Transform into a confident clawhammer player with my neuroscience-backed method
Imagine playing the banjo effortlessly, creating music that’s true to you, in a way that feels as natural as speaking. All you need to do is learn the right stroke, build a solid rhythm, and get the tools to pick up on chords and melodies with ease—let me give you the insider tricks.
My neuroscience-backed approach is based on how brains naturally learn, making it intuitive and enjoyable to develop a knack for clawhammer. Frustrated with tab memorization and complex tutorials? Complete beginner? This path is for you.
WISH YOU WERE A CLAWHAMMERIST, BUT ...
Don’t know where to start?
Can’t progress past a few songs?
Have no musical experience?
Feel too old to start learning?
You're not alone. I can help!
👋🏼 HEY! I'M DR. JOSH TURKNETT
Nice to meet you! I’m a neuroscientist and banjo enthusiast! With two decades of experience in cognitive optimization and neuroplasticity, I’ve spent years studying how our brains learn best. But I also struggled when I first took up the banjo just like thousands of others.
If you’ve tried learning but hit a wall, or simply don’t even think it’s worth trying… I get it. I used to memorize tabs and tutorials, but I felt like a parrot, repeating notes without understanding. That’s when I revisited the latest language-learning studies and applied those principles to my practice. This quick adjustment to the way I practiced transformed my playing, unlocked my fluency, and allowed me to finally ENJOY my playing.
Since, I’ve developed a simplified, step-by-step online course based on this approach that ANYONE can follow.
Build fingerstyle skills with a clear, proven roadmap
These core principles will set you up for steady progress and satisfying music-making from your very first practice session:
Master the mighty thumb
Build a strong foundation by mastering each stroke component individually—the hammer strike, strum, thumb pluck, and thumb rest—before putting it all together.
Don't memorize tabs
Lead sheets give the basic blueprint for songs’ chords and melody. Use this to practice each part in chunks, progressing only when you can correctly hear the notes.
Scale your syncopation
Experiment with skip strokes and give your playing a whole new sound with the Goldilocks Principle—so you’re always challenged but never overwhelmed. I’ll show you how!
Break through your banjo struggles with a structured path
Here are the tenents that will put you on the fast track to success and fun from your first practice session:
Prioritize the rhythm
Build a strong foundation by mastering each stroke component individually—the hammer strike, strum, thumb pluck, and thumb rest—before putting it all together.
Don't memorize tabs
Lead sheets give the basic blueprint for songs’ chords and melody. Use this to practice each part in chunks, progressing only when you can correctly hear the notes.
Scale your syncopation
Experiment with skip strokes and give your playing a whole new sound with the Goldilocks Principle—so you’re always challenged but never overwhelmed. I’ll show you how!
Build fingerstyle skills with a proven roadmap
These core principles will set you up for steady progress and satisfying music-making from your very first practice session:
Master the mighty thumb
Your thumb drives both melody and fifth-string drone in fingerstyle. Learn the right pick fit, clean note production, and build the simple foundation that sets up every technique to come.
Layer chords and embellishments
Learn the three chords that unlock thousands of songs and add simple embellishments and picking patterns to get the classic rolling banjo sound.
Train your ear from day one
Follow a proven sequence to learn how to pick out melodies and chord changes by ear —so you can break free from tab and make playing feel as natural as talking, just like the pros.
One path to three picking styles
2-finger thumb lead and old-time 3-finger style are ideal for solo playing and playing and singing. They’re also perfect stepping stones for 3-finger Scruggs style, which means you get all the classic fingerstyles with one learning path!
The 3 secrets you need to master the basics and make music your own!
Here are the tenets that will put you on the fast track to success and fun from your first practice session:
Prioritize the rhythm
Build a strong foundation by mastering each stroke component individually—the hammer strike, strum, thumb pluck, and thumb rest—before putting it all together.
Don't memorize tabs
Lead sheets give the basic blueprint for songs’ chords and melody. Use this to practice each part in chunks, progressing only when you can correctly hear the notes.
Scale your syncopation
Experiment with skip strokes and give your playing a whole new sound with the Goldilocks Principle—so you’re always challenged but never overwhelmed. I’ll show you how!
The step-by-step plan that makes banjo click
In this module, you'll learn how to develop a dextrous and dependable thumb, the most pivotal appendage in the world of banjo pickery. We'll begin by reviewing the basic picking motion, then get cranking with some tune exercises to help mold a mighty thumb.
