Alison Brown is an acclaimed American banjoist, composer, and producer who has deftly navigated a musical path between the traditions of bluegrass and the innovation of contemporary jazz. Born on August 7, 1962, in Hartford, Connecticut, Brown’s early interest in music was nurtured by her progressive approach to the banjo, influenced by luminaries such as Béla Fleck. Her formal education—a bachelor's degree from Harvard University and an MBA from UCLA—belies the passion for music that ultimately became her career.

With a career spanning over three decades, Alison Brown has stood out as a true innovator in the world of folk and string music. Her discography is a testament to her artistic versatility and musical genius. With notable and critically acclaimed releases like "Fair Weather," which garnered a Grammy Award for Best Country Instrumental Performance, and "The Company You Keep," Brown has cemented her reputation as a premier musician and composer. Her works like "The Song of the Banjo" and "Stolen Moments" encapsulate her ability to blend genres and create a spellbinding auditory experience. Brown's contributions extend beyond her solo work as she co-founded Compass Records, a haven for independent roots musicians, alongside her husband, bassist Garry West. Her impact on the genre is profound, bringing innovation, sophistication, and a global sensibility to the deeply American roots of her instrument.

Genres

Banjo

Instrumental Bluegrass

Progressive Bluegrass

Related Artists

Béla Fleck

Chris Thile

Noam Pikelny

Jerry Douglas

Tony Trischka

Edgar Meyer

Nickel Creek

Punch Brothers

Sierra Hull

Molly Tuttle

David Grisman

Sam Bush

Latest Release

Wall Guitar (Since You Said Goodbye)

Alison Brown•

Steve Martin

Single - Released November 11, 2024