Experience the Legend of Rich & Taylor Craftsmanship
I’m thrilled to offer this exceptional 1995 Rich & Taylor Bluegrass Classic banjo – a true collector’s piece that represents one of the finest periods in modern banjo making. Serial number 951106 marks this instrument as part of the legendary collaboration between Greg Rich and Mark Taylor, two masters who revolutionized bluegrass banjo construction in the 1990s.
The Rich & Taylor Legacy
The short-lived Rich & Taylor banjo company (1993-1999) was a partnership between Greg Rich and Mark Taylor, son of noted reso-guitarist Tut Taylor. Greg Rich had been brought to Gibson in 1987 specifically to salvage their banjo reputation, and the instruments built during his tenure are known as the “Greg Rich era” – among the most prized reissue Gibson banjos ever made.
When Rich partnered with Mark Taylor, who, along with his father, had built exceptional instruments under the Tennessee brand, they created what many consider the finest pre-war Gibson inspired bluegrass banjos since before WWII. These instruments are now highly collectible and represent an opportunity to own professional-grade craftsmanship at a fraction of a comparable Gibson’s cost.
Outstanding Sound & Playability
This banjo delivers exactly what you’d expect from Rich & Taylor: a fantastic rich, LOUD bluegrass sound with incredible variety based on picking positions, picks, and touch. The clarity remains consistent up and down the neck, making it perfect for everything from old-time clawhammer to modern bluegrass. As with all Rich & Taylor instruments, it practically plays itself – a testament to the superb setup and construction.
Condition Details
This banjo has been exceptionally well cared for:
- Virtually no fret wear on the ebony fretboard
- Neck is in excellent condition with smooth, comfortable carve
- Beautiful mahogany construction throughout
- Gorgeous mother-of-pearl block inlays
- Light scratching on the resonator (typical for age)
- Minor mark on the lip of the resonator
- Overall finish and inlays are stunning
Premium Features
- Mahogany neck and resonator construction
- Ebony fretboard with mother-of-pearl block inlays
- Professional-grade tone ring and hardware
- Comfortable neck carve perfect for bluegrass playing
- Quality tuning machines for stable tuning
- Professional setup for optimal playability
What’s Included
This banjo comes with a quality hardshell case, ensuring safe transport and storage for years to come.
Investment Opportunity
This instrument came from a large collection of 200 banjos in Missouri, indicating it wasn’t played all that often. Rich & Taylor banjos have consistently appreciated in value, and with only six years of production (1993-1999), they’re becoming increasingly rare and sought-after.
At $3,249.99, this represents exceptional value for a USA-made professional banjo of this caliber. You’d pay significantly more for a comparable Gibson, and this Rich & Taylor delivers the same legendary sound and playability that made Greg Rich famous.
Why Choose The Banjo Warehouse
As always, I stand behind every instrument I sell. This banjo has been carefully inspected and set up to ensure optimal playability. Whether you’re a serious bluegrass player, collector, or someone looking to step up to a professional instrument, this Rich & Taylor will exceed your expectations.
Don’t miss this opportunity to own a piece of banjo history. Rich & Taylor banjos rarely come available, especially in this excellent condition.
Ready to ship with professional packing. Questions? Call me at 404-218-8580 or email [email protected]
– Geoff Hohwald, The Banjo Warehouse
Contact Banjo Warehouse | Expert Banjo Sales & Lessons
For detailed descriptions or to chat about banjos, call Geoff Hohwald at 404-218-8580 — your go-to expert for vintage and new banjos.
Email us anytime at [email protected].
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Want to visit? Call Geoff to schedule an appointment at our Atlanta, GA, or Yellow Springs, OH locations (serving Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, and beyond). Serious inquiries only, please.
Banjo Lessons & Instruction
Geoff Hohwald, author of the bestselling The Banjo Primer, offers in-person and virtual banjo lessons for all skill levels. Explore his full catalog of instructional banjo books and digital modules.
Call today to book your session and start mastering the 5-string banjo with a top instructor.
About Banjo Warehouse
Banjo Warehouse is a family-owned business backed by over 50 years of musical experience and 40 years of instrument retail and education expertise. We specialize in 5-string flathead banjos, with occasional selections of guitars, mandolins, and other folk instruments.
Founder Geoff Hohwald has been an active member of the bluegrass and acoustic music community since the 1960s. A professional banjo and guitar player, Geoff co-founded Watch and Learn Publishing and has owned multiple music stores in Atlanta. Today, Banjo Warehouse is your trusted source for vintage and new banjos, expert advice, and quality instruments.