CHATHAM, N.Y. -- That "twangy," fast-paced, metallic sound draws so many musicians to the banjo. The sound is so unique that many musicians feel compelled to play it. That sound has a long history.

I have loved the banjo my whole life, and this album of 14 compositions is the result of 45 years of playing seriously, as well as playing around. Those words begin the liner notes — the award-winning ...