Mike Marshall joins Paul Kowert (of the Punch Brothers), and violinist Alex Hargreaves (left), the youngest person to ever win Grand Champion at the National Old-Time Fiddler’s Contest. With intricate arrangements and incisive improvisation, the Big Trio integrates the history and international breadth of acoustic string music.

Formed less than three years ago when a group of mutual acquaintances decided to fill an open slot at Merlefest, The Belleville Outfit (right), has soaked up both nuance and energy while sharing stages with Lyle Lovett, Ricky Skaggs’s Kentucky Thunder, and The Del McCoury Band. The six band-members’ personal stories contribute to a distinctive swinging and sassy sound.