Banjo History and Culture


A.C. Fairbanks, David L. Day, and the Enduring Influence on Modern Banjo Makers

13 Feb 2025
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...)

Why Patents on Tonewoods for Instruments Are Ridiculous—Especially in the Banjo Industry

16 Feb 2025
Written by: Patrick David Sawyer In the world of musical instruments, tonewood selection is an art refined over centuries. Whether it’s the deep warmth of mahogany, the bright clarity of white oak, or the complex overtones of walnut, luthiers have relied on the unique properties of different woods to shape an instrument’s sound. But in (read the rest...)
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