Am I Too Old to Learn the Banjo?

Times Tickin’ grandad Better think Fast!!

Just kidding, you’ve got plenty of time to learn the banjo, but seriously have you ever thought about picking up the banjo but stopped yourself with the thought, “Maybe I’ve left it too late?” If so, you’re not alone. Many people believe that learning an instrument is something best done in childhood or youth, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, learning the banjo as an adult comes with unique advantages—ones that can make the journey even more rewarding. Whether you’re 40, 60, or even 80, the only thing that really matters is do you want to learn?

If the answer is yes, then let’s talk about why you should absolutely go for it.

The Benefits of Learning an Instrument as an Adult

One of the biggest misconceptions about learning the banjo later in life is that it’s somehow harder or less worthwhile. In reality, the benefits go far beyond just playing a few songs.

1. Stress Relief

Playing the banjo can be an incredibly meditative experience. There’s nothing quite like sitting outside on a warm summer evening, a wood-burning stove crackling in the background, and strumming through simple chords—G, C, and D—letting the music melt away the stress of the day. It’s a way to escape, focus, and truly be in the moment.

2. Personal Satisfaction

Progress on the banjo isn’t about becoming a professional musician—it’s about those little victories that bring a sense of achievement. Unlike high-pressure skills that require years of dedication, the banjo offers plenty of rewarding breakthrough moments along the way. Even just nailing the basic frailing strum or playing your first full song can feel amazing.

Overcoming Self-Doubt and Fear of Failure

1. “I Should Have Started Earlier”

One of the most common thoughts I hear from new learners is, “If only I had started years ago.” But here’s the truth: plenty of beginner players start young, learn a few chords, and then just repeat the same songs without much progress. It’s not about when you start—it’s about how you approach learning.

2. Improvement Happens at Any Age

Progress isn’t a matter of age; it’s a matter of consistent, structured practice. That’s why at Banjo Adventures, I provide not only a clear lesson framework but also one-on-one coaching to help you stay on track, celebrate your wins, and keep moving forward.

3. You Don’t Need to Master the Banjo to Enjoy It

One of the best things about the banjo is how simple it can be. Learn a basic frailing strum, add a few chords, and suddenly you have access to thousands of great songs. And here’s a secret: the simpler the tune, the more people enjoy listening to it!

Practical Advice for Late Starters

When starting out, you don’t need to dive into advanced techniques like syncopation, M-skips, or double-thumbing. Just focus on the fundamentals:

1️⃣ Learn the basic frailing strum

2️⃣ Learn a few chords

3️⃣ Pick a handful of fun, sing-along songs

That’s it. If you can do that, you’ll have enough to entertain family and friends at gatherings. Trust me—your grandkids will think you’re a rockstar when you pull out the banjo at Christmas dinner!

Set Realistic Goals

Don’t compare yourself to players who have been at it for decades. Instead, celebrate small victories: learning a new chord, playing a full song, or simply feeling more confident with your strumming.

Find a Supportive Learning Environment

Surrounding yourself with encouragement can make all the difference. That’s why I built Banjo Adventures—a place where beginners can learn, ask questions, and progress with guidance and support.

Building a Banjo Routine That Works for You

One of the biggest challenges for adult learners is finding time to practice. My advice? Work in short, focused sessions.

I’ve found that 30-minute practice sessions are the sweet spot. Any longer, and your brain starts to coagulate into a gelatinous blomonge and your strumming hand detaches and runs away in protest like Thing from the Adam’s family. Seriously it happens.

Everyone is deferent but the following practice method truly works for me to make super fast progress:

1. Practice for 30 minutes – Focused and intentional.

2. Take a break for an hour – Let your brain absorb the skill.

3. Come back later – You’ll be surprised how much better you play!

you can repeat this process as many times as you want throughout the day. I summarise it in 4 simple steps:

Learn - Practice - Repetition - Rest

If you’re short on time, even 10-15 minutes a day is better than nothing. The key is consistency. And here’s a tip: keep your banjo out where you can see it. If it’s easily accessible, you’re far more likely to pick it up and play.

The Joy of Playing banjo for Yourself and Others

Not every banjo player dreams of performing on stage, and that’s completely fine. Even simple tunes sound fantastic on the banjo—especially when played for loved ones.

🎵 Nursery rhymes for the grandkids? Perfect.

🎵 Classic folk songs around a campfire? Always a hit.

🎵 Translating simple guitar songs to the banjo? I can show you how.

And hey, who wouldn’t want to be that grandparent who pulls out a banjo at family gatherings? Picture yourself like Jim Royle from The Royle Family—except instead of just talking about music, you’re actually playing it!

Final Encouragement: The Best Time to Start Was Yesterday—The Second-Best Time Is Now

Here’s the truth: you will not regret buying a banjo. Even if you just hang it on the wall as a decorative piece, it’ll spark conversations. But the real joy comes when you pick it up and start playing.

If you have the desire to learn, you are exactly the right age to start. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. And if you need help and guidance, for less than £2 per week, I can help you start playing your first tunes.

The only thing you need to do? Put in the work.

So, are you ready to start your banjo journey? Because if you are, I’d love to help.