Will teaches two measure banjo roll patterns in the keys of G, C, and D with variations and embellishments. These roll patterns help unlock the mystery of down-the-neck banjo backup. Master these patterns and you'll be able to play along with just about any standard three chord bluegrass song.

The basic two measure right-hand roll pattern featured in this video is: 1-3-1-2-3-1-2-3-1-2-3-1-2-3-1-3. (1 refers to the thumb of the right hand, 2 to the index finger, and 3 to the middle finger.) Across the G chord, this pattern is played beginning on the 3rd string (low G) and then the 1st string (high D). Then there are three forward rolls played across the 5th string (high G), 3rd string (low G), and 1st string (high D). The last two notes are a reset playing the 5th string and then the 1st string. This resets the pattern so you're thumb will be ready to begin the pattern again for the next two measures.

The variation of this two measure pattern begins the same for the first measure but ends with a forward reverse roll in the second measure. That right hand pattern is 1-3-1-2-3-1-2-3-1-2-3-1-3-2-1-3.

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