Carolyn Shapiro is an old-time banjo player and songwriter from Upstate NY whose music feeds the soul like a home-cooked meal. Blending a deep-rooted traditional style with a modern perspective, she pushes the boundaries of the banjo with songs that explore the complexities of being human. On stage, her hypnotic picking and commanding voice are grounded by a warmth and vulnerability that make every show feel intimate.
Though originally on the path to law school, Carolyn’s trajectory changed the moment she picked up a banjo in college. Carolyn found her voice while working at Caffè Lena, honing her craft at their open mic before emerging as a standout in the regional folk scene. Since then, she has released two EPs and was named Folk Artist of the Year for the New York Capital Region in both 2022 and 2026. Her highly anticipated full-length studio album, recorded at Freda Recording in Tennessee, is set for release January 2027.
