About the Band: Bryan McDowell is one of the most versatile and electrifying musicians in the American acoustic scene. He’s been the quintessential utility player for the talents of Molly Tuttle, Cris Jacobs, Claire Lynch, John McEuen, Sierra Hull, and others, where he contributed multi-instrumentalism and sweet tenor harmony. But his first solo effort documents a substantive shift. It reveals an artist in a new phase of his career–as composer, lyricist and vocalist. An expansion of his duo project with Mark Schatz, Bryan's release collects 8 original songs balanced on the stylistic foundations of his bluegrass forerunners while telling a contemporary story of working class living.
Accompanying Bryan on tour will be some of the most respected figures in bluegrass. It features iconic bassist Mark Schatz, the illustrious talents of modern mandolinist Jacob Jolliff, explosive rhythm and lead guitar from Jake Stargel, and intricately woven 5-string banjo by Matt Menefee. The resulting ensemble is one unparalleled in technical and creative force.
The songs will be eclectic, the soloing will be merciless, and the vocals will be compelling. The adventures in improvisation are untethered, and the beats are unyielding. This is Bryan McDowell’s celebration of new music with friends on a tour that’s long overdue.
About Bryan McDowell: Bryan McDowell is a masterful multi-instrumentalist whose deep Appalachian roots and eclectic musical influences have made him a sought-after collaborator in bluegrass, folk, and beyond. Whether performing with legends like Sierra Hull and Béla Fleck or showcasing his own voice and songwriting, his fluid, boundary-pushing artistry continues to surprise and inspire. Learn More »
About Jacob Jolliff: Jacob Jolliff, one of the world’s premier contemporary mandolinists, won the National Mandolin Championship in 2012 and has since become a fixture in the bluegrass scene, collaborating with legends like Béla Fleck and Tony Trischka. After touring with Joy Kills Sorrow and Yonder Mountain String Band, he now leads The Jacob Jolliff Band, pushing the boundaries of progressive bluegrass. Learn More »
About Mark Schatz: Mark Schatz, a two-time IBMA Bass Player of the Year, has shaped iconic bluegrass recordings with legends like Tony Rice, Béla Fleck, and Nickel Creek. A true multi-instrumentalist, he blends clawhammer banjo, bass, dance, and storytelling into a dynamic performance, most recently showcased on his 2021 album GRIT & POLISH, which topped the Folk DJ charts. Learn More »
About Matt Menefee: Matt, TheBanjoPlayer, is redefining the banjo with a genre-blending style that seamlessly fuses tradition with innovation, earning praise from legends like Béla Fleck and Winston Marshall (Mumford and Sons). From winning the Winfield National Banjo Championship at 17 to pioneering bluegrass-video game fusion with The Hit Points, his fearless approach continues to push musical boundaries across bluegrass, rock, hip hop, and beyond. Learn More »
Date & Time: Friday, May 16, 2025. Doors open at 6:00 PM and the concert starts at 7:00 PM.
Ticket Price: All tickets are general admission. $25 in advance until 3:00 PM on the day of the event. $30 at the door. Children 12 years and below are free when accompanied by an adult.
Ticket Information: Reserve tickets in advance online or by calling the Barns of Rose Hill Box Office at 540-955-2004 (hours). When our Box Office is closed, please leave a message. All ticket sales are final; no exceptions or exchanges.