CHERRY BLOSSOM SPECIAL

Drawing from the rich history of Washington D.C.’s acoustic music sphere, the folk quintet’s compositions and arrangements seek to go beyond storytelling. Rather, the group uses their vibrant music to examine the complex spectrum that blends tradition and innovation, begging the question, what do the stories we tell say about ourselves?

Award-winning vocalist and mandolinist, Nick Cameron , brings technical proficiency that allows them to pen sharp and forward thinking arrangements. Banjoist and lyricist, Gabby Cameron, pulls songwriting inspiration from her ethnomusicological scholarship, having been named the 2022 IBMA Neil Rosenberg Bluegrass Scholar for her groundbreaking research in Jewish bluegrass music. Cellist, Sophie Chang, brings rhythmic vitality through her experience as a versatile contra dance musician. Enhancing the group’s genre ambiguity, Mari Carlson’s playing styles range from traditional Swedish fiddle to keen jazz violin. Guitarist, Justin Heath, offers the group a mellow and intuitive tone, bridging his harmonic insight from jazz and tango with bluegrass flatpicking.