Beginning in the late 1880s a new fad in banjo playing became “all the rage” In the USA and worldwide. Called “Banjo Orchestras” or Banjo Clubs” these were groups playing popular music made up of various sized banjos. The results were a plucked string version of a brass band. Clear, loud, and exciting, these Banjo Clubs captured the hearts of young popular music enthusiasts.
A tradition of the ABF rally is to continue the fun of the Banjo Orchestra. Anyone attending a rally may participate.
The ABF Banjo Orchestra usually consists of the Piccolo Banjo, Banjeaurine, First and Second Banjos, and Bass or Cello Banjo.