Clawhammer Banjo Technique Lesson - The Cluck

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An essential clawhammer banjo percussive tool, "The Cluck" helps add a rhythmic punch to your playing. I'll break down how to learn and effectively use the cluck in this technique lesson. For more content like this, I encourage you to check out "Clawhammer Corner," a banjo lesson platform featuring dozens of tune tutorials, technique lessons, workshops, exclusive performance videos and personalized one-on-one instruction.

[@bradr9581]

Ok mind blown. I've been playing clawhammer for about a year and I always thought the cluck referred to the innate sound of a particular banjo, when people would say "this banjo gives a nice cluck." Now I'm realizing it's a technique, its the same idea as palm-muting on guitar (usually called chuck). From one Brad to another, you have my gratitude.

[@gittaradau8790]

Thank you Brad. Great tutorial. Thank you for the encouragement also.

[@ThePapawhisky]

Love it! The rhythm and drive the banjo provides in old time is fundamental to achieving the groove. There’s a reason that there is a drum head on a banjo. So glad to see you teaching this. More rhythm!!

[@bradkolodnermusic]

couldn't agree more!

[@joannebaum5459]

Wow Brad..BEST explanation and demonstration I've seen..been watching videos about this for several years with random success on my part..thank you much

[@paulgibby6932]

Brilliant instruction. Thanks

[@AlisonHeyer]

Oh wow, I didn't realize there was a technique to clucking besides playing over that harmonic in the scoop. Sweet, thanks for the video!

[@gerard9098]

Thank you so much Brad for showing us how it's done. Before your lesson i really had no idea ...

[@ton-gle4137]

I've just been learning Sap's Rising from The Swift House...what a beautiful tune! Your explanation of this technique was very clear....more to thank you for!

[@RichardL_D28]

Great video. Thank you!

[@guitzanin]

Great! Thanks!

[@timmcelhannon1883]

Great video, thanks for taking the time to explain the technique. Do you use the cluck as much as possible or just part of the time? Can it be overused?

[@scb41163]

What if you use your middle finger as your primary strike finger?

[@bradkolodnermusic]

Good question. I'm not sure. Perhaps you can let your index finger drop down behind the middle finger or use your ring finger to strike the string?

[@tylerhouston9746]

I just let my ring finger mute it. My index is always extended outward and useless.

[@taylormorris_]

I'm glad you asked as I had the same question.

[@carlcole5232]

⁠p

[@Chance-ry1hq]

What if you use your middle finger to play clawhammer?

[@bradkolodnermusic]

Good question! I'd encourage you to use the ring finger as the initial point of contact. Alternatively, I've heard that some folks will let the index finger sneak in there behind the middle finger just for the cluck.