About:

Monaghan born banjo player James Finnegan is one of the most promising figures in the Irish tenor banjo & mandolin world. A two-time All-Ireland Champion, James has long established himself as one of the finest practitioners of traditional Irish banjo and mandolin playing, widely recognised around the world for his YouTube presence under the nickname of TheBanjoBuddy.

Reaching 1000s of aspiring players across 34 countries, James has captivated audiences across the globe with his banjo teaching abilities and relaxed teaching style.

In 2020, during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, James published his first book, TheBanjoBuddy Banjo Book – a tutor book consisting of clear instructions and illustrations for anyone to get started on the Irish tenor banjo. This book has travelled the globe, being sold everywhere from the USA, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, French Polynesia, United Arab Emirates, and throughout Europe. One of the most sought-after Irish banjo tutorial books on the market, a 2nd Edition was launched in September 2021.

Following the popularity of his first book, James subsequently authored and published TheBanjoBuddy Tune Book, a compilation of 365 traditional pieces, considered a magnum opus of traditional Irish music literature.