The banjo is a string instrument originating from Africa. The name banjo is commonly considerate to be derived from the Kimbundu term mbanza. The modern banjo comes in a variety of forms, including four- and five-string versions.
A six-string version, tuned and played similar to a guitar, has been gaining popularity. In almost all of its forms, the banjo's playing is described by a fast strumming of right hand, although there are many different playing styles.