Greensky Bluegrass to Headline Ann Arbor Folk Festival

Michigan-based bluegrass band excited for first appearance at prestigious event

Jan. 29, 2026 at 5:47am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Greensky Bluegrass, a leading act in the contemporary bluegrass and Americana music scene, is set to headline the 49th annual Ann Arbor Folk Festival this weekend. The quintet, which formed in Kalamazoo in 2000, will take the stage on Friday, January 30th, with opener Junior Brown, in what will be their first-ever performance at the prestigious festival.

Why it matters

The Ann Arbor Folk Festival is one of the most renowned folk music events in the country, drawing top acts from the bluegrass, Americana, and folk genres. Greensky Bluegrass' inclusion as a headliner represents a significant milestone in the band's 25-year career, as they have long admired the festival and the Ark organization that runs it.

The details

Greensky Bluegrass, known for their energetic live performances and skilled musicianship, will have the opportunity to showcase their talents with a longer, focused set on Friday night. The Saturday lineup features a diverse array of folk acts including Amos Lee, Dawes, and local favorites The Crane Wives. The band's appearance comes on the heels of their 25th anniversary celebration last fall, which included a new album featuring collaborations with artists like Billy Strings and Sam Bush.

  • Greensky Bluegrass will perform at the Ann Arbor Folk Festival on Friday, January 30, 2026.
  • The Ann Arbor Folk Festival is celebrating its 49th year in 2026.

The players

Greensky Bluegrass

A Michigan-based quintet that has emerged as a leading act in the contemporary bluegrass and Americana music scene over the past 25 years.

Dave Bruzza

The guitarist for Greensky Bluegrass, who splits his time between Michigan and Toronto.

The Ark

The nonprofit organization that has hosted the Ann Arbor Folk Festival for the past 49 years.

Junior Brown

The opening act for Greensky Bluegrass at the Ann Arbor Folk Festival on Friday, January 30th.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We've always wanted to be part of the Ann Arbor Folk Festival; it just hasn't worked out before. So it's really exciting to have the opportunity and be able to do it now.”

— Dave Bruzza, Guitarist, Greensky Bluegrass (theoaklandpress.com)

“We're always creating and always writing. I think at this point, I'm just still in awe of what it is… because it kind of started as a fun thing to do and something to learn, and throughout the years we've been rewarded with so many different things and experiences. I'm just very humbled… and very proud of us. It's quite an impressive accolade to achieve.”

— Dave Bruzza, Guitarist, Greensky Bluegrass (theoaklandpress.com)

What’s next

Greensky Bluegrass' performance at the Ann Arbor Folk Festival on Friday, January 30th will be their first appearance at the prestigious event.

The takeaway

Greensky Bluegrass' inclusion as a headliner at the Ann Arbor Folk Festival represents a significant milestone in the band's 25-year career, as they have long admired the festival and the Ark organization that runs it. Their energetic bluegrass sound and skilled musicianship are sure to captivate the audience at this renowned folk music event.