Best Piano Extender Pedal

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Why purchase a Piano Extender Pedal?

Extension Pedals for Piano are a very important investment for the young pianist. Young students that are serious about learning the piano and are learning to use the sustain pedal may struggle reaching the pedals. If they are not able to comfortably reach the pedals, they are in serious need of a piano extender pedal.

The development of good playing habits is the best advantage you will have with purchasing a piano extender pedal. Of course, the young student will be able to perform more at ease, and even perform better with the piano foot pedal extender in comparison to not having one.

Becoming used to sitting in an uncomfortable position will wreck havoc once the pianist is able to sit comfortable at a piano. Their teacher will have to spend countless hours fixing the student’s sitting position, and the student may end up giving up on the piano due to frustration.

Note: when buying a piano extender pedal, make sure to buy one that includes a foot rest. The young student needs to have a place to place their feet while playing, and buying a simple extender that does not have a rest is pointless and waste of money.

Example of using a Piano Extender Pedal

See this video of a young pianist using a piano extender pedal while performing:

Try to observe the sitting position this young talented pianist is in. She is sitting on the top half of the bench, her arms are at a good position for playing, and her feet are resting comfortable on the piano extension pedal bench.

Read this article to learn more about the proper sitting position on the piano.

With the piano pedal extender, this pianist is able to be relaxed, sway with the musical phrasing, and use body weight while playing.

Being relaxed at the piano is also very important. Having extra tension caused mentally by worrying about reaching the pedal, and physically with pedaling in a near standing position actually makes it more difficult to play.

Example of not using a Piano Extender Pedal

Watch this video of a great young performer playing without a piano extender pedal:

Compare the sitting position of this pianist with the other piano in the above video. Where is this pianist sitting? How close are his arms to the piano? How restricted is he in his movement?

Without a piano extender pedal, a pianists is forced to be in an uncomfortable sitting position that puts extra weight on the heel of the foot, which makes pedaling more difficult. It also forces the pianist to sit very close to the piano, putting the arms is a disadvantaged position and actually makes it harder to play.

The pianist ends up having more trouble playing the piano than a T-rex would.

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Using a piano pedal extension device is very simple as well. It does not require altering the piano in any sort of way. All you have to do is place the device next to the piano pedals, adjust the height to wear to wish, and you are set!

Watch this video to see how set up is done with the piano pedal extender:

Best Piano Extender Pedals

Piano Foot Pedal Extender Prop Children Kids Teacher Assist Wood Stool Griffin

This best piano pedal extender is made by Griffin. Griffin specializes in making musical products such as stands, cases, and racks.
Weighing 14 pounds with a solid base and rubber bottom to ensure no sliding, this device will ensure quality balance and height adjustment while sitting on the piano.
Griffin also ensures a 12 month warranty on this product, so if you can be ascertain that you are buying a quality product.
Click on this video to see an expert review on this Griffin piano extender pedal:

Click here for reviews and pricing on Amazon.com!

Wood Adjustable Piano Pedal Extender Bench in Ebony

CPS Import made this pedal extender pedal. It is also available in different colors, such as walnut and mahogany.

This piano pedal extender fits all pianos. It does not matter if its a grand piano, an upright, a Steinway or an unknown brand, this pedal will work!

The device and gauge are made from steel, so it is strong and durable.

The bottom padding will protect the floor and prevent sliding.

This device weighs about 14 pounds, so an adult will have to set the device on the pedals for the student.

Click here for reviews and pricing on Amazon.com! 

PUNK PA-24 White Piano Auxiliary Pedal Extender for Kids

For those looking for a more appealing design for their extender pedal, this is it!

This piano pedal extender made by Punk is made from ABS material. That’s the same stuff that Lego’s are made from.

Also, with the white glossy finish, this piano pedal extender is suitable for use with a white piano.

Punk also makes their pedals in a variety of colors!

Click here for reviews and pricing on Amazon.com! 

