2000

BROOKS SMITH

Brooks Smith from Dunbar, Kanawha County, has been playing the banjo for more than 60 years. Equally comfortable with clawhammer or traditional finger-style playing, Brooks has won many awards at festivals and music competitions across the state. He is a decorated Army veteran of World War II, and a retired draftsman for Union Carbide. Brooks is well-loved for his generosity with his music, particularly by the many younger musicians with whom he has shared his talents. Photograph by Michael Keller.