Preparing to Practice

A. Relax

Without me going into it here, there are a plethora of relaxation techniques. Pick one that works for you. Being relaxed makes the learning process much easier.

B. Regular Exercise

"Whoa, exercise? You mean it?" Yes, I do. It's hard to practice when you are tired or lethargic. Light exercise on a regular basis will help you avoid being lethargic.

C. Leave your instrument on a stand or leave it's case open

If your case is sitting there open, and you can see your guitar, it's certainly a constant reminder to practice. By eliminating having to open the case may be the one thing that motivates you one those really tough days.

D. Listen to recordings of your favorite artist.

This will certainly get you motivated. It works for me as well as many other musicians, as it can be inspiring. It also makes you feel good!

4. Mental Practice

A. Study the piece you are learning

Always read through and try to memorize as much as possible of any new piece you are learning. Decide what fingerings might be best. Look for things that might give you trouble.

B. Try to hear the piece mentally

Play the tune through in your head. This is a good time to visualize what you'll have to do to get through the tune.

C. Sing or hum the piece

Can you sing or hum the tune? This is important, as it will help you when you actually sit down with your instrument and try to work it out. You can have a mental reference to the notes you are trying to play.

D. If available, listen to recording of the piece

This can really help with phrasing, timing, and countless other problems you may encounter. Remember, you are not trying to copy the recording, but merely listening to see how another musician worked through problem areas.

5. Technique

A. Daily and Weekly Goals

Are the goals you are setting including technique related goals?

B. Focus on coordination

Yes, you should think about coordination when you are practicing. Practicing slowly, thinking about what you are doing, and listening closely to what is being played will help with your coordination.

C. Work on Reflexes

Work on "letting go" of your control, playing at fast tempos and strive for fluid movements.

D. Endurance

Problems with endurance are usually indicative of insufficient coordination.

E. Focus on various physical aspects of playing

Are you holding your instrument properly? How's you posture? Is your right hand where it should be? Is you left hand where it should be? Does anything hurt? The old adage "No Pain, No Gain" does not apply here. I know an Upright Bass player who is very good; he uses a number of slides and various techniques in his playing and was asked, "How long did it take to develop callouses to do the things he was doing?" His response was basically that he didn't have calluses and as long as his technique was correct there wouldn't be any, as it didn't really take that much pressure to move the strings. (tip: Don't practice mistakes. They will be come habits. If you find yourself repeating a mistake stop, and identify the problem and work slowly "without" the mistake until you get it to speed.)

6. Problem Solving

As you practice you will certainly encounter many problems and difficulties learning, but most of these can be separated into two categories:

A. Mechanical

Is the problem you are having a physical challenge? This is perhaps the easiest to fix. Analyze your right and left hand movements and focus on your coordination, reflexes, and endurance.

B. Musical

A lot of things can go wrong here. Check your phrasing, fingerings and rhythm. These are the first things that you want to check; in many cases it's one of these things that is causing the problem. Next what about the dynamics, tone, and articulation? These are a bit more difficult to identify but if it's not one of the first three then it's like to be one of these. I have a couple more that I'd like to mention. First, are you really hearing the piece? And have you checked your transcription? Listening once again comes into play. Always Listen.

7. Listening

Learn to hear. Just do it. It's important. Nothing will help you playing more than improving your ear. From my own experience I know that the things I have learned "by ear" have been the tools I've used since. Pieces simply memorized from tab or notation really mean little to me if I don't take time to listen.

What, you ask, do I listen for? Here's a list:

1. Musical Direction
2. Harmony and Harmonic Direction
3. Tone
4. Structure
5. Musical Tension and Release
6. Phrasing
7. Accuracy
8. Style
9. Rhythm

Practice listening for these things. Not only when you are listening to others but also and especially when listening to yourself.

8. Reading Practice

Remember your goals? Is this important? Most likely it is. This should take no more than 30 minutes of your daily practice schedule. Also remember that your reading skills will probably always be behind your actual technical skill, that's okay. But remember when you are choosing music to practice your reading be sure to choose something that is suitable.

There are two approaches. The first is to choose something that is just below your actual playing level.. With this piece look for where the piece would be most likely played. Find the difficult sections and workout a solution. Count the rhythms out loud. Mentally practice the piece. And finally set a metronome at a moderate tempo and play the piece.

The second approach: use a piece that is at your current playing level, or one you will be learning in the near future. Mark phrases and harmonic groups. Study the rhythmic structure. Play through the piece (slowly) keep track of trouble spots. Select fingerings and try to read at least two beats ahead.