- Breakthrough Banjo: Orientation
- Meet the Banjo
- Learn: The Thumb Strike
- Practice: The Thumb Strike
- Learn: The Thumb Squared (thumb & fifth)
- Practice: The Thumb Squared (thumb & fifth)
- The Brainjo Song Learnin' System
- Review & Next Steps
In this module, you'll learn your first 3 chords in standard G tuning, unlocking the door to playing a surprising number of tunes!
- Welcome
- Learn: First Chords!
- Practice "Long Journey Home"
- Practice "Roll In My Sweet Baby's Arms"
- Practice "Will the Circle Be Unbroken"
- Practice "Worried Man Blues"
- Practice "Old MacDonald"
- Review & Next Steps
In this module we'll start getting the index finger in on the action, greatly expanding the range of potential amazing sounds we can make on the banjo!
- Welcome
- Learn: The Index Pinch
- Practice: The Index Pinch
- Learn: Thumb Lead Banjo
- Practice: Thumb Lead Banjo
- Review & Next Steps
In this module, we'll start add our 3rd and final finger, fretting hand techniques, and then dive into the nitty gritty of the various 3 finger styles of banjo.
- Welcome
- Learn: 3 Finger Banjo - the MIDDLE finger!
- Practice: 3 Finger Banjo - the MIDDLE finger!
- Learn: The BAR Chord
- Practice: The BAR Chord
- Learn: Intro to Fretting Hand Techniques
- Learn: Fretting Hand Technique #1 "The Hammer On"
- Learn: Fretting Hand Technique #2 "The Slide"
- Learn: Fretting Hand Technique #3 "The Pull-Off"
- Practice: Fretting Hand Techniques
- Review & Next Steps
In this module series, you'll learn the essential elements of Scruggs style banjo, and then how to use that knowledge to "Scruggs-ify" any arrangement.
- Welcome
- Learn: Scruggs Style Banjo, Part 1
- Learn: Scruggs Style Banjo, Part 2
- Practice: Scruggs Style Banjo
- Review & Next Steps
In these modules, you'll learn new moveable chord shapes, and we'll review some simple strategies for playing some really effective backup.
- Welcome
- Learn: The "F" and "D" Shape Chords
- Practice: The "F" and "D" Shape Chords
- Learn: Stupid Simple Backup, Part 1
- Practice: Stupid Simple Backup, Part 1
- Learn: Stupid Simple Backup, Part 2
- Practice: Stupid Simple Backup, Part 2
- Review & Next Steps
Learning to play by ear is the single best way to accelerate your development as a player, and something that ANYONE can learn how to do. In this series of lessons, we'll break down the process of playing by ear into a series of steps anyone can master.
- Welcome
- Learn: How to Hear Chord Changes
- Practice: How to Hear Chord Changes
- Learn: Finding the Melody
- Practice: Finding the Melody
- Learn: Build a Complete Arrangement from Scratch
- Review & Next Steps
Tips and tricks videos that cover topics such as banjo setup, music theory, and practice strategies. These videos are meant to be explored at the learners convenience, and do not have to be completed with as much urgency as the rest of the course
A step-by-step sequence for mastering the banjo fretboard.This system enables students to play in any key without needing to retune or use a capo, and helps them find the chords they need without having to rely on chord charts
Workshops that provide a way for students to learn the "step-by-step" basics of building their own arrangements and playing by ear.
Provides a variety of drum tracks at a wide range of BPMs
These tracks are great to utilize alongside any song that is taught in the modules
Free bonus tips and tricks from Josh's paid podcast.
The goal of these videos is to help students maintain a healthy mindset as they learn, and provide them with strategies to practice more effectively.
This course teaches how to use banjo licks musically, not just memorize them. Students learn lead-in, fill-in, backup, connecting, and ending licks over G, C, and D chords in standard G tuning. The lessons show when licks naturally fit, including in melody spaces, improvisation, and backup playing. All material is rooted in classic Scruggs style and the key of G, with simple guidance on using a capo to play in other keys. The focus is on building a usable lick vocabulary that supports real, confident music making.
Backing tracks intended for players of all levels to practice along with, which include visual cues to let jammers know what notes and chords to play.
Are you ready to experience the joy of mastering clawhammer banjo?
Master the basic stroke, learn songs in Standard G, and conquer drop thumb with Modules 1-3: Laying the Foundation! Anytime Training and Beats for Banjo will help you kickstart the journey with support for common practice questions and different BPM tracks to switch it up.
THE BASICS
Nurture your ability to play by ear, blend techniques, and build your unique playing style with the complete step-by-step clawhammer journey! With exclusive access to all 11 Modules, The Vault, Jam Tracks, and Deep Dives, you’ll have fun going from banjo foundations to banjo finesse.
