Nearly 15 years ago, New River String Band burst onto the scene as an award winning trio in the Pizza Hut "International Bluegrass Showdown". Through the years the group has progressed into a six piece ensemble with roots in traditional and contemporary bluegrass, now hailing as New River Bluegrass.

One thing hasn't changed over all the years; the love and excitement of performing hard driving and thought provoking acoustic music. It's evident when you can catch this group live, and even more so when you can sit just feet away from them and listen in to the wonderful back and forth play of instruments and tight vocal harmonies. NRB lives for that experience; to feel the reverberation of their acoustic sound, to be immersed in high lonesome vocals. Most importantly, they love to share the experience with you.

Co-founder of the group, played professionally with the Armstrong Brothers acoustic group in the early 1970’s and, more recently, was guitarist and lead vocalist for the Southeast regional award-winning bluegrass trio Red Line Express. Doug has been performing with NEW RIVER for nearly 15 years.

Originally from North Carolina, has enjoyed playing music and performing for folks for most of his adult life. He transitioned from Rock-n-Roll to 50s & 60s to Country to Blues then settled into Bluegrass and hasn’t looked back. Jim switched from guitar to mandolin in the mid 1990’s and has performed with other area Bluegrass bands before joining NEW RIVER.

Hailing from Cajun Country, received his first guitar in a cardboard box at age 11 and has been playing bass since high school. Buzz made his first recording at Bradley’s Barn in Mt. Juliet, TN. at age 18, played professionally throughout the 70’s, entertained two Presidents at diplomatic functions, and played half-time shows at major sporting events. He recently transitioned from hard rock back to his bluegrass roots with his benchmark hard-driving playing style.

Born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, has been playing Bluegrass banjo for over 30 years (he’s also an accomplished musician on the guitar, mandolin and dobro). Prior to joining NEW RIVER, Bob played banjo with Florida Bluegrass Championship-Winning Lost River Band.

A native of Florida, acquired his “bluegrass roots” in early childhood from his father and uncle, who performed at local theaters and radio stations. Since the mid 60’s his involvement with bluegrass increased, so did the demands on himself and his abilities. He has a great admiration for those who share his enthusiasm for what he calls “real music”. Pat joined NEW RIVER in the winter of 2004.

Also a Florida native, has literally been playing music most of his life. John began his musical training at age 6 playing old time songs with his father on instruments too big for him. At 29 he is now a highly versatile and accomplished musician on the fiddle and guitar. John discovered his enjoyment of vocal work after joining NEW RIVER.