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Bluegrass BKLYN

Mike Willner

Check out the vibrant bluegrass music scene here in Brooklyn, NYC - and beyond. Join your hosts Mike Willner and Liz Wolfe to meet the musicians and teachers, explore the venues and events, and share the stories and community in the Bluegrass Borough .... and beyond. We’ll talk classic bluegrass, bluegrass-adjacent music, vendors, instruments, jam camps, current events, gear ... you know, all the good stuff! So give a listen, we’ll have a fine old time.

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S7 · E11
Thursday · 46 min
S7E11 Special Consensus Founder Greg Cahill!
What does it take to keep a bluegrass band going for more than 50 years? Liz sits down with Greg Cahill, banjo player and founder of Special Consensus, to talk about the band's remarkable history and the more than 50 musicians who have been part of it along the way. Greg shares some great stories about finding new band members, maintaining the Special C sound, and working with producer Alison Brown. They also discuss women in bluegrass, the art of singing harmony, and why Greg has no plans to put down his banjo anytime soon. Plus, hear about Special Consensus's upcoming December 6th show at the Westchester Bluegrass Club. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Learn more about Special Consensus, their recordings, and upcoming performances at https://specialc.com/. Upcoming Events of Note: Folk Music Jam & Clothing Drive – December 1st 6:30 PM @ Strong Rope Brewery 185 Van Dyke St. BKLYN NY Special Consensus at the Westchester Bluegrass Club – December 6th @ Westchester NY Vocal Masterclass with Greg Blake – December 7th @ New York NY Winter Village Music Camp - January 7th – 10th @ Ithaca NY >>> Special offer for Bluegrass BKLYN listeners! Use promo code WVMC2027_BKLYN when registering for camp through 12/31/26 to get a 20% discount. Music in this Episode: ‘Snowbird’ ‘Carolina in the Pines’ Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors -> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <- https://www.pegheadnation.com/ We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! https://www.eartrumpetlabs.com/ Our Broadcast Partners: Sutton Ole Time Music Hour – our sister show in Granville TN - Saturday nights @ 7PM Eastern https://www.facebook.com/suttonoletimemusichour/ The Sonic Planet – hear our show Saturdays and Sundays @ 9AM Eastern https://thesonicplanet.com/ © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com / liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com follow @bluegrassbklyn
Monday · 37 min
E7M11 Artists You Should Know: Brendan Forrest!
Meet singer-songwriter Brendan Forrest. Liz first heard him at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, where she was immediately drawn to his original music and thoughtful lyrics. Brendan shares his journey from playing blues and rock in Chicago to living on a homestead in the Colorado mountains, and how Telluride changed the course of his life. They talk about his songwriting process, what makes bluegrass ‘bluegrass’, and the unique culture of the Telluride festival. Plus, hear some of Brendan's original songs, including one featuring Michael Cleveland on fiddle! Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Official website: https://www.brendanforrest.com/ Music and recordings: https://www.brendanforrest.com/music All links (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/BrendanForrestOfficial Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bforrestmusic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCylWkn_8kAQU3o92BHVnTrw Upcoming Events of Note: Vocal Masterclass with Greg Blake – December 7th @ New York NY Winter Village Music Camp - January 7th – 10th @ Ithaca NY >>> Special offer for Bluegrass BKLYN listeners! Use promo code WVMC2027_BKLYN when registering for camp through 12/31/26 to get a 20% discount. Music in this Episode: ‘San Miguel’ ‘Lowdown Stray Dog Blues’ ‘Amabel Lee’ – with Michael Cleveland ‘Rice’s Rag’ Our Sponsors and Partners: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors -> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <- https://www.pegheadnation.com/ We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! https://www.eartrumpetlabs.com/ Beard Guitars – only the finest resonator, lap steel, and acoustic guitars. Sutton Ole Time Music Hour – our sister show in Granville TN - Saturday nights @ 7PM Eastern https://www.facebook.com/suttonoletimemusichour/ The Sonic Planet – hear our show Saturdays and Sundays @ 9AM Eastern https://thesonicplanet.com/ © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com / liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com follow @bluegrassbklyn
S7 · E10
November 5 · 39 min
S7E10 Old-Time Fiddle Virtuoso Sami Braman!
