Just in time to get you warmed up for this year’s PNC presents Wide Open Bluegrass, two of this year’s official IBMA Bluegrass Ramble showcase bands will close out this year’s Midtown Bluegrass Series. Get a sneak preview of what’s in store this year with Colorado-based band The Railsplitters (4:30-6 pm) and North Carolina’s own Fireside Collective (3-4 pm). Before the concert begins, young musicians are invited to jam together with local musicians Lynda and Jamie Dawson at 2 p.m. Learn more about PineCone’s youth programs
With their newest album, The Faster It Goes, The Railsplitters are pushing the genre forward with an adventurous spirit, carrying on the tradition of breaking boundaries with their innovative sound.
Quickly blazing a name for themselves with their progressive approach to American folk music, Fireside Collective delights listeners with memorable melodies and contemporary songwriting. Formed in Asheville, the band plays original songs on stringed instruments, intended for a modern audience. Following the release of their debut album Shadows and Dreams, the band hit the road seeking to engage audiences with their energetic live show built on instrumental proficiency, colorful harmonies, and innovative musical arrangements. Last year, Fireside won the Merlefest band competition, and they performed more than 140 shows throughout 11 states. In July, the band opened for acoustic pioneers the Wood Brothers in Charlotte, as well as bluegrass legends Hot Rize in Steamboat Springs, CO. If you revel in the sounds of acoustic instrumentation, enjoy the excitement of energetic live performances, and delight in the creation of original songs, then follow the Fireside Collective as they journey on in their musical endeavors. Fireside Collective is: Jesse Iaquinto (mandolin, lead vocals), Tommy Maher (dobro, vocals), Carson White (bass guitar, vocals), and Joe Cicero (acoustic guitar, vocals).