About ABF
The American Banjo Fraternity (ABF) is a non-profit organization devoted to the interests
of the 5-String "classic" banjo. This banjo is strung with nylon or gut strings and played
with the bare fingers - fingerstyle. The Fraternity was founded in the 1940's and today has
over 300 members worldwide. The organization's purposes, then and now, remain the same.
They are as follows:
1. To perpetuate the Classic 5-String Banjo, its music, and performing technique as they were
used on the concert stage , principally between the years of 1885 and 1915.
2. To promote fellowship among persons interested in the Classic Banjo.
3. To keep alive the memory of the players of the Classic Banjo and the composers of the
music written in its style. (Van Eps, Ossman, Morley, Bradbury)
4. To encourage the search for, and exchange among members of, music, historical data, and
other information pertaining to the Classic Banjo.
NOTE: Classic, in reference to the banjo style herein, refers to something that is worthy of
preservation, not to be confused with the playing of classical music on the banjo. The latter
is simply an individual option.
The official publication of the A.B.F. is the 5-STRINGER magazine. The publication contains
historical and educational articles, advice on banjo technique, musical selections, rally
reviews and photos, and notes on individual members and happenings. The Fraternity also
publishes a membership directory of current members. Both publications are included with
membership.
The A.B.F. also maintains an extensive library of Classic 5-String Banjo music. The collection
contains solo banjo compositions and accompaniments dating from the late nineteenth century to
the present. Compositions are graded according to degree of difficulty and categorized by title
and composer. To support the purpose of the A.B.F., selections from the music library are made
available to members for nominal postal and copy costs.
The Fraternity hosts two rallies each year (May and October) at various locations. These get
togethers afford members the opportunity to actively promote the purposes of the A.B.F.. Each
rally features special educational programs, a business meeting, a Saturday banquet, and lots of
banjo playing and discussion. In addition, a Round Robin event is held on both Friday and
Saturday evenings. This traditional gathering allows members to play in solo or accompaniment
form for their peers. Participation is optional and those not wishing to solo may join the
group for the en masse playing of select group numbers if desired. The Round Robin
incorporates all levels of playing from beginner to seasoned. The A.B.F. Orchestra also
performs at the rallies utilizing all the different sized 5-String banjos from the tiny
piccolos to the big bass banjos. Free time passes quickly at the rallies with an abundance
of socialization, informal playing, mind picking, banjo talk, and local sight-seeing.
Membership is not required for Rally attendance but is encouraged.
Spring Rally 2008 - May 15-17, 2008 at the:
Genetti Hotel - 200 West 4th Street - Williamsport, PA.
Phone 1-800-321-1388 for Reservations and be sure to indicate ABF.
Membership is open to anyone expressing an interest in, or desire to learn more about,
the Classic 5-String Banjo and agreeing with the purposes of the American Banjo Fraternity
as stated above. Contrary to implication, woman are more than welcome.
Download a membership application. |