Ready for some old-time fiddle action? Mike gets to chat with Sami Braman, a renowned fiddler, recording artist, songwriter, and teacher. They get deep into her music career – including her being a seven-year-old band leader! – and her views on several important aspects of playing, learning, and sharing music. She will be teaching at the Winter Village Music Camp in January 2027, so you can learn more from her there. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Sami Braman https://samibraman.com/ The Onlies https://www.theonlies.com/ Slippery Hill – thousands of old-time tune recordings https://www.slippery-hill.com/ Winter Village Music https://www.wintervillagemusic.org/ >>> Special offer for Bluegrass BKLYN listeners! Use promo code WVMC2027_BKLYN when registering for camp through 12/31/26 to get a 20% discount. Upcoming Events of Note: Dear MariBella and the Pigkickers – November 28th @ Albert Music Hall, Ocean Twp NJ https://dearmaribella.com/ Vocal Masterclass with Greg Blake – December 7th @ New York NY https://bluegrassjamsnearme.com/gregblake/ Gowanus Boathouse Jam Winter Edition – 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at 6PM @ Brooklyn NY https://gowanusdredgers.org/jam/ Music in this Episode: Music is taken from Sami’s album ‘The Riveter’ and the Onlies self-titled album ‘Weevils in the Grits’ – Sam Braman with Brittany Haas ‘Billy in the Lowground’ – The Onlies Our Sponsors and Partners: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors -> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <- https://www.pegheadnation.com/ We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! https://www.eartrumpetlabs.com/ Sutton Ole Time Music Hour – our sister show in Granville TN - Saturday nights @ 7PM Eastern https://www.facebook.com/suttonoletimemusichour/ The Sonic Planet – hear our show Saturdays and Sundays @ 9AM Eastern https://thesonicplanet.com/ © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com / liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com follow @bluegrassbklyn
November 2 · 27 min
S7M10 - Local Artist Richard Peter Morris!
Liz talks with New Jersey based multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Richard Peter Morris about his years playing in Brooklyn's bluegrass scene with M Shanghai String Band, his experiences as a recording engineer, and what finally inspired him to record decades of original songs. His new album, Gratuitous Grace, features several of his former bandmates, and he's already working on a second! Along the way, they talk about songwriting, the evolution of bluegrass, the importance of musical friendships, and how “shred-flation” is invading the bluegrass scene. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode: Richard Peter Morris Find more on Richard at: website bandcamp Instagram Facebook Joe Brent, and his label, Adhyâropa Records Upcoming Events of Note: Vocal Masterclass with Greg Blake – December 7th @ New York NY Music in this Episode: All music is found on Richard’s album “Gratuitous Grace” Same Old Moon Holding On Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles Our Partners: Sutton Ole Time Radio Hour – our sister show in Granville TN The Sonic Planet – hear our show Saturdays and Sundays @ 9AM Eastern © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com / liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com follow @bluegrassbklyn
October 29 · 55 min
S7R2 Replay: Award-winning Singer Greg Blake!
