Bands


Fiddlers Three

Fiddlers Three: Melissa Bragdon Caron, Ellen Carlson, and Kathy Sommer Zimpfer with Kris Day, Denny Breau, Rob Kneeland, and Steve Roy. (photo credit: Rebecca Conley)
Fiddlers Three: Melissa Bragdon Caron, Ellen Carlson, and Kathy Sommer Zimpfer with Kris Day, Denny Breau, Rob Kneeland, and Steve Roy. (photo credit: Rebecca Conley)

"Melissa Bragdon Caron and Kathy Zimpfer Sommer team up with Ellen Carlson for a fiddle-centric project loaded with great musical moments. From the opening cut, 'Big John McNeil,' where they romp through several keys with triple fiddles all while playing harmony, they set a standard that is held on a wide range of music. Each of the fiddlers is an accomplished musician demonstrating not only extreme discipline in an ensemble but also the ability to take a melody and run with exquisite improvisation. The diversity of material on the project is stunning. It includes two Bill Monroe tunes, tunes by Bob Wills, Guy Clark, Chuck Berry, and David Grisman – all in powerful arrangements that bring life to each piece. The able backup musicians lay down a consistent groove that incorporates western swing, rockabilly, bluegrass, and country. For all fans of American fiddle – including the U.S. and Canada – this project is worth your attention."

–Bob Buckingham, Fiddler Magazine

"Stuff That Works" Album Sampler on YouTube:


Sugar Hill

Sugar Hill (photo credit Rebecca Conley)
Sugar Hill (photo credit Rebecca Conley)

Sugar Hill is a high-energy, Portland-based acoustic duo playing Celtic, bluegrass, old-time, and early country music. Expect to hear upbeat banjo/fiddle tunes, lonesome Appalachian ballads, tight bluegrass harmony singing, jigs and reels from throughout the Celtic world, and much more!

Melissa Bragdon Caron - fiddle/vocals

Kevin Caron - banjo/guitar/vocals


Jerks of Grass

Jerks of Grass
Jerks of Grass

Priding themselves on tight arrangements, stellar musicianship, and an ability to delight even the most suspicious of audiences, it's no surprise that the Jerks have remained one of Maine's busiest acts for over twenty years!


Weddings

Melissa often plays for wedding ceremonies, cocktail hours, and private events. She offers the options of solo violin, duo with guitar accompaniment, or various string ensembles. Check out the YouTube videos below of Melissa and Ellen Carlson playing "Pachelbel Canon," "Lady Be Good," "The Butterfly," and "Cuckoo's Nest."