Grand Picnic emerged in the Brooklyn NY traditional music scene over 30 years ago, and its high-energy approach has inspired dancers across the country ever since. The band has performed its dynamic blend of traditional and original compositions at community contra dances, festivals, and dance weekends from Vermont to Oregon. They draw inspiration from the rhythmic drive of old-time Appalachian reels, traditional tunes from New England and French Canadian fiddling, all part of the American dance tradition. Grand Picnic is Sam Zygmuntowicz and Michael Gorin on fiddles, Jody Kruskal on concertina, Bill Peek piano and banjo, and  Marco Brehm on bass.