Too much fun at IBMA! We're both still catching up so here's a replay of Liz's favorite episode: Liz talks with award-winning vocalist and guitarist Greg Blake about the lessons he's learned from decades of performing, teaching, and making music. From what creates a great singer to the importance of rhythm guitar, audience connection, and finding your own musical voice, Greg shares thoughtful insights for musicians at every level. Plus, Liz and Mike look back on their experience as Podcast-in-Residence at this year's Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Greg Blake Special Consensus Grey Fox Music Festival Planning Stages, the festival event planners JM Clifford Della Mae Upcoming Events of Note: Vocal Masterclass with Greg Blake - December 7th @ New York City Music in this Episode: ‘Victim of the Game’ – Greg Blake ‘Love Found Me’ – Greg Blake, with Becky Buller Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Our Partners: Beard Guitars - Only the finest resonator, lap steel, and acoustic guitars Sutton Ole Time Music Hour – our sister show in Granville TN - Saturday nights @ 7PM Eastern The Sonic Planet – hear rebroadcasts of our show Saturdays and Sundays @ 9AM Eastern © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA Contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com / Visit bluegrassblyn.com / Follow @bluegrassbklyn
S7 · E19
October 22 · 36 min
S7R1 Replay: The Biscuit Eaters!
Mike and Liz are busy running around IBMA World of Bluegrass, so Mike selected this episode to replay for you: Mike gets to meet the delightful Biscuit Eaters, a traditional bluegrass family band from North Carolina. Meredith Wilkerson (the “Band Mom”) shares her thoughts, along with guitarist Maggie (age 12), fiddler Silas (age 10) and dancing fiddler Molly (age 7). It’s a surprising and fascinating discussion covering their journey from family jam circle to festival bandstand to recording studio. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode The Biscuit Eaters Chester McMillian Mike Mitchell Music in this Episode: All music is from the Biscuit Eater’s album “North Carolina Kids” “Cherokee Shuffle” – The Biscuit Eaters “North Carolina Kids” – The Biscuit Eaters Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors - Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com follow @bluegrassbklyn
October 19 · 30 min
S7M9 - Immerse Yourself in Music: Winter Village Music Camp!
Get ready for a winter weekend filled with music Liz talks with Rick Manning and Bethany Parisi about Winter Village Music Camp, happening January 7–10, 2027, in Ithaca, NY. With over 120 workshops covering bluegrass, old-time, Irish music, singing, songwriting, and more, there's something for everyone! The outstanding faculty includes the Gibson Brothers, Michael Daves, and Jake Blount, plus concerts, jamming, and a welcoming community for musicians of all levels. And … Liz is going, too! Enjoy, and we hope to see you there! Mentioned in this Episode For the full workshop schedule, faculty lineup, and registration information, visit wintervillagemusic.org. Special offer for Bluegrass BKLYN listeners! Use promo code WVMC2027_BKLYN when registering for camp. Upcoming Events of Note: IBMA World of Bluegrass Business Conference and Festival – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Inaugural Jam at the new BKCM Campus – October 25th, 5:30PM @ 963 President Street Vocal Masterclass with Greg Blake – December 7th @ New York NY Music in this Episode: ‘Cherokee Shuffle’ – The Biscuit Eaters ‘Liza Jane’ – Hilary Hawke Our Sponsors and Partners: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors -> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <- We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Sutton Ole Time Music Hour – our sister show in Granville TN - Saturday nights @ 7PM Eastern The Sonic Planet – hear our show Saturdays and Sundays @ 9AM Eastern © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com / liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com follow @bluegrassbklyn
S7 · E9
October 15 · 50 min
S7E9 Red Camel Collective!
Mike chats with Heather and Tony of the Red Camel Collective, last year's IBMA New Artist of the Year. They share their musical journeys, from Heather's first record at age 12 to Tony relearning the banjo after losing his sight. Plus, we listen to some songs they personally selected that define the Collective’s style. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Red Camel Collective “The Songwriter’s Handbook” by Tom T. Hall Upcoming Events of Note: IBMA World of Bluegrass Business Conference and Festival – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Inaugural Jam at the new BKCM Campus – October 25th, 5:30PM @ 963 President Street Vocal Masterclass with Greg Blake – December 7th @ New York NY Music in this Episode: All music in this episode is by The Red Camel Collective Walk Out in the Rain Finding Your Way Home Roll On Mississippi Daughter of the Stars My Point of View Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles Our Partners: Sutton Ole Time Radio Hour – our sister show in Granville TN – our sister show The Sonic Planet – hear our show Saturdays and Sundays @ 9AM Eastern © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com / liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com follow @bluegrassbklyn
October 12 · 39 min
S7M8 Musicians You Should Know: Lee Stivers!
