This free video lesson by Geoff Hohwald is designed to enable the beginner to learn a few simple rolls and to practice these at gradually increasing speeds. It is recommended that you watch the lesson on correct right hand technique to make sure that your technique is correct as you speed up. We will be playing the forward roll, the forward and backward roll and the alternating thumb pattern. The tablature for each of these rolls can be found below. For more instruction on how to play the banjo, check out our Introduction to Banjo DVD.
Watch the lesson: Quicktime or Flash
Here is the first roll we'll try. It's called a forward roll
Now let's try a forward and backward roll
And finally let's try an alternating thumb pattern
You should practice these rolls until they become second nature to you.
Forward Roll Exercise Session 1 by Geoff Hohwald is part of a 3 lesson series on speed-building. Session 1 progresses from 20 to 55 Beats Per Minute, includes the Quicktime video lesson, 6 MP3 audio tracks, and a PDF file with banjo tablature for the rolls used. This session is for beginners. Testing has proven this method will significantly increase the ability level and enjoyment of beginning players. $4.99
Watch sample clips: Quicktime or Flash
| Intro to Banjo Video | Forward Roll Exercise |
| Banjo Primer Download | Dueling Banjos |
| Banjo Primer Jam Tracks | Rocky Top |
