The AXE!

CIMG0036
Originally uploaded by banj.

This banjo was built in Blanchard Oklahoma in 1975 by a luthier by the name of Ty Piper. Ty built many banjos, but it is said that his earlier ones (such as this) were actually the higher quality. Notice the inlay down the fretboard. This instrument has been my primary banjo since 1976. I bought it from Charlie Clark when I was 16 years old and have played it ever since. This banjo has been on stage with Bill Monroe, Chubby Wise, Mac Wiseman, Josh Graves and others. It's got a sound that most musicians can't help but comment on, cause it can't be the picker behind it!!