It's never too late to start making music, and Lee Stivers is living proof! From picking up her first mandolin at 42 to recording an album, building bluegrass communities, and starting a band in Puerto Vallarta, Lee has embraced every opportunity music has brought her way. She and Liz talk about singing with confidence, making room for women in bluegrass, and how music became a source of strength during an extraordinarily difficult chapter of her life. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Lee on Instagram, Facebook and LinkTree Website for their album “Something Tells Me Everything Will Be Alright” IBMA Leadership Bluegrass program Upcoming Events of Note: IBMA World of Bluegrass Business Conference and Festival – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: All songs are from Amy and Lee’s album “Something Tells Me Everything Will be Alright” “Cornbread and Butterbeans” “Make Me A Pallet On Your Floor” Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles Our Partners: Sutton Ole Time Radio Hour – our sister show in Granville TN – our sister show The Sonic Planet – hear our show Saturdays and Sundays @ 9AM Eastern © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com / liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com follow @bluegrassbklyn
S7 · E8
October 8 · 37 min
S7E8 Musicians You Should Know: Kenny Feinstein!
Kenny Feinstein has never taken the conventional route. The Water Tower bandleader tells Liz how a punk-rock kid became obsessed with old-time and bluegrass, built a fan base playing LA freeway off-ramps, traded CDs for gas money while touring, and eventually took the stage at Telluride. Along the way, Kenny turned what he learned about promoting music into a marketing business and a new book, More Than Talent. Plus, hear about his traditional bluegrass solo album, Lonesome LA Cowboy. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode “More Than Talent” guide book by Kenny Water Tower Work Smarter Music Marketing Kenny’s “Snoop Dogg” video Water Tower’s hidden tattoo site Telluride Documentary Water Tower on FaceBook, on Instagram, on TikTok Upcoming Events of Note: IBMA World of Bluegrass Business Conference and Festival – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Balsam Range Art of Music Festival – December 3rd – 5th @ Lake Junaluska NC Music in this Episode: All songs are from Water Tower’s album “Lonesome L.A. Cowboy” ‘Lonesome L.A. Cowboy’ with Beebs ‘I’m Here to Get My Baby Out of Jail’ with Michael Daves Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles Our Partners: Sutton Ole Time Radio Hour – our sister show in Granville TN The Sonic Planet – hear our show Saturdays and Sundays @ 9AM Eastern © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com / follow @bluegrassbklyn
October 5 · 35 min
S7M7 Bluegrass in China!
Liz heads virtually to Shanghai to talk with Kirk Kenney, Tom Pang, and Jerry Liu about the growing bluegrass scene there. Tom and Jerry share how a chance encounter with an American musician—and a Nickel Creek CD—led them to pick up the mandolin and banjo and become two of China’s earliest local bluegrass players. They also explore the surprising connections between bluegrass and Mongolian music, and how regular jams are helping introduce a new generation of Chinese musicians to bluegrass. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Tom Peng Bluegrasslands and Nomads Tom Peng’s Spotify playlist About Bluegrass in China About Dakou tapes Upcoming Events of Note: IBMA World of Bluegrass – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: ‘Mogan Mountain High’ (Intro music) ‘Tears Fall’ (Outro music) Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles Our Partners: Sutton Ole Time Radio Hour – our sister show in Granville TN © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com / follow @bluegrassbklyn
S7 · E7
October 1 · 45 min
S7E7 Guitar Giant Bryan Sutton!
