Danny Knicely, Cesar Garabini and Fernanda Bravo

We are thrilled to once again partner with Virginia-based nonprofit The Center for Cultural Vibrancy to present a unique musical collaboration at this year’s festival. Curated by Clifden favourite Danny Knicely, this trio blends the musical traditions of Appalachia and Brazil in a joyful and captivating fusion.

Danny Knicely, from Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, is a master mandolinist, guitarist, fiddler and flatfoot dancer.

He is joined by Brazilian 7-string guitarist Cesar Garabini, known for his mastery of choro, the intricate musical style that gave rise to samba and bossa nova. Garabini has performed at Jazz at Lincoln Center, Birdland and MOMA. Completing the trio is Rio-born vocalist and percussionist Fernanda Bravo, whose expressive voice blends samba, bossa nova and jazz.

Together, they explore the deep musical connections between two rich traditions, offering a vibrant and soulful performance full of rhythm, melody and cultural exchange.