Keith Carr is at the heart of Irish traditional music in the Washington D.C. area—deeply rooted in session culture and widely respected for both his depth of repertoire and his expressive playing. A multi-instrumentalist on Irish bouzouki, tenor banjo, and mandolin, he is especially known for imaginative and responsive accompaniment. A longtime member of the duo Lilt, Keith has also collaborated widely with notable musicians across the Washington region. He has been a steady presence in its sessions, leading several each week in Alexandria and Arlington, as well as his long-running session at Daniel O’Connell’s pub. Keith’s playing reflects a broad musical background, including early classical training and years as a guitarist, combined with a deep engagement with traditional Irish idioms. Originally from New York and part of a prominent musical family, Keith brings both lineage and lived experience to his music. Following a distinguished career as a conservation scientist, he now devotes himself fully to performance and teaching. Through his work at music camps, workshops, and private instruction, as well as his leadership in sessions, he continues to help shape and sustain the Irish music community in the greater Washington area.