Fretboard extensions

[Jerron Paxton]

I'm in the market for a banjo with at least 24 or 25 frets. I've noticed fretboards extensions are usually only on professional instruments, with a few exceptions, which makes a lot of sense somewhat. I find if I had an instrument that could reach a high E flat I would have all the range necessary to play most of the tunes I've come across in the keys they were written. Well I know it is common for banjoist to change keys to suit their instrument Fred Van Eps is my inspiration and so far it seems he only does this when absolutely necessary. Yes, certain Keys sing better, but the mindset, "We are MUSICIANS! Capo and endless retuning are superfluous" has been very inspirational and liberating. Thinking about getting a Brass Band banjo until something comes along I can't live without. If anybody knows where Princess Starlight's banjo is let me know

[Byron Thomas]

Well its not the exact one that you are looking for but its basically a sister. If you know a competent luthier I'm sure they could convert this B&D https://guitars.com/inventory/je3100-1935-b-d-montana-silver-bell-1... to a 5 string like this https://www.ebay.com/itm/c-1930s-5-String-Open-Back-Banjo-Conversio... or they could build you a neck with the extensions. Who ever did this one did a great job so I'm sure it can be done and might be faster than finding Starlight's banjo. The B&D has 24 frets. Good luck in your findings!

[Byron Thomas]

Don't know if you found your extended range Banjo yet but I was surfing and ran across this one. Happy playing!

Fairbanks / Vega Tubaphone No. 9 Plectum Five String 1925 Maple | H...