Modern forms. The modern banjo comes in a variety of forms, including four- and five-string versions. A six-string version, tuned and played similarly to a guitar, has gained popularity. In almost all of its forms, banjo playing is characterized by a fast arpeggiated plucking, though many different playing styles exist ...

Do banjos have 5 or 6 strings?

Just like guitars, basses, and other string instruments, banjos come built in different models. One way to classify banjos is: 4 strings, 5 strings, and 6 strings.

Do banjos have 8 strings?

Banjolins today are supposed to have four strings instead of 8 strings (in courses or pairs). However, that distinction is not universal; the banjolin name was patented in 1885 by John Farris for an instrument with 8 strings.