Welsh folk musician Ben McManus specialises in Appalachian Old-Time music, that is the traditional mountain music of the Appalachian region in America dating back to the 1700s, through to its development into present day traditions. Having studied and played the music in-depth for over a decade, Ben has also lived in the States, working in one of the Smithsonian Institution’s archives helping to digitize and preserve Old Time music that is stored on analogue materials.

 

Whilst living in Virginia, Ben travelled across the Appalachians, playing with local musicians in rural areas, attending traditional music festivals, and playing in square dance bands with top musicians. Having released 3 full-length albums already, Ben is also a multi-instrumentalist who plays a mix of Fiddle, Banjo, Guitar, Harmonica, and Mandolin, as well as developing his own unique take on guitar playing using the clawhammer technique.