S5E2 Bluegrass Artists You Should Know: Ira Gitlin!

S5E2 Bluegrass Artists You Should Know: Ira Gitlin!

Author: Mike Willner February 19, 2026 Duration: 38:47
Meet Ira Gitlan, bluegrass musician, historian, and educator. Plus, Mike and Liz recap the fun at Joe Val 2026 Festival. Enjoy!

There's a particular sound echoing through the streets of Brooklyn, one that might surprise you if you only know the borough for its indie rock or hip-hop. It's the lively, intricate sound of bluegrass, and it's found a thriving home here. Bluegrass BKLYN is your backstage pass to that world, hosted by Mike Willner and Liz Wolfe. This isn't just a music podcast; it's a conversation about the people and places that make the scene tick. You'll hear directly from the musicians and instructors who are pushing the tradition forward, and get the inside scoop on where to catch a great show or find a welcoming jam session. Episodes dive into everything from the deep history of classic tunes to the modern artists blending genres, along with practical chats about instruments, gear, and the community events that bring everyone together. Think of it as hanging out with knowledgeable friends who love to talk about the strings, the stories, and the surprising heart of bluegrass culture in New York City and well beyond its borders. Tune in for a genuine, down-to-earth look at what keeps this music alive and picking.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 90

Bluegrass BKLYN
Podcast Episodes
S5E4 Bassist Nelson Williams! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:55
Meet Nelson Williams, bassist and teacher - share his musical journey from Classical french horn to jazz and bluegrass. Learn about the Bayou Bluegrass Festival. Enjoy!
US Navy Banjo Player Chief Stiltner! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:15
Meet USN Banjo Player Chief Stiltner who picks her 5-string in the USN Band Country Current. Enjoy!
S5E3 Master Songwriter Mike Mitchell! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:08
Join Mike in a conversation with Mike Mitchell, songwriter, recording artist, fiddler, and mentor. Plus, lose those excuses for not following your musical heart. Enjoy!
S5M2 Music we Also Love: Shane Hayes [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:32
We explore ’Music we also love’ with Shane Hayes, accordion-playing front man of the famous Irish band ’Socks in the Frying Pan’. Enjoy!
S5M1 Iconic Venues: Cowgirl Seahorse [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:00
Check out one of New York’s iconic music venues and meet Gail and Steve, the folks who make it happen. Enjoy!
S5E1 Bluegrass Legend Alice Gerrard! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:05:54
Meet bluegrass legend Alice Gerrard as she shares her musical and personal journey with Liz. Enjoy!
S4M12 Women in Bluegrass: Laura Orshaw! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:57
Iin this final episode in Season 5, Liz speaks with Laura Orshaw, vocalist, fiddle player and Artist In Residence at the Joe Val Festival.
S4E12 Jim Pankey! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:03
Get up close and personal with Jim Pankey, award-winning banjoist, educator, and YouTube sensation. And, hear a fun recap of the recent JAM-uary weekend at Ashokan.
S4M11 Rick Dollar! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:54
Join Mike’s fascinating conversation with multi-faceted podcast host Rick Dollar!
S4E11 Women in Bluegrass: Celia Woodsmith! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:51
Celia Woodsmith of Della Mae opens up about her musical journey, joining Della Mae ... and washboards! Plus, a bluegrass Grammy preview.