When I created Banjo Earth back in 2015, the tagline I started with was "Peace through Music. Community through Creation." That remains the motto to this day, simply because it describes the essence and spirit of Banjo Earth.
Peace through Music - Music, like any technology, can be a unifying or divisive force. It just depends on how you use it. The folk music of different cultures all around the world have attracted me my entire life. The reason is because I feel its unifying energy. When I listen to a sitar from India, or Pipa from China, I feel closer and more connected to my human family.
Community through Creation - Another mission of Banjo Earth is to bring people together through sharing our music and stories. After collaborating with incredible musicians around the world, we often become lifelong friends. I am able to gather more respect and information on their culture and story, as they are of my Appalachian heritage. This creation of art makes connections that otherwise wouldn't be there. And in my opinion, the world is better for it.
Banjo Earth Community - A wonderful side effect of this journey has been the community that has gathered around Banjo Earth. Fans, Friends, Supporters, Musicians, and so many great folks have coalesced behind the mission, music, and movies. I am so thankful for it all, and I'm super excited that you are here as a part of it.
The Banjo Earth School - The Reason why you and I are both here. Banjo is an incredible instrument, and has brought so much joy to my life. I can remember the first song I learned, Bile Dem Cabbage Down, like it was yesterday. But the truth, it was 30 years ago!
Since then, I've learned banjo from some amazing masters, traveled all over the world and absorbed the music of different cultures, and even added some of my own flavors along the way. I've recently realized that I have a lot of lessons, knowledge, and insights that I can share with up and coming banjo players.
Whether you just picked up the banjo today, or you've been playing for years, my sincere wish is that you find the information here that will boost your banjo journey into another stratosphere. Also, I my aim is to build a community of fun loving banjo enthusiasts all sharing our passion for this beautiful and crazy instrument. Thank you for being a part of this community!
Warning!!! Banjo inspiration and excitement can catch you in your sleep, and you might wake up with a zestful energy to create as soon as your feet hit the floor. Be careful!