The Probert Encyclopaedia of Music

BANJO

The banjo is a stringed musical instrument. It is an American development of African origins related to the Kora etc., but with a guitar type neck. Found with 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 or more strings, popular types are the 5 string, Tenor (4 string), Plectrum (long neck 4 string), Banjolele (Ukulele Banjo), Banjolin (Mandolin Banjo).

The banjo evolved among the negro slaves of North America and was originally a six-stringed instrument with a body like a tambourine and a neck like a guitar. The banjo is played by stopping the strings with the fingers of the left hand and twitching or striking them with the fingers of the right. The upper or octave string, however, is never stopped.
Research Banjo