Just what the world needs. Another banjo player!

My guess is that it is Mel Bay not Mel Gibson.

Pawpecked, you did not tell us what kind of banjo. There are two basic kinds: 5-string or 4-string (tenor banjo).

The tenor banjo is used primarily in jazz and celtic music.

If it is a 5-string there are two basic styles, old-time and Scruggs-style (most bluegrass banjo).

Go to Homespun tapes and look through their catalog. I heartily recommend getting a video tape instruction. They are not as good as live instruction, but one tape is as cheap as two hours of one-on-one instruction.

Check with your local music store and see if they have any group lessons. These are cheaper but you gain the benefit of meeting other beginners with whom you can play and practice.

Good luck.

Roger in Baltimore