Few people know that the 5-string banjo that Makem played is acknowledged as "America's only true musical instrument." It is unique, and a piece of Americana like the Midwest diners of yesteryear.

To achieve a classic Appalachian sound, a five-string instrument is the best banjo model. We review three top picks you can get online.

In 1948 when Pete Seeger self-published the mimeographed first edition of his instruction manual, How to Play the 5-Strinz Banjo, the fortunes of the instrument were at a low ebb. Most American of ...