BQLZR Brown Adjustable Piano Pedal Extender Children Kids Teacher Assist Stool with 3 Pedal

Here is a striking, wood design pedal extender.
Like with the other pedals, it works for any piano, and is strong and durable.
This piano pedal extender is fitting for those that are looking for aesthetic quality to their product. Because of this, the pricing for this product is a lot more in comparison to the piano extender pedals above.
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Best Sousaphone

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Best Sousaphones

The Sousaphone is basically a Tuba that can be picked up and carried. It was made famous by  John Philip Sousa, who used it in his bands, and thus named after him.

Sousa actually asked  James Welsh Pepper to build the instrument, because he was unsatisfied with the hélicons that were being used in his band.

Sousaphones are generally made from sheet brass or fiberglass. Fiberglass is cheaper and lighter. The tone, however, is not as warm or deep as brass sousaphones. Fiberglass sousaphones are more suitable for school marching band settings, and brass sousaphones are ideal for more professional settings.

Best Sousaphone Makers

When looking at these best sousaphones, quality comes first. These Sousaphones are made from the best Sousaphone makers: Conn, Jupiter, and Yamaha. These instruments from the best sousaphone brands are ideal for those who are serious about the sousaphone and want to have the best sousaphone.

Let’s dive into some details about these three sousaphone makers.

Conn Selmer

best sousaphones

Conn Selmer began as Henri Selmer & Cie in 1885. Alexandre Selmer and Henri Selmer, the founders of this company, began this company making first clarinet reeds and then clarinets. They were both clarinetist that graduated from the Paris Conservatory of Music.

In 1995, Selmer Industries acquired Steinway Musical Instruments, and Selmer became a subsidiary of Steinway Music Instruments. This is the parent company of the famous Steinway and Sons piano company.

In 2003, the Selmer Company and the United Musical Instruments, which contained King and C.G. Conn instruments, merged and formed Conn-Selmer.

Conn Selmer currently has 19 different sousaphones that are available for sell. The 20KSBW, one of their most popular instruments, is featured on this page.

Conn Selmer contains two different models for sousaphones – Professional and Step Up.

Here is an example of a Professional Model:

best sousaphone

This best sousaphone can cost anywhere between 8000-10000 dollars. These sousaphones are recommended for the more advance performer who wishes to produces the highest quality sounds.

Here is an example of a Step Up Model:

best sousaphones

These best sousaphones are more affordable in comparison to the professional models.

Yamaha

best sousaphone brands

Yamaha makes Sousaphones that are quite affordable and easy to hold for marching purposes.

Yamaha has two makes of sousaphones available. They are as following:

YSH 301

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This Sousaphone generally costs around 4,000 dollars. This instrument is ideal for beginning sousaphone players and high school band players, as it produces a great sound in terms of the pricing.

YSH-411

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This instrument generally costs twice as much as the YSH 301. This instrument is more suited for professional purposes.

Jupiter

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Jupiter currently sells 10 different sousaphones in all, and they are categorized into two different series. They are the 1000 and 1100 series. The 1100 series features sousaphones with full brass bodies, and the 1000 series features sousaphones with fiber glass bodies.

The 1100 series is recommended for more advanced players, as these instruments are more expensive.

Here is an example of a 1100 series sousaphone by Jupiter:

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The 1000 series is recommended for beginning to high school level players. These instruments, being made from fiber glass, are more durable and affordable.

Here is an example of a 1000 series sousaphone by Jupiter:

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Best Student Sousaphones

These best beginning Sousaphones are great for beginning students that are learning the instrument. These instruments are of a good quality, and is very affordable. This is ideal for introducing a young student to the instrument, and not worrying about spending too much money. These best student sousaphones have three piston valves, and are easy for younger students to play on.

Jupiter BBb Fiberglass Sousaphone With Case 596L

This best student sousaphone has a lacquered finish, which is ideal for younger students as it is not as expensive as a silver plated finish and still produces a great sound.

The stainless steel pistons have a very light action so that the beginning sousaphone player can play with agility and firmness.

The body of this instrument is made of fiberglass, which provides excellent protection. You can rest assure that the young sousaphonist will not easily damage this instrument.

This is the best fiberglass sousaphone you will find online!

Here is a video of a student performer on this Jupiter Sousaphone:

Click here for reviews and pricing on Amazon.com! 

