MUSIC WORKSHOPS
SPRING 2025 WORKSHOPS:
From The Heart: Embedding Music with Emotion with Ettore Buzzini
Join 16-year-old Swiss-American Bluegrass prodigy Ettore Buzzini for a hands-on workshop exploring emotion in music. Rooted in tradition yet refreshingly innovative, Ettore’s music blends Appalachian soul with European influences. Inspired by his Tennessean grandfather and Swiss heritage, he developed a deep passion for banjo and guitar, mastering both with a unique, expressive style. In this interactive session, Ettore will demonstrate how melody, phrasing, and dynamics bring emotion to music. Through live examples and collaborative exercises, GrassRoots attendees will discover new ways to infuse feeling into their playing and songwriting. Front Porch Stage, 12pm Friday
Exploration of Roots Music & Piano with Jeff Little (of Jeff Little Trio)
Jeff Little will lead an exciting exploration of the piano’s unique role in roots music. From driving rhythm platforms to high-energy solos, Jeff will break down the essential techniques that bring the piano to life in Fiddle Tunes, Bluegrass, Rockabilly, and Traditional Country music. Join us on the Front Porch Stage as we learn how the piano supports and enhances the rhythmic and melodic structure of these various roots music genres. Jeff will demonstrate how his signature style—rooted in Appalachian traditions—incorporates elements like syncopation, rolling bass lines, and improvisation to create a rich and expressive sound. Whether you’re a pianist looking to expand your technique or simply a curious fan of roots music, this workshop offers a rare opportunity to dive into the deep connection between the keys and the traditions of American music. Front Porch Stage, 2pm Friday
Introduction to Fiddle Accompaniment with Omar Ruiz-Lopez
In this workshop, Omar Ruiz-Lopez will explore playing etiquette as well as how to back up and play different fiddle styles in various combinations of ensembles. As a seasoned vet of the roots music scene, having played alongside War and Treaty, Lizzie No, Langhorne Slim and more, Ruiz-Lopez has great experience to share from a myriad of different acts. This workshop will cover several accompaniment styles, how and when to use space, some fiddle extended technique (harmonics, percussive elements, strumming vs. plucking) and more! Come explore what works best with your musical voice in playing with others! Front Porch Stage, 12pm Saturday
Introduction to Gospel with The Campbell Brothers
The Campbell Brothers will lead an inspiring and interactive journey through the roots of gospel music on the Front Porch Stage. The Campbell Brothers are staples in the GrassRoots community, and this workshop will explore the deep connections between Negro spirituals, jazz, and blues, and how these musical traditions have shaped the band’s unique and powerful approach to the genre. Through live demonstrations and engaging discussions, GrassRoots fans will gain insight into the historical and cultural significance of gospel music, and its evolution into the sounds you’ll hear from The Campbell Brothers throughout the weekend! Front Porch Stage, 2pm Saturday
Rhythm & Roots: The Intersections of Rap and Folk with Demeanor & Ashley Virginia
Join us on the Front Porch stage for an exploration of the songwriting techniques and shared traditions of rap and folk music with Demeanor and Ashley Virginia. While the two genres may vary sonically, Demeanor and Virginia will delve into the cultural and musical similarities between the two styles of music. Whether you’re a budding songwriter looking for an introduction to the craft, or a seasoned vet that’s curious about how these genres intertwine, everyone is welcome! Come ready to engage, share, and collaborate as we celebrate the powerful parallels of these two rich genres. Front Porch Stage, 4pm Saturday
