The Dumbest and Most Brilliant Way to Learn Clawhammer: The Credit Card Trick

This is a fun video about the (in)famous credit trick for illustrating clawhammer banjo mechanics. In this video, I show you why this is both dumb, and totally brilliant!
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[@usmc2msu213]

Finally, a credit card hack Dave Ramsey can get behind. 😂

[@d.l.loonabide9981]

I'm sure enjoying these videos. While using the claw hammer pattern, I usually use my index finger to strike. When I started using a mirror while practicing, I noticed that I had picked up the bad habit of holding my non picking fingers too loosely. They were flopping around. To correct this, I held a small object in my non picking fingers. A rubber eraser worked pretty well for me. Like the credit card trick, a lot of repetition isn't necessary. The closed hand position allows me to get a little more precise than the floppy finger position. I was a little surprised that it made any difference because the thumb and index finger are doing the same thing. I think the weight of the hand is better controlled in the closed hand position.

[@FretlessFury]

Great post! Using a mirror or a video camera can give real insight into what's going on with your mechanics. Floppy fingers can definitely lead to lack of precision and control...but don't over tighten them either! You want soft, but not floppy hands for clawhammer. Thanks for the insightful post! Tom

[@d.l.loonabide9981]

@@FretlessFury Hi, I appreciate your response. When practicing an instrument, some bad habits seem to creep up unnoticed. What are some bad habits that you've observed happening in this way?

[@BrianLeeBauer.MimicMusic]

I’m afraid that this video might be the highlight of my day.

[@FretlessFury]

I can't tell if this is a compliment, or you're that much of a banjo nerd. Either way, I'll take it! Best to you, my friend!!! Tom

[@0713mas]

Very cool! What a beautiful banjo

[@FretlessFury]

Thank you!!! That's an Ome Omega. Ome does beautiful work. Cheers! Tom

[@0713mas]

@@FretlessFury Sounds fantastic too!

[@deanwatt]

Would seem like you would have to learn how to play with the card and then unlearn it when you want to move on. Hardly a straightforward way of learning.

[@FretlessFury]

I've seen it work wonders for students over the years. I've also seen it cause a ton of confusion. I guess it all depends on the individual. Thanks for taking the time to comment, Tom

[@deadmanswife3625]

Learning is great it keeps you flexible and open-minded then you can practice more purposefully without all the dead ends and time-wasting nonsense