[Dixielandjazz] History of the Banjol

[Michael Woitowicz]

DJML'rs

For those of you interested, one of the best history books on the
development of the Banjo as a musical instrument was written by Karen Linn.
Well researched and written, It's entitled: "That Half-Barbaric Twang -- The
Banjo in American Culture." It was published in 1991 by the U of Illinois.

One of the most interesting parts of the book was the analysis of the
evolution of the four string banjo (especially the tenor tuning) to fit the
"needs" of Jazz bands in the 20's.

For the Washboard Players on the list, the book has nice pictures too!

Mike Woitowicz
The Banjo Barons Ragtime Band
www.banjobarons.com

The Dixie Barons Dixieland Band
www.banjobarons.com/dixiebarons.html