Keith Frankel

Keith began playing music at an early age, studying piano and baritone horn, but it wasn't until he was a teenager that he found his true voice with the 5-string banjo. With a strong foundation in "Scruggs-style" bluegrass banjo, Keith has developed a unique melodic style that incorporates elements of classical, jazz, Celtic, and world music. As a beginning banjo student Keith was fortunate enough to study with one of his musical heroes, Tony Trischka. Currently he looks to legendary master Pete Wernick as mentor for banjo and performing instruction.

Keith's performance career has been extremely diverse, with work as a soloist, as part of bluegrass and jam bands, as well as with symphony orchestras. Recently Keith has organized The Swallow Hill House Band, with fellow Swallow Hill faculty members. He is now a band member of Black Dog Crossing Bluegrass.

Keith enjoys teaching students of all ages, at all levels, in all areas of three-finger banjo playing.

Specialties include beginning through advanced bluegrass method, melodic style, and various avant-garde technique. His method is fun and easy, and has beginning students jamming in no time! Students can expect to read tablature as well as play by ear.