The second method certainly is more difficult, but will, in my estimation, work for the active learner. The first method has merit as well. I recommend that you attempt the first method; if you see little or not enough progress then perhaps maybe the second method would serve you better.

9. Repertoire Maintenance

It's a good idea to keep a list of tunes that you have learned. This will help you when you are preparing for a performance or recital. The pieces you plan to play can be practiced daily, but i recommend putting them in rotation, that is, if you have four pieces you plan to do, practice 2 of them today, two others tomorrow. This will give you more time to work on the pieces.

10. Keep a Journal

This is highly recommended. It will allow you to evaluate your progress by giving you written documentation of what you've accomplished. Write down your goals for each day and an evaluation of each thing you did in practice.

11. Playing with Others

There comes a time when you just have to get out there and play with other people. A good way to get a head start on this is to pick up a copy of Band-In-A-Box and start playing along with some of the songs you've worked out. It's not quite the same as having real people, but it's great practice and it will allow you to work at different speeds, and it'll never get tired of playing the same song over and over. It will help your timing and your ability to just "keep going" when you make a small mistake or miss some notes.

Playing along with recordings is of value too. You'll be forced to play along with people, albeit recorded. In many recordings you'll discover that there is an ebb and flow to the beat, and you'll also begin to pick up on the dynamics of playing with a group.

Finally, get out there and find people to play with. The above steps will make the transition from the practice session to the jam session much simpler.

12. Be Creative

Don't neglect taking some time to sit and find new things on your instrument. You might just surprise yourself at some of the ideas that you might have. Remember, if it sounds good, then it's good. Keep a recording of the better ideas so you can refer to them later - you'll be glad you did.

Bibliography:

I borrowed liberally from:

The Art & Technique of Practice - Richard Provost - Guitar Solo Publications of San Francisco - 1992

Mel Bay's Complete Flatpicking Guitar - Steve Kaufman - Mel Bay Publications - 1991

Tune Your Guitar!

Many years ago when I was an active member of #guitar on dalnet I wrote the following lesson for tuning your guitar. I hope you find it helpful.

I can think of nothing more irritating than not being able to get my guitar in tune, unless of course it would be listening to someone else who didn't think it was necessary to even "get close." I suppose this frustration is what prompted the phrase, "Tune it or Die!" I've certainly heard musicians(?) with their instrument so badly out of tune that killing them would have probably been, "Too good for 'em."

I hope the next following paragraphs can help you solve this sometimes simple, often times impossible task of getting in tune.

Tone Deaf? You are kidding right? No? Well, I promise it's likely only a temporary condition. Hearing degrees of pitch is something that you learn over time; the more you do it the better you get.

Here are some simple guidelines to follow:

• When you first pick a string it will tend to be sharp. Allow it two or three seconds to settle to its actual pitch.
• Always tune slowly, and LISTEN to the pitch or beat of the note.
• Always tune UP to the note you're are trying to reach. If necessary loosen the string a bit first and tune up to the pitch. If for some reason you can't seem to find the pitch, chances are you've gone too far, loosen the string 3 or 4 turns and start over.
• Tuning takes practice. Practice tuning every day.

Devices to tune with:

Pitch Pipe - This was probably the first device I recall using to tune with. Basically six cylindrical reed pipes joined together with each representing a string on the guitar. The principle here is to select a note blow it and match the corresponding string to it. This is a tried and true method, but requires practice. Even as a beginner I was able to use a pitch pipe without much difficulty.

Advantages - Small and covers all the notes necessary to tune you guitar to standard pitch.
Disadvantages - As it ages it will likely go out of tune itself and become a very useless dust collector.

Piano - Many times you'll need to tune to a piano, as it's easier to tune your guitar to it as opposed to tuning it to you. Just find the corresponding notes and tune to the piano. If it's an acoustic piano, there is a good chance that it will not be in tune with itself, which means you'll only be close to in tune. So you'll have to make adjustments. If you are tuning to an electronic keyboard then you will likely not have that problem.

Advantages - Keyboards can be very precise.
Disadvantages - Too big to fit in your guitar case.

Tuning Fork - Struck against your knee, the prongs of this fork will vibrate at a predetermined frequency. While it's vibrating you can hold the base of it between your teeth and then match the appropriate string to the tone now resonating through your head.

Advantages - Small and very precise.
Disadvantages - Only good for one note; you're on your own for the rest.

