2026 Inductees Announced for American Banjo Museum Hall of Fame

Museum to honor artists across six categories at annual Banjo Fest event

Apr. 6, 2026 at 10:50pm

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A graphic illustration featuring bold black silhouettes of different banjo shapes and styles against a vibrant red and white background, conceptually representing the diverse musical styles and innovations honored by the American Banjo Museum Hall of Fame.The American Banjo Museum's Hall of Fame induction ceremony celebrates the artists who have pushed the boundaries of the instrument and elevated its status in American music.Oklahoma City Today

The American Banjo Museum in Oklahoma City has revealed the 2026 inductees into their prestigious Hall of Fame, recognizing artists across six different categories that represent the full breadth of banjo music in the United States. These honorees will be officially inducted during the museum's annual Banjo Fest celebration in October.

Why it matters

The American Banjo Museum Hall of Fame serves as the premier recognition for the most influential and innovative banjo musicians, composers, and promoters. Induction into the Hall of Fame is considered one of the highest honors in the banjo community, celebrating those who have pushed the boundaries of the instrument and elevated its status in American music.

The details

The 2026 inductees span a range of banjo styles and eras, including five-string performance, four-string jazz, historical bluegrass, early 20th century concert plectrum, and banjo education and promotion. Honorees include Mark Johnson, known for pioneering the 'Clawgrass' style, jazz great Howard Alden, bluegrass legend 'Stringbean' Akeman, virtuoso plectrum banjoist Brent 'Scargold' Hayes, the long-running group Banjomania, and educator Bill Dendle.

  • The American Banjo Museum Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place October 8-10, 2026 during the museum's annual Banjo Fest weekend.
  • The museum has been inducting new members into the Hall of Fame each year since its founding.

The players

American Banjo Museum

A museum located in Oklahoma City that houses over 400 banjos and celebrates the history and evolution of the instrument in American music.

Mark Johnson

An influential five-string banjo player known for pioneering the 'Clawgrass' style, blending elements of bluegrass, folk, and progressive acoustic music.

Howard Alden

A renowned jazz guitarist who began his career playing the four-string tenor banjo, and has recently returned to the instrument later in his career.

David 'Stringbean' Akeman

A bluegrass musician and comedian best known for his role on the TV show 'Hee Haw' and as a longtime member of the Grand Ole Opry.

Brent 'Scargold' Hayes

An early 20th century virtuoso plectrum banjoist who performed classical and popular music in elaborate stage costumes, pioneering new playing techniques.

Banjomania

A long-running banjo performance group that features both four and five-string banjos, blending diverse styles and repertoire.

Bill Dendle

A respected banjo player, musician, and educator who has taught thousands of aspiring jazz musicians at camps and festivals across the country.

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What they’re saying

“Induction into the American Banjo Museum Hall of Fame is one of the highest honors in our community. These artists have all made immense contributions to elevating the banjo and expanding its musical possibilities.”

— Steve Simpson, Founder, Banjomania

What’s next

The 2026 inductees will be officially welcomed into the American Banjo Museum Hall of Fame during the museum's annual Banjo Fest celebration from October 8-10, 2026 in Oklahoma City.

The takeaway

The American Banjo Museum Hall of Fame continues to honor the most influential and innovative banjo artists across a wide range of styles and eras, ensuring the instrument's rich history and bright future are celebrated and preserved.