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May 23, 2026

Introducing – Pickin’ in the Gap!

New this year at Gathering in the Gap Music Festival: Pickin’ in the Gap!

Music lovers and musicians alike will have a chance to do more than just listen at this year’s Gathering in the Gap Music Festival. Festival organizers are excited to introduce Pickin’ in the Gap, a new interactive jam session experience designed to bring festivalgoers and performers together through the shared tradition of live acoustic music.

Held throughout the day in the festival’s jam tent, Pickin’ in the Gap will feature hosted sessions led by members of the festival’s main stage lineup, offering attendees a unique opportunity to play alongside some of the event’s featured artists.

The jam session schedule includes:

12 p.m. — Dave Eggar (cello) and Peyton Kendrick (banjo/mandolin)
1 p.m. — David Shenton (fiddle)
2 p.m. — Phil Faconti (guitar)
3 p.m. — Lonesome River Band

The first three sessions will be hosted by members of acclaimed cellist Dave Eggar’s band, while the final session will be hosted by the award-winning Lonesome River Band.

Pickin’ in the Gap is open to musicians of all ages and skill levels, from beginners looking to learn to seasoned players eager to join in. Participants are encouraged to bring their instruments and take part in the spontaneous spirit of old-fashioned jam sessions.

PERFORMERS

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CRYSTAL GAYLE

Crystal Gayle was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry as a member in January 2017 by her sister Loretta Lynn. The Academy of Country Music recognized Crystal with a 2016 Cliffie Stone Pioneer Award for her lifetime achievements in country music, and in 2009, Crystal was honored to receive her own star on the fabled Hollywood Walk of Fame.

DAVE EGGAR AND BRISTOL LIGHTING

FT. BLAKE COLLINS AND TANNER PERRY

Dave Eggar is regarded as one of the finest cellists on the planet. That cello solo you hear in the intro to Coldplay’s first #1 single “Viva La Vida” is Dave’s performance. On the Billboard Top 200 #1 album, the debut solo album by Zayn Malik, Mind of Mine, Dave plays and arranged the music.

OTHER PERFORMERS

The Acoustic Arbor stage at Gathering in the Gap features local and regional bluegrass, folk, and country musicians from around the region. The Acoustic Arbor stage will be offering live music from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Performances at the Acoustic Arbor stage are free, but seating is first-come-first-serve. Show up early to claim your spot.