Ireland’s premiere music conference, Your Roots Are Showing, honored legend Peter Rowan with its inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award last night during its kick off concert, Folk In Fusion.
The honor was presented before a sold out audience by Alison Brown, Emmy and GRAMMY winning banjo player, composer and producer, Co-founder of Compass Records, and Anna Kline, Business Development Director of the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA).
Rowan, a GRAMMY Award winner and six-time GRAMMY nominee whose illustrious career spans over five decades. From his early years learning under the tutelage of Bluegrass pioneer Bill Monroe, to his time with the iconic band Old & In the Way, and his impressive solo career, Peter has made an indelible mark on the world of music.
Charlene Sloan, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Your Roots Are Showing, says, “Honoring Peter Rowan with our first-ever Lifetime Achievement Award is a celebration of his immeasurable influence on folk and bluegrass music — a legacy that has inspired generations and embodies the very heart of Your Roots Are Showing.”
“Peter Rowan’s music is timeless, blending tradition with innovation in a way that resonates deeply. Playing onstage with him was an unforgettable experience, and this award is a fitting tribute to his profound impact on the global folk community and the stories he’s brought to life,”
says Brendan McCreanor, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Your Roots Are Showing.
Anna Kline, IBMA’s Business Development Director says, “Peter’s creative vision, extensive musical contributions, and innovative, inclusive spirit are the very essence of what inspires and invigorates our community. I am deeply honored to represent IBMA and celebrate this career milestone with him and our YRAS partners.”
Following his moving acceptance speech, Rowan performed a four-song set and accompanied the rest of the powerful lineup throuthough the show, which captivated the audience for more than four hours.
