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PODCAST

Bluegrass BKLYN

© Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved

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.

music music history

All Episodes

35:04

S7M7 Bluegrass in China!

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/10/05

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

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45:53

S7E7 Guitar Giant Bryan Sutton!

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/10/01

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

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28:30

S7M6 The Next Generation: Junior Appalachian Musicians!

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/09/28

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

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40:58

S7E6 Music We Also Love: The Malpass Brothers!

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/09/24

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

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23:22

Jam Talk: Including Everyone!

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/09/21

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

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56:49

S7E5 Bluegrass Dynamo Stephen Mougin!

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/09/17

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

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39:52

S7M4 Artists You Should Know: Urs-Ranier von Arx!

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/09/14

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

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22:07

S7FA1 Festival Alert: Planet Granite Music & Dance...

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/09/12

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

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45:13

S7E4 Women in Bluegrass: Farayi!

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/09/10

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

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46:17

S7M3 Iconic Music Workshops: The Swannanoa Gathering!

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/09/07

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

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46:17

S7E3 Guitar Guru & YouTube Star - Lessons with Marcel!

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/09/03

Liz talks with Marcel Ardans, the man behind ‘Lessons with Marcel’, about his unexpected journey from aspiring high school music teacher to successful bluegrass educator on YouTube. They dig into his practical—and reassuring!—ideas about practicing, teaching, and becoming a better musician, plus his newest adventure: co-directing a documentary exploring the fascinating world of competitive flatpicking. Enjoy!Mentioned in this Episode Marcel Ardans ‘Lessons with Marcel’ YouTube channel Andy

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27:19

S7M2 Scruggs Fest Highlight: ReString Appalachia!

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/08/31

Mike learns all about ReString Appalachia – an organization dedicated to getting quality instruments back in the hands of those who lost them due to natural and economic disasters. Executive Director Nicholas Edward Williams traces ReString’s history from September 2024 when Hurricane Helene devastated Appalachia to today. We also get to meet and hear the music of Pickers Anonymous, Nick’s band. Enjoy!Mentioned in this Episode Nicholas Edward Williams ReString Appalachia Pickers Anonymous Guitar

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12:27

Special Edition - Guitaro 5000 at Grey Fox!

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/08/28

Another amazing Grey Fox story! Mike caught up with Reggie Guillaume – better known as Guitar 5000 – at Grey Fox where Reggie shared his vision and musical mission. This YouTube sensation asks random strangers a simple question – “Will you sing a song with me?”. An inspiring discussion filled with joy, hope, and musical bravery. Enjoy! Mentioned in this Episode Guitaro 5000 Reggie’s YouTube Channel Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival Upcoming Events of Note: Swamp in the City Mini-Festival – September

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39:48

S7E2 Scruggs Fest Highlight: Dobro Master Jerry...

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/08/27

Mike sits with Dobro legend Jerry Douglas and they go deep into all aspects of Jerry’s career, the bands he leads, the music he loves, his approach to learning and teaching, and much more. So much more that we had to break this epic exploration into two segments … here you have Part 1, and the rest will be published in a future episode. Also, Mike shares some hot tips and recent news about Peghead Nation … and a way for you to try their courses for free! Enjoy. Mentioned in this Episode Jerry

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38:21

S7M1 2026 Telluride Band Contest Winners - The Litch...

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/08/23

Liz talks with Toshi and Kai Litch, winners of the 2026 Telluride Band Contest, about growing up immersed in music on a tiny Washington island and turning a childhood bluegrass dream into reality. They share how family, festivals, mentors, and a little brotherly rivalry shaped their musical path—and how they’re now finding their own sound somewhere between tradition and innovation. Enjoy!Mentioned in this Episode The Litch Brothers Telluride Bluegrass Upcoming Events of Note: Silver Bay Wernick

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47:30

S7E1 Scruggs Fest Highlight: The Legendary Laurie Lewis!

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/08/20

Liz sits down with bluegrass legend Laurie Lewis for a wide-ranging conversation about the music she’s loved and played for more than 50 years. What makes bluegrass “bluegrass”? Do drums belong in our msuic? Why is picking valued more than singing? And how has the experience of women in bluegrass changed? Laurie also talks about her new album Oh California, her songwriting, and what it feels like to finally make peace with being called a “Legend.” Enjoy!Mentioned in this Episode Laurie Lewis The

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22:53

Earl Scruggs Music Festival Highlight - Carolina Detour!

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/08/15

Mike chats with Lake Carver and Lyla Cherry of the dynamic North Carolina-based band Carolina Detour. These talented and accomplished young musicians (they are both 16 year old!) reflect on a broad range of musical topics like performing, competing – and the challenges of fitting it all into a crowded school schedule. Hear the voices of the next generation of Bluegrass. Enjoy!Mentioned in this Episode Carolina Detour Earl Scruggs Music Festival – September 4th to 6th @ Mill Spring NC Music in

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29:38

S6M12 World-Class Fiddler Bronwyn!

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/08/10

Our last episode of Season 6! To end on a high note, Mike sits with Bronwyn – one of our greatest fiddle players – who is about to release her first album of songs she wrote or co-wrote! She delves into her motivations for pursuing this musical path, thoughts on learning and playing music – and how a bumpy bus ride led to a hit song! Plus, Mike and Liz reflect on season 6 and look forward to season 7. Enjoy!Mentioned in this Episode Bronwyn Wendy Walker Pat McLaughlin The Milk Carton Kids Tractor

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19:26

Festival Alert - Earl Scruggs Music Festival!

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/08/06

Festival Alert! The iconic Earl Scruggs Music Festival is coming up very soon – Friday September 4th through Sunday September 6th. Held at the Tryon Equestrian Center, the festival features amazing headliners, workshops, vendors, jamming – and Bluegrass BKLYN as Podcast-in-Residence! Mike speaks with Mary Beth Martin – Executive Director of the Earl Scruggs Center – and gets the whole story about the festival, the Earl Scruggs Museum and homeplace, and much more. Enjoy! Mentioned in this

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42:39

S6E12 Singer Brooke Aldridge!

Bluegrass BKLYN ·

2026/08/06

Liz talks with award-winning singer Brooke Aldridge about the heart behind the uplifting music she and husband Darin create together. Brooke shares how they choose songs that inspire hope, balance life on and off the stage, and build a musical partnership that's as strong as their harmonies. Plus – Bluegrass BKLYN will be Podcast-in-Residence at the Earl Scruggs Music Festival. Enjoy!Mentioned in this Episode Darin & Brooke Aldridge Songwriter Bernie Nelson Ashokan Center Upcoming Events of

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