Scruggs style
This article needs additional citations for verification. (May 2016) |
Scruggs style is the most common style of playing the
Technique
Scruggs-style banjo is played with picks on the thumb, index, and middle fingers; the pinky and ring fingers are typically braced against the head (top) of the instrument. The
"Scruggs-style back-up is effective for any...break when it is played with the deeper tones of the banjo... However, it is particularly effective [with]...fiddle, mandolin, and vocal breaks. The deeper tones of the banjo counter-balance the higher pitched tones of the fiddle and mandolin, and the activity of the roll patterns creates a counter-melody which enhances the effectiveness of the melody."
— Janet Davis[2]
Beginning with his first recordings with
Influence
Some have debated how much of the "Scruggs style" was actually "invented" (instead of merely popularized) by Scruggs. For example, Scruggs names
On January 11, 2019Google Doodle paid homage to Scruggs by featuring a "close-up" animated demonstration of the "Scruggs style".[6]
, aSee also
References
- ^ ISBN 0-7866-6525-4.
- ^ Davis (2002), p.56.
- ISBN 1-893907-32-5. Shown without rhythm.
- ^ Adler, Thomas (1974). "Manual Formulaic Composition: Innovation in Bluegrass Banjo Styles," Journal of Country Music 5 no. 2: 55–64.
- ISBN 0-7866-5127-X.
- ^ Musil, Steven (2019-01-10). "Google Doodle celebrates Earl Scruggs, banjo-picking pioneer". CNET.
Bibliography
- Scruggs, Earl; Brent, M.D., Burt (1968). Earl Scruggs and the 5-String Banjo. Peer International Corp.
- Castelnero, Gordon and Russell, David L. Earl Scruggs: Banjo Icon. Rowman & Littlefield, 2017.