You asked so we’ve answered. Check out this quick and easy guide with all the answers to your most commonly asked questions about banjos.
1. What is a 4 String Banjo Called?
There are two main types of 4 string banjos – the Irish tenor banjo and the plectrum banjo. Keep reading to learn more about the differences between these two instruments.
2. What are 4 String Banjos Used For?
The 4 string tenor banjo is used to play traditional Irish music. It’s the most commonly played banjo in traditional Irish music today which is why it’s often referred to as the Irish tenor banjo.
The 4 string plectrum banjo is most commonly used to play jazz.
3. Is the Banjo Irish?
The short answer is no. The banjo has become an incredibly popular instrument within Irish folk music but it made its way here from the USA in the late 19th and early 20th century.
The banjo technically originated in Africa where it evolved from West African string instruments to the instrument that we know and love today.
4. What is an Irish Tenor Banjo?
The Irish tenor banjo is the name given to the most popular style of banjo played in traditional Irish music today. Historically it is not an indigenous Irish instrument however.
The Irish tenor banjo is a short neck 4 string banjo that typically features a 17 fret or 19 fret scale length and is tuned to GDAE – one octave lower than the Irish fiddle and mandolin.
5. What is a Plectrum Banjo?
The plectrum banjo is a four string banjo that is more commonly associated with jazz. Larger than tenor banjos, these 4 string banjos typically have the same scale length, head size, and fret count as five string banjos.
Like the tenor banjo, it is played with a plectrum or pick, rather than fingerstyle (like a 5 string banjo). The traditional tuning for a plectrum banjo is CGBD.
Photo by Robert Linder on Unsplash
6. What’s the Difference between a 4 string and a 5 string banjo?
Another frequently asked question. The simple answer is that these are two different styles of banjo, used to play different styles of music and played in a completely different style.
The 5 string banjo is a bigger instrument, with a longer scale length of 22 frets and is more commonly found in North American folk music or old time music such as Bluegrass and Country. Five string banjos come in two distinct styles – open back or resonator.
The 4 string banjo – specifically the Irish tenor banjo – is smaller in size and is more commonly used to play traditional Irish music.
Somewhat confusingly, plectrum banjos are similar in size and build to 5 string banjos – but it’s easy to tell them apart due to the number of strings.
7. Is a 4 or 5 String Banjo Better?
Comparing a banjo with 4 strings and a banjo with 5 strings is like comparing a concertina and an accordion. They may seem like the same instrument to some, but in reality they operate differently and require a different playing technique.
Neither instrument is better. It really depends on which which style of music you want to play:
- If you want to play traditional Irish music such as jigs, reels, hornpipes and other tunes, a four string tenor banjo is the best instrument for you. Shop a 4 string tenor banjo here.
- If you’re interested in playing jazz then you’ll need a plectrum banjo.
- If you want to play bluegrass or country music, a five string banjo will help you achieve your desired sound. Shop a 5 string banjo here.
8. What’s the Deal with 6 String Banjos?
Six string banjos, also known as guitar banjos are, as the name implies, banjos that feature 6 strings. They are played using the same tuning as a standard guitar.
Tuned to EADGBE, it’s a handy instrument for guitar players who don’t want to have to learn new fingerings or a new playing technique.
Some banjo players disapprove of these instruments and frown on their use, claiming that you might as well just play a guitar instead, but six string banjos have their own unique sound and are a separate, distinct instrument.
Check out the video below from Jens Kruger to learn more about these fascinating instruments:
9. Are 4 String Banjos Good for Beginners?
Four string banjos are ideal for beginners. They are the most accessible instrument within the banjo family, especially the Irish tenor banjo.
A 17 fret, 4 string banjo will offer the most compact size for a beginner.
10. Is The Banjo Easy to Learn?
Yes, the banjo is a relatively easy instrument to learn to play, especially if you have good motor skills or hand coordination. Once you get the hang of the fingering (where to place your fingers on the fretboard) and the strumming motion, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a confident player.
It can take a while to master plucking the strings with a pick or plectrum while your other hand is pressed down on the frets but it’s no harder that learning to play the guitar. In fact, many would argue it’s easier.
