BluesGrass

July 22, 2023 @ 8:00PM — 10:00PM Eastern Time (US & Canada)

The Buttonwood Tree Performing Arts Center: 605 Main Street Middletown, CT 06457 Get Directions

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The acoustic duo BluesGrass features two experienced musicians who have been steeped for many years in American roots music, including blues, old-time, folk music, and bluegrass (especially its “bluesy” side). Both are accomplished singers, and their voices blend in close harmony along with strong and evocative instrumental accompaniment. They draw upon both contemporary and traditional sources, and as their musical collaboration has deepened over the years they have broadened their repertoire to include “Americana,” older and contemporary blues, popular tunes (both new and old), and the very first rock and roll hit. As a result, listeners enjoy a well-rounded acoustic music experience.

Mark White (guitar, harmonica, vocals) – Mark plays both finger style and flat-picked guitar, in addition to harmonica, and sings lead and tenor harmonies. Over the years Mark has played in several bands in Connecticut, collaborating with some excellent musicians in the process. He has a deep appreciation for the many facets of American roots music and continues to search for songs that resonate with him and his listeners. Mark lives in Groton Long Point, Connecticut.

Jon Swift (upright bass, vocals) – Jon was a founding member of the popular Connecticut-based acoustic bluegrass band Traver Hollow, playing and singing with that group for 13 years in the ‘80s and early ‘90s. His steady upright bass work, as well as his lead and harmony vocals, have been enjoyed by the many audiences who listened to Traver Hollow’s recorded albums and their live shows in Europe and Canada, as well as much of the U.S. Jon sings lead and baritone harmonies and lives in Durham, Connecticut.

“On behalf of the Friends of the Case Memorial Library, …thank you for a delightful Saturday afternoon of listening to an eclectic group of musical genres. The audience commented on your talent and your love of music. The two of you get along so well, each admiring what the other can do. You have not only expanded our knowledge of music, but you have presented it in a way that opens our minds to appreciating new genres. You can be assured that we will recommend you to others. Continued success in your ability to give so much pleasure to others.” - Phyllis Gwatkin, Case Memorial Library, Orange, Connecticut
“I have a serious craving for what we consider ‘pure’ music. No electronic enhancements or embellishments. Too many performers are using ‘backup’ electronic devices. You don’t need this, as you guys are in a class by yourselves and deliver superior sound. There is no doubt that you operate on a much higher plane. That is fact, not said to impress.” - Jim & Cheryl Grant, Village Gate of Farmington, Connecticut