The next step is putting strings on. First attach the tailpiece to the bracket that it goes in. You don't need to tighten this down firmly-just enough to attach the strings and position the bridge so it doesn't fall off. I'll talk more about bridges and tailpieces later. I usually put the 1st and 5th strings on first so they will hold the bridge in place. Finish putting on the other three strings.

You will need to position the bridge at this point in order to tune the banjo up. Where does it go? One way to get it very close to the right location is to use a yardstick or other long ruler. The bridge should be the same distance from the 12th fret as this fret is from the front of the nut. When it is close you need to find the exact spot by ear (some people use an electronic tuner for this).

You need to be able to play a harmonic note at the 12th fret. This is done by lightly putting a finger on a string exactly over the 12th fret. Do not press down on the string with your left hand, just rest the tip of your finger lightly on the string. Pluck the string with your right hand. Take your finger off the string immediately after plucking the string. You should hear a high ringing note that is often referred to as a “chime”.

When the bridge is in the right spot this harmonic note will be the same as the note you get by fretting the 12th fret normally. If the fretted note is flat or lower than the harmonic move the bridge toward the neck a little and try again. If the fretted note is sharp or higher than the harmonic move the bridge toward the tailpiece. When the notes match the bridge is in the right spot.

It's important to note that it's not possible to get every string to match if you are using a standard flat or uncompensated bridge. This is due to the difference in string gauges. I try to get the 1st and 4th strings to match since they are tuned in octaves. When these are correct usually the 2nd and 3rd strings will be slightly off. The 3rd string will be farther off than the 2nd . Compensated bridges have a inset cut into the top of the bridge for the 3rd string that makes it a little longer than the others and usually helps with this problem. Some people angle the bridge with the side under the 5th string a little closer to the tailpiece. There is no perfect solution to this problem so just put the resonator back on and go to the next step.