Jed, I wish I could answer your questions but the only style I know is the "Irish" tenor stye which we had a thread on (and other tenor styles) wich mentioned some artists to listen to and I think also noted a couple of books. For what it is worth, "Sully's Irish Banjo" has been quite a popular one and was the one I started with. I also believe that Gerry O'Conner has an excellent publication.

As regards the 5 string, when I was trying with 5 string, I was once lent a book by Bill Keith which I think was entitled something like "Melodic Banjo". Which I would imagine would be a good book for those interested in developing bluegrass styles.

As for the old time, all I can say is hopefully making this post will refresh the thread and maybe someone will com up with some reccomendations.

Jon