Testimonies
Hal Dunlap, Norwood, NC
I had been taking banjo lesson for about two years and was making no progress or at least at the pace I thought I should have been. I was at the point of quitting and I thought about John. He has been a good friend for many years and I knew he would be honest and shoot straight with me if I asked his opinion on my abilities to play the banjo. In January of 2008 I called John and talked to him about my dilemma and inquired about taking lessons from him. He invited me and my banjo over for “humility and honesty” session. After spending about an hour asking questions and getting the blunt truth from him I decided this was where I needed to be. John asked me what my goals were and if I could commit to practicing my banjo at least an hour everyday. At this session, John took his time and set my banjo up free of charge and it has been off to the races for me since. John teaches by “Tab” and offers traditional bluegrass tunes for me to learn. Before starting a new song, he takes the time to show what is new to me about it and emphasizes the timing. His favorite saying seems to be, “You have to go slow to go fast”.
My goal is to be able to sit and jam with a group. I have just finished my second full month and I can’t believe the difference John has made, not only to my picking but to my self confidence as well. If you are already a picker and want to “jump start” your playing or, if you are ready to start as a beginner you will not go wrong with John. He is an outstanding teacher and an excellent communicator.
Caiti Mason, Albemarle, NC
When I graduated from High School last year, I got a banjo as a graduation present. I already knew how to play the guitar but I had always wanted to learn to pick the banjo. My mom and I went to meet with John about taking lessons and from that moment I was thrilled and excited. When I went for my first lesson I was a little nervous but as soon as I sat down, John put me at ease and made feel comfortable. At my second lesson we jumped right in on “Cripple Creek” and as of today, I am working on my 12th song. I look forward to my lessons every week. John makes them fun and he challenges me to be my best and insists on me doing it right. He constantly praises me and is the best at making corrections when I am wrong. He is tactful and when he corrects me it doesn’t hurt my feelings. I highly recommend him as an instructor and I plan to be with him for a long time. If you are thinking about learning to play the banjo and are looking for someone to teach you, you need to contact John.
John's Youngest Student
Because of the “goings on” using the internet, I have elected to keep this young man’s name and address private. He is seven years old, has been with me for almost a year and now knows five songs. He is gifted with an excellent ear and knows exactly when he has made the wrong note or struck a string by mistake. His other interests are playing ball and outdoor activities. He remains one of my favorite students because he likes Ford Vehicles and “pulls” against the Tarheels! His future with the banjo is limitless.
