#1 Banjoleles, also called Banjo Ukuleles , have been with us since the early 1900’s. These instruments were developed for Ukulele players who simply wanted more volume than a standard Ukulele could provide. These instruments were popular early on with Vaudeville acts of the day and were most closely associated with George Formby a British comedian (1904-1961) who used them his act. #2 The construction is the same as a banjo but with a 4 –string ukulele neck and it is commonly tuned G–C–E–A (Standard Ukulele “C Tuning") or A–D–F♯–B ("D Tuning"). Like the banjo, early models featured Calf Skin heads but present day Banjo Ukuleles have synthetic Mylar heads. They are also fitted with a banjo style bridge and use standard Ukulele strings. #3 Banjoleles are available in both Soprano and Concert sizes and come in both open back and closed back designs. The closed back versions have more volume than their open back siblings. The Eddy Finn models pictured above shows both an open back soprano and a closed back concert Banjolele. If you can play the standard Ukulele, you can play the Banjolele. It all a matter of personal style.
7 Comments
Bill Blanchard
10/28/2016 12:42:39 pm
These look more fun than standard ukes
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Anthony Cooly
10/28/2016 12:48:06 pm
I always thought that banjoleles were for fags until i saw this video about George Formby
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Jeff B
10/28/2016 12:48:20 pm
I've never seen one of these. They look like fun!
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RJ Uke
10/28/2016 01:04:43 pm
I love the sound of a banjolele!
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Joe Dirtay
10/28/2016 01:05:11 pm
I kinda want one of each, but I already bought a Ohana.
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11/28/2016 12:58:28 am
Thanks a lot for all your advice. It has been really helpful in getting me playing. I have started up a beginners class and everyone enjoying the strumming patterns. Wish I had started playing years ago..
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wayne e.cook
3/9/2018 01:27:20 pm
I just got my banjolele and after having a couple lessons my fingers are so sore I can't hardley press down the strings.
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