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Message Board - Banjos
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I stumbled accross this web site by accident while thumbing through Oklahoma Today. I am so thrilled to have found something like this. I was so afraid that all of my memories would die with me. My father was one of the finest banjo players I have ever heard. He taught himself to play and bought his first banjo at the age of 19. He saved and saved to get it and it cost an amazing $300.00 back then.I am sure that I remember it being a Ludwig. I think it was a tenor that he tuned plectrum. I'm not sure that could be backward. He had a frien that also played and I used to watch the two of them play one banjo. I grew up singing in the minstral shows with my brothers and our father accompanying us on the banjo. My dad played with Socotch and Habit (please excuse the spelling) and Frankie Yankovich. In his later years when I was a teenager he played in many local polka and dixieland bands including the local Shakeys Pizza Parler. I would have buried him in his red and white stripeed shirt if my mom would have let me. People today have no idea what they are missing if they do not get to hear this beautiful instrument played. My dad could play a train coming down the track and I swear that you would listen for the whistle. Unfortunately I only have a few cassett tapes that were made when he was older but I realy do cherise them. Unforunately his prized banjo was stolen in a break in but he quickly replaced it with another although not of the same quality he could still make it sing. Thank you for keeping my memories alive and I will certainly attend the festival.
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Many, Many men and women have over the years, had a virtual, perhaps a literal love affair with the banjo. They saved, started on a real klunker, improved and bought the next best instrument they could afford. As our web-site says, this museum exists to further the four-string banjo, its history, its huge spread of historical literature and its future. I am happy that you have found joy in remembering. PLEASE, get those cassette recordings transferred to compact disc right now! If you do not have the gear someone you know surely will? If notm go to astereo equipment store and ask for the help. Those recordings are a legacy that will mean more to each generation. Best wishes, Best of luck, John
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