Banjo History and Culture

By Patrick David Sawyer At Pisgah Banjos, we believe understanding the history behind the music makes us better players, builders, and listeners. That’s why we’ve curated a small but powerful collection of books that explore the roots of old-time, Americana, bluegrass, and especially banjo music. Here’s a quick look at the must-reads we carry in (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...)

Written by Patrick David Sawyer If you’ve spent time walking around Asheville, you’ve probably noticed Wyatt Grant’s artwork—even if you didn’t know his name. His bold, geometric style shows up on murals, taproom walls, signs, and posters throughout the city. There’s something about it that immediately feels familiar, like a barn quilt you’ve passed on (read the rest...)

From the hands of the oppressed to the voices of protest, the banjo has always been a symbol of resistance against tyranny and hate. Born from the ingenuity and resilience of enslaved Africans, it carries the spirit of defiance. The banjo is not just an instrument—it is a weapon against oppression, a voice for the (read the rest...)

I love seeing Old-Time music featured in films, especially when I know and play alongside those involved. At our local Old-Time Jam in Asheville, NC, Phil Jamison—who consulted on Killers of the Flower Moon—shared stories about teaching Leonardo DiCaprio to square dance and working with Martin Scorsese. He even made a brief appearance as the (read the rest...)

At Pisgah Banjos, we believe in crafting instruments that don’t just take from the earth but give back to it. Wood is the heart of our banjos—the very essence of their tone, beauty, and soul. But as makers, we recognize that every tree used is part of a larger ecosystem, one that has suffered greatly (read the rest...)

Written By: Patrick David Sawyer Disclaimer: This article is based on my personal experiences and observations within the banjo and music industry. While opinions are included, they are informed by the trends and developments I’ve seen firsthand. It’s an exciting time to be a banjo player—especially if you’re drawn to the deep, rhythmic groove of (read the rest...)

Written By: Patrick David Sawyer The Golden Age of Banjo Innovation The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw a revolution in banjo craftsmanship, led by A.C. Fairbanks and David L. Day. Their groundbreaking designs, including the Electric AKA “Whyte Laydie” and Tub-a-phone tone rings, set new standards for tone and playability, influencing generations of (read the rest...)