Mark O’Connor

A product of America’s rich aural folk tradition as well as classical music, Mark O’Connor’s creative journey began at the feet of musical giants, folk fiddler and innovator, Benny Thomasson, and French jazz violinist, Stephane Grappelli.

Between these marvelous musical extremes, Mark O’Connor absorbed knowledge and influence from the multitude of musical styles and genres he studied. Now, at age 54, he has melded and shaped these influences into a new American Classical music, and a vision of an entirely American school of string playing.

O’Connor has performed numerous times at every major bluegrass festival in the United States, both solo as well as with Strength In Numbers and Tony Rice. Over the last 25 years, he has successfully branched out into classical and jazz realms, composing numerous violin concertos and collaborating with the likes of Alison Krauss, James Taylor, Yo-Yo Ma, Wynton Marsalis, Chris Thile, and Renee Fleming. He has recorded over 40 albums and sold more than two million units as a solo artist.

You can find out more about Mark and his work here.

The Mid-Columbia Traditional Arts & Music Association are proud to host the O’Connor Family Band featuring Mark O’Connor at this year’s Sacajawea Bluegrass Festival, June 10th – 12th at Sacajawea State Park.