Build unstoppable momentum in Modules 1–7—from the driving power of the thumb to three-finger rolls, movable chords, and arranging songs. With Banjo Basics and the Bright Fretboard Mastery System, you’ll gain the tools to unlock the neck and play with confidence.
THE BASICS
Add hundreds of new songs to your core modules with the 2-Finger and 3-Finger Vaults—a massive library of tutorials to keep you inspired, playing, and growing for years.
Where fluency turns to freedom
Versatile instruction
Whether you’re new to banjo or feeling stuck, our unique methods simplify complex techniques, focusing on rhythmic mastery and ear training, so you’ll feel confident at every stage.
Steady progress
With the Goldilocks method, you’ll always practice at the right level for you—never too easy, never too hard— allowing you to progress quickly and have fun doing it!
Proven structure
Based on key research about how brains learn best, our step-by-step curriculum provides clear, progressive modules—you’ll know exactly what to practice and when.
An instructor who cares
With years of experience as a neuroscientist, banjo player, and teacher, I’m here to help you play fluently and enjoy every moment of it.
Dedicated support team
Once you enroll, you'll get access to our dedicated support staff for every step of your journey to answer any and all of your questions.
Access from any device
No complex tools needed. Access your lessons from any device, anywhere…just grab your banjo and start learning!
Where fluency turns to freedom
Versatile instruction
Whether you’re new to banjo or feeling stuck, our unique methods simplify complex techniques, focusing on rhythmic mastery and ear training, so you’ll feel confident at every stage.
Steady progress
With the Goldilocks method, you’ll always practice at the right level for you—never too easy, never too hard— allowing you to progress quickly and have fun doing it!
Proven structure
Based on key research about how brains learn best, our step-by-step curriculum provides clear, progressive modules—you’ll know exactly what to practice and when.
An instructor who cares
With years of experience as a neuroscientist, banjo player, and teacher, I’m here to help you play fluently and enjoy every moment of it.
Dedicated support team
Once you enroll, you'll get access to our dedicated support staff for every step of your journey to answer any and all of your questions.
Access from any device
No complex tools needed. Access your lessons from any device, anywhere…just grab your banjo and start learning!
Where fluency turns to freedom
Versatile instruction
Whether you’re new to banjo or feeling stuck, our unique methods simplify complex techniques, focusing on rhythmic mastery and ear training from the very start, so you’ll feel confident at every stage.
Steady progress
With the Goldilocks method, you’ll always practice at the right level for you—never too easy, never too hard— allowing you to progress quickly and have fun doing it!
Proven structure
Based on key research about how brains learn best, our step-by-step curriculum provides clear, progressive modules—you’ll know exactly what to practice and when.
An instructor who cares
With years of applying brain science to help thousands realize their banjo-playing dreams, I’m here to help you do the same and enjoy every moment of it.
Dedicated support team
Once you enroll, you'll get access to our dedicated support staff for every step of your journey to answer any and all of your questions.
Access from any device
No complex tools needed. Access your lessons from any device, anywhere…just grab your banjo and start learning!
Equip yourself for a lifetime of jamming
Versatile instruction
Whether you’re new to banjo or feeling stuck, our unique methods simplify complex techniques, focusing on rhythmic mastery and ear training, so you’ll feel confident at every stage.
Steady progress
With the Goldilocks method, you’ll always practice at the right level for you—never too easy, never too hard— allowing you to progress quickly and have fun doing it!
Proven structure
Based on key research about how brains learn best, our step-by-step curriculum provides clear, progressive modules—you’ll know exactly what to practice and when.
An instructor who cares
With years of experience as a neuroscientist, banjo player, and teacher, I’m here to help you play fluently and enjoy every moment of it.
Dedicated support team
Once you enroll, you'll get access to our dedicated support staff for every step of your journey to answer any and all of your questions.
Access from any device
No complex tools needed. Access your lessons from any device, anywhere…just grab your banjo and start learning!
Breakthrough Banjo Clawhammer vs. online memberships and in-person classes
You could be conquering advanced techniques and training your ear for less than half of what our competitors will charge you. Don't worry, we did the math.
Become fluent in clawhammer online—no experience or savvy needed
Learning to do anything completely online can be intimidating... and the truth is, most websites just don't live up to the hype. That's why we built one ourselves from the ground up—after months of student research, of course. The result? Online banjo lessons that aren't just easy to use, but fun to use, too.
💻 Integrated material
From video lessons, to lead sheets, and extra written resources, everything you need is available at your fingertips—no need to worry about shipping or waiting for materials to arrive.
🎶 Easy access to all your content
Your professionally recorded lessons will cater to your needs in a private online environment that is easy to access from any device. Once enrolled, the content is yours to keep for life.
