Bluegrass and American Roots Festival: East Nash Grass

The Department of Music presents the 21st Annual Bluegrass and American Roots Festival, featuring Kenny & Amanda Smith on Friday night and East Nash Grass on Saturday night. Each concert opens with a short set by Denison’s Bluegrass and American Roots Ensemble, directed by Adam Schlenker. On Friday, before the Kenny & Amanda Smith performance, Schlenker and Hayes Griffin will perform a special set of guitar and mandolin duos inspired by “brothers duos” of the 1930s. On Saturday afternoon, join us for workshops where students, local musicians, and guest artists will form pop-up bands for rehearsals, jamming, and performances in a lively band-mixer format. 

All events are free and open to the public; concert tickets are required for evening performances. Tickets will be available beginning Dec. 12, 2025. 

East Nash Grass 

East Nash Grass exemplifies the very best of modern bluegrass—something their 2024 IBMA New Artist of the Year award makes clear. But their breathtaking talent as singers, instrumentalists, and composers is just the beginning. While many acts lean on nostalgia, East Nash Grass stands out for its fearless authenticity and fresh sound. 

After hundreds of shows and countless late-night jams—through lineup shifts, industry changes, and a world in constant flux—the band has evolved into a powerhouse ensemble featuring Harry Clark (mandolin), Cory Walker (banjo), James Kee (guitar), Maddie Denton (fiddle; 2025 IBMA Fiddle Player of the Year), and Jeff Partin (bass/dobro).