Learn to play banjo
Online Lessons
Ben Dorning
A word from the creator and leader of Banjo Adventures Discord
I’m Ben Dorning, and I teach Clawhammer banjo—a traditional, rhythmic style that doesn’t require finger picks, just a natural motion that makes playing tunes and singing along feel effortless. When I first picked up a banjo, I struggled to find the right resources, and for a while, I thought it just wasn’t for me. But when I discovered Clawhammer, everything clicked. It’s a style with a realistic learning curve that anyone can achieve with the right approach and some practice.
That’s why I created Banjo Adventures—to give new players the structured, supportive learning experience I wish I had when I started. If you’ve ever wanted to learn the banjo, you’re in the right place. With the right mindset and a bit of effort, you’ll be making music before you know it!
Learn at your own pace and in your own time
With step-by-step video lessons, you’ll start from the absolute basics—how to hold the banjo, strum your first rhythm, and build confidence with each step. At Hobo level (Tier 1), you’ll ease into playing, even if you’ve never touched an instrument before. By the time you reach Hiker (Tier 4), you’ll know a few chords and be playing simple tunes!
No rushing, no confusing music theory—just a clear path forward, a welcoming community, and plenty of encouragement along the way. So if you’re ready to finally start playing, Banjo Adventures is here to help!
Track Your Progress With My Fun Adventure Themed Progression Ladder
My clawhammer banjo progression ladder guides you through your musical journey, from beginner to confident player, with structured paths and awards. Everyone starts as a Banjo Hobo, symbolizing the wandering musician who plays for love, freedom, and connection to traditional music, especially in clawhammer and old-time folk traditions.
Earn badges and promotional roles by sharing your progress with an audio clip of your playing and I will personally listen to and offer constructive feedback from what I hear.
Access An Ever Growing Library of Banjo Tabs
Play-Along Banjo Song Tutorials and Playthroughs
What's better than the exciting experience of learning to play a new tune on your instrument? In Banjo Adventures Discord, I have an ever-growing collection of engaging banjo song playthroughs, complete with the corresponding tablature to support and enhance your learning journey.
Learn how to read banjo tablature with my beginners guide to understanding clawhammer banjo tabs
The first tune we will learn in Banjo Adventures GOLD will be “Skip To My Lou”
At Banjo Adventures, learning is a shared experience. Our active chat community is the heart of the journey—where banjo enthusiasts come together to exchange ideas, celebrate eureka moments, and cheer on each other’s successes. The beauty of learning with others is that you never have to face the challenges alone.
Many banjo learners struggle with staying motivated or measuring their own progress. That’s where our community shines. By joining in, you’re not just learning to play the banjo; you’re becoming part of a supportive group that keeps you inspired and engaged every step of the way.
Don’t learn alone—share your journey, connect with new people, make friends, and immerse yourself in stories from fellow players. Together, we create an environment where everyone grows, learns, and enjoys the process of mastering the banjo. Come join us, and experience the power of learning in a community.
