The Eclectics history began during the throes of the Covid pandemic. Bassist John Bergquist and banjoist Phil Nusbaum realized that they could work together by passing musical selections back and forth over the internet and using their computers to record their parts. The result was promising enough that when people started congregating again, John and Phil got together with fiddler Nick Martin to form a trio. Because of their broad musical interests, the trio adopted the name Eclectics. Eclectic is a good name for a group that relishes traditional fiddle music, good old bluegrass, as well as pop and the envelope-pushing instrumentals Phil writes. The group not only entertains by playing a variety of songs and tunes, but has been successful presenting “Inside Bluegrass,” during which the Eclectics tell audiences how a bluegrass group is organized, and play plenty of examples demonstrating the points made. What’s next for the Eclectics? Nick, John and Phil most enjoy having each other to share their musical interests, and audiences to play for. The goal is to keep on playing worthy music for audiences who appreciate the variety. Sample the sound of their strings below and their website!
