Rhiannon Giddens takes audiences on a journey through the evolution of folk in this one-night-only celebration. From the old-time and string band traditions that laid its foundation, to the rise of bluegrass, the folk revival, and beyond, the evening showcases how these genres have shaped and continue to shape the heart of American musical identity. Featuring a rich tapestry of voices and instruments, the concert honors folk music’s deep cultural roots, highlighting both its historical significance and modern-day relevance.
Led by Giddens and her own Old-Time Revue (Dirk Powell, Jason Sypher, Demeanor, Amelia Powell, and Justin Robinson of the Carolina Chocolate Drops) alongside Our Native Daughters (Leyla McCalla, Amythyst Kiah), Steve Martin, Alison Brown, Ed Helms, and more, American Tunes emphasizes folk’s ongoing impact on the American soundscape, drawing attention to its stories of struggle, resilience, and the beauty of shared heritage.
Singer, fiddler, banjo player, and composer Rhiannon Giddens has won two Grammys, a MacArthur “Genius” grant, and a Pulitzer Prize. She’s the Artistic Director of the Grammy-winning Silkroad Ensemble, composer of opera and ballet, has hosted TV shows and podcasts and recorded with everyone from Beyoncé to Iron & Wine to Yo-Yo Ma to Ben Harper. With her group Carolina Chocolate Drops, she helped to make the Black roots of American folk music better known to generations of music fans and expanded that through her solo work and her work with Our Native Daughters. She’s been called one of the 25 Most Influential Women Musicians of the 21st Century by NPR and “one of the most important musical minds currently walking the planet” by American Songwriter. All of that and she’s never lost touch with the simple idea that folk music is meant to connect everyday people to one another.