Mike and Bryan take a trip through Bryan’s long career from a family band on Church Sundays, to amazing collaborations, up to the band-stand with Hot Rize, into the studio, and as a music educator. We get to listen to Bryan’s personally selected cuts from his latest passion project ‘From Roots to Branches (Vol. 1). Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Bryan Sutton From Roots to Branches (Vol. 1) Hot Rize Brooklyn’s own Kevin Greer, our latest Wernick Coach! Upcoming Events of Note: IBMA World of Bluegrass – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: Note: All songs feature Bryan Sutton, the notes reflect the duet partner ‘Three Star Hornpipe’ – with Kenny Smith ‘Road to Columbus’ – with Cody Kilby ‘Working Man Blues’ – with Doc Watson ‘The Devil Went Down to Deep Gap’ – with Billy Strings ‘Port Tobacco’ – with Chris Eldridge Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com / follow @bluegrassbklyn
September 28 · 28 min
S7M6 The Next Generation: Junior Appalachian Musicians!
What does it take to create the next generation of bluegrass music? Meet Brett Morris, Executive Director of Junior Appalachian Musicians (JAM) and learn about their efforts to engage kids across Appalachia with traditional music, dance and culture. She is also a member of the mountain music trio The Blue Ridge Girls, and we get to learn about the band and listen so some of their music. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Junior Appalachian Musicians Brett Morris Martha Spencer Earl Scruggs Music Festival Upcoming Events of Note: IBMA World of Bluegrass – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: Music in this episode is from The Blue Ridge Girls album “Mountain Heartbeats” ‘Belle of the Ball’ ‘Blue Ridge Mountain Bound’ ‘Mystery’ ‘Can’t Get to Memphis’ ‘It All Comes Out in the Wash’ Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com / follow @bluegrassbklyn
S7 · E6
September 24 · 40 min
S7E6 Music We Also Love: The Malpass Brothers!
Liz gets to know Chris and Taylor Malpass, the Country / Gospel brother band whose love for traditional country music started almost as soon as they could walk. They share stories about growing up singing together, the heroes who shaped their sound, the special chemistry behind their brother harmonies, and why sharp suits are all part of the package! Plus, hear about their new recordings, their old-school TV variety show, and the festival they now call their own. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode You can find The Malpass Brothers on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and FaceBook The Malpass Brothers Show Upcoming Events of Note: Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warwick NY IBMA World of Bluegrass – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: Music in this episode is from the brothers’ “Satisfied: Country Gospel Classics Live” album: Satisfied Family Bible Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com / follow @bluegrassbklyn
September 21 · 23 min
Jam Talk: Including Everyone!
Time for another Jam Talk. Mike and Liz dive into what it takes to make everyone feel included and respected in the jam circle … and how to avoid creating an exclusive or unapproachable jam. And … have you ever listened to one of our interviews and thought “I wish they had asked …”? Well, drop a line (click below) and we’ll try to include your questions in the future. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Bluegrass Jams Near Me The Granite Church “I Wish You Had Asked …” email Upcoming Events of Note: Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY IBMA World of Bluegrass – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: “Slow Rolling Train” – J.M. Clifford “Big Ball in Brooklyn” – Damn Tall Buildings Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com / follow @bluegrassbklyn
S7 · E5
September 17 · 56 min
S7E5 Bluegrass Dynamo Stephen Mougin!
Stephen Mougin shares insights into his multi-faceted, award-winning career with Mike. Performing artist, record company executive, lauded music producer, SiriusXM host, music educator – he spans a wide swath of the music industry and we attempt to cover it all. Then, banjo player and friend of the show Hilary Hawke updates us on her latest exploits and her show at Planet Granite Music & Dance Festival. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Stephen Mougin Dark Shadow Recording Sam Bush Hilary Hawke Upcoming Events of Note: Hilary Hawke House Concert – September 18th @ Hop Bottom PA Planet Granite Music & Dance Festival – September 19th – 20th @ Georgetown CT Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY IBMA World of Bluegrass – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: “There’s No Reason To” – Stephan and Jana Mougin, to be released 9/25/26 “I’m Gonna Ride” – Stephen Mougin Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com / follow @bluegrassbklyn
September 14 · 39 min
S7M4 Artists You Should Know: Urs-Ranier von Arx!
