Trouble Keeping Your Banjo In Tune?

Are you having trouble keeping your banjo in tune?  There may be a few minor things that could be the problem. Banjo construction can be a cause for tuning issues. Banjos are different than other stringed instruments in that they don’t have a neck joint like a guitar would, where it is glued or held together somewhat permanently.  The neck of a banjo is not glued to the pot so the neck has a miniscule amount of movement where it meets the pot and can adjust with slight movements.  This small amount of shift in the neck and pot joint can create tuning problems.  Also, your strings are resting on a floating bridge making banjos more susceptible to tuning issues.  The way you hold the neck of your banjo can make tuning issues worse.  If you are too rough on the neck of your instrument or hold it too tightly it can cause your banjo to go out of tune.  Most professional banjo players keep a clip on tuner on their headstock to combat tuning issues while playing. You will see them tune often during performances to make sure they haven’t knocked their instrument out of tune while performing.   One other helpful tip is to tune your banjo after you are seated or in the position you will be playing in, this will help decrease the chance of movements causing your instrument to go out of tune.   So in conclusion take extra care to be gentle on your neck and tune often.  Having an instrument that is out of tune will make your playing less enjoyable for you and those around you. 

Don't forget about Mama!

What would we do without Mom?  She is always there when we need her, and asks little in return.  Next weekend is Mother's Day, the one day of the year that we pencil Mom in our schedule and show her how much we appreciate her.  Sometimes it's Sunday Brunch, sometimes it's flowers, sometimes it's just a phone call so she knows we are thinking about her.  This year let's go a step further.  Let's spend time shopping for a gift that won't wilt. 

Letting mom know that you didn't just stop by the local grocery store on the way to her house and pick up the last remaining hanging basket will show her that she's no ordinary mom.  Put a little thought into what you get her, because she deserves it. 

We have compiled a list of gifts that mom is sure to appreciate.

Does your Mama love music?

Here's a list of items that would be good for a mom who knows how to play or wishes she did.

1. A new instrument. If your mom is extra special why not buy her that new guitar, mandolin, banjo, bass, dobro,autoharp, dulcimer or fiddle she's been wanting?

2. Does mom need a new strap for her string instrument?  A nice new soft leather strap or one with a feminine print or color would be a great gift for mom.

3. A new pick would also bring a smile to mom's face.  A Papa's brand Coral pick would be just the thing to show her how much she means to you.

4. If you just can't decide just go with a Gift Card.  All women love to shop especially when they are spending someone else's money!


If your Mother isn't a musician here is a list of other gifts she will enjoy.

1. A book by a local author.  This could be a true story, a mystery or just something to get lost in sitting on the porch on a sunny evening.

2. A CD to listen to, everyone appreciates a good tune.  Just the thing to play in the car while she is running errands and making sure all of  life's little necessities are taken care of.

3. A handmade basket to fill with little luxuries.  Handmade baskets are high quality and beautiful for mom to fill with whatever she likes.

4. Locally made jewelry would also make mom's day.  What lady wouldn't love a new necklace or a special pair of earrings. 

All of these things and more are available at Capo's Music Store.  We would love to help you make Mom's day extra special. 

Be sure mom's gift is unique and out of the ordinary.  The best way to do this is by shopping local.  Local stores have handmade and specialty items that big box stores don't have.  Show mom that you think she's one of a kind and help support your local economy.