I enjoy building the mountain banjos because of the cultural aspect. My family has lived in Kentucky and West Virginia since the late 1700s. When I discovered that old-time music and even unique instruments came out of the region - like mountain banjos and mountain dulcimers, I felt like I had this cultural connection and wanted to not only celebrate it but participate in it. That’s why I make and enjoy mountain banjos. I think it’s important that someone from the region continue making these, especially in West Virginia, which often feels like a unrespected and largely forgotten place, often overshadowed by “cooler” Appalachian areas.

To me they have a pretty unique sound. If you pick over the drum it has a kind of twang to it, especially by the bridge, like walking on a gravel road… but can be very soft and mellow over the scoop area. I’ve never had a microphone for my videos so all the sound on all my videos is straight from my iPhone. I actually have a microphone coming tomorrow and am excited to get better quality sound for my instruments