Liz catches up with her friend and fellow banjo picker Urs von Arx, now back home in Zurich after 21 years in New York City. Urs shares what he loved about the NYC jam scene, how it compares with bluegrass in Switzerland, and the remarkable story of his 57 years playing with the Country Ramblers. He also takes us inside the Swiss Bluegrass Music Association, where he now serves as co-president, and talks about the challenge of bringing a new generation into the music. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Urs von Arx The Country Ramblers Bear on Banjo YouTube Playlist Swiss Bluegrass Music Association Calendar Upcoming Events of Note: Planet Granite Music & Dance Festival – September 19th – 20th @ Georgetown CT Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY IBMA World of Bluegrass – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: “Dixie Breakdown” – Urs von Arx & The Country Ramblers “Huckleberry Hornpipe” – Urs von Arx & The Country Ramblers Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com / follow @bluegrassbklyn
September 12 · 15 min
S7FA1 Festival Alert: Planet Granite Music & Dance Festival!
Festival Alert! We have a new festival in the area! Festival Co-Producer Austin Scelzo chats with Mike about this brand-new festival – Planet Granite Music & Dance Festival (September 19th and 20th) at The Granite, a wonderful music venue in Fairfield CT. Take a walk with Mike and Austin through what’s going on and what to expect. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Planet Granite Music & Art Festival Austin Scelzo Hilary Hawke Chris Luquette The Slide Stops Music in this Episode: ‘Slow Rolling Train’ – J.M. Clifford ‘Cherokee Shuffle’ – The Biscuit Eaters Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors - Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com follow @bluegrassbklyn
S7 · E4
September 10 · 45 min
S7E4 Women in Bluegrass: Farayi!
Liz talks with singer, songwriter, fiddler, and educator Farayi Malek about her musical journey from childhood fiddle contests to years of studying jazz—and now back to her American roots. Farayi shares fascinating insights into the connections between blues, jazz, bluegrass, and country music, and challenges us to think differently about the voice as an improvisational instrument. Plus, Liz puts your Dolly Parton knowledge to the test! Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Farayi American Roots Music Program @ Berklee College Earl Jam 2 Dolly Parton Upcoming Events of Note: Planet Granite Music & Dance Festival – September 19th & 20Th @ Georgetown CT Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY Music in this Episode: Mom and Dad’s Waltz – Farayi & Tony Trischka I Will Always Love You – Dolly Parton Prayer for the People – Farayi & The Steel Drivers Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com / follow @bluegrassbklyn
September 7 · 23 min
S7M3 Iconic Music Workshops: The Swannanoa Gathering!
For five weeks in the Summer - and now some weekends in the Fall – the Blue Ridge Mountains at Warren Wilson College come alive with music, dance, and the joy of learning at The Swannanoa Gathering. Mike and Kevin Kehrberg, Director of The Swannanoa Gathering, discuss the special magic of The Gathering that combines music education, culture, community and a deep connection to the roots of our favorite music. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode The Swannanoa Gathering Warren Wilson College Kevin Kehrberg Ron Pen Erynn Marshall Upcoming Events of Note: Weekend Workshop – Old Time String Band September 26th – 27th @ Warren Wilson College Wernick Method Jam Camp – September 25th – 27th @ Warick NY IBMA World of Bluegrass – October 20th – 24th @ Chattanooga TN Music in this Episode: ‘Swannanoa Tunnel’ – Bryan Sutton ‘Swannanoa Waltz’ – Rayna Gellert Our Sponsors: We learn and grow with Peghead Nation's online courses and world-class instructors >>> Discount code for our listeners: BKLYN <<< We’re powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones – that’s why we sound so good! Mike exclusively plays Robinson Fiddles © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com, liz@bluegrassjamsnearme.com visit bluegrassblyn.com / follow @bluegrassbklyn

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