About the Artist/Ensemble

”Beyond Appalachian, Beyond Blues, Beyond Folk”

Since their collective debut at the Kennedy Center in 2008, the quartet’s sweet vocal harmonies, warm presence and energetic delivery are a mesmerizing and memorable audience experience. The award-winning songwriter’s masterfully crafted songs and stories are heartfelt and intelligent, grounded in rural American life and infused with diverse influences. Including founding Nitty Gritty Dirt Band member Les Thompson, their eclectic arrangements blend traditional acoustic instruments like banjo, upright bass, bouzouki and congas with the energy of drums and electric guitars to create a “vast expanse of song and sound.”

Concert/Performance Description

Andrew’s solo performances are like one man theatre; the songs are woven together with humorous stories and poetic drama, and the musical soundscape traverses influences from Appalachia, tasteful slide and jazzy blues, feisty anthems, rustic folk, and even a little fancy flatpicking on a Carter Family tune. While his guitar is clearly the foundation for a concert, the touches of native American cedar flute, resonator guitar, djembe (African hand drum) and even mandolin add delightful and mesmerizing embellishments to the show.

Educational Programs

From Seeds to Songs workshop collaboratively takes ideas to finished songs. Other workshops & residencies available, please inquire.

Audience

• All Ages