Liz and Mike recap Jam Jersey, diving into what it took to bring the event to life—from planning and structure to the jams themselves. They share what worked, what they learned, and offer practical advice for anyone thinking about hosting their own bluegrass event. Enjoy!

Mentioned in this Episode: Liz Wolfe Jordan Richmond Pioneer Vally Flame Throwers Jam Jersey

Events of Note: Liz Wolfe and the City College Pickers at Mary O’s Pub – May 5th at 9PM at New York NY Swamp in the City Cajun & Creole Music Festival – May 7th to 10th at Red Hook, Brooklyn NY BKCM “Open Stages” Music Festival – May 9th at Park Slope, Brooklyn NY

Music in this Episode: “Another Empty Bottle” – Raven and Red on their “We Rise Up” album “All About You” – Liz Wolfe and Mike McDonnall at Jam Jersey Open Mic We are powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones We exclusively play fiddles from Brad Robinson Fiddles and Linen Frederick Violins Contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com / Visit bluegrassblyn.com / Follow @bluegrassbklyn Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved

Dozens of classes, hundreds of students, scores of talented musicians teaching … the Community School of Music at the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music is a perfect alloy of inspiration and instruction. Plus, they nurture a top-tier Bluegrass Program for adults and kids. From young learners to seasoned musicians, BKCM's Community Music School has something for everyone. Mike sits with Brian Drye, Executive Director of the music school, to get the inside story. Enjoy

Mentioned in this Episode: Brooklyn Conservatory of Music Brian Drye, Executive Director of the Community Music School Katherine Slingluff, Bluegrass Coordinator Open Stages Music Festival

Events of Note: Liz Wolfe and the City College Pickers at Mary O’s Pub – May 5th at 9PM at New York NY Swamp in the City Cajun & Creole Music Festival – May 7th to 10th at Red Hook, Brooklyn NY BKCM “Open Stages” Music Festival – May 9th at Park Slope, Brooklyn NY Registration for the Fall session of the Bluegrass Program starts July 17th 2026

Music in this Episode: “Big Ball in Brooklyn” – Damn Tall Buildings “Cherokee Shuffle” – Trish Plays Bass, with Becky Buller

We are powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones We exclusively play fiddles from Brad Robinson Fiddles and Linen Frederick Violins Contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com / Visit bluegrassblyn.com / Follow @bluegrassbklyn Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved

Mike gets to chat with Barrett Smith, bass player and long-time member of the Steep Canyon Rangers. He shares his thoughts and feelings on a broad range of topics, including the challenges facing musicians starting out today, the experience of playing music with Steve Martin … and how a classical guitar player wound up as a bluegrass bassist! Enjoy. Mentioned in this Episode: Steep Canyon Rangers Steve Martin Mountain Song Festival “Next Act” – New release by Steep Canyon Rangers Bluegrass Jams Near Me Events of Note: Birdfest – May 1st to 2nd at Pinewood SC Liz Wolfe and the City College Pickers at Mary O’s Pub – May 5th at 9PM at New York NY Swamp in the City Cajun & Creole Music Festival – May 7th to 10th at Red Hook, Brooklyn NY BKCM “Open Stages” Music Festival – May 9th at Park Slope, Brooklyn NY Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival – July 15th to 19th at Oak Hill NY 2026 AFBA Bluegrass Festival – July 30th – August 2nd at Wind Gap PA

Music in this Episode: “Next Act” – Steep Canyon Rangers “Circling the Drain” – Steep Canyon Rangers

We are powered by Ear Trumpet Labs microphones We exclusively play fiddles from Brad Robinson Fiddles and Linen Frederick Violins Contact mike@bluegrassbklyn.com / Visit bluegrassblyn.com / Follow @bluegrassbklyn Bluegrass BKLYN is a Professional Member of the IBMA © Copyright 2026 Bluegrass BKLYN LLC, all rights reserved