Constructing a 5-String Banjo: A Complete Technical Guide

by Roger H. Siminoff

Reference Just as in his other book Constructing a Bluegrass Mandolin Rogers simple and concise step-by-step instructions show you the how and the why of it all leading you on a path that blends discovery with pure joy Over 200 photos and illustrations provide the kind of valuable reference no other book in the field can offer Roger has used his technical knowledge on design sound and all of the important stages of construction that go into the building of a musical instrument and has incorporated these ideas into one text The end result is this valuable book of information that will help you to learn more about the makeup of a 5-string banjo and more importantly will give you the satisfaction and pride in being able to accomplish the building of a banjo that you can play and enjoy for years to come

Genres: Music

64 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 1985

Reviews

[Nathan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author takes a lot of stuff for granted: he assumes the reader has a fully stocked wood shop, and all the ancillary equipment specific to banjo making, like neck and peghead supports. I didn't see a tool list, and there are no instructions for how to make the various braces necessary at each stage of manufacture.

Except for that, this is an extremely detailed book, and if you happen to own a cabinet making business, you'll be able to build a banjo in no time.

[J. Gowin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started learning the banjo several years ago in order to impress the ladies. Don't laugh, one good banjo player is worth ten of the nauseatingly bad guitar players who show up at every party.

Anywho, back to the book. This is a very good single project shop manual. Siminoff walks you through the process in a simple and direct manner, which is backed up by many useful photographs. The major downsides reside in the complexity of the project itself, and the urge to skip ahead. So if you have some experience with woodworking and a reasonable amount af patience, then you could build a custom banjo to your own liking.