ONLINE: Intermediate Clawhammer Banjo
- Instrumental
- Old Time
- Online Classes
*THIS IS AN ONLINE CLASS*
This class is for players with at least six months to one year’s experience with clawhammer, and for more experienced players who want to improve their mastery of intermediate-level skills. We’ll start with a thorough exploration of drop-thumbing & double-thumbing (drop-thumbing is the clawhammer technique where you use your thumb to play notes on the long strings of the banjo; double thumbing is where the thumb alternates between playing a long string and playing the fifth string).
You’ll develop the ability to drop your thumb to any string at any time, use your picking finger and thumb to play any combination of strings in any order, and to use double-thumbing both for rhythmic accents and for creating runs of melody notes. We’ll also explore a variety of fretting hand topics: fingering strategies and ergonomics, hammer-ons and pull-offs involving all fretted notes, “alternate-string” pull-offs (where you pluck one string and then pull-off another string), and basic strategies for achieving syncopated rhythms.
At each session, students will learn tunes that have been specially arranged to illustrate the skills just taught. Instruction will be via demonstration, ear, and tablature.
Class Schedule
Tuesdays: Sep. 9, 16, 23, 30, Oct. 7
Time: 8:00-9:15pm ET
Location: Online (via Zoom)
Ages: 18+
Please Note:Pre-sales are highly encouraged! Online sales end 2 hours before the class begins. A minimum of 4 students is required for the class to run. If canceled due to low enrollment, you will be notified and receive a full refund.
Trevin Nelson
- Banjo
Trevin Nelson is a multi-instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter whose passion for music brought him deep into the traditions of American folk music and beyond. His music is a tapestry of traditional sounds informed by modernity.
Born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska, Trevin discovered his musical calling early in life. Picking up the banjo in his teens, he quickly became enamored with its rich tones and expressive potential. What began as a hobby soon became a lifelong pursuit, driving him to explore musics never ending depths.
Trevin’s journey led him to the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he honed his craft alongside a vibrant community of talented peers. It was during this time that he not only refined his skills but also fostered enduring friendships and collaborations.
As a founding member and banjoist of The Ruta Beggars, Trevin has earned recognition for his dynamic performances and innovative approach to Bluegrass and Americana music. His artistry extends beyond the stage; Trevin is a dedicated educator, sharing his knowledge and love for music through classes at Club Passim, workshops at festivals, private lessons, and as a Wernick Method Teacher. In addition, Trevin is also a certified Yoga Instructor.
Today, Trevin Nelson continues to captivate audiences with his performances and inspires students with his teaching in Boston. Whether performing solo, collaborating with fellow musicians, or mentoring aspiring artists, Trevin’s dedication to his craft shines through.
