Mr. Sun Plays Ellington’s Nutcracker

Acoustic supergroup Mr. Sun — featuring renowned fiddler Darol Anger, guitarist Grant Gordy, Scottish bassist Aidan O’Donnell, and mandolinist Joe Walsh — brings a genre-defying holiday performance to Crested Butte. Reimagining Duke Ellington’s jazz interpretation of The Nutcracker Suite, Mr. Sun blends acoustic mastery with inventive improvisation for a fresh take on this timeless classic.

This special evening features support from the talented CBCS High School Band, making it a celebration of community, creativity, and world-class musicianship. Known for their dynamic presence in the acoustic Americana music scene, Mr. Sun has captivated audiences at Wintergrass, Grey Fox, FreshGrass, and the IBMA conventions, earning acclaim for their innovative sound and exceptional artistry.

If you haven’t heard of the cheerfully named supergroup Mr Sun, you’ve certainly heard its members — four of the finest musicians in the American roots scene:

• Darol Anger – Renowned fiddler and Professor Emeritus at Berklee College of Music. Anger has released numerous solo albums, performed with David Grisman and Mike Marshall, and founded groundbreaking ensembles including the Turtle Island Quartet, Psychograss, and Republic of Strings.

• Joe K. Walsh – Mandolin virtuoso, vocalist, and songwriter who spent four years with the award-winning Gibson Brothers before launching his solo career. Walsh is also a Strings Department Professor at Berklee.

• Grant Gordy – Acclaimed guitarist and former member of David Grisman’s legendary band, celebrated for his innovative style and technical mastery.

• Aidan O’Donnell – Phenomenal Scottish bassist whose dynamic range and versatility make him an essential part of Mr Sun’s signature sound.