Vernon McIntyre

picture Vernon McIntyre, leader of Vernon McIntyre's Appalachian Grass
Vernon McIntyre is an exciting and entertaining MC. He has the unique ability to infuse his shows with the warmth and spontaneity of a small family gathering even when playing for thousands.  It’s old fashioned entertainment at it’s best, fun to watch and fun to be a part of.

Vernon McIntyre’s professional career began in age 15 as the banjo player for Earl Taylor and the Stoney Mountain Boys. Vernon’s dad, stage name Boatwhistle, played bass with the band. When Walt Hensley, the band’s banjo player gave his two-week notice, it opened the door for Vernon to join the band. The rest as they say is history.

picture of Vernon McIntyre when he played banjo for Jimmy Martin
Vernon McIntyre when he played banjo for Jimmy Martin

Over the years, Vernon has been an active performer and recording artist, both as a banjo player and as vocalist/rhythm guitar player. He was a founding member of the Bluegrass Pardners of Wheeling Jamboree fame. His banjo work with the Easterners was outstanding. He has played with the greats of bluegrass such as Jimmy Martin, Earl Taylor, Jim McCall, Scott Stoneman, James Monroe, and Walter Hensley.

picture of Vernon McIntyre playing banjo with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra at Eden Park in Cincinnati, OH
Vernon McIntyre playing banjo with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra at Eden Park in Cincinnati, OH
picture of Vernon McIntyre on banjo and his brother Don McIntyre on bass
Vernon McIntyre on banjo and his brother Don McIntyre on bass
picture of Vernon McIntyre on banjo with Jim McCall on guitar and Charlie Hoskins on bass
Vernon McIntyre on banjo with Jim McCall on guitar and Charlie Hoskins on bass

In the late 1970’s Vernon decided to shift from his banjo player position and to assume the lead singer/emcee position in the band. During his stint as banjo player for the Sunny Mountain Boys, Vernon learned Jimmy Martin’s impeccable guitar style. Today, Vernon’s guitar work drives the Appalachian Grass sound and his entertaining emcee work complements the band’s energetic stage presence.

picture of Vernon McIntyre with his band Appalachian Grass at Rynearson Farm Festival in Westfield, IN
Vernon McIntyre with his band Appalachian Grass at Rynearson Farm Festival in Westfield, IN

picutre of Vernon McIntyre with his band Appalachian Grass at the Gateway Festival in Metamora, IN 2014

picture of Vernon McIntyre performing with his band Appalachian Grass at the Greenhills Commons in 2018.
Vernon McIntyre performing at Greenhills Commons in 2018. Photo by Ron Rack.
picture of Vernon McIntyre's Appalachian Grass at Greenhills Commons 2018. Photo by Ron Rack.
Vernon McIntyre’s Appalachian Grass at Greenhills Commons 2018. Photo by Ron Rack.

When not on the road with the Appalachian Grass, Vernon spends his time at his Famous Old Time Music Company store front. Stop by or call Vernon at 419-568-1220 to see what’s in stock right now.

picture of Vernon McIntyre repairing a banjo at his store Famous Old Time Music Company
Vernon McIntyre repairing a banjo at his store Famous Old Time Music Company