Biography

Avery, originally from Freedom, Pennsylvania, grew up in a musical family where his passion for music flourished early. He began violin lessons at age six, studying under David Gillis of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, and performed with the Pittsburgh Symphonette, appearing multiple times at Heinz Hall. Immersed in bluegrass through his family, he also learned guitar and banjo from his father, Jim. In high school, Avery shifted his focus to French horn and attended Lincoln Park Performing Arts Charter School to study Art Music and theory. Initially planning to pursue classical music in college, Avery’s path changed when he discovered East Tennessee State University’s renowned Bluegrass, Old Time, Country, and Celtic music program. There, he studied with bluegrass legends Wyatt Rice, Adam Steffey, and Hunter Berry, solidifying his place in the bluegrass world.
Avery's professional career has included performances with The Churchmen, Dreamcatcher, and The Tim Shelton Syndicate. He now plays full-time with The Darren Nicholson Band and records as a label artist and studio musician for Sound Biscuit Records. Endorsed by ToneSlabs picks, Avery also serves his community as a firefighter with the Watauga Volunteer Fire Department, where he has been active for seven years.