Modern
banjos were first made by African slaves, which were based on an indigenous
instrument of Africa. The banjo came to prominence among Americans of
European descent through its common use in the minstrel shows of the
18th and 19th centuries. These shows featured white people made up in
“black face”, and the banjo was often the instrument of
choice.
Most banjos come in one of two varieties, four-string and five-string.
Four-strings are common to tenor and bass banjos. Five-string varieties
are types with which most people are familiar.
Beginner’s banjos are usually relatively moderate in price, most
of which are under $400. However, a high-quality professional model
can run upwards of $4000. These instruments are often hand made, and
are manufactured to the highest standards.