Instructor: Dave Howard

Dave Howard is the founder and Executive Director of the Louisville Folk School, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and promoting Kentucky’s folk music heritage through education and community engagement. Since its founding in 2015, the Louisville Folk School has become a vibrant center for traditional music in the region, connecting people of all ages with Kentucky's rich musical traditions.

With over two decades of experience as a musician and educator, Dave has recorded and performed with acclaimed groups such as The 23 String Band and Bonnie 'Prince' Billy and has appeared on stages across the United States. A graduate of the University of Louisville with a degree in Art History, Dave completed a Kentucky Arts Council apprenticeship on the fiddle, furthering his dedication to traditional Kentucky music.

In 2020, Dave was selected to join the IBMA Leadership Bluegrass class, where he now serves on the planning committee. His work emphasizes fostering community through music, using innovative approaches like his educational performances for tourists, where he shares the history and essence of Bluegrass music. Under his leadership, the Louisville Folk School has grown into an influential cultural organization that not only preserves traditional music but also inspires a new generation of musicians and music lovers alike.