During the minstrel era of the 1800s, stroke style banjo (clawhammer) emerged as the dominant voice of what is arguably the most important era in the development of American popular music. These minstrel shows provided a setting that encouraged that melding of African and European music styles that would lead to later genres of music such as Ragtime, Dixieland, Jazz, Blues, County, Bluegrass and even Rock.
As we moved into the twentieth century, the five string banjo's popularity began to diminish until it seemed to only appear in a supportive role supplying rhythmic accompaniment to the fiddle or voice in the old-time folk music of the south east. It wasn't until the release of the LP
Melodic Clawhammer Banjo back in the 1970s that the way was paved for subsequent progressive minded banjoists to once again put the banjo front and center (where I believe it belongs).
Quite possibly the most influential artist to appear on this very important album was Ken Perlman. In the 30 years since the release of this record, Ken has worked tirelessly promoting melodic clawhammer banjo technique through his recordings, books, workshops, and live appearances.
Although know primarily as an outstanding arranger of American and Celtic fiddle tunes, Ken also likes to take on more challenging pieces. Here's a clip of a classic ragtime piece Ken recorded on his
Clawhammer Banjo and Fingerstyle Guitar Solos album (which can be purchased on his website):
Beaumont Rag