Peter Rowan and Sam Grisman Project to Revive "Old & In the Way" for Hardly Strictly Bluegrass 25th Anniversary

San Francisco, CA – The Hardly Strictly Bluegrass festival has announced that legendary bluegrass artist Peter Rowan, an original member of Old & In the Way, will perform with the Sam Grisman Project at the festival's 25th anniversary celebration. The highly anticipated set will feature music from the iconic band, taking place October 3-5, 2025, in Golden Gate Park. This performance highlights the festival's commitment to honoring bluegrass heritage while embracing new generations of musicians.

Old & In the Way, formed in 1973, was a pivotal bluegrass supergroup featuring Peter Rowan, David Grisman, Jerry Garcia, Vassar Clements, and John Kahn. Their self-titled 1975 album became the best-selling bluegrass record of its time, significantly expanding the genre's audience. Peter Rowan, now 82, is the sole surviving member of the original lineup still actively performing.

The Sam Grisman Project, led by Sam Grisman, son of mandolin virtuoso David Grisman, continues the legacy of this groundbreaking music. Sam Grisman has expressed deep honor in exploring these beloved songs with Rowan, noting the profound connection to his father's work and Jerry Garcia's musical universe. The collaboration bridges generations, introducing the classic sound to new fans while resonating with long-time enthusiasts.

"Hardly Strictly Bluegrass is always the great homecoming," Peter Rowan stated in a recent release. "Sharing the stage with Sam Grisman and his band of young talented players, infused with the legacy of Old & In the Way, is a real treat." The festival, known for its free admission and eclectic lineup, celebrates its silver anniversary this year, featuring a diverse array of artists across various roots genres.

The upcoming performance at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass is part of a series of special engagements where Peter Rowan and the Sam Grisman Project have been celebrating the "Old & In the Way" catalog. This includes a notable performance scheduled for the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville in January 2025, further solidifying the enduring impact of the band's brief yet influential existence. The collaboration ensures that the spirit and music of Old & In the Way continue to thrive.