Banjos. Their beginnings and development are intertwined with American history from their creation by early slaves to modern times. Whether it is gut strings stretched over a gourd or steel strings over highly ornate wood and brass; whether it is 5 strings or 4, this instrument creates a uniquely American sound. The American Banjo Museum has hundreds, maybe thousands on display and they were wonderful to see. Even better, the curator played for us. He has a custom-made long neck Banjo that he plays folk and blues tunes on.   Fantastic. They had a “Banjo Petting Zoo” so I got to handle one and strum a bit. Makes me want to try it! Maybe one day.