Jonas Friddle – Award Winning Songwriter & Clawhammer Banjo Player

Fridde-Pisgah 1

Jonas Friddle is a songwriter, educator, and multi-instrumentalist whose music lives at the crossroads of tradition and originality. Raised in the mountains of North Carolina and now based in Chicago, Jonas brings an Appalachian foundation to everything he plays, whether on clawhammer banjo, fiddle, or guitar. His songs honor the old-time sound while carrying it forward with new stories and fresh arrangements.

A John Lennon Songwriting Award winner and leader of the folk orchestra The Majority, Jonas has earned recognition across the folk world for blending community, heritage, and innovation.

We’re proud to see Jonas making music with a Pisgah banjo in hand, carrying Appalachian craft and sound into new spaces while staying true to the roots.

Check out this video of Jonas playing his new Pisgah Laydie!

Follow Jonas Friddle:

see all artists

More Featured Artists

Screenshot 2025-05-06 100743

Joy Adams – Cello Meets Clawhammer

Dr. Joy Adams is a genre-blending cellist, banjoist, and vocalist known for her dynamic role in the all-female acoustic powerhouse, Big Richard. With a background in classical performance and a doctorate from the University of Miami, Joy has shared stages with legends like Bruce Hornsby and Bobby McFerrin and contributed to soundtracks for The Queen’s (read the rest…)

CodyTinninPressPhotoCREDITReneeCornue

Cody Tinnin – Multi-Instrumentalist, Singer-Songwriter, and Producer

Cody Tinnin is a talented multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, and producer based in Durango, Colorado. Best known for his work as the bassist and vocalist of the progressive string trio Stillhouse Junkies, Cody has helped shape the band’s unique sound, blending bluegrass, blues, and swing influences. His deep connection to roots music extends beyond the trio, as (read the rest…)

banjo gate looking out

Emily Johnson‑Erday – Songs, Stories, & Spells

Emily Johnson‑Erday is a banjo player and songwriter deeply rooted in old‑time tradition—growing up “knee to knee” with North Carolina’s musical community. Now based in Brooklyn, she blends her Appalachian roots with a love for storytelling through her work in theater. As an arranger, music director, and multi‑instrumentalist, she’s toured the U.S. (with The Fantasy (read the rest…)