Review of Homespun Video’s “The Banjo Techniques of Jens Kruger: Developing Skills, Creativity, and Musicianship.” By Jake Schepps

Published in Banjo Newsletter , February 2007

As a long time fan of Jens Kruger, I was thrilled to learn he had recorded a new instructional DVD. The material covered Jens’s Homespun lesson is truly outstanding. It ranges from intermediate to quite difficult, yet there are important and inspiring aspects to Jens’ lesson for musicians of all levels. Jens’ relaxed demeanor and skilled ability to describe concepts makes this a tremendously useful lesson. And while the music is brilliant, what I found most meaningful and valuable in the video is a detailed view of Jens’ impressive musicality.

INTERVIEW WITH NOAM PIKELNY
Printed in Banjo Newsletter July, 2004
by Jake Schepps

In today’s post-Nickel Creek world, many of us have met hot-pickin’ wunderkind musicians. The musical inspirations and multitude of new learning tools have created an awe-inspiring next generation of bluegrassers. The exciting time of the mid-eighties with the high-caliber musicianship and wide-ranging influences, bands like Strength in Numbers moved acoustic musicians to advance their ideas, bringing tradition and fusing it with ever-far reaching influences.

Dr. Greg Liszt:
4-Finger Banjoist from Crooked Still & Bruce Springsteen's Seeger Sessions Band
Banjo Newsletter, June 2007

I had the fortunate opportunity to interview my good friend Ivan Rosenberg. Published in Banjo Newsletter, May 2007.

Ivan Rosenberg: Clawhammer and Dobro
By Jake Schepps

Interview with Ben Krakauer of Old School Freight Train
Banjo Newsletter, published June 2006