Help re: banjo head

[Andy Spencer]

Dear all,
My Barnes and Mullins 5 String banjo seems to have a very scratchy sound which is becoming quite annoying. I suspect it could be that the skin is not tight enough on the head??

Any help appreciated.
Many thanks
Andy

[Steve Harrison]

Hi Andy, you could try changing your playing style, many years a go I had the privilege of spending the day with the late William Ball at his home in Bristol and I noted that he played with a floating right hand. As a consequence, all the heads on his banjos were in pristine condition. I tried this myself, tucking my 4th and 5th fingers into the palm of my right hand, as I played.  Having very large hands, I found that this suited me very well and that's how I've played ever since....Steve.

[Andy Spencer]

Hi Steve
Thanks for the tip. Will give it a try!

Kind regards
Andy