Have a Gaden party
Hear high-energy string music when Gadan brings its transatlantic blend of Irish traditional music, bluegrass and Appalachian roots to the Lincoln City Cultural Center on Tuesday, Feb. 10.
The international touring ensemble features tenor banjo standout Enda Scahill alongside founding members Lorenzo Testa and Jacopo Ventura, fiddle virtuoso Joan Gatti and American clawhammer banjoist and songwriter Eric Long.
Formed by Italian multi-instrumentalists Testa and Ventura, the group draws from Irish trad, European folk and American old-time influences, producing a distinctive, strings-only sound built around banjos, fiddle, mandolin and guitar. Performances are known for driving rhythms, storytelling and inventive arrangements that move easily between traditional tunes and original material.
Scahill is widely regarded as one of the world’s leading tenor banjo players. A founding member of the acclaimed Irish group We Banjo 3, he is a four-time All-Ireland Champion and an influential figure in modern Irish traditional music. He is also the author of “The Complete Guide to Irish Tenor Banjo,” a definitive instructional book used by players worldwide.
Trained in both traditional Irish music and American roots styles, Testa is known for his dynamic banjo playing and inventive arrangements. He has performed extensively throughout Europe and North America and is respected for his ability to blend tradition with modern sensibilities.
Ventura is an Italian guitarist celebrated for his tasteful accompaniment, rhythmic precision and musical versatility. His playing anchors the ensemble, seamlessly supporting both Irish and American traditions. Ventura’s background in folk, bluegrass and acoustic music gives Gadan its strong harmonic foundation and driving pulse.
Gatti is a rising fiddle virtuoso whose playing brings lyrical phrasing and fiery intensity to Gadan’s sound. Based in Italy, he has studied Irish traditional music extensively while also drawing inspiration from folk traditions across Europe.
Long is an Appalachian-rooted songwriter, clawhammer banjo player and vocalist based in San Francisco. Known for his soulful delivery and deep connection to American old-time music, Long adds a distinctly American voice to Gadan’s transatlantic blend. His songwriting and banjo work expand the group’s repertoire into new narrative and rhythmic territory.
Tuesday’s concert begins at 7 pm at the Lincoln City Cultural Center, located at 540 NE Hwy. 101. Tickets range from $20 to $42. For more information, go to lincolncity-culturalcenter.org or call 541-994-9994.