I keep one of my banjos tuned high. I do so for two reasons; 1) it's a low cost banjo that sounds pretty good - but sounds really good tuned high and 2) I sing a number of banjos songs in A and D and an A tuned banjo makes those really easy - it also capos easily at 3rd fret for C - and B or Bflat are not far out of reach either. This high tuned banjo also keeps me in easy range of standard tunings for jamming with others. AND I usually keep a G tuned banjo handy as well.

It seems that Rick's technique can give him quick access to playing those keys that he finds useful, and still allows him to play with others easily. And it's easier then toting around two banjos along with a guitar and whatever else might be needed.