Ben Dornings Banjo Blog
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What’s the best musical instrument to learn online if you’re over 40?
Thinking of learning a musical instrument from home? Whether you’re over 40 and rediscovering your creative side or just looking for a rewarding new hobby, this guide breaks down the best way to learn music online—with flexibility, fun, and zero pressure. From YouTube rabbit holes to structured banjo lessons, find out what really works (and why the 5-string banjo might just steal your heart).
5 Beginner Banjo Tips (From Someone Who’s Been There, Done It And Got the Crusty Bits on My Fingertips to Prove It)
Learning the banjo isn’t about being perfect — it’s about showing up, plucking one string at a time, and celebrating every scrappy little win. Whether you’re fumbling through your first frailing pattern or wondering if your fingers will ever stop hurting, this post is for you. I’ve been there, I’ve got the crusty fingertips to prove it, and now I’m here to share 5 no-nonsense tips for beginners who want to play banjo with heart — not just hustle.
There are too many banjo lessons online — where should I start?
Thinking of learning banjo online? Discover the real difference between free and paid banjo lessons—from someone who’s taught both. Learn why structure, accountability, and community might be the key to faster progress—and how the right environment can keep you motivated.
Why am I struggling to learn banjo?
Thinking of learning the banjo from scratch? Discover the three essential ingredients for success—desire, self-awareness, and patience—and why playing for yourself (and no one else) is the key to long-term banjo joy.
How I’d Start Learning Banjo If I Had to Do It All Over Again
I have really enjoyed learning how to play the banjo. If i could do it all over again this is what i would do differently.
The 5 milestones of becoming a banjo player
When learning the banjo, there are some key moments that stick with you as EUREKA! moments where something just clicks and you break through. Here is a list of my five most memorable moments learning how to play the 5 string banjo.
What Is My Ultimate Goal as an Online Music Teacher?
As a newly self appointed banjo tutor, This is the honest reason I decided to start teaching people how to play the banjo!
The 5 Dos and Don’ts for New Banjo Players
Learning the banjo can be a lot of fun and a real sense of accomplishment. here is a list of five Do’s and Don’ts to be mindful of during your own banjo learning journey.
Am I Too Old to Learn the Banjo?
Are you too old to start learning how to play the banjo, or any other new skill for that mater?
How To Become A Half Decent Banjo Player
Learning any new skill requires a level of dedication, passion, time and effort. Learning the banjo is no different. Trouble is no one wants to feel like a beginner and everyone wants results TODAY. So this blog shows you how to become a decent banjo player.
Why Banjo Players Give Up
Welcome to the valley of despair, The departure lounge for failed banjo players who give up! Don’t hang around in the valley of despair for too long.
A New Banjo Players Worst Habit
Learning clawhammer banjo can feel frustrating, especially when mastering the basic frailing strum. Many beginners make the mistake of thinking they’re not improving when, in reality, progress happens in small, consistent steps. In this guide, we’ll break down why the frailing strum feels so difficult at first, how to push through the learning curve, and how to stay motivated despite modern-day distractions.
Why Your Clawhammer Banjo Strum Feels Impossible (And How to Fix It)
People need to know this before starting Clawhammer banjo!
My Banjo Journey – From Curious Beginner to Banjo Adventures
A little story on how and why I decided to learn the banjo and my journey from complete beginner to banjo teacher