What is it they say about the family that plays together?

Well, even if they don't all live under the same roof, this family makes terrific music and has a rip-roarin' good time while they're at it. The Jay Ungar & Molly Mason Family Band features Jay, Molly, Jay's daughter Ruth Ungar Merenda, and her husband Michael Merenda. The band travel's with Ruthy and Mike's son Will, born January 28, 2008. He's not playing an instrument yet but is sometimes heard none the less.

With exceptional musicianship and a vast knowledge of a number of music styles, Jay Ungar & Molly Mason are one of the most celebrated duos in American acoustic music. They achieved international acclaim in 1990 when their performance of Jay's composition Ashokan Farewell became the musical hallmark of Ken Burns' The Civil War on PBS.

You may know Ruth and Mike Merenda from their band, The Mammals. Ruth Merenda cut her teeth on traditional music, and grew up to be a top-flight performer. She brings fiddle, ukulele, guitar and deeply moving vocal performances to the Family Band. Mike Merenda favored rock and ska before being drawn into the world of acoustic music. He adds old-time banjo, guitar and percussion to the mix.

Four terrific musicians. Put them together and the sum really is greater than its parts. Double fiddles, sweet vocal harmonies and rhythmic energy abound as two generations collaborate to entertain you with music from the heart and soul of America.