I began learning clawhammer last year when I resolved to capture an acoustic banjo sound for a song I wrote. I can't explain why I assumed it would be easier to learn the instrument myself than find a banjo player locally. Of course now I consider myself part of the banjo network and have met many talented musicians in Iowa - forever grateful for my misguided ambition!

Initially, I found the style restrictive for songwriting compared to the piano, but I quickly learned to appreciate its unique possibilities. My flagship song Armadillo was composed on piano, but I always envisioned it with the guitar’s folksy grit. Nothing is more folksy than the banjo, and I have successfully realized that vision many times over in my performances. I have also adapted some timeless classics such as You Are My Sunshine and Shenandoah, honoring their roots while bringing my own flare.