The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

Music

The article studies three historical traditions of the banjo, the folk, minstrel popular, and classical.

Traditions of the banjo are characterized by:

a) The ways in which knowledge of the banjo was transmitted.

b) Closeness of the performer or craftsman to his audience or clientele

c) Self-perceived relation between the craftsman or musician to other crafstmen or musicians.

Exact origins of banjo unknown. Possible from West Africa with slaves.

Earliest banjo was made from a gourd.

Frets introduced in the 1860's and 70's

Peak of development (quality) in 1920's

Data entry tech comment:

Motifs added by TRD

Where learned: ; The Physical Development of the Banjo ; New York Folklore Quarterly

Keyword(s): Audience ; Banjo ; Classical ; Craftsman ; Folk ; Fret ; GOURD ; HISTORY ; Instrument ; Minstrel ; MUSIC ; Origin ; Performer ; Slaves

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