If it's traditional-style five-string banjo instruction you need, I have a book I wrote back in 1976, called "The Old-Timey Banjo Book." I still have a few hundred around the house, and will sell 'em for $6.00 ppd. each (quantity discount for teachers or stores is available). I had lots of success with it, as did some others in the old-time music scene. If I recall, Elderly Instruments used to even carry it. It's even useful simply as a tune-book, with 25 tunes in various styles: up-picking ("Seeger style"), down-picking (frailing, clawhammer, rapping, etc.), and two-finger styles (thumb-lead or index-lead) are included. I avoided 3-finger styles, but there are good books on those, too.

Email me if you'd like a copy of the book. Though a live teacher is usually the best way to learn, a good book and good ears can get you started either with or in place of said teacher.

Sorry to make this sound like an ad, but I have to clear out these books somehow.

Bob Clayton