Common Ground Downtown

Bryan McDowell is a person predictable only in his consistent excellence. Fiddler, vocalist, and master of stringed instruments, his reputation is solidifying as a musician of great interest on the acoustic scene.

With his move to Nashville in 2013, Bryan grounded his career in a 4-year tenure with Claire Lynch. He has logged considerable time on the road with bluegrass notables Sierra Hull, Alison Brown, Ron Block, & Molly Tuttle, and shared the stage and studio with an ever-expanding list of legendary names from the realm of roots and acoustic music. The talents of the new master have made their way on to several recordings garnering IBMA awards, and one project receiving a Grammy nomination.

In 2018, he returned to his hometown of Asheville, NC. Choosing now to commit his time and efforts to training youth in the traditions of mountain music, he teaches full time on an array of stringed instruments. With humility and care, he passes on the legacy of his mentor and instructor, Arvil Freeman.

Other accolades include Bryan’s triple win – a sweep of the fiddle, mandolin, and guitar categories – at the National Flatpicking Championship in ’09, and his 21 other instrument contest titles from ’09 & ’10.