Custom Deering Goodtime Parlor 5-String Banjo with a Skin Tone Head

We are thrilled to offer this custom variation of Deering's iconic Goodtime Parlor, handcrafted right here in the USA. Combining Deering's legendary 3-ply violin-grade maple rim with a custom upgrade, this instrument delivers classic tone and effortless playability in a lightweight, compact package.

Why Choose a Parlor Banjo? (Beginner Adults, Kids & Travelers)

A parlor banjo isn't just a mini banjo—it's a full-featured 5-string instrument designed with ergonomic and portable advantages:

• Shorter Reach for Kids & Beginner Adults: Featuring a 23” scale length and 19 frets (compared to standard 26.25” scale banjos), the fret spacing is noticeably closer together. This reduces arm extension and finger stretch, making chord transitions far more comfortable for younger players and adults with smaller hands or shorter frames.  It also means that there is less tension on the strings and it's easier to press the strings down.

• Built for Travel: At just 35” overall length and a featherlight 4 lbs, the Goodtime Parlor fits easily into overhead luggage compartments, back seats, and backpack gig bags. It allows you to practice anywhere without hauling a heavy case.  Make sure you get a Tenor size gig bag or case

• Standard Tuning Versatility: Unlike miniature banjos that force you to tune up high, the Parlor tunes comfortably to standard Open G (gDGBD) with medium gauge strings, giving you standard 5-string chord positions.

Custom Upgrade: The Skin Tone Head

Standard Goodtime banjos ship with a bright white frosted head, but this custom edition features a factory-installed 11" High Crown Skin Tone head:

• Vintage Calfskin Look: Offers a warm, mottled amber aesthetic that gives the instrument an organic, old-time heirloom appearance right out of the box.

• Warming Tonal Profile: The skin tone material slightly dampens harsh high-end overtones, rounding out the 3-ply maple rim with a warmer, woodier midrange and sweeter sustain.

• All-Weather Reliability: You get the vintage tone and look of real calfskin without any of the tuning instability caused by humidity and weather changes.