Foggy Mountain Breakdown Lesson. Rob Bourassa Part 1

For a link that will put lessons in order, visit The Banjo Hangout. http://www.banjohangout.org/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=157339

Earl Scruggs 5 String Banjo, theme from Bonnie and Clyde.

Slow motion lesson.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• Foggy
• Mountain
• Breakdown
• String
• Banjo
• Earl
• Scruggs
• Rob
• Bourassa
• lesson

[Bobxdbl]

Your a great teacher. Thanks for posting these!!

[robbourassaguitarist]

@Bobxdbl Thanks, glad to help.

[smokintele]

When talking about banjo-rolls (as they relate to a tune) ... are the banjo-rolls the foundation under the melody, or does the melody take precedence, and then the rolls fall into place (or, are placed)? Or, do the banjo-rolls & melody work in concert? This might be a "chicken & egg question," but it's a puzzle I have to get straight in my head before I start learning songs.

[robbourassaguitarist]

@smokintele Each song is different. Some have the roll predominate, others, the melody. I would take time to learn how to master simple melodies on command without the rolls first.

[gdsvalentine]

Hi Rob, the thumb coming down to pluck the second string, I find it easier to use my first finger a second time for the double hammer on.. should I persevere with bringing the thumb down or is it a case of what is easiest at this stage?

Great lessons as always, just wish I had more time to practice.

[robbourassaguitarist]

@gdsvalentine Get used to the thumb. It is a much more solid hit and even though it is tougher, it will sound better. If you practice for too long the other way, it will be twice as hard to break, so I would just take my lumps until it smoothes out.

[smokintele]

Thanks, Rob. I've devoted most of my time to learning rolls, but your advice on playing melodies gives me direction. I'm a guitarist, and I have a good ear. I've also been working on "Foggy Mountain" from your video. I don't know how efficient I'll become on banjo, but I'm confident I will play well enough... in time. I previously asked your opinion about banjos, so I'm letting you know that I invested in a Deering Eagle 2. It's a very nice banjo! Thanks again for the help you provide!

[et7waage1]

Very interesting! Thanks for posting!

[joselo1944]

Hi Rob

Continuing with my reviews.

I ask, have you published any book for banjo, and / or DVD-explanatory, I am truly amazed with the clarity and patience of their explanations.

I like to have the tabs for their songs.

Once again very grateful for your free classes.

Best regards my friend, from Buenos Aires,(City of Tango), José Luis.

[joselo1944]

Hi Rob

I have 66, play piano well and some guitar.

30 days ago I bought my first banjo a Fender FB 54 and I'm very excited about it.

I finally found a clear detail and with many repetitions to play Foggy Mountain Breakdown.

Just like when I was studying piano with my teacher next to me, far away and long ago.

For my age and experience I can tell you're a very good teacher.

Again very grateful for what you do, I greet with a big hug from Buenos Aires Argentina, Jose Luis.

-Have you books or DVD?

[HealthyYou2011]

awesome!