Electronic Tuner - I bought my first electronic tuner in 1978. I still have it. I paid $99.50 for it and you better believe I'm proud to still own it. Electronic tuners have come way down in price since then, as a similar tuner now will cost about $30. Electronic tuners range in price from $10 to several hundred dollars (The one on my repair bench sells for about $300).

Advantages - Tuning with one of these devices is extremely easy and very precise.
Disadvantages - You really never learn how to tune; you become dependent on the device.

On to the Tuning!


TUNING METHODS

Relative Tuning

• If you have a piano or access to one, try to match the 6th string (the biggest one) to the 12th white key to the LEFT of middle C (it's also the 12th white key starting at the far left). Once you have matched these you're ready to go to the next step. If a piano is not available then a pitch pipe can help you with this note. 2. Fret the 6th string at the 5th fret and strike that note (it's an A). Now match the 5th string to that pitch. Remember to tune UP to the pitch, so loosen the 5th string and tune slowly until the pitches match.
• Fret the 5th string at the 5th fret and strike that note (it's a D). Now match the 4th string to that pitch. Remember to tune UP to the pitch, so loosen the 4th string and tune slowly until the pitches match. One of the most common mistake when tuning is tightening the string too much and going past the desired pitch. If you feel this has happened, loosen the string and start over.
• Fret the 4th string at the 5th fret and strike that note (it's a G). Now match the 3rd string to that pitch. Once again remember to tune UP to the pitch, so loosen the string and tune slowly until the pitches match.
• Fret the 3rd string at the 4th fret and strike that note (it's a B). Now match the 2nd string to that pitch. Yes, I'm going to repeat it - Remember to tune UP to the pitch, so loosen the string and tune slowly until the pitches match.
• Fret the 2nd string at the 5th fret and strike that note (it's an E). Now match the 1st string to that pitch. Remember to tune UP to the pitch, so loosen the 1st string and tune slowly until the pitches match. (It's important - that's why I keep saying it.)

Ok... you're almost done. You should go back to the sixth string and check it with the piano or pitch pipe repeating the six steps. It's good to check it a couple of times; try to get it as close to 'in tune' as you can. This method can be reversed and tune from high string to low string. This is handy when using a tuning fork; most common tuning forks used with guitar are E-329.6 (same as the first string) and A-440 (first string fifth fret). So by reversing you start with the high E and fret the 2nd string at the 5th fret and match the fretted note to the open string, etc. etc.

Harmonic Tuning

If you are interested in this method of tuning chances are you've experimented with harmonics. If you've not tried it, try it now at the 12th fret. Just a light touch, (not pressing) directly over the fret, after the string is picked, quickly take your finger off. If you've done it right a bell-like tone will have just sounded (this is called the first overtone).

Other positions create natural harmonics as well, and we can use those positions to tune a guitar.

Here's how:

• Start with your guitar (or at least your 6th string) close to 'in-tune.'
• Match the sound of the harmonic of the 5th string at the 7th fret with the harmonic of the 6th string at the 5th fret.
• Match the sound of the harmonic of the 4th string at the 7th fret with the harmonic of the 5th string at the 5th fret.
• Match the sound of the harmonic of the 3rd string at the 7th fret with the harmonic of the 4th string at the 5th fret.
• Match the sound of the harmonic of the 2nd string at the 5th fret with the harmonic of the 3rd string at the 4th fret. This may be difficult for the beginner, so you can also match the harmonic of the 6th string at the 7th fret to the open 2nd string.
• Match the sound of the harmonic of the 1st string at the 7th fret with the harmonic of the 2nd string at the 5th fret.

You might want to repeat those steps a couple of times to make sure everything is as close as you can get it.

Tuning by Beats

After you've played and practiced tuning for sometime and your ears are more sensitive you may be able to hear what is called beats. Whenever you strike to notes together, if they are not in tune with each other the intensity (or volume) of both notes will pulse at a regular frequency. These are the 'beats' - listen carefully. The number of beats per second is equal to the difference in vibrations per second of the two notes. The slower the beats the closer the pitch of the two notes. When you can't hear the beats then you've succeeded in matching the two tones.

Octave Tuning

I find this to be a handy method of tuning, but even handier in checking your tuning. The following steps can be followed to use this method of tuning.

