It’s understandable to feel a connection to a banjo, especially one that belonged to a friend. Playing it can be a lovely way to remember them and their passion for music. When considering the history and originality of a banjo, particularly one as cherished as yours, it’s common to wonder about its parts. For banjo enthusiasts, understanding the components and how they might have been changed over time is part of appreciating the instrument.
One of the most frequently discussed parts of a banjo is the head. If your banjo is from 1989, and we’re now in 2023, it’s highly likely the banjo head has been replaced at some point. The original heads were often Remo brand, but many players, seeking different tones, would swap them out for alternatives like the Five Star head, a popular choice for a different sound profile. Sometimes, a head replacement is simply due to wear and tear, or even just cosmetic preference. Finding a Five Star head on a banjo of that age that originally came with a Remo head is not unusual and doesn’t detract from the banjo’s value or history – it simply reflects common player modifications.
Beyond the head, the tailpiece is another component often changed by banjo players in their quest for the perfect sound. The original tailpiece might have been an engraved Presto style, but many players preferred the clamshell tailpiece for its tonal qualities or aesthetic. Similarly, the bridge, often made by Gibson in certain eras, is another part that might not be original. These three parts – heads, bridges, and tailpieces – are known as the most commonly swapped components as players experiment with different sounds and setups.
It’s safe to assume that your banjo likely left the factory with standard parts for its time. Any changes you observe are most likely modifications made by previous owners, reflecting their personal preferences in sound and playability. This is a normal part of a banjo’s journey through the hands of different players.
If you are interested in restoring your banjo to its original factory specifications, there are options available. You can find unprinted, top-frosted Remo heads from suppliers like Stew-Mac, and possibly logo-less versions from Bob Smakula. For the tailpiece, consider asking your friend’s family if they happen to have any spare banjo parts, as the original Presto tailpiece might still be among his musical accessories. If not, you can monitor online marketplaces like the Banjo Hangout Classifieds or eBay for original Presto tailpieces. Alternatively, for a high-quality replacement, Prucha tailpieces, available from retailers like Greg Boyd for around $200, are an excellent choice. Prucha is believed to have manufactured hardware for Gibson in later periods, making their Presto tailpiece a very close match to a genuine Gibson replacement part.
Prucha Presto Granada Gold banjo tailpiece, a premium replacement part for enhancing banjo tone and aesthetics.
Ultimately, the beauty of a banjo often lies in its history and the personal touches it accumulates over time. Understanding which parts might be original and which might have been replaced is part of that appreciation, allowing you to connect with both the instrument’s past and its potential future.
