Comment by thereallyniceman on March 25, 2012 at 8:17

For those who haven't seen Classic-Banjo.ning site member Rob Murch playing classic style here is a video that he made some time ago, that we have not seen on our site before. As you will see, Rob is a superb player and really brings out the life and vitality of the solo and the instrument. I just love his style.

I have been speaking to Rob recently and he has sent me an audio recording of his playing another piece. Currently Ning do not allow audio player uploads on the $225 p/a package, but we are working on this and hope to have our own onsite audio player soon...watch this space!

This is a fabulous performance Rob.. I would cut my right arm off to be able play like that....!!!!!!

Ian

Comment by Mike Moss on March 25, 2012 at 9:33

Brilliant solo, amazing playing -- I remember this one from the Tom Barriball recordings from Hal's shop, but this performance is even better.

I usually avoid bass to D like the plague, but to learn this solo I'll make an exception!

Comment by Andy Alexis on July 4, 2012 at 15:41

I couldn't quite catch the name of the piece?

Comment by Mike Moss on July 4, 2012 at 15:44

The piece is "Galop de concert", by A. H. Nassau Kennedy

Comment by Greg Adams on July 4, 2012 at 18:05

That was brilliantly played!!! Thanks for posting it!

Comment by Greg Adams on July 6, 2012 at 12:48

I am really inspired by Rob's performance of "Galop de Concert" as his playing sets an iconic tone for a piece like this. I've been working on it for the last two days and have it at a nice steady pace, though not at the perfect clip that Rob uses so effectively. What I really love about "Galop de Concert" is that every section challenges me to hone another facet of my technique in subtle ways. It's one thing to see a piece of music on the page and entirely another to experience and respond to someone else's performance. Thanks for playing, Rob, and thanks for posting, Ian!

Comment by Mike Moss on July 6, 2012 at 12:52

Yeah, Galop de Concert is brilliant... I got it down about a couple of months ago (after listening to Rob's performance). I can relate to what you say about honing your technique by learning solos... although it is tempting to remain in one's "comfort zone" venturing out to try new challenges really forces you to make progress.

I'm looking forward to listening to your performance. I had previously heard Tom Barriball (Rob's mentor) playing this one but I think I even like Rob's version better. 

Comment by Rob Murch on July 8, 2012 at 20:24

Thanks for good feedback. Galop de Concert is a great solo. I don't know about you but what do you think of when playing a solo in public? I never think of the tune too much (whats coming next, chords run downs etc) it puts me off. I try and keep a clear mind. Easier said than done I suppose... 

 

Comment by Mike Moss on July 8, 2012 at 20:40

Hi Rob, I always try to think a few measures ahead of what I'm actually playing... I let my muscle memory take care of the present and use my mind to plan ahead for the future, that way I can (attempt to) anticipate tricky jumps and shifts.

Comment by Jody Stecher on July 9, 2012 at 0:18

If I'm well practiced I'm in the present moment when playing a banjo solo. No thoughts. As you say Rob, " a clear mind". I'm simply here. (or "there" if you prefer, LOL) . Then feelings arise and are naturally expressed. I use my intellect when I practice and figure out fingerings that will go smoothly and I practice the transitions between positions.  But when I actually play I'm as dumb as a sack of hammers. Don't know my own name.

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