CLAWHAMMER SONG TUTORIALS
All song lessons below are designed for beginner to intermediate players that are comfortable with the basics.
For less than a tenner you will gain access to: HD video with on-screen tablature, printable PDF tabs to download and keep, a bonus video lesson on how to read clawhammer banjo tab, full lyrics, a bite-sized history nugget about the song — plus personal help and support from me whenever you need it.
All song tutorials listed below are included in the Banjo Adventures Membership and much more!
SAIL AWAY LADIES
A classic old-time melody that’s as fun to play as it is to hear. In this step-by-step lesson, we’ll explore the version of Sail Away Ladies that shares its roots with Sally Ann — packed with rhythm, groove, and that unmistakable old-time feel.
£0.00
Waltzing Matilda
Learn the iconic Australian folk tune Waltzing Matilda on the banjo in just 20 minutes with this relaxed, step-by-step video tutorial. Perfect for clawhammer players and easily adaptable for Scruggs style, this lesson helps you pick up the melody quickly while enjoying the journey.
CLUCK OLD HEN
Step into Appalachian tradition with Cluck Old Hen — a classic old-time banjo tune known for its hypnotic G-modal tuning and toe-tapping rhythm. This lesson breaks it down into a simple, steady arrangement with light drop-thumb, helping you build confidence and sound great. Whether solo or in a jam, this tune is sure to become a favorite.
I’LL FLY AWAY
Rediscover the classic 'I'll Fly Away' with a fresh clawhammer twist. In this lesson, you'll not only learn the melody, but also add your own soulful groove to this timeless tune. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned players looking for a new take.
SOLDIERS JOY
We’re going to put the Double C tuning into action with a joyful, melodic tune that’s stood the test of time — Soldier’s Joy. It’s a great opportunity to apply Rhythm-Lyrics-Harmony-Melody to strengthen your clawhammer technique, and most importantly, have fun making music. Let’s keep that momentum going and bring this beautiful melody to life, one phrase at a time.
SHE’LL BE COMING ROUND THE MOUNTAIN
She’ll Be Comin’ Round the Mountain is a fun, instantly recognisable folk tune that’s perfect for building confidence in clawhammer banjo. This step-by-step lesson helps you develop steady rhythm, clean transitions, and musical flow while adding a timeless classic to your repertoire.
CUMBERLAND GAP
Let’s take a trip to the Cumberland Gap!
Get ready to dig into this classic banjo tune with a step-by-step lesson that keeps things fun, simple, and packed with groove. No capo, no retuning — just good old Open G and a melody that’s been turning heads for generations. You’ll get the full video lesson, downloadable tab, and a free “How to Read Tab” mini-lesson to help you hit the ground running.
BOIL THEM CABBAGE DOWN
Learn the timeless tune “Boil ’Em Cabbage Down” with a simple, confidence-building clawhammer arrangement. This lesson focuses on strong rhythm, clean melody, and musical flow — making it an ideal first song for beginners and a useful warm-up for seasoned players.
OLD JOE CLARK
Learning Old Joe Clark is a rite of passage for clawhammer banjo players. This lesson guides you through the tune step by step, helping you develop solid rhythm and musical confidence while adding a classic old-time standard to your growing repertoire.
SKIP TO MY LOU
A joyful, instantly recognisable folk tune that’s perfect for beginners, Skip to My Lou is your gateway from practice patterns into real banjo music. This step-by-step lesson shows you how to turn the clawhammer frailing strum into a complete, confidence-building tune you’ll be proud to play from start to finish.