Appealing to traditional and progressive acoustic music fans alike, The Ruta Beggars combine bluegrass and early swing to create a timeless act filled with intricate vocal harmonies, fiery instrumentals, and plenty of fun. They have been praised for their creative yet tasteful arrangements and charming performances. Since 2018 they have brought the joy of their live show to audiences across the US and Canada from festival stages to storied folk listening rooms and as support for legacy acts Lyle Lovett and Ricky Skaggs. The Ruta Beggars are 2019 Thomas Point band competition winners, 2023 IBMA official showcasing artists, Freshgrass Foundation commissioned composers, Freshgrass Award finalists, and Skyline Records artists. The Ruta Beggars are Micah Nicol (guitar), Trevin Nelson (banjo), Noah Harrington (bass), Sam Stage (fiddle), and Jean-Baptiste Cardineau (mandolin).
Opening for the band will be folksinger Lindsey Fyfe Perkel with her husband Jason Perkel. Fyfe Perkel interprets traditional folk, bluegrass, country and Celtic songs with a clear voice, steady guitar hand, and the occasional fiddle run. Fyfe Perkel as served as the Executive Director of The Sounding Board since 2020.
Doors open at 7 pm and the concert begins at 7:30 pm. The Sounding Board is located at 433 Fern Street, West Hartford at the Fiske Hall of the Universalist Church. Parking lot and venue are accessible.