Band Bio
Blue Ridge Gathering is a Knoxville-based neo-traditional old-time trio that blends the soulful roots of Appalachian music with fresh energy and a modern twist. Featuring Cody Bauer, Jessica Watson, and Duck Ryan, the group weaves traditional old-time with influences from bluegrass, Celtic, and folk music—delivering a sound that is both timeless and alive.
Their dynamic repertoire includes original songs and tunes alongside thoughtful covers of artists like the Reeltime Travelers, Gillian Welch, and Joe Troop, as well as a rich trove of old-time fiddle tunes. Known for their vibrant stage presence and the ability to create a full, textured sound with just three instruments, Blue Ridge Gathering transforms every performance into a memorable experience.
The trio’s artistry has been recognized at the heart of old-time music culture, the Appalachian Stringband Festival (Clifftop), where they took 1st place in the Neo-Traditional Band competition in 2024. They also earned accolades for Best Original Song (2023) and Best Original Tune (2024) at the same festival.
Blue Ridge Gathering recently recorded a five-song EP, featuring three original tracks that showcase their unique voice in the evolving old-time music landscape.
Member Bio
Cody Bauer was first inspired to play the fiddle by his grandfather, Tom Smith. Many of his cousins started learning traditional instruments around the same time and they had a lot of fun jamming at family gatherings and at music festivals in their home state of Indiana. In 2015, Cody was proud to carry the family tradition of fiddling all the way to Nashville where he had the honor of playing with Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mt Boys at Stanley’s last show at the Grand Ole Opry.
Cody has garnered a number of 1st place wins at fiddle contests throughout central Appalachia. He has toured internationally in places such as Ireland, Canada and Belize and with various bands has placed 1st in several band contests including: SPBGMA Bluegrass Band Contest, Rocky Grass, Clifftop Neo-Trad, and the Galax Fiddlers’ Convention.
Cody currently works for a wonderful non-profit called Junior Appalachian Musicians (JAM) which provides out of school traditional music opportunities for students in rural Appalachia. Bauer studied under some wonderful teachers notably Louie Popejoy, Andy Burton, Chad Manning and acclaimed fiddler Hunter Berry. He has taught a number of students in person and online over the years. Cody holds a B.S. in Education and an M.A. in Religion.
Jessica Watson grew up in a small southern baptist church, where she first developed a love of singing and being surrounded by voices in harmony. After picking up the guitar at a young age, she began learning songs by artists like Patty Griffin, Dolly Parton, and Alison Krauss, and eventually writing her own songs. When her musical journey led her to Middle Tennessee State University, she was introduced to the clawhammer banjo, and the beauty of old-time music. This genre, among others, strongly influences Jessica’s playing and writing to date.
Jessica can be seen playing and singing with several Knoxville based bands, including Blue Ridge Gathering, Red Shoes & Rosin, Legbeard, and Count This Penny. Jessica’s contributions to Blue Ridge Gathering include songwriting, lead and harmony vocals, banjo and guitar, and helping book for the band. She is also involved in the larger Knoxville old-time, Jazz, and singer-songwriter communities in Knoxville. Outside of music Jessica enjoys participating in outdoor activities and reading.
Duck Ryan began playing bluegrass banjo in college when they joined the Pellissippi State Community College bluegrass program. Duck’s interest in various genres and styles comes through in their eclectic and thoughtful songwriting and energetic stage presence. Duck’s role within Blue Ridge Gathering includes songwriting, banjo and guitar, lead and harmony vocals and social media and community outreach. Outside of BRG Duck can be seen collaborating with other Knoxville musicians and artists creating a more vibrant and supportive community.