In a state that’s also produced Doc Watson, James Taylor and the Avett Brothers, there’s hardly a more well-rounded answer than the Steep Canyon Rangers.
A bluegrass band at their core, the Steep Canyon Rangers effortlessly walk the line between festival favorite and sophisticated string orchestra. They’re as danceable as the most progressive, party-oriented string band, and equally comfortable translating their songs for accompaniment by a full symphony.
Drawn together by their love of acoustic music, Graham Sharp (banjo, harmony vocals), Woody Platt (guitar, lead vocals), and Charles R. Humphrey III (bass, harmony vocals) formed the genesis of The Steep Canyon Rangers while attending the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Their evolution as a band has seen the additions of Mike Guggino (mandolin), Nicky Sanders (fiddle) and, most recently, Mike Ashworth (percussion) to form one of bluegrass’ most sought-after and beloved bands.
It’s that mix of serious chops and good-natured fun that earned the Steep Canyon Rangers the Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album Grammy in 2013 (for Nobody Knows You), and that drew celebrated comedian/banjoist Steve Martin to them when he needed a backing band. The Rangers are world-class musicians who are just as at home taking the stage at Carnegie Hall as they are knee-deep in a mountain brook, fly rod in hand.
For tickets go to barreoperahouse.org or contact box office at 802-476-8188
Jan 25, 2025, 12:30 to 2 PM
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