Lowell Schreyer's book, “The Banjo Entertainers - Roots to Ragtime,” is fascinating reading. It is considered the definitive resource on the history of those who made the banjo popular. As the title indicates, the subject matter covers banjo players from slaves and minstrels through to 1900.  

Lowell, a professional writer, does an excellent job weaving factual stories together creating a narrative that is both educational and entertaining.

“The Banjo Entertainers - Roots to Ragtime” was a lifelong commitment by Lowell. As a journalist, he would research and gather every single print article involving banjo players. This required reviewing many newspaper historical files throughout the country. The end result is this landmark work.