Banjo five string

The five-string banjo is an iconic American musical instrument with deep roots in African culture and Appalachian music.

About this subject

The five-string banjo, known for its twangy tone and fifth drone string tuned to G, originated from West African lutes brought to the Americas by enslaved people. In the 19th century, it was adopted by white Appalachian musicians, becoming a cornerstone of folk and bluegrass music. Unlike the four-string banjo (tenor or plectrum), the fifth string is shorter and attached to a tuning peg at the fifth fret, providing a constant drone. Playing styles include clawhammer (a down-picking technique common in old-time music) and three-finger bluegrass style, popularized by Earl Scruggs in the 1940s.

Historic manufacturers like Vega, Gibson, and Fairbanks set benchmarks with metal rims and mahogany necks. Pete Seeger used the banjo as a vehicle for protest songs, while Béla Fleck pushed its boundaries into jazz, classical, and world music. In Brazil, the five-string banjo occasionally appears in choro and samba circles, often with the fifth string tuned to C, D, or E for local harmonies. Its versatility has allowed it to adapt to country, folk, rock, and even electronic music, ensuring a living tradition spanning over 200 years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a five-string banjo and a four-string banjo?

The five-string banjo has an extra shorter fifth string tuned to G, serving as a continuous drone. The four-string banjo (tenor or plectrum) lacks this string and is more common in jazz and Irish music.

How do you tune a five-string banjo in standard bluegrass tuning?

Standard bluegrass tuning is: G (low G), D, G, B, D (high D). The fifth drone string is tuned to G, one octave above the low G string.

What is the origin of the clawhammer style on the banjo?

Clawhammer is a traditional Appalachian playing style from the 19th century. The player strikes the strings with the fingertips in a downward motion, maintaining a steady rhythm and emphasizing the melody on the drone string.