This class is part of the BMG Federation Summer School and will focus on the improvement of technique and musicianship in classic banjo playing through the study of various pieces and exercises. We will concentrate on tone and clarity, rhythm and timing, phrasing and dynamics, and we will discuss various practice methods. We will explore both solo and ensemble playing and look into how to create your own arrangements for the banjo. Standard music notation will be used, and music will be available beforehand. This course is suitable for both the beginner (with a sound basic knowledge of the instrument) as well as the more advanced student and is open to all players of 5-string banjo regardless of the style normally played, bearing in mind that strings will be played using fingers, not plectrum or finger-picks.