An Evening of American Bluegrass and Country Music
starring
Jeff Scroggins & Colorado and
The Petersen Family Bluegrass Band
Tuesday 19 May
Ballymaloe Grainstore, Shanagarry, Co. Cork
Travelling from Colorado and Missouri, two of America’s most accomplished bluegrass and country acts roll up to Ballymaloe Grainstore in Shanagarry, County Cork on Tuesday 19 May for a one-off concert titles, An Evening of American Bluegrass and Country Music.
Jeff Scroggins & Colorado is a high energy, high mountain ‘bluegrass explosion’ that features the amazing banjo playing of Jeff Scroggins. Jeff’s fiery style and lightning fast licks have earned him many fans worldwide, and have left many a first time listener in stunned disbelief. The band also features the award-winning mandolin playing of Jeff’s 18-year-old son, Tristan Scroggins. Tristan is also an accomplished songwriter, and his and Jeff’s original instrumentals play a large role in the band’s unique and energetic sound.
The band features incredible bluegrass vocals, led by the powerful voice of front man and guitarist Greg Blake. Greg has twice been nominated for Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America’s (SPBGMA) ‘Traditional Male Vocalist of the Year’ award, and his phenomenal bluegrass guitar playing has earned him nine nominations and an amazing five consecutive wins as SPBGMA’s Guitarist of the Year. The band is completed by Ellie Hakanson on fiddle and vocals and Nate Sabat on bass.
The second half of the bill is The Petersen Family Bluegrass Band from Branson, Missouri. The incredibly gifted 20-something siblings are Ellen on banjo and vocals, Katie on fiddle and vocals, and Matthew on guitar/bass and vocals, playing a variety of bluegrass, country, and gospel favourites. There is a special talent that is only evident when a musically blessed siblings performs together, and the Petersens are no exception.
Earlier this year 22-year-old Ellen, described by Bluegrass Today as ‘a truly gifted vocalist’, made her mark on the major American TV talent show, ‘American Idol’.
The trio will perform traditional bluegrass standards by Bill Monroe, Doyle Lawson and Rhonda Vincent as well as contemporary standards of Alison Krauss and Balsam Range. The Petersens add to the mix twin fiddle tunes, gospel a capella, original songs, yodeling and a touch of country.
Tickets for An Evening of American Bluegrass and Country Music on Tuesday 19 May at 8pm are €20. Early dinner in Ballymaloe House (6pm) and ticket are available for €65. Book online at www.ballymaloegrainstore.com or on 021 465 1555.
