Thrasher Hosting Special Ensemble

1 min read

Thrasher Hosting Special Ensemble

Jan 11, 2026, 6:08 AM CST

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RIPON, Wis (WRPN)- The Thrasher Opera House in Green Lake is thrilled to announce a captivating performance by the groundbreaking transatlantic ensemble, Gadan, featuring Irish traditional music icon Enda Scahill and American folk artist Eric Long.

This storming new band delivers a high-energy blend that fuses the drive of Irish traditional music and bluegrass with the heart and soul of folk and Appalachian music—all spiced with an Italian flair.

Gadan is a fresh project born from seasoned Italian musicians with years of experience in the European trad and folk/rock scene. They bring exceptional skill and passion to their repertoire, creating a distinctive and remarkable combination of Irish traditional music and old-time American styles.

The band’s evolving lineup signifies a truly international collaboration:

  • Enda Scahill (Tenor Banjo, Irish Craic): An award-winning, All-Ireland champion and founder of the legendary We Banjo 3, Scahill joined Gadan in 2024, immediately adding his mastery to their unique sound.
  • Eric Long (Clawhammer Banjo, Mandolin, Vocals): Completing the 2025 lineup, Long, a singer-songwriter from the mountainous heart of Pennsylvania, brings an authentic American folk soul rooted in Appalachian tradition.
  • Lorenzo Testa (Tenor Banjo, Mandolin, Vocals): Original Italian member contributing to the rhythmic and melodic drive.
  • Jacopo Ventura (Guitars, Bass): Anchoring the sound with dynamic guitar and bass work.
  • Joan Gatti (Fiddle, Hardanger): Providing evocative fiddle melodies that soar above the strings.

Their unique “strings-only” sound—driven by three banjos (tenor and clawhammer), fiddle, mandolin, and guitar—delivers a powerful rhythmic pulse and a captivating live appeal. Gadan’s performances build momentum, sweeping the audience into ecstasy with a refreshing yet deeply rooted traditional sound.

Show Details:

  • Who: Gadan featuring Enda Scahill and Eric Long
  • When: Thursday, January 29, 2026 – 7:30 p.m.
  • Where: Thrasher Opera House, 506 Mill St, Green Lake, WI
  • Tickets: Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online at www.thrasheroprahouse.com or by calling 920.294.4279


Don’t miss the chance to witness this electrifying collaboration that is redefining the boundaries of traditional music.

Bob Nelson

Bob Nelson is News Director in Ripon, and the voice of newscasts on WRPN and WAUH. Email him at bob.nelson@civicmedia.us.

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