Site member Tony Thomas wanted to clarify the often stated misconceptions regarding the origins of the banjo and its roots in the Caribbean and African American culture.
He also explains Joel Walker Sweeney's contribution to the increasing popularity of the 5 string banjo.
I have added his essay as a new section on our WHAT IS CLASSIC BANJO? page.
BANJO ORIGINS AND MISCONCEPTIONS
Thank you Tony. I am pleased that you wrote this, and am delighted to have it as a permanent part of the website.