Dan Levenson

Dan Levenson (born ) is an American old-time musician, storyteller, writer and educator. Specializing in Appalachian music, he sings, dances, and plays the five-string banjo, fiddle, and guitar.

Early life Dan Levenson grew up in Pittsburgh, where his parents met at a square dance. At home, his parents enjoyed listening to a wide variety of musical genres including classical, folk, old-time, and jazz, and they liked to dance to hillbilly-style music. After graduating from the University of Pittsburgh with two master's degrees—one of those was in public administration becoming totally immersed in banjo playing during this period. He learned about the art of storytelling by noticing how folk singer Pete Seeger captivated his audience during a heavy rainstorm at Point State Park in Pittsburgh. Later, after meeting Seeger at the Second Tennessee Banjo Institute and asking the artist about the intricacies of his method and delivery, he replied, "Dan, you just tell your story". An accomplished clog dancer, Levenson has performed with Cleveland blues guitarist Bob Frank as part of his Hotfoot Duo. leading training workshops known as Meet the Banjo or "Clawcamp". He has been called the "Johnny Appleseed of the banjo" by fellow banjoist and writer Ken Perlman in recognition of Levenson's efforts in popularizing banjo playing across the United States and the world. 2010 Ajo, Arizona Fiddle Contest, Grand Champion Barenaked Banjos (2000) Light of the Moon (2001) Front Porch Waltz And Other Requested Favorites (with Rick Thum) (2002) Traveling Home (2006)