11. Is the Banjo Harder to Play Than a Guitar?
Definitely not. Playing the banjo requires the same coordination and motor skills as playing a guitar.
While both instruments involve a similar skill level, the banjo requires less finger movement which can make it more accessible for those just starting out. In Irish music the banjo is played as a melody instrument rather than used to strum chords, which means you can focus on playing one string at a time which does simplify the process.
12. How Much Does a Quality Banjo Cost?
Entry level and beginner banjos have quite an accessible and affordable price range.
A good quality beginner banjo will cost upwards of €400/$400. How much you want to spend after that is up to you.
For intermediate to advanced and professional banjos the prices will continue to rise from there.
McNeela Banjos
If you’re looking to buy a banjo then look no further. Here at McNeela Instruments we stock only the best banjos. We have instruments from Clareen, Deering and Koda as well as our own brand in-store range. We also stock a selection of vintage banjos from brands including Bacon & Day, FRAMUS, Gretsch and many more. So whether you’re looking for a 4 string banjo or 5 string banjo we have something for everyone. We also sell an exciting range of bouzoukis, mandolins and guitars.
I like the Tenor Banjo. I like playing melody leads and just sitting and plucking along on my TB. Thanks for this feature. Hard to find much on Tenor Banjos and even less where I live here in Carolina Beach, NC, USA. Everything here is five string. Thanks!
You’re more than welcome John. I’m glad to be of help. And you’re right, there’s a lot of information out there on five strings, and a lot of confusion around 4 string banjos too. If you have any further questions be sure to get in touch, I’m always happy to help. Keep up the banjo playing!
I was willed a 5 String banjo tuned to open G. Soon after I BOUGHT THE Deering open back 16 fret banjo tuned Gdae. I found that one easy to learn melodies by ear. or from Mandolin tabs. Was a lifetime bass guy. Fretting chords is painful cept for g c d f . Can i get away with that. play old folk and old county. Just about 12 songs right now. Am 94 , and need to keep busy, Playing bass at home is still something I do once in a while. but playing melody is more satisfying. My downside is relatively no chords. and feel as increase my play list to where i can play with others for fun, I would not be welcome because of not playing chords.
With Respect,
Murray
Hi Murray, don’t be worrying at all about fretting chords – especially if you’re finding it painful. Even just 3 chords G, C and D would cover a multitude of songs and/or tunes. If you have thoose under your belt, you’re flying. If you’re happy picking melodies then I wouldn’t worry at all about what anyone else thinks though! There’s no right or wrong, and when it comes to the 5 string banjo there are so many playing styles out there – it all comes down to personal preference. With respect sir, at the age of 94 you have definitely earned the right to play whatever makes you happy. Wishing you many more years of banjo playing!
Tommy Makem led me to the whistle and the 5-string banjo. Not widely used in trad music, but it's great for folk songs.
You couldn’t follow in better footsteps there Martin. Indeed the 5 string is wonderful for accompanying ballads and folk songs!
I agree that for me personally, a tenor banjo is more enjoyable than a guitar. I began as a folk guitarist during the folk scare of the '60's and then evolved to bluegrass lead playing. Thirty years ago, I reconnected with my Irish roots and my love for Irish music when I first heard a tenor banjo played in a session. I now have three good guitars, six banjos, a bouzouki and a mandolin. I do not play professionally. Having learned the individual fingering necessary for bluegrass guitar, learning the rudiments of tenor banjo came easily. I find playing the tenor, either a 17-fret or 19-fret much easier than a guitar. However, I play tenor because I have always been simply enthralled by the sound of the instrument. Finally, as a nice bonus, I find the tenor to be easier on my hands I will be 80 next St. Patrick's Day, and I have some problems with my hands.
St. Patrick is in good company sharing his celebrations with your own! I got a good laugh out of your mention of the “folk scare” – great to see it’s thriving now. You sound like a busy man with all those banjos, but what a wonderful way to while away the hours. You can’t beat the sound of the tenor banjo really, I’d have to agree there. I’m glad we share some Irish roots and I hope the music is bringing you great happiness Dudley!
I found a Langstile I 4-string banjo for around $450 and wondered if this was a good price. My daughter currently plays 5-string banjo but loves all instruments/styles of playing, and I thought this might be a nice surprise. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!!