Kristin Scott Benson, the banjo virtuoso from South Carolina, clinched the prestigious title of IBMA Banjo Player Of The Year. She is renowned for her impeccable sense of timing, exquisite tone, and remarkable musical finesse. This marks her sixth triumph at the International Bluegrass Music Association awards ceremony held in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Kristin, who plucks the banjo with exceptional skill, is a pivotal member of the GRAMMY-nominated group Grascals and also forms a dynamic duo, known as Benson, alongside her husband, Wayne. In addition to her recent accolade, she garnered the prestigious Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass in 2018, which celebrates remarkable achievements in the field.
This year, Kristin has not only contributed to new musical endeavors with The Grascals, exemplified by their latest single, “I Go,” but she has also unveiled a distinctive collaborative project titled Pick Your Poison with Wayne under the Benson moniker. This collaborative effort represents their first joint venture as featured artists and highlights their masterful and thoughtful artistry in full display.
“I’m continually amazed that God has allowed me a life full of music because all I ever really wanted to do was play the banjo,” says Kristin. “I love our entire bluegrass community and count it as a privilege to be a part of it. I’m eternally grateful to everyone who helps make this happen because there are many. No one does it alone. My heart is full. Thank you!“
Author: World Music Central News Room
World music news from the editors at World Music Central