• Fret the 1st string at the 7th fret (it's a B). This note is an octave higher than the note you'll tune the 2nd string to. Match the 2nd string to the fretted note on the 1st string, but remember you will be an octave from that note.
• Fret the 2nd string at the 8th fret (it's a G). This note is an octave higher than the note you'll tune the 3rd string to. Now, match the 3rd string to the fretted note on the 2nd string, again remembering you will be an octave from that note.
• Fret the 3rd string at the 7th fret (it's a D). This note is an octave higher than the note you'll tune the 4th string to. Like before match the 4th string to the fretted note on the 3rd string, and remember you will be an octave from that note.
• Fret the 4th string at the 7th fret (it's an A). This note is an octave higher than the note you'll tune the 5th string to. Again, match the 5th string to the fretted note on the 4th string, but remember you will be an octave from that note.
• Fret the 5th string at the 7th fret (it's an A). This note is an octave higher than the note you'll tune the 6th string to.
• Finally, match the 6th string to the fretted note on the 5th string, don't forget you will be an octave from that note.

Once again, you should do this procedure a couple of times to make sure you are as close to being in tune as you are presently able.

Closing

I'd like to add here that the condition of your instrument certainly will have an effect on your ability to tune, play in tune, and stay in tune. A fresh set of strings is always a good place to start. Worn frets, nuts, and saddles can also affect tuning along with probably a hundred other things I've failed to mention.

In conclusion, there are certainly other methods of tuning (I've only covered a very few), and I'm sure with some experimentation you will find one that works best for you. I also neglected to discuss Pure Tuning as Opposed to Temperament - which is certainly a subject for later discussion. There is, I suppose, no right or wrong way to tune. There is, however, a standard tuning, and you need to attempt to be as close as you are able, regardless of the method you use to get there.


Bibliography

Mel Bay's EZ Way to Tune Guitar - Roger Filberto - Mel Bay Publications - 1979
Guitar Tuning for the Complete Musical Idiot - Ron Middlebrook - Centerstream Publications - 1981

Music Bio

I started playing banjo in 1977. I'm self taught... the old fashion way - I'm a firm supporter now of the listen and learn approach. I've ruined many records by dancing the needle across trying to hit that particular spot on record.

I soon found myself playing in the FFA Stringband in High School. We played all over Georgia and even had the honor of playing at the FFA National Convention in Kansas City.

I have done assorted session work. While living in Athens, Georgia In the late 80's I even played banjo for the "soundtrack" of a FedEx commercial.

I have played and recorded with the Dalton, Georgia based bluegrass group Shady Hollow. I also played and recorded with Country Comfort.

From the beginning I loved teaching others to play the banjo. I've had as many as 50 students a week. On of the greatest opportunities as a banjo teacher came when some of my articles were accepted and used by Banjo Newsletter. I later had the opportunity to teach at the Maryland Banjo Academy.

While in college in the early 80's I took up playing the clawhammer style of banjo playing. I worked from a book I got from Grandpa Jones. I learned the basics and then spent hours trying to figure out Soldier's Joy from the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band's Will The Circle Be Unbroken Album. Years later and many hours of practice I think maybe I finally understand the style. I think all of the effort paid off in 1999 when I won the Old-Time Division at the Georgia State Championship in Hiawassee, Georgia.

I am the 2005 Tennessee Bluegrass Banjo Champion.

I'm currently playing with the Hamilton County Ramblers.

Yo-Yo Bio

I got my first yo-yo sometime in the late 60's. It was a slimline Russell Championship Model that was used in a McDonald's Restaurant promotion. I really don't recall much about the promotion, but I remember a demonstrator and getting a yo-yo. I was young and not in the habit of getting names and details.

From that point I always remember having a yo-yo of some sort. If I ever misplaced or found myself without one I would make my way to the store and buy something - usually a Duncan of some sort (Imperial, Professional or Butterfly). Limited to what I could find in the local department stores I was basically bound to the "back of the card" tricks found with most yo-yos of the time.

Let's fast forward to 1996. I was shopping with my wife and some friends when I found a shop that had these "new" yo-yos. Some that they had would even return to your hand automatically - Yomega Brains and Fireballs. I bought a SaberWing Fireball and found myself re-addicted to this marvelous toy. Since then my collection of yo-yos has grown from a half dozen to several hundred.

In 1998 I received a Playmaxx Turbo Bumble Bee as a gift. This was my first ball bearing yo-yo. It was also about that time I found the "online" yo-yo community. Through this medium I've met many people involved in yo-yoing and I now find myself more involved than I ever imagined.

I've helped plan and promote the Georgia State Yo-Yo Championships. I've also helped with the Southeast Regional and Worlds Yo-Yo Contest.

From 2002 - 2006 I was on the American Yo-Yo Association Board of Directors.