Queen Brass Sousaphone 25 Valve Big Tuba Made Of/Full Brass W/Bag Brass Finish Tubas Silver

A very inexpensive sousaphone that has a silver plated finish, which provides a quality sound.
For those looking for a decent sousaphone that costs less than 1000 dollars, this is it!
This sousaphone also comes with a case, so you will get more bang for your buck!
This is a 3 valve sousaphone, which is ideal for beginning students.

Best Professional Sousaphones

Conn 20K Series Brass BBb Sousaphone 20KSBW Satin Silver with Case

 
This 21 pound brass sousaphone by Conn is one of the best professional sousaphones out there!
With .734-inch bore and short action valves, you will play with extreme ease!
This product also comes with a wheeled case for easy carrying.
Watch this video to see a demonstration of this instrument!

Jupiter 590 University Quad Series Brass 4-Valve BBb Sousaphone Silver

This silver plated brass sousaphone is a top brand sousaphone by Jupiter!

It is a bit on the heavy side (31 pounds), but the quality of the tone you will produce will make it worthwhile!

Uses 4 stainless steel pistons.

Case is included with purchase!

Click here for reviews and pricing on Amazon.com! 

Yamaha YSH-411SWC Series Brass BBb Silver Sousaphone 

This Yamaha sousaphone is made from brass and has a Lacquer finish.

The airtight pistons provide quiet and agile response. This is ideal for comfortable playing

A 67C4 brass mouthpiece is included with the purchase. This is a top notch mouthpiece which will provide a great quality sound.

Also included is valve oil (Yac rvo), and a wheeled plastic case.


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Best Cello Case

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5 Best Cello Cases

These best cellos cases features high quality cases that are featured at a relatively low price, as well as good quality cases that are very affordable.

High quality cello cases made of carbon fiber can sometimes cost more than 2000 dollars. However, there are great cello cases made from carbon fiber that are presented here cost less than 1000, and are ideal for those who are looking for a good buy.

The most affordable cello bag case is featured as well. This is ideal for beginning cello students who want a very inexpensive case for travel.

Note: Carbon fiber is the strongest and lightest material for a cello case. These are usually the most expensive cello cases as well. ABS Shell and Fiber glass are the next strongest materials. Nylon is a good and sturdy material for the best soft cello cases.

D Z Strad Central Lock Carbon Fiber Cello Case-4/4 FUll Size

This best cello case made by D Z Strad is superb!

It uses a central lock system, which operates using a single handle that controls five individual locks. You can quickly open and close your cello case, while it stays securely protected.

This is also the most affordable all carbon fiber case you can find on the market (most other cases made with carbon fiber are only partially made with it). Carbon fiber is not only very strong, but light as well. This case weighs less than 8 pounds.

This case has to be carried using either the hand or shoulder strap (which are included). There are no wheels attached. But with a case this light, you pretty much do not need them.

There are two slots for two cello bows to be carried. Contains interior pockets to hold rosin and extra strings.

Click here for reviews and pricing on Amazon.com!

D Z Strad Cello Case with Wheels 4/4 (Strad model)

Another best selling Cello case by D Z Strad. This is a best hard cello case.

This cello case is cheaper than the above and contains wheels as well. This will enable easier carrying as the wheels will carry the weight for you.

Some downsides include not being an all carbon fiber case (made with fiberglass as well), and weighs a bit more.

However, in terms of pricing, it is a much better, more affordable substitute that the above D Z Strad case.

Click here for reviews and pricing on Amazon.com!

Bam France 1001SW Classic Black 4/4 Cello Case with Wheels

This beautiful cello case comes in a variety of colors!
The exterior of this case is made of ABS shell, which is very durable and strong.
Uses 5 latches to lock the case. Comes with shoulder and hand straps.
Very affordable for being a high quality professional cello case.
Comes with internal pockets to store objects.
Weighs around 12 pounds.

String House SG300DG Fiberglass Violin Case Cello-Shaped Grey Full Size 4/4

Looking for a best cheap cello case that is inexpensive? This affordable cello case costs around 100 dollars, which is a very good price for a quality cello case.

Made of fiberglass, the exterior is quite strong. The interior is padded to protect the cello resting inside.

Contains an interior pocket as well for carrying items.

