Hilary Hawke is a genre-blending banjoist, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist whose sound is as rooted as it is boundary-pushing.
Originally from upstate New York and now a long time staple of the NYC music scene, Hawke brings warmth, charisma, and grit to every stage she steps onto. Whether fingerpicking with precision or digging into clawhammer grooves, her style radiates a rare combination of technique and heartfelt authenticity.
Hawke’s current live project features a powerhouse trio, rounded out by celebrated guitarist Ross Martin and rising fiddle innovator Camille (Camie) Howes. Since forming in 2023, the group has built its identity around improvisation, original song writing, and a shared reverence for bluegrass and old-time traditions – while never being afraid to stretch the genre’s boundaries.
Hawke brought her bandmates to NYC’s 5th Borough for a jam in Snug Harbor on the northern shore of Staten Island to record their video for ‘NYC Waltz’, the first single from ‘Lift Up This Old World’.
From start to finish, ‘Lift Up This Old World’ is a joyous listen. Highlights include ‘Parts and Labor – 4 Cent’, ‘Liza Jane’ and a cover of the Radiohead classic ‘No Surprises’.
Produced by Hawke, the sound on the record is warm earthy and welcoming. All instruments are blended together perfectly with beautiful vocal harmonies intertwined with the music .
Without doubt, ‘Lift Up This Old World’ is an album that is guaranteed not only to make many end of year “Best of” lists, but should top them.