The banjo is a unique and versatile instrument that has been used in a variety of music genres throughout history. It is loved by many, including children who enjoy listening to it and even playing it themselves. In fact, the banjo has been used in many popular children’s TV shows and movies, adding to its popularity and appeal among young audiences. Here, we have compiled a list of 20 examples of the banjo being used in children’s TV shows, showcasing the instrument’s versatility and its ability to capture the hearts of both young and old.
20 Children’s TV shows that feature the Banjo
- Banjo the Woodpile Cat – This is a 1979 animated TV special created by Don Bluth, which features a cat named Banjo who goes on an adventure to find his way back home.
- The Banjo Possum Show – This is a children’s TV show from the 1980s that featured a banjo-playing possum named Banjo Possum and his friends.
- Blue’s Clues – The banjo is often heard in the music of this popular children’s TV show, which features a blue dog named Blue who helps viewers solve puzzles.
- The Backyardigans – This animated TV show for preschoolers features five animal friends who go on imaginative adventures, and the banjo is often heard in the show’s music.
- Doc McStuffins – The banjo is used in the theme song for this Disney Junior show about a girl who can talk to and heal her toys.
- Sesame Street – The banjo has been used in the music of this beloved children’s show for decades, with characters like Kermit the Frog and Big Bird playing the instrument.
- Hootenanny Hoot – This children’s TV show from the 1960s featured musicians playing various instruments, including the banjo.
- Little Bill – The banjo can be heard in the theme song for this animated TV show for preschoolers.
- Mickey Mouse Clubhouse – The banjo is often used in the music for this Disney Junior show featuring Mickey and his friends.
- The Wiggles – This Australian children’s music group features a banjo player named Anthony Field.
- Fraggle Rock – The banjo can be heard in the music of this beloved children’s show featuring Jim Henson’s Muppets.
- Barney & Friends – The banjo is used in the theme song for this popular children’s show about a friendly purple dinosaur.
- The Hooley Dooleys – This Australian children’s music group often features the banjo in their songs.
- The Fresh Beat Band – The banjo can be heard in the music of this children’s show featuring a musical band.
- Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood – The banjo is used in the theme song for this animated TV show for preschoolers.
- Little Einsteins – The banjo is often used in the music of this children’s show about a group of friends who explore the world.
- Pocoyo – The banjo is used in the music of this animated TV show for preschoolers.
- Dora the Explorer – The banjo can be heard in the music of this popular children’s show about a young girl who goes on adventures.
- VeggieTales – The banjo is often used in the music of this Christian-themed children’s show featuring vegetable characters.
- Sheriff Callie’s Wild West – The banjo is used in the theme song and throughout the music of this Disney Junior show featuring an animated cowgirl.
The banjo may not be the first instrument that comes to mind when you think of children’s music, but its use in many popular TV shows demonstrates its versatility and appeal among young audiences. From Sesame Street to Blue’s Clues, the banjo has been a staple in children’s entertainment for decades, adding a unique and fun sound to the music of these shows. Whether you’re a banjo enthusiast or just appreciate the instrument’s playful and upbeat sound, these 20 examples show just how much of an impact the banjo can have on children’s TV and music.