Larry Gillis and Hardriving Swampgrass

A world renowned banjo picker, and one of the few who still plays the old claw hammer style, Larry GIllis definitely has a style of his own. 2012 marks thirty-two years in the business for Larry and truly justifies the title “Dr. Swampgrass Gillis”.

James Reams

James Reams formed the Barnstormers in 1993. Coming from a family of traditional singers in southeastern Kentucky, James has played both old-time and bluegrass music since he was just a little sprout. James is known as an “ambassador of Bluegrass” for his dedication to and deep involvement in the thriving bluegrass and Americana music community. To date, he has released eight CDs including a special DVD documentary of the band.

Jeff Scroggins and Colorado

Jeff Scroggins and Colorado is a high energy, high mountain “bluegrass explosion,” that features the amazing banjo playing of Jeff Scroggins. Jeff’s fiery style and lightning fast licks have earned him many fans worldwide, and have left many a first time listener in stunned disbelief!

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The Durango Bluegrass Meltdown is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion and preservation of bluegrass music as an American art form. Since 1995, we have been presenting a unique experience in Durango, the gem of Southwest Colorado. The Meltdown features three unique, intimate main stages, a super jam, barn dance (Durango style), Saturday night Celtdown (for all you closet Celtoids!), and music flowing from bars, restaurants, coffee houses, and downtown streets and sidewalks--all within walking distance. Our headquarters are located in the historic Strater Hotel where jamming and merriment goes on into the wee hours of the morning, as the cowboys and miners would have liked it!

Musical Lineup

Check out the 2013 Durango Bluegrass Meltdown Lineuup, including New Reeltime Travelers, Larry Gillis and Hard Driving Swampgrass, James Reams and the Barnstormers with Blaine Sprouse, Bluegrass 101 and many others!

Lodging & Dining

Our list of preferred lodging and dining. Special hotel rates from our sponsors.

Special Events

Celtdown, Barn Dance, workshops, and more…