What Is The Best Beginner Banjo

Choosing your first banjo can be confusing. We would like to help you any way we can. One thing you can be sure of is that no matter what style of music you would like to play, the best beginner banjo is definitely one of the Deering Goodtime banjos. These banjos are the only banjos in this class that are made in America. People who love the banjo will have made your banjo. The parts are superior to imported banjos and the set up and playability of the banjo are superior. You can ask any banjo teacher and they will say that the Deering Goodtime banjo is the way to go.

There are a number of different Deering Goodtime banjos so the next question what style of music do you want to play.

Take a listen yourself to this fantastic Deering Goodtime banjo shootout video done by our friend Bennett Sullivan from dailybanjolicks.com

Best Overall Beginner Banjo

Deering Goodtime Banjo

If you don't know and you just want to play "banjo" then go with the standard Deering Goodtime banjo. This is the most versatile and most popular banjo. You can find it here:

https://www.banjostudio.com/collections/openback-5-string-banjos/products/goodtime-banjo

Best Beginner Bluegrass Banjo

Deering Goodtime Two Banjo

If you would like to play bluegrass, then I would suggest the Deering Goodtime Two banjo. This is because this banjo has a back on it which is called a resonator which makes the banjo louder and brighter and gives you more of a classic bluegrass tone. You can find it here:

https://www.banjostudio.com/products/goodtime-two-banjo

Best Beginner Clawhammer / Old Time Banjo

Deering Goodtime Americana

The Deering Goodtime Americana banjo is the same as the standard Deering Goodtime openback banjo but with a wider 12" diameter rim (as oppose to the standard 11" diameter) and a renaissance head. The combination of these two features gives the banjo a warmer tone with more bass response that clawhammer banjoists often prefer. 

These banjos also come with the option of having a scooped fingerboard where the last 3 frets are not installed and the fingerboard is carved out a bit making a "scoop". This is a feature many clawhammer banjoists look for so that they can easily play the banjo with their picking hand above the fingerboard and further away from the bridge, thus producing an even warmer, darker tone.

Beginner Banjo Packages

We also have beginner banjo packages that come with everything you need to start playing the banjo. Find these here:

https://www.banjostudio.com/collections/beginner-banjo-packages

Choosing your first banjo is an exciting step into a world of musical possibilities. While there are many factors to consider, the Deering Goodtime series offers a strong foundation for beginners. Whether you're drawn to the classic bluegrass sound, the rhythmic drive of clawhammer, or the versatility of a standard open-back, there's a Goodtime banjo to suit your style. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the journey of learning a new instrument.

So, pick a banjo that resonates with you, grab a few lessons, and let the music flow. With dedication and practice, you'll be creating your own unique banjo sound in no time. Happy picking!

Feel free to contact us with any questions. We are here to help.

Contact us at:

504-236-4640
info@banjostudio.com