Bethel Renaissance Bluegrass Band, directed by Sophia Wright & Scott Shepherd

Performs 6:20PM-6:50PM 

The Renaissance Bluegrass Band delivers an authentic bluegrass experience, deeply rooted in the traditions of Appalachian music. With masterful picking, soaring harmonies, and driving banjo rolls, the group captures the spirit of bluegrass while bringing fresh energy to every stage.

Hailing from Missouri and Arkansas, these exceptional young musicians bring together impressive individual résumés—including professional touring experience and, collectively, multiple state and national honors in the world of bluegrass. Under the direction of Bluegrass Coordinator Sophia Wright, they unite remarkable musicianship, compelling artistry, and unmistakable chemistry.

The band has quickly gained attention both in live performance and online. Its appearances have drawn enthusiastic audiences across the region, while its videos have garnered hundreds of thousands of views on social media.

Colorado College Bluegrass Ensemble, directed by Keith Reed

Performs 4:20PM-4:50PM

This ensemble from Colorado brings together Colorado College students who have immersed themselves in the rich tradition of bluegrass music. Under Professor Keith Reed’s direction, students learn the songs and instrumental styles of bluegrass music, also the important traditions of ensemble playing, harmony singing, improvisation, and the unique musical language that makes bluegrass so distinct. Here is Colorado College.

ETSU Bluegrass Pride Band, directed by Dan Boner

Performs from 7:40PM-8:10PM

Mountain Music Ambassadors, directed by Daxson Lewis

Performs from 8:20PM-8:50PM

The Mountain Music Ambassadors are the flagship touring ensemble of Morehead State University’s Kentucky Center for Traditional Music.

Comprised of students pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Traditional Music Studies, the group performs a dynamic blend of bluegrass, old-time, and country music while gaining professional experience within the traditional music industry.

Their distinguished résumé includes performances at the Carter Family Fold, Industrial Strength Bluegrass Festival, and IBMA’s Wide Open Bluegrass Festival, along with appearances on PBS’s Song of the Mountains and the internationally syndicated WoodSongs Old-Time Radio Hour.

The ensemble has also represented Morehead State and American traditional music around the world, performing in China, Ireland, Hungary, and Slovakia.

Under the direction of KCTM Director Daxson Lewis, the current lineup features Alanabeth Duncan on banjo and vocals, Skylar Schutz on bass and guitar, Robert Myers on mandolin and bass, and Peyton Byrns on pedal steel and acoustic guitar.

With exceptional musicianship and a deep respect for their musical heritage, these students are carrying the tradition forward.

Pellissippi State Community College Bluegrass Band, directed by Larry Vincent

Performs 2:40PM – 3:10PM 

Lotsa Lonesome String Band, directed by Wayne Erbsen

Performs 12:00PM-12:30PM

The UNCA bluegrass band consists of an ever-changing group of young musicians eager to learn classic standards and unknown gems from their fearless leader, the renowned Bluegrass scholar Wayne Erbsen. The group gigs very heavily around Asheville and has played IBMA multiple times in the past, even after Hurricane Helene damaged the Asheville area. Songs differ from the roots genre to Carter family classics as well as Wayne’s unconventional take on bluegrass standards. Their current roster includes 3 fiddle players, 3 guitarists, 2 mandolinists, an upright bassist, steel guitar, banjo, and 4 vocalists. Wayne likes to call the band “Lotsa Lonesome” after he realized we sang a lot of songs with the name “Lonesome” in the title.

UT Applalachian Strings, directed by Sean McCollough and Evie Andrus

Performs 2:00PM-2:30PM 

Hailing from Knoxville, TN the University of Tennessee Appalachian String program represents students from across the campus from music majors to law students this unique ensemble provides an opportunity for students to explore a new style of music and create lifelong friendships. Founded in the Spring of 2022 this program has exploded in popularity over the last few years. Co-directed by Sean McCollough and Evie Andrus this program is full of Volunteer pride. Let us take you to Rocky Top, please welcome UT App Strings.