Allen Shadd started playing guitar when he was seven years old. He grew up traveling with various bands, eventually turning his attention to contests. Allen is a two-time National Flat Pick Guitar Champion, winning the title in 1997 and again in 2013. He is also a two-time Wayne Henderson guitar competition champion, as well as Merlefest champion, Rockygrass champion and many other state and regional titles are among his awards. Although he has excelled in his contest endeavors, he is equally at home performing workshops and concerts. He has performed or recorded with many artists, including Tom T. Hall, Claire Lynch, Randy Howard, Peter Rowan, Alan O’Bryant, Jack Lawrence, David Grier, Norman Blake, Barry Lee Harwood, T. Michael Coleman and many more. He has been featured as an artist and has also authored articles in numerous music publications.
Jack Lawrence has been called a "flatpicking powerhouse." His recordings and performances combine exciting, high spirited and innovative guitar solos with tasteful phrasing in his own inventive style. Well known as Doc Watson's partner since the early 1980's, Jack's inspired playing and smooth vocals provide listeners with performances that span musical traditions.
T. Michael Coleman played bass with Doc and his son Merle in the 1970’s and ‘80’s, and more recently with Doc and David. He has also played with Seldom Scene and Chesapeake, and in his spare time he’s an award-winning videographer and film maker. “Doc had the ability to make old songs sound new and exciting.” he says. Michael plans to use what he’s learned from Doc to do the same thing with modern audiences.