Kristin Scott Benson

Renowned as a commanding force on the bluegrass banjo, Kristin Scott Benson navigates both longstanding traditional techniques and forward-leaning styles akin to those of Béla Fleck and Alison Brown. Across every approach she brings an unforced delight, an easygoing precision, and an unrestrained spirit that captures the music’s core thrill.

Born in South Carolina into a household deeply rooted in bluegrass, she grew up with a father and maternal grandfather who both played mandolin. She obtained her first banjo at thirteen, joined a band two years later, and relocated to Nashville, TN, once she finished high school.

During 2001 she joined Laurie Lewis for a European tour. For her own debut recording she gathered a strong ensemble featuring guitarist Jim Hurst together with her husband, mandolinist Wayne Benson. The resulting all-instrumental Straight Paths appeared on Pinecastle Records in June of 2002, pairing understated renditions of traditional numbers with adventurous original pieces that honor the genre’s lineage while venturing beyond familiar boundaries.