In the world of banjo playing, the plectrum banjo stands out as a versatile and expressive instrument. Renowned for its distinctive tone and dynamic range, the plectrum banjo has found a special place in jazz ensembles, adding a layer of rich texture and rhythmic complexity to the music. The plectrum banjo came around in the early 1920’s and was made particularly famous by Eddie Peabody and Perry Bechtel.

One of the defining features of plectrum banjos is their unique tuning. While traditional banjos are often tuned in an open G tuning (DGBD), plectrum banjos take a different approach, offering a specialised CGBD tuning, making it the perfect chord rhythm or chord melody instrument with its beautiful closed harmony voicing and 22 fret scale. This tuning also opens up a world of possibilities for jazz musicians, allowing them to explore a broader range of chords and melodic expressions.

Additionally, some plectrum banjos can be tuned to DGBD, providing versatility for musicians who wish to experiment with different tunings and genres.

Burkes Banjos takes pride in offering a carefully curated selection of plectrum banjos that are finely crafted and designed to meet the demands of jazz enthusiasts and chord aficionados. Whether you’re a seasoned jazz banjo player or a curious beginner, our expertly chosen instruments are sure to inspire and elevate your musical journey.