The Pocahontas County Opera House is thrilled to announce an extraordinary evening of music with the Grammy-nominated virtuoso, Bruce Molsky. Described as “an absolute master” by No Depression, Molsky will take the stage on Apr. 5 at 7 p.m., promising to transport audiences to another time and place with his authentic and personal interpretations of Southern Appalachian rarities and global musical traditions.
Bruce Molsky, best known for his work on the fiddle, also captivates with his magical performances on the banjo and guitar, coupled with his powerful and distinctive vocals. His ability to blend technical virtuosity with relaxed, conversational wit transforms concert halls into intimate front porch gatherings, making his performances a memorable experience.
In his illustrious career, Molsky has collaborated with some of the world’s most respected players across genres. He is a notable guest on rocker Mark Knopfler’s album “Tracker” and achieved significant success with his project “1865: Songs of Hope & Home” with Anonymous 4, which was featured in Billboard’s top 10. Molsky is also a founding member of the supergroup Mozaik, alongside Andy Irvine and Donal Lunny, producing three celebrated albums.
Molsky’s talent has earned him appearances on BBC TV’s “Transatlantic Sessions” with Aly Bain and Jerry Douglas, and on PBS’s “David Holt’s State of Music.” His active touring and recording life includes collaborations with Darol Anger, Tony Trischka, and Allison de Groot of Mountain Drifters.
The upcoming performance will preview highlights from his recent projects, including “Lockdown Breakdown,” a duet fiddle record with Darol Anger featuring original compositions, significant vocal songs from America’s past, and traditional tunes from around the world. Fans will also enjoy selections from his latest solo guitar CD “Everywhere You Go,” which showcases his unique and personal fingerstyle guitar arrangements.
Bruce Molsky is also acclaimed for his educational contributions as the Visiting Scholar in the American Roots Music Program at Berklee College of Music, inspiring the next generation of roots musicians.
“Performing and teaching traditional music are the biggest things in my world,” says Molsky. “For me, being a musician isn’t a standalone thing; it informs everything I do in my life. It’s always been about being creative and being a part of something much bigger than myself, a link in the musical chain and part of the community of people who play it and love it.”
Tickets for this highly anticipated performance are $10 for adults, while young music lovers 17 and under can attend for free, making it an accessible event for families. Tickets can be purchased online at pocahontasoperahouse.org, at the 4th Avenue Gallery in Marlinton, or at the door on the night of the show, subject to availability.
The Opera House Performance Series is proudly supported by grants from the West Virginia Division of Culture and History and the West Virginia Commission on the Arts. Additional support comes from Pocahontas County Dramas, Fairs and Festivals and the Pocahontas County Convention and Visitors Bureau, reflecting the community’s dedication to preserving and promoting its cultural heritage.
