Playing Since: 2007
Experience Level: Intermediate

Interests:
[Jamming]

Occupation: Retired Consulting Engineer

Gender: Male
Age: 86

My Instruments:
2004 Gibson RB250 Banjo
Deering Crossfire electric banjo
Deering Woodsong open back longneck banjo

Favorite Bands/Musicians:
Pete "Dr.Banjo"Wernick, James McKinney, John Boulding,Tim Weed,Dave Evans,Bill Evans,Jerry Keys.

Classified Rating: not rated
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Profile Info:
Visible to: Public
Created 2/19/2015
Last Visit 6/13/2018

I took up the banjo in 2007 soon after my retirement as an engineering executive in Miami,Florida.I had moved back to my adopted state of Tennessee when I decided to learn and play music. With no musical background or training I began on a banjo that was a present from my wife. This undertaking was viewed by my acquaintances as incongruous with my background and perhaps some silent skepticism by some family members. Nevertheless, I proceeded, infatuated with the banjo and the process of learning and making music. Teachers, books,DVDs, Slowdowner,banjo camps, jams, Skype lessons became the users of my spare time. I spent some time reviewing and getting updated on the most effective learning (pedagogical) methods and tried to structure my practice sessions, priorities,and goals in a realistic and efficient manner. I have kept a detailed log of my banjo experience (remember the 10000 hour theory?) . I have now logged more than 3000 hours on the old FIVE. I enjoy playing, practicin,,g, performing and jamming and consider myself at the intermediate level. Could some of the non playing time been better spent on the banjo, itself? Maybe, but remember I started late and tried to use my kolife skills (playing from by strength so) to make the process as easy as possible. Even so, there have been many ups and downs, but worth all the effort. I hope my story will encourage other seniors to consider music. I also encourage families to have music in the homes, get the children interested early, and establish a music-friendly home and school atmosphere.