Faber Music are proud to publish celebrated banjo teacher and player John Dowling's first publication, The Contemporary Banjo Player. 

This unique, comprehensive tutor for the 5-string bluegrass banjo player covers not only the basics of bluegrass, but also teaches you how to expand and develop your playing and diversify into other musical styles. The book is suitable for players of every level and is packed with photos, techniques, exercised and full songs to learn. With an accompanying CD containing demonstration tracks to aid progression, it covers all the basics including rolls, hammers, slides, harmonics, percussive playing, finger picking guitar style, and so much more!

John has been a professional teacher and performer for the last 15 years and has been acknowledged across the world for his outstanding talent. At the age of 21, he became the first person from outside the United States to win the prestigious Walnut Valley Banjo Contest held in Winfield, Kansas, the largest known Banjo competition in America. He has appeared alongside Jools Holland, Mark Knopfler and Courtney Pine in the prime time BBC documentary ‘Play it Again’ where he had to teach British stand up comedian Frank Skinner how to play the Banjo.

 
“John Dowling’s banjo playing reminds us of the breadth of expression this sometimes maligned instrument is capable of. In his hands the dignity of this instrument is restored. John is not just a great banjo player but a master musician.”
Ralph McTell
 
“John Dowling is the most remarkable banjo player I’ve heard in ages.”

Billy Connolly

 

"John Dowling is one of my favorite banjo players and now he's written a wonderful new book, The Contemporary Banjo Player.  It has something for everyone.  If you're just starting out, he tells you how to position your hands and shows you basic rolls (finger patterns) so you can be playing music almost immediately.  For the intermediate players, he gives tips on improvising, as well as lessons in melodic and single string playing.  The advanced picker can graze on fingerpicking guitar style, bass line with melody and Banjo Percussion....plus much more.  These pages are a treasure trove of techniques tunes and tips, all delivered to you by one of the most creative banjoists to ever put picks to a string. No home should be without this tremendous tome!"

Tony Trischka

 

The Contemporary Banjo Player is available to buy now.