The Oregon Music Hall of Famer has been praised by The Blues Foundation, Rolling Stone, Acoustic Guitar, Down Beat, Guitar Player, Vintage Guitar, Living Blues and Oprah’s O Magazine, extolling his talents as a finger-picker, singer, songwriter, arranger and producer. He's toured the country with Buddy Guy, Steve Miller, Robin Trower, and John Fahey, appeared on Late Night with Conan O'Brien, dazzled the crowd at Portland Trail Blazers games, collaborated with the Oregon Symphony, and had his work featured in Game of Thrones.

The Portland-based project The Whylands, led by Kathryn Claire, has a rich and eclectic sound that exists at the intersection of folk, chamber pop, indie, and something entirely their own. It’s a project built around collaboration, exploration and a shared love of the power and inspiration of live performing. Featuring Allen Hunter on bass, Sid Ditson on violin and vocals, and Mark Powers on drums, The Whylands is a creative container in which each artist gets to explore, create and share their incredibly unique talents as musicians. Their chemistry is palpable, and the joy they find in playing together is contagious. 

At the heart of the band is Kathryn Claire: a violinist, guitarist, and vocalist whose stage presence radiates both fire and grace. Her voice cuts with clarity and warmth, while her violin playing brings the emotional nature of each song into focus. Her music draws from a deep well of classical and traditional influences, shaped by years of performance and collaboration around the world. As the band’s creative anchor, Kathryn brings authenticity and emotional depth to every song.