The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #163500   Message #3902310
Posted By: Senoufou
28-Jan-18 - 03:53 AM
Thread Name: Banjo - why so many jokes?
Subject: RE: Banjo - why so many jokes?
Oh that wonderful scene from the film 'Deliverance'! (The banjo and guitar duel) I've just watched it again and it always brings tears to my eyes.
(The boy in it closely resembles one of my pupils years ago, who had learning difficulties, and I think of Daniel whenever I watch the clip)
Why is it called Duelling Banjos though, when one of the instruments is a guitar?
Some of the old black-and-white Bluegrass clips on Youtube are also excellent. Banjos/oes are so poignant but jolly at the same time. I think that's what I love about the instrument. It has an air of joyfulness but there are undertones of deprivation and sadness. Magical.