Top 10 Banjo Songs for Intermediate Players
Learning
Learning new songs is one of the best ways to improve your banjo skills. For intermediate players, diving into Scruggs or Melodic style pieces can help you refine your technique, expand your musical repertoire, and deepen your understanding of bluegrass music. Below are 10 recommended songs for intermediate banjo players, along with a brief description of each and links to their tablature.
1. Cripple Creek
This classic tune is a rite of passage for banjo players. While it’s often taught to beginners, intermediate players can take it to the next level by exploring more advanced Scruggs-style embellishments and variations.
Find the tablatures for Cripple Creek here.
Cripple Creek Beginner tab here and How to Play Cripple Creek lesson here.
2. Foggy Mountain Breakdown
One of Earl Scruggs' masterpieces, this energetic tune is a must-learn for any bluegrass banjo player. Its rapid rolls and driving rhythm challenge your finger coordination and speed.
Find the tablatures for Foggy Mountain Breakdown here and The Foggy Mountain Breakdown Roll Mini Lesson here.
3. Salt Creek
A bluegrass standard that blends Scruggs and Melodic elements. This song is great for improving your ability to move smoothly between single-string and melodic phrases.
Find the tablatures for Salt Creek here.
4. Blackberry Blossom
A Melodic style favorite, this tune helps you develop precision in playing scales and arpeggios across the fretboard. It's also a crowd-pleaser at jam sessions.
Find the tablatures for Blackberry Blossom here.
5. Cumberland Gap
A Scruggs-style gem that incorporates slides, hammer-ons, and pull-offs. It’s an excellent tune for practicing timing and adding subtle dynamics to your playing.
Find the tablatures for Cumberland Gap here.
6. Big Sciota
A popular Melodic-style tune, Big Sciota challenges your left-hand dexterity and showcases the banjo’s lyrical capabilities. It's both fun and rewarding to play.
Find the tablatures for Big Sciota here.
7. Groundspeed
Another Earl Scruggs classic, this tune has a syncopated feel and unique phrasing. It’s ideal for sharpening your timing and right-hand control.
Find the tablatures for Groundspeed here.
8. Red Haired Boy
A lively fiddle tune that works beautifully in Melodic style. This piece is great for practicing scales and connecting different fretboard positions.
Find the tablatures for Red Haired Boy here.
9. Clinch Mountain Backstep
This Ralph Stanley classic introduces you to unique timing with its unusual 5/4 measure. A fantastic challenge for intermediate players wanting to refine their rhythm.
Find the tablatures for Clinch Mountain Backstep here.
10. Bill Cheatham
A bright and cheerful tune that combines elements of Scruggs and Melodic styles. It’s a great exercise for learning fast note transitions and building confidence in your playing.
Find the tablatures for Bill Cheatham here.
Why Learn Scruggs and Melodic Styles?
Each of these songs offers a unique challenge that will enhance your skills as a banjo player. Scruggs-style tunes help you build a solid foundation in bluegrass with their driving rhythms and iconic roll patterns, while Melodic-style pieces push you to play fluid melodies and navigate the fretboard with precision.
For every song on this list, we provide arrangements in both Scruggs and Melodic styles. Plus, with our "Lick Switcher" feature, you can easily swap out licks within the tablature to create your own unique arrangements. Mix and match styles, add your creative touch, and make each tune truly your own!