This week's Bitesize episode comes from a fascinating conversation I had with Tristan Scroggins in 2021.

In this section Tristan reflects on what it means to come to bluegrass as an 'outsider' and how culture and connection aren't just about geographical borders.

Growing up in New Mexico, despite learning traditional bluegrass from his father, Tristan felt a disconnect from the roots of the music. Later, when he moved to Nashville, he found himself wondering exactly why he loves bluegrass so much. 

Whether we're taking about European festival fans reacting to bluegrass (and the culture they perceive accompanies it), or the generation of northern and western musicians who came to bluegrass in the 1960s and 70s as a result of the folk revival, there's a common thread of music transcending boundaries. 

As a Brit coming to this music from outside both the region and the culture, yet feeling like I somehow belong, I find these conversations fascinating.

You can hear my full interview with Tristan on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

For more on Tristan, head to tristanscroggins.com or follow Tristan on Instagram

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Thanks to Bryan Sutton for his wonderful theme tune to Bluegrass Jam Along (and to Justin Moses for playing the fiddle!)

Bluegrass Jam Along is proud to be sponsored by Collings Guitars and Mandolins and Token premium guitar picks

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