All Banjo FAQs

Written by: Patrick David Sawyer A straightforward, player focused breakdown of what actually separates the eleven Pisgah Banjo models in tone, feel, and construction. When players first look at the Pisgah lineup, the big question is usually: What actually makes each model different? The truth is that while the designs share a unified philosophy, each (read the rest...)

By Patrick David Sawyer, BanjoFAQ.com At Pisgah Banjos, our mission has always been to build instruments that are easy to play, easy to maintain, and designed with the working musician in mind. For years, every Pisgah Banjo has included a two way adjustable truss rod, giving players the ability to fine tune neck relief for (read the rest...)

Introducing the Pisgah Frailing Notch Tension Hoop by Patrick David Sawyer, Pisgah Banjo Company At Pisgah Banjos, we are committed to refining every part of the banjo in ways that make a real difference for players. Sometimes the smallest detail can create the biggest improvement in comfort, tone, and playability. Our new Frailing Notch tension (read the rest...)

by Patrick David Sawyer, Pisgah Banjo Company Installing a pre-mounted skin head is not much different than installing a Mylar (plastic) or conventional banjo head. The main thing to focus on is keeping even tension all the way around and achieving a head deflection of about 1/16″ when properly tightened. The head can be installed (read the rest...)

by Patrick David Sawyer, Pisgah Banjo Company Hey folks, Patrick here from Pisgah Banjo Company and BanjoFAQ.com. I want to share some insight into one of the smallest but most important parts of every Pisgah banjo…. the nut. After years of building and setting up open back banjos, I’ve learned that the nut has a (read the rest...)

By Patrick David Sawyer North Carolina has quietly nurtured one of the richest and most diverse banjo-building traditions in the world. From the fretless mountain banjos of Beech Mountain to the boutique open-back revival of today, the Tar Heel State continues to inspire builders and players alike. Note: This is not a complete list. North (read the rest...)

By Patrick David Sawyer If you’ve ever wanted to build something meaningful with your hands—something that sings, that travels the world, that gets passed down through generations—this might be your moment. Pisgah Banjo Company is growing, and we’re looking for a full-time Lean Manufacturing Production Technician to join our team in Fairview, NC. This isn’t (read the rest...)

By Patrick David Sawyer | Founder and CEO, Pisgah Banjos  Disclaimer: The views expressed here are based on my personal experience as a professional banjo builder and designer. They reflect years of hands-on work, research, and close collaboration with other respected luthiers in the field. At Pisgah Banjos, we draw deeply from the rich history (read the rest...)

Written by: Patrick David SawyerPisgah Banjos At Pisgah Banjos, we’re honored to spotlight artisans and colleagues who we have worked with over the years. It’s been a real privilege getting to know Ryan Navey, a true craftsman, fiddler, banjo player and owner of  Carolina Banjo Company.  I first met Ryan when he started purchasing banjo (read the rest...)