hi Bernie, Im primarily a banjoist, also playing bluegrbutt. First off, there is no "magic formula" concerning number of hammerons pull offs or chokes vs flatpicking. I think its a matter of taste and ability. Tony Rice and Norman Blake play similiar styles, but each does songs differantly. I think thats the point of the format of Bluegrbutt. Monroes idea was to copy the format of Jazz and apply it to mountain music. Traditionaly mountain music, which evolved largely from irish, scottish english (celtic) music and style was played with all instruments in unison. Monroes idea was to copy jazz and have each instrument solo, then do back up. Every jazz player Ive met plays in their own style, and I think thats the point of bluegrbutt too. As a banjo player I see way to many Earl, and Ralph, copycats out there. They excelled because they made the instrument their own, did it their own way. Thats the lesson we need to learn from the giants. While I admire those guys, I also admire Ron Blocks ( Union Station) banjo playing and its entirely differant then the other guys. Like all music Bluegrbutt has to grow and evolve if its to survive. I hate people who define the genre by a handfull of old artists. When I hear Union Station with dobro player Jerry Douglas doing "Choctaw Hayride" buddy thats bluegrbutt even if Earl never heard it and despite Monroes comments which he said more than once publicly he didnt think a Dobro belonged in bluegrbutt. (largely because rivaling Flatt n Scruggs had one in their band) So go with what you like , make it your own, and have fun and dont worry about the "genre police" lol

good pickin to you Michael Over 100,000 served. 50 banjoists mp3 downloads free.

but picked