This case weighs a little more than four pounds. It comes with a shoulder strap. It uses wheels as well so that the case can roll.

Click here for pricing and reviews on Amazon.com!

Protec 4/4 STANDARD CELLO BAG

This best cello bag made by Protec is a best seller on Amazon.com!

This is a best soft cello case, which is ideal for lighter travel.

It is also very inexpensive, and should be used for students that which to carry their cellos for rehearsals and performances.

The strong nylon exterior, which is 15 mm thick, can protect your instrument from damage as well as water damage.

Has interior pockets for carrying objects, a cello bow holder on the outside, and shoulder straps for easy carrying.

Click here for reviews and pricing on Amazon.com!


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Best Ukulele case

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Best Ukulele Cases

When you purchase your beautiful instrument, you want to make sure that you can protect it while it is at home or when you are on the go. These best ukulele cases will ensure protection of your music instrument, as well as providing an affordable price for them.

Each section will be divided to the different ukulele sizes – soprano, concert (alto), tenor, and baritone.

Each section will also contain the best ukulele hard cases and the best ukulele soft cases. The hard cases generally cost more.

Best Ukulele Case Makers

Crossrock and Guardian are two of the best ukulele case makers. Let’s take a look at these two best ukulele case brands.

Crossrock

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Crossrock offers Hard cases for ukulele and Gig bags for ukulele.

They have three different makes for soprano, tenor, and concert (alto) ukuleles. This makes for a total of 9 different hard ukulele cases. They also come in a variety of colors. The three makes are as following: ABS Hard Shell zippered (a hard case that closes by zipping the case), ABS Molded (A hard case that closes uses locks and hinges), and fiberglass case. They do not offer hard cases for baritone uke. You can see these hard cases here.

You can watch an expert review on one of these cases here:

There are two models for the gig bags, Deluxe Ukulele gig bags and Standard Ukulele gig bags. These come for all ukuleles – soprano, tenor, concert, and baritone.

Guardian

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Guardian cases provided quality ukulele cases for two different sizes, soprano and Baritone. If you have a soprano or Baritone ukulele, it is highly recommended to purchase a Guardian case.

Guardian features 4 different type of cases – Featherweight, Hardshell, Vintage, and Gig Bag.

Watch this video to see a review of a vintage ukulele case by Guardian:

Best Soprano Ukulele Case

Crossrock CRA800SUBK Soprano ABS Molded Ukulele Case


The best uke case for soprano uke.

These cases come in a variety of colors, such as black, blue, red, and champagne.

The ABS hard-shell exterior will surely protect your soprano uke from unwanted damage. 

The interior contains EPS foam, which is soft and will secure your instrument while it is comfortable resting in the case.

Contains a compartment to carry items in the case as well.

Crossrock makes these cases for soprano, concert, and tenor ukuleles.

Click here for reviews and pricing on Amazon.com!

Kala TCS Tweed Soprano Ukelele Case

 A best hard case for Ukulele Soprano.
Most soprano sized ukuleles will be able to fit into this case.
This case can also protect the instrument from humidity using a hygrometer.
Contains a tag for luggage and a strap for the shoulder.

Gator Journeyman Series GW-JM UKE-SOP Wooden Soprano Ukulele Case

For those looking for a great soprano uke case made from wood, this is it!
The velvety royal blue interior is a beautiful and good protector for your instrument.

Hilo Ukuleles TCU-S Tweed Soprano Uke Case for Ukulele

Those looking for a gnarly vintage design at an affordable price for their soprano uke are in luck!
The tweed outer covering is made from PVC, which is durable and does not tear.
The red interior contains comfortable padding to protect the instrument.

Guardian CG-020-US Hardshell Case, Soprano Ukulele

 Those looking for a good price, all black hard case for their soprano ukulele do not have to look any farther!
This instrument case is very sturdy, with a hard case exterior and a soft and comfortable interior.
This case includes a locking latch and key.

Zimo PU Leather Waterproof Soft Padded Bag Carry Case

This is a best selling soft case for ukulele soprano.

This case is made from PU Leather, which is double sided, and is waterproof as well.

Contains outer pockets to carry other items as well.

