Ben Townsend

Ben Townsend is a West Virginia based multi-instrumentalist and producer whose music seamlessly blends Appalachian fiddle and banjo traditions with contemporary electronics and international grooves. Deeply influenced by legendary mentors like Lester McCumbers and Melvin Wine, Ben’s artistry transcends genres to create a sound that is both rooted in heritage and boldly innovative. His work bridges the old and the new, crafting immersive soundscapes that honor tradition while pushing musical boundaries.

Over the years, Ben has performed with acclaimed groups such as The Fox Hunt, Old Sledge, the Iron Leg Boys, and the Hackensaw Boys, and now continues his musical journey as a solo artist. His dedication to West Virginia old-time music has taken him across the U.S. and abroad, where he has shared stages with artists as diverse as Ralph Stanley, the Henry Girls of County Donegal, and Taiko drummers from Yamagata Prefecture, Japan. Grounded in teachings from traditionalists like Dave Bing, Gerry Milnes, John Harrod, and John Morris, Ben’s style remains deeply traditional yet refreshingly current.

In addition to performing, Ben is a respected educator with a gift for demystifying complex tunes by breaking them down to their melodic core. He has taught banjo and fiddle at Allegheny Echoes in Marlinton, WV, as well as Common Ground on the Hill in Maryland and the Augusta Heritage Center in Elkins, WV. A lifelong West Virginia resident, Ben’s deep connection to the land and culture informs his teaching and performance alike. Whether on stage, in the classroom, or sharing stories of home and the old timers, Ben brings a unique, engaging presence to everything he does—entertaining, informative, and always rooted in the soul of the mountains.

After a transformative collaboration with Mehdi Nassouli, a master Gnawan guembri player from Taroudant, Morocco, as part of an international musical exchange sponsored by Found Sound Nation, he was profoundly inspired to explore and integrate both traditional and contemporary African musical styles into his creative repertoire. This experience catalyzed his deep dive into blending the ancient with the modern, and led him to begin experimenting with ways to merge traditional forms with the ambient and electronic realms through the use of modular synthesis.

Ben’s forthcoming project, 10 Breakdowns to a Disco Beat, along with a series of collaborations under the moniker Tabernacle, exemplify his innovative approach, bridging disparate genres and forging new sonic landscapes. These works reflect a seamless fusion of organic and electronic elements, revealing a bold, boundary-pushing vision. His ongoing "Playing Card" series, which delves into the repertoires of various West Virginian musical masters, serves as a platform for him to continue sharing and celebrating his deep passion for his musical heritage.  In addition to his studio and performance work, Ben is an active curator of experimental music. He hosts a monthly series called "Third Space" in his home town of North River Mills, West Virginia, where he brings together local ambient and minimalist sound artists to showcase their work in an intimate, community-driven environment.