Born and raised in West Virginia, Isaac McCarthy brings a modern interpretation to traditional music. Rooted in a firm understanding of Appalachian tradition, Isaac seeks to chart new musical territory while remaining firmly rooted in the sounds of the past. A multi-instrumentalist specializing in three finger banjo, he can be found playing guitar, trumpet, and more on stage with groups such as The Bear Essentials Trio, The Sweaty Hands String Band. An award winning speaker and writer, his efforts have been supported by Bluegrass Pride, the International Bluegrass Music Association, and by the WVU Launchlab. A graduate of WVU and 2025 Order of Augusta Recipient, he is currently pursuing graduate education in Musicology at The Ohio State University, his work focuses on Queer Appalachian Experience, contemporary banjo performance, and neo-traditional music. When not playing banjo, Isaac is normally found hiking in the woods, sipping a maple latte, or square dancing. His debut recording, Everywhere You Were is available now.