Muddy River String Band

The Muddy River String Band began its slow formation in the summer of 2005. Long-time Albuquerque and Santa Fe musician Bruce Irwin invited reformed 'cellist Ben Prior to join his group Bruce and Friends. Many people had moved in and out of that group over time, always lead by the indomitable Bruce. Bruce and Friends played at many Albuquerque venues, including public libraries, conventions, reunions, and nursing homes. The group was always an eclectic mix of instruments, from the Appalachian Mountain dulcimer to more common instruments like guitar and mandolin.

Bruce Irwin Shortly after joining Bruce and Friends, Ben Prior suggested that his wife join the band. Diane Prior had recently learned to play the hammered dulcimer. It was during this time that she also discovered her voice. Diane began to sing several songs for Bruce and Friends, as well as playing her dulcimer.

After several performances, Bruce decided that a guitar player was needed to round out the band. Bruce tapped the local talent and discovered Art Garcia. It quickly became evident that Art's talents were well developed. Bruce declared Art to be co-leader of Bruce and Friends.

By the end of 2005, Bruce and Friends was well established, with the central core of Bruce, Art, Ben, and Diane. Other people came and went, always providing entertaining variety. The band performed for the Weems Artfest as well as the Nob Hill shop and stroll event at Christmas time. Through 2006 and early 2007 Bruce and Friends performed at numerous local events including festivals, City functions, private events, and nursing homes.

When the opportunity came to record our first CD, Cactus Jam, it also became apparent that our rigorous practice and performance schedule was taking a toll on our fearless leader, Bruce Irwin. When he decided to retire from the band we took on our new name as well as a new direction, adding Art’s wife, Lynda, as our bass player and incorporating a wider variety of music, different arrangements, and more original material.

Muddy River String Band has already had over 100 performances in the local area, and we are the 2008 FIRST PLACE WINNERS of the Santa Fe Bluegrass and Old Time Music Festival's bluegrass band contest. We will continue to develop and refine our sound for the rest of 2009 and are looking forward to branching out regionally – maybe even nationally – in 2010!