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Julian and Ethan Workshop *CANCELLED*

  • Michigan Academy of Folk Music 451 Columbia Avenue Holland, MI, 49423 United States (map)

THIS WORKSHOP IS CANCELLED.

In the words of Ethan Setiawan,

“This workshop will focus on the joys and trials of playing in a duo. The goal is always to create a complete sound however we can, which is that much harder with fewer people in the band. To that end, we will explore how to utilize various unorthodox comping techniques, and the curious freedom that comes with playing in a duo.”

"Julian is one of the most exciting fiddlers in this new generation of musicians who can play just about anything."

             - Darol Anger

...Ethan fully grasps the importance of leaving space in his playing, letting notes breathe, and allowing the mandolin’s sound to expand fully.

- Bluegrass Unlimited

"His [Julian’s] fiddle playing is unique and joyful, a rare mix of technical precision and soul. I was immediately struck by his musicianship, and his flexibility to be both a leader and an ensemble player."

            - Aoife O'Donovan

It’s so great to hear Ethan blasting through with something new, but always deeply rooted, in this very American acoustic landscape of sounds.

- Mike Marshall


Julian Pinelli and Ethan Setiawan are both at the forefront of their generation of virtuosic roots musicians. However, respect for space and composition, along with a reverence for tradition temper their agility. While the two can be found in a myriad of different contexts, within this duo they shine collectively and personally in a rare light. The music is rooted in collaboration; it consists of fiddle music from all over the United States and France, and collaborative tunes that sprung up in real time in the studio. Recorded over 2 days in November at Blue Jay Studios in Carlisle, MA, it’s a real life snapshot of these musicians. 

Sprung from the music of southern Appalachia, Julian is a free-spirited violinist who spins deep tone with modern ease. Awarded the 2016 Fresh Grass Fiddle Award and winner of the 2017 RockyGrass fiddle competition, Julian has toured extensively with cellist Ben Sollee and progressive bluegrass outfit Front Country. Drawn by his love of improvising and the inherent expressiveness of acoustic music, Julian is a nuanced tune-writer and recently released his debut album of bluegrass inspired instrumentals in May 2019.

Straddling the bounds of roots music, bringing tradition to light with deep innovation, mandolinist Ethan Setiawan brings worlds together. A Boston-based mandolin player who’s won such accolades as the National Mandolin Championship and the RockyGrass Mandolin Championship, he’s a member of bands Corner House, Mudskippers, The Harmolodic String Band, and freelances with musicians including Darol Anger and Tony Trischka. His debut full-length album, “Flux” is made up of original tunes drawing from the deep well of American roots music. 


Please note, there will also be a live concert at 7pm!


Ticket Pricing

Workshop Only

Youth $5 | Adults (18+) $15

Combined Workshop + Concert

Youth $12 | Adults (18+) $25 

Payment can also be dropped off or mailed to Michigan Academy of Folk Music 451 Columbia Ave Ste E2 Holland, MI 49423