🪕 Direct support & feedback
You can submit questions directly to myself and the support team easily on the online platform. On average, we respond to questions within 20 minutes.
Become fluent in fingerstyle online—no experience or savvy needed
Learning to do anything completely online can be intimidating... and the truth is, most websites just don't live up to the hype. That's why we built one ourselves from the ground up—after months of student research, of course. The result? Online banjo lessons that aren't just easy to use, but fun to use, too.
💻 Integrated material
From video lessons, to lead sheets, and extra written resources, everything you need is available at your fingertips—no need to worry about shipping or waiting for materials to arrive.
🎶 Easy access to all your content
Your professionally recorded lessons will cater to your needs in a private online environment that is easy to access from any device. Once enrolled, the content is yours to keep for life.
🪕 Direct support & feedback
You can submit questions directly to myself and the support team easily on the online platform. On average, we respond to questions within 20 minutes.
Become fluent in clawhammer online—no experience or savvy needed
Learning to do anything completely online can be intimidating... and the truth is, most websites just don't live up to the hype. That's why we built one ourselves from the ground up—after months of student research, of course. The result? Online banjo lessons that aren't just easy to use, but fun to use, too.
💻 Integrated material
From video lessons, to lead sheets, and extra written resources, everything you need is available at your fingertips—no need to worry about shipping or waiting for materials to arrive.
🎶 Easy access to all your content
Your professionally recorded lessons will cater to your needs in a private online environment that is easy to access from any device. Once enrolled, the content is yours to keep for life.
🪕 Direct support & feedback
You can submit questions directly to myself and the support team easily on the online platform. On average, we respond to questions within 20 minutes.
Sign up now to get $100+ off and start your banjo journey today!
Are you ready to experience the joy of mastering clawhammer banjo?
Master the basic stroke, learn songs in Standard G, and conquer drop thumb with Modules 1-3: Laying the Foundation! Anytime Training and Beats for Banjo will help you kickstart the journey with support for common practice questions and different BPM tracks to switch it up.
THE BASICS
Nurture your ability to play by ear, blend techniques, and build your unique playing style with the complete step-by-step clawhammer journey! With exclusive access to all 11 Modules, The Vault, Jam Tracks, and Deep Dives, you’ll have fun going from banjo foundations to banjo finesse.
Build unstoppable momentum in Modules 1–7—from the driving power of the thumb to three-finger rolls, movable chords, and arranging songs. With Banjo Basics and the Bright Fretboard Mastery System, you’ll gain the tools to unlock the neck and play with confidence.
THE BASICS
Add hundreds of new songs to your core modules with the 2-Finger and 3-Finger Vaults—a massive library of tutorials to keep you inspired, playing, and growing for years.
ABOUT MY INSTALLMENT PLAN
I understand that not everyone wants to pay for their lessons all at once. That's why I offer a convenient payment plan that allows you to break the cost into monthly payments.
Note: This installment plan is not a subscription that can be stopped at any time. By selecting the installment plan, you are committing to pay the full amount selected at the time of purchase.
FAQ
HOW DOES THIS CLASS WORK?
Once you’ve enrolled, you’ll have full access to all the clawhammer banjo lessons. Simply log into our online platform to find video tutorials, practice tracks, and song sheets. You can progress at your own speed while learning everything from foundational techniques to advanced arrangements. Get ready to embark on your banjo journey!
WHAT SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS DO I NEED TO PLAY THE LESSONS?
Our platform is designed for simplicity and ease of use. There’s no need to download any complicated software. Just use a device with internet access—be it a tablet, smartphone, laptop, or desktop—and you're all set to dive into your lessons.
DO I NEED HIGH-SPEED INTERNET?
Yes, a high-speed connection will ensure smooth video playback and minimize any potential frustrations. Our support team is always available to assist you with any tech-related issues along the way.
DO I NEED TO KNOW HOW TO READ MUSIC TO LEARN BANJO?
No prior music knowledge is needed to start playing clawhammer banjo. Our lessons walk you through the basics step-by-step, giving you everything you need to build your skills from the ground up. Whether you’re fulfilling a lifelong dream or exploring a new hobby, you’ll find the course approachable and fun.
I HAVE EXPERIENCE PLAYING BANJO—IS THIS CLASS STILL RIGHT FOR ME?
Even if you have some banjo experience, this course can help you break through plateaus and take your playing to the next level. We offer structured guidance that’s perfect for refining your technique, mastering new skills, or deepening your understanding of the clawhammer style. Plus, you’ll have ongoing access to our expert support team throughout your journey.