Uproot Hootenanny

Get ready for a foot-stomping, hand-clapping, pint-raising musical celebration with Uproot Hootenanny, South Florida's exciting fusion of Celtic, Irish, bluegrass, and Americana music! Based in the greater Fort Lauderdale–Miami metropolitan area, near Delray Beach, Florida, this incredibly talented group delivers its own infectious musical style known as "Americeltic Pubgrass!" Combining the spirited traditions of Irish pub music with the driving rhythms of American bluegrass, folk, and roots music, Uproot Hootenanny creates a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience that keeps audiences smiling, singing, and dancing. With their playful motto, "Here for the Craic!"—the Irish expression for good times, fun, and lively conversation—this band knows how to turn an ordinary gathering into an unforgettable celebration.

Uproot Hootenanny brings together an extraordinary collection of musicians whose diverse backgrounds and musical influences create a sound that's as exciting as it is distinctive. Featuring a lively combination of fiddle, banjo, guitar, upright bass, mandolin, and vocals, the band blends traditional Celtic melodies with bluegrass picking, Americana storytelling, and the free-spirited energy of a great Irish pub session. Their music draws inspiration from Irish folk traditions, classic American roots music, rock and roll, country, and improvisational jam-band influences. The result is a wonderfully entertaining musical experience that appeals to audiences of all ages and musical tastes.

Looking for an authentic Irish or Celtic band to bring excitement to your next event? Uproot Hootenanny is an outstanding choice for St. Patrick's Day celebrations, Irish festivals, Celtic cultural events, pub parties, and traditional music gatherings. Their lively instrumentation and spirited performances capture the warmth and camaraderie of Irish musical traditions while adding a distinctly American bluegrass twist. Whether you're planning a festive Irish-themed party, an outdoor beer garden celebration, or a packed pub event, Uproot Hootenanny brings the kind of infectious energy that makes guests feel like they're part of the performance.

For weddings, rehearsal dinners, cocktail receptions, and private celebrations, Uproot Hootenanny offers a refreshing alternative to traditional event entertainment. Their acoustic-driven sound creates a welcoming, festive atmosphere that works beautifully for rustic weddings, waterfront celebrations, garden parties, and casual outdoor receptions. Imagine the joyful sounds of fiddle and banjo filling the air as friends and family gather to celebrate a special occasion. From relaxed Americana melodies to lively Celtic dance tunes, their musical versatility makes them a memorable addition to weddings, anniversary parties, birthday celebrations, and family gatherings.

Uproot Hootenanny is also a fantastic entertainment choice for corporate events, festivals, and community celebrations. Their combination of Irish folk, Celtic music, bluegrass, and Americana is especially well suited for outdoor concerts, cultural festivals, craft beer events, holiday parties, and company gatherings. The band's friendly stage presence, instrumental talent, and improvisational spirit create a lively atmosphere that encourages audiences to relax, connect, and enjoy the music. Whether entertaining an intimate gathering or a large festival crowd, Uproot Hootenanny brings a sense of musical adventure and genuine fun to the occasion.

At the heart of Uproot Hootenanny is guitarist, upright bassist, and vocalist Brian Bolen, whose musical journey began with the legendary guitar sounds of Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton, and Jimi Hendrix. His passion for music soon expanded into blues, folk, and American roots traditions, drawing inspiration from artists such as B.B. King, Robert Johnson, Bob Dylan, Woody Guthrie, Jerry Garcia, and Trey Anastasio. These wide-ranging influences shine through in Brian's distinctive guitar playing, blending soulful expression, creative improvisation, and a deep appreciation for musical history. His experience as a professional musician adds depth and character to the band's signature sound.

Adding the unmistakable excitement of Celtic fiddle is Brian Trew, a talented violinist, violist, and vocalist whose musical background reaches deep into Irish folk traditions. Beginning his musical training at age eleven, Brian helped form the Irish folk group Celtic Rogues, performing throughout Florida and the United Kingdom and participating in the recording of three albums. Influenced by celebrated Celtic groups such as The Chieftains, Altan, and The Clancy Brothers, he also developed an appreciation for country and Southern rock. His formal musical education at Florida Atlantic University and experience with orchestral and world music bring a distinctive level of musicianship to Uproot Hootenanny. His expressive fiddle playing helps connect the band's Celtic roots with its energetic American bluegrass influences.

On banjo and vocals, David Welch brings an infectious enthusiasm for traditional American music, bluegrass, and the communal spirit of live performance. Originally from Maine, David developed his passion for music after moving to Florida, eventually discovering the banjo through his experiences at bluegrass festivals. Inspired by musicians ranging from Earl Scruggs and John Prine to Jerry Garcia, Christy Moore, and Led Zeppelin, David brings an adventurous musical perspective to the group. For him, Uproot Hootenanny is about more than simply performing songs—it's about friends making music together and creating an atmosphere where everyone can have the time of their life. That welcoming philosophy is a defining part of the band's personality.

Completing this talented musical lineup is Nico Kiriazis, a versatile upright bassist, mandolin player, and vocalist whose impressive musical background spans jazz, rock, bluegrass, ska, and improvisational jam music. Performing professionally since his teenage years, Nico has developed exceptional versatility across numerous instruments and musical genres. His experience includes performing with groups such as The Funky Nuggets, Gator Wine, and The Grass Is Dead, as well as sharing stages with musicians associated with The Allman Brothers, Umphrey's McGee, Alice Cooper, and other notable acts. His energetic stage presence, creative musicianship, and enthusiasm for improvisation add another exciting dimension to Uproot Hootenanny's performances.

What truly makes Uproot Hootenanny special is the chemistry between its musicians and their shared love of bringing people together through music. Rather than limiting themselves to a single musical tradition, they embrace the connections between Celtic folk, American bluegrass, country, blues, and roots rock. Their performances celebrate the joy of musical collaboration, where traditional melodies meet creative arrangements and spirited instrumental interplay. It's the kind of live entertainment that can turn a quiet audience into a room full of smiling faces, tapping feet, and enthusiastic applause.

Booking Uproot Hootenanny for your next wedding, Irish festival, corporate celebration, St. Patrick's Day party, private event, or outdoor concert is a fantastic way to bring something truly distinctive to your entertainment lineup. Whether you're searching for a South Florida Celtic band, an energetic Irish pub band, a talented bluegrass ensemble, or a versatile Americana group, Uproot Hootenanny delivers a memorable combination of musical talent, personality, and pure entertainment. From Delray Beach and Fort Lauderdale to Miami, Palm Beach, and beyond, their Americeltic Pubgrass sound is a perfect fit for celebrations that call for great music and great company. Gather your friends, put on your dancing shoes, and get ready for an incredible musical hootenanny—because Uproot Hootenanny is here for the Craic!