Learn The Basic Clawhammer Stroke
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Watch this fun free video to get started
The Basic Stroke has 3 parts
First, there's The Strike
The initial strike is performed by either the index or middle finger of the right hand (for right handed players). Most players use the fingernail of the striking hand, but it is possible to wear a pick on the striking finger. The goal is to make a single, clean note and this will take some practice. The Thumb comes to rest on the fifth string with every strike.
You can practice this technique on any of the long strings one through four. You can see another free video with more information about the initial Strike of Clawhammer by clicking the blue ‘watch video’ button.
The Strum & Fifth String
Brush downwards across all the strings with the same finger you used to make the initial strike. The thumb comes to rest on the fifth string as you complete the strum.
The fifth string
As the hand comes up, the thumb sounds the fifth string.
To learn how to do the strum and fifth string click on the blue ‘watch video’ button.
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More about Basic Stroke
Another free video to help you get started
In this free video get a quick summary of the three basic elements that make up the Basic Clawhammer Strum – The Strike, The Strum and the Fifth String. See how to switch the initial Strike from one string to another so you can play a melody note on any of the four longer strings on the five string banjo.
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Where to Strike the Strings?
How far from the bridge should I play?
How Far from the Bridge Should I play?
A lot of clawhammer banjo players strike the strings a long way from the bridge, so they are playing over the fingerboard. Frank normally likes to play this way too.
Some players like to play nearer the bridge.
You can get a big difference in the sound depending on where you strike the strings.
It’s important to be comfortable when you are playing. You can choose whether to play closer to the bridge or further away based on how comfortable you feel, as well as getting the sound you want.
