The Woodpicks

A Traditional Bluegrass and Americana Band

Unique talents of the five members of northern MinnesotaÕs The WoodPicks have helped them forge a unique blend of instrumental dexterity and vocal presence. Their enjoyable stage show incorporates strong harmonies and musical style that features their own arrangements of original music and old favorites.

The group came together in 2005 when the band started playing northern Minnesota venues. Their acoustic mix includes Gospel, Bluegrass, Country and Americana music. One of their original arrangements, ÒBarn Again!Ó was included in a collection of rural Americana for the Smithsonian Institute. They perform at county fairs, bluegrass festivals, urban and rural venues, and corporate events.

In 2012 the WoodPicks were featured on the PBS televison show Prairie Musicians. HereÕs what Barb Gravel, the production manager for Prairie Public had to say about the session. ÒGet ready for a boot stompinÕ, toe tappinÕ good time with the WoodPicks from Thief River Falls, Mn. This group of five multi-talented musicians perform a mix of gospel, bluegrass, country and Americana music that turn any venue into a barn dance. Their passion to perform is apparent and the talents of J.D. Kezar on harmonica are astounding.Ó

Members of the WoodPicks include Greg Dally, mandolin; Dustin Keller on bass fiddle; Gene Lunsetter, guitar; Milo Ballingrud, banjo; and J.D. Kezar, fiddle, harmonica, jaw harp and guitar. All five contribute vocally to the band. The members have many years of experience playing in various groups throughout the continental United States, Canada and Alaska.

The WoodPicks have been fortunate to share the stage with such great acts as the Grascals, Monroe Crossing, Dailey and Vincent, actor/singer Ned Beatty, JD Crowe, John Cowan, High Plains Tradition and Special Consensus.

This traditional bluegrass and Americana band can be funded under performing art grants.

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