There will be an interesting 5 string banjo convention called The Maryland Banjo Academy on April 7,8,9. It will feature top notch players in a few styles teaching banjo classes, giving workshops, and concerts. It will also feature many good banjo makers selling product. Some of the fine clawhammerists will be Dwight Diller, Cathy Fink, Walt Koken, Reed Martin, Debby McClatchy, Ken Perlman, Art Rosenbaum, Tony Trischka, Bob Carlin. The prices seem very reasonable for this event. For more info contact Nancy Nitchie at 410-643-3612. Clawhammer player Dan Levenson does workshops travelling accross the U.S.A. with a bunch of Deering Goodtime banjos for folks to play. I think they are a fine beginner instrument, with reasonable tone - but when you turn into a banjo playing maniac, you'll probably want to get something better.