Contains shoulder and hand straps to carry the instrument case.

Click here for reviews and pricing on Amazon.com!

Best Concert Ukulele Case

Crossrock CRA800CUBK Concert ABS Molded Ukulele Case

Made by Crossrock, the finest producer of Ukulele cases.

This case is the best alto ukulele case.

This case can also come in different colors.

The exterior is an ABS exterior shell and the interior is made with EPS foam, so you will have the ultimate protection inside and out.

An interior compartment for storage things is also inside.

Weighing only 5 pounds, it is also very easy to carry!

Click here for reviews and pricing on Amazon.com!

Kala Concert Ukulele Polyfoam Case

This is an excellent hard case for the concert ukulele.

The Nylon exterior provides protection for the hard shell casing, and also contains an exterior pocket.

The case closes with the use of a zipper, instead of the standard hinges.

Contains shoulder and hand straps as well.

Click here for reviews and pricing on Amazon.com!

Cordoba Deluxe Concert Ukulele Gig Bag

This is the best Ukulele Gig Bag for concert Uke.
It is a very good soft case for ukulele.
The nylon exterior is very durable and is water proof.
Contains a very comfortable shoulder and hand strap, as well as exterior pockets.

Best Tenor Ukulele Case

Crossrock CRA800TUBK ABS Molded Ukulele Case

This excellent tenor ukulele case is made by Crossrock, which also makes the best soprano and concerto uke cases.

It has a strong exterior, made from ABS exterior shell, and the finest interior made from EPS Foam.

The chrome plated hinges and latches are very durable, and will ensure that you case will not accidentally open. There is also a lock for the hinges as well.

Also, this best uke case comes in a variety of colors, so you can choose your favorite one!

Click here for reviews and pricing on Amazon.com!

Tenor Ukulele Heavy Duty Polyfoam Case with Storage

This case is a hard/soft case hybrid. The Polyfoam case is strong and durable, yet is not as hard as an ABS exterior shell or wooden shell.

Contains both exterior and internal compartments for carrying various items.

Uses a zipper and buttons to securely fasten and close the instrument.

Click here for reviews and pricing on Amazon.com!

Cordoba Deluxe Tenor Ukulele Gig Bag

This is a best soft case for ukulele tenor.

Just like the Cordoba Concert Uke case, it contains nylon exterior which is strong and water resistant.

Contains an exterior pocket for containing objects

Uses a zipper to close the case

Contains both shoulder and hand straps.

Click here for reviews and pricing on Amazon.com!

Best Baritone Ukulele Cases

Guardian CG-020-UB Hardshell Case, Baritone Ukulele

This best hard case for ukulele is made from 5-ply woods for the exterior. This is very protective and will ensure quality protection for your instrument.
The Black Tolex Covering provides extra protection, as well as a nice design for the exterior.
Includes Locking Latch and Key to make sure strangers cannot access your instrument.

Guardian CG-010-UB Featherweight Case, Baritone Ukulele

 An excellent mixture of hard and soft shell casing.
With the foam padding and nylon exterior, your instrument will be protected from external hard as well as water damage.
The instrument case is closed and secured with the use of a zipper
Contains a large exterior pocket for holding items.
Has both a hand and shoulder strap that are padded.

Cordoba Deluxe Baritone Ukulele Gig Bag

This is the best soft case for Baritone Uke. This best gig bag for Ukulele will ensure that your instrument is protected from harm.

It fits most Baritone size ukuleles.

With the nylon exterior, your instrument will be protected from harmful elements such as rain and water.

Contains an exterior pocket, zipper lock, shoulder strap, and hand strap.

Click here for reviews and pricing on Amazon.com!

 

 

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Best Banjo

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Banjo Overview

The Banjo, developed in the 18th century, is a string instrument thought to be invented by Africans in America.

Banjos can contain 4-6 strings, and features a wide range of pitch.

The best banjo brands includes Deering, Fender, and Gibson. They make their instruments using high quality materials, such as hard maple wood for the head and neck, and high quality metal for the tuning pegs and rim. The rim will contain at least 3 layers. The 5th string will have a tuning gear that is connected to the neck, and not the top part of the banjo.

