A standard banjo usually has 5 strings, but 4- and 6-string banjos are also common. 5-string banjos are the original banjo and are used in most genres, including bluegrass and folk. Tenor and plectrum banjos have 4 strings and are mostly used for folk music and traditional jazz. Banjo Guitars have 6 strings and are designed to suit guitarists.
In this blog, we’ve listed the main differences between each type of banjo and the number of strings each one has.
5-String Banjos
The most common banjo is a 5-string banjo, which is mostly used in bluegrass, folk, and country music. Its standard tuning is G, D, G, B, G (from 5th to 1st string), also called open G tuning. However, there are many other alternative tunings for a 5-string banjo. What makes 5-string banjos particularly unique is their short fifth string, called the drone string, that starts midway up the neck. This high-pitched string is picked continuously while playing to create the banjo’s classic, twangy sound.
4-String Tenor Banjos
Tenor banjos are typically used to play Irish folk music and traditional jazz. These 4-string banjos have a shorter neck than a 5-string, creating a bright, punchy sound that cuts clearly through the other instruments in a band. Originally made with a 19-fret neck, these banjos are also available with 17 frets. Jazz musicians generally use the 19-fret banjos, while Irish/Celtic players prefer 17-fret tenor banjos.
The standard tenor tuning is the same as a viola or mandola (C, G, D, A). Irish tenor tuning is one octave lower (G, D, A, E), which is the same as a violin or mandolin. So, if you have experience playing a mandolin, violin, viola, or cello, then a tenor banjo may be a good instrument to start on, as the string intervals are the same.
Plectrum Banjo
A plectrum banjo has 22 frets, just like a standard five-string banjo, but only has four strings. It is played with a flat pick (or plectrum) instead of a fingerpicking or clawhammer technique. These banjos are most famously used to play Dixieland jazz and traditional American music. Their standard tuning is C, G, B, D, but it also adapts beautifully to a variety of alternative tunings.
6-String Banjos (Banjo Guitar)
Banjo guitars (also called banjitars, ganjos, etc.) have 6 strings and are tuned the same as a guitar. This means they have the same chords as a guitar but with the tone of a traditional banjo. The 6-string banjo is an ideal instrument for guitarists to crossover into banjo playing. In the past, banjo guitars have been mostly used in blues and jazz, but many country and rock musicians are utilising these instruments to add a banjo sound to their songs.
Banjoleles
Ukulele banjos, or banjoleles, have 4 strings and are tuned like a ukulele. Similar to banjo guitars, they use standard ukulele tuning to make it easier for ukulele players to play using the same chords they’re used to.
Which Banjo is Right For You?
The best banjo depends on your playing style and the genre of music you wish to play. The most popular banjo is the 5-string banjo. It’s perfect for beginners to start with and has that classic bluegrass tone. If you already have experience with the guitar and don’t want to relearn chords, 6-string banjos are a great instrument to use. A 4-string tenor is ideal for those wanting to play Irish melodies or traditional jazz.
If you’re unsure about which banjo to choose, get in touch with Zenith Music. We offer a wide range of banjos for all kinds of playing styles. Our banjo selection is sourced for its playing quality and sound delivery, with each banjo having its own special character. If you need any help or advice on our instruments or want to try one out for yourself, visit our store and speak with one of our expert staff. We'll help find the perfect banjo for your needs.