Gadan, an international folk band blending Irish traditional music, Celtgrass, Appalachian roots and a distinctly Italian musical spirit, will perform at Ca d’Zan House Concerts in Cambridge on Tuesday, September 29.

Presented by Crossroads Cultural Connections, the all-ages evening will begin with an optional potluck dinner at 6 p.m., followed by the concert at 7 p.m. Guests who would like to participate in the potluck are invited to bring a dish to share.

Gadan brings together three seasoned Italian folk musicians from the Irish traditional and European folk scenes with acclaimed Irish tenor banjo player Enda Scahill, founder of We Banjo 3, and Appalachian-rooted songwriter and clawhammer banjo player Eric Long.

The result is a distinctive transatlantic sound driven by three banjos, fiddle, mandolin and guitar. With no drums, the band relies on a relentless rhythmic pulse, intricate string playing and strong ensemble chemistry to create a sound that is both rooted in tradition and unmistakably modern.

Formed in 2024, Gadan has quickly built a reputation for energetic performances and adventurous arrangements that move easily between Irish traditional music, folk, Celtgrass and Appalachian influences. Long, originally from Pennsylvania and now based in San Francisco, adds another layer of American roots tradition to the group’s already wide-ranging sound.

Over the past several years, Gadan has completed multiple successful U.S. tours, performing everywhere from intimate folk venues to major Celtic festivals. Their live shows are known for technical musicianship, spontaneity and a contagious energy that keeps audiences fully engaged.

With a bold approach to tradition and a growing international following, Gadan continues to push the boundaries of contemporary folk music—one banjo at a time.

Guests should bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating. A donation of $20 to $30 is suggested. In the event of rain, the concert will move to Bishop Hill Creative Commons.

Presented by Crossroads Cultural Connections, this concert continues the organization’s mission of bringing meaningful, high-quality live music experiences to Henry County and surrounding communities.

EVENT DETAILS

Who: Gadan
When: Tuesday, September 29
Potluck: 6 p.m.; bring a dish to share if participating
Concert: 7 p.m.
Where: Ca d’Zan House Concerts, Cambridge, Illinois
Rain Location: Bishop Hill Creative Commons
Admission: Suggested donation of $20–$30
Seating: Bring lawn chairs or blankets
Audience: All ages welcome