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What is the difference between an open and a closed back banjo?

Simple – Closed back banjos produce more sound. The closed back refers to a resonator that is placed on the banjo, which amplifies the sound that the banjo makes. This is ideal for performance events. An open banjo produces less sound, but can produce more if it is next to a microphone, or plugged into an electric amplifier.

Here is a picture of an open back banjo:

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And here is a picture of a closed back banjo (resonating amplifier attached)

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The resonator on a closed back banjo can be removed as well.

The 4 banjos being featured are the best beginning banjos. High quality banjos can cost well over 2000 dollars, and sometimes cost over 5000!

Take a good look at these banjos, and make sure to click on the Amazon Link to learn about more reviews of the product.

Best Banjo Makers

The best banjo makers are Deering, Fender, and Gibson. Let’s go into some details about these 3 banjo companies.

Deering

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This company was started in 1975 by Greg Deering and Janet Deering in California. This is the largest banjo manufacturing company in the U.S. They make their banjos by hand, which ensures the high quality of their instruments.

The famous Goodtime banjos are made by Deering. They also sell banjo cases, banjo strings, banjo picks, banjo straps, and banjo capos.

In addition, Deering features video reviews of their products, so that you can get an expert opinion on the banjo that you may wish to purchase. You can see these banjos videos here.

Fender

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Fender sells 5 different banjos, from price ranges 350-1350 dollars.

Let’s take a quick look at their most affordable banjo, and their highest quality banjo.

Concert Tone Banjo Pack

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This banjo by Fender is the perfect banjo for beginners. It contains a kit for all that you’ll need for starting the banjo. This includes a 5 string banjo, gig bag, strings, tuner, pick, and instructions for learning and taking care of the instrument.

Premier Concert Tone Banjo 59

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A professional model banjo by Fender that is made with a maple rim and walnut stain finish. By clicking on the image, you will be linked to Fender’s website which offers a video review of the instrument.

Gibson

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There are currently no banjos available directly from Gibson.

Websites such as Amazon.com or banjo buying sites will be places where you can find these quality banjos on the internet.

Gibson banjos are of great quality, with the top models costing up to 10000 dollars! Used banjos can cost 600 dollars or more.

4 Best Banjos Review

Deering Goodtime 2 Classic 5-String Banjo

 
This best beginning banjo features a 3 layer rim made from maple and nickel plated metal, high quality planetary tuners, and spikes for capo on frets seven through 10!
Watch this video to see a demonstration of the instrument:
Any Deering Goodtime Banjo is a best beginning banjo. Click here to see more Deering Goodtime banjos.

Fender Concert Tone 54 Banjo, Brown Sunburst

This is a beautiful best starter banjo that uses rolled steel tone ring to produced a warm and brilliant sound. It also has a mahogany resonator that amplifies and increases the sound.

This item also has a limited lifetime warranty, so it is a perfect buy for the beginning banjo player.

Observe this video to see the Fender banjo in action:

Any Fender Concert Tone is a great buy for the beginning banjo player. Look at these other banjos are part of Fender’s Concert Tone series.

Click here for pricing and reviews on Amazon.com!

5-String Banjo 24 Bracket with Closed Solid Back and Geared 5th Tuner By Jameson Guitars

Jameson Guitars also makes high quality best starter banjos.

This Jameson Banjo is a top seller on Amazon and has over 500 satisfied customer reviews!

This Banjo has a Geared 5th Tuner and mahogany resonator, which are standard are any good banjo.

This banjo is also features at a very low and reasonable price for a high quality instrument. This is the best beginning banjo in terms of pricing.

Watch this YouTube video to watch an expert give a demonstration on this best banjo:

Click here for reviews and pricing on Amazon.com!

Oscar Schmidt OB5 Gloss Mahogany 5-String Banjo

This best banjo by Oscar Schmidt features a remo head, twenty two frets, rosewood fingerboard, nato neck, and an aluminum tone ring.

This banjo also comes with a lifetime warranty!

Click here to see the Oscar Schmidt OB5 banjo being played:

Click here for reviews and pricing on Amazon.com!

Also, do not forget to buy a Banjo Case with your Banjo!

 

 

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