AcuTab Publications Releases Bluegrass Banjo Master Class DVD

Bill Evans is one of the world's best known banjo teachers and players, and is also the author of the upcoming Banjo for Dummies from Wiley Publishing. He has taught hundreds of players from all over the world and is a frequent contributor to Banjo NewsLetter magazine.

Bluegrass Banjo Master Class provides the most detailed analysis of right and left hand technique in bluegrass banjo currently available on DVD. Bill begins by showing you how to fit and shape the picks and how to find the optimal position on the banjo head. He proceeds to explore how hand position and angle of attack work together to produce great tone and volume.

Bill teaches essential bluegrass roll patterns and explores such topics as straight time vs. playing with a bounce, and how to practice with a metronome. His analysis is designed to help both new pickers get on the right track, and to refocus more experienced players on the importance of the basics - solid rhythm, big tone and bluegrass drive.

He also spends time on the most effective approach to common left hand techniques, and to things that may seem relatively unimportant - but aren't! - such as proper posture, and tips to help you stay relaxed when picking. Bill then introduces 21 essential licks, and shows how to use them to improvise and build new licks.

Finally, Bill presents 20 chordal exercises to help pickers become more familiar with the neck - all based on familiar bluegrass rolls. More skilled players will especially benefit from these exercises, as they open your ears to some new sounds while showing your fingers some new places to go.

Running time is 2 hours and 20 minutes, and includes a printed tab booklet. The retail price is $35 (USD).