Welcome to Nashville Banjo Company — where every banjo is built one at a time, by hand, right here in my Nashville workshop. Whether you’re new to old-time music or have been playing for decades, I’d love to help you find a banjo that feels like home.
built by hand, built for you
I’m Dave Dillard, the builder behind Nashville Banjo Company. I work out of my small shop here in Nashville and build about two dozen custom open-back banjos each year, taking my time to get the tone, feel, and character just right — the kind of banjo that already feels like it’s been part of someone’s story.
There’s something about the song and rhythm of clawhammer-style banjo that pulls our thoughts toward a simpler season. All my banjos are built to lend to that experience, with a warm, mellow tone that still carries a clear voice.
It’s a real privilege to build an instrument you’ll love to play — one that inspires you to share your song, and one your family will treasure for generations to come.
our models
We carefully carve and craft each instrument by hand, one at a time. We offer several rim size models, as well as large variety of options and upgrades to help make your banjo truly one-of-a-kind.
The Broadway 11″
Focused, punchy, lively — a classic 11″ sound perfect for cutting through a jam.
The Cumberland 12″
Warm, round and full old-time tone with a touch of woodiness. — my most popular build.
The Governor 13″
A bold, deep-voiced banjo with a wide, open tone and stage presence to match.
What others Are Saying
“Dave Dillard of the Nashville Banjo Company is building some of the finest sounding old-time 5-string banjos available today. They are meticulously crafted and expertly designed. The tone and playability compare very well to the finest vintage collectible instruments.”
— George Gruhn, Gruhn Guitars, Nashville, TN
“The slim neck feel and easy playability, the warm and clucky sound, the restrained-yet-artful aesthetic, and the beautifully selected tonewoods… an instrument from the Nashville Banjo Company offers an incredibly solid-feeling & toneful instrument that stands toe-to-toe with the biggest names in the business.“
– The Music Emporium, Lexington, MA
Let’s Talk
Whether you’re ready to start a build, want to talk through ideas, or just have a few questions, I’m here and happy to help. We can visit by email, phone, or even in person — whatever’s easiest for you. “I’m always glad to talk banjos — reach out anytime.”
Once every two months, we meet online to learn a new clawhammer tune from scratch, enjoy some great music from special guests, and spend a little time together at the workbench.
It’s relaxed, it’s beginner-friendly, it’s free and you’re always welcome to pull up a chair and join us for the next Nashville Banjo LIVE.
From the Workbench
A little glimpse into what I’ve been building, playing, and enjoying lately.
