Multi-Award Winning Banjo Player Teaches Via Internet
The power of technology has removed physical distance as a roadblock for fans who wish to learn from their musical heroes. Banjo master Kristin Scott Benson is among the well-known artists who offer music lessons to students worldwide via the online service, Skype.
Before Kristin and her husband, (Wayne Benson, mandolin player for IIIrd Tyme Out), began giving online lessons from their home in the Carolinas, they were admittedly skeptical about the prospect.
“I think that lessons in-person are always ideal, but we’ve been amazed with how successful the Skype lessons can be.”
Online lessons allow real-time access for students in both one-on-one and group settings. For those who learn best with tablature, no problem. Sending tabs is now as easy as sending an email.
Kristin started playing mandolin at the age of 5. There was always a mandolin around the house. Her father was a hobby player and her maternal grandfather played professionally as half of the duo called Whitey and Hogan, (which was part of a larger group called the Briarhoppers).
“I took lessons on mandolin when I was very young for a few years from a wonderful guy named John Culbreath, Kristin says. “Being so small, music was just one of many things I liked.”
At 13, Kristin received her first banjo as a gift and music became something must more serious in her life.
“I had 2 great teachers, Alan Brooker and later Al Osteen,” she says. “I probably had a total of 3 or 4 years of lessons from them and I can't emphasize enough how much they helped me.”
Today, students can receive that same help from the 4-time IBMA Banjo Player of the Year winner with the click of a mouse.
Kristin’s talent is showcased as a member of the Grammy-nominated and much-beloved bluegrass band, The Grascals. Life Finds a Way, the latest album from The Grascals, (Mountain Home Music) is nominated for Best Bluegrass Album. The Grammy Awards will air live on CBS on Sunday, February 10th.
Through cover stories in Bluegrass Now, Bluegrass Unlimited and Banjo Newsletter, her consistent touring and renowned recorded projects, fans are well-reminded of Kristin’s musical gift. She plays a 2007 Sonny Osborne Chief banjo, a Yates RS-75 and a 1933 Gibson TB-3. Kristin endorses GHS Strings and Robin Smith at Heartland Guitar and Banjo.
Kristin is also hosting an advanced banjo workshop at this year’s SPBGMA convention in Nashville. Her portion of the workshop will take place February 1st from 2:00-3:30 PM.
Both Wayne and Kristin are currently accepting new students and may be reached at wayneandkristin@gmail.com.
No comments:
Post a Comment