Russ Barenberg

Russ Barenberg is one of the most melodic instrumentalists in contemporary bluegrass. Best known for his Clarence White-style flatpicking, Barenberg often uses his other three fingers to enhance rhythm and melody and create a more textural sensitivity. A former member of Country Cooking, Heartlands, Fiddle Fever, and Laughing Hands, Barenberg has remained active since moving to Nashville in 1986.



Inspired by Doc Watson and Mississippi John Hurt, Barenberg began playing guitar at the age of 13. Along with his brother and sister, he took lessons from Alan Miller, the older brother of future bandmate John Miller. A turning point came in 1964, when Barenberg discovered the late Clarence White on an album by The Kentucky Colonels, Appalachian Swing!



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