Comedy and music aren’t separate worlds for actor, writer and musician Steve Martin. At fifteen years old Martin was first introduced to bluegrass music before falling in love with the instrument he calls, “truly American,” –the banjo. Dropping out of UCLA to pursue a career in comedy, Martin used the banjo along with jokes, juggling and magic as a primary means to fill his early act. While using banjo for the routine, Martin began studying the instrument more seriously, writing satirical pieces for the act such as “Ramblin’ Guy” and “Grandmother’s Song.” Yet, as Martin’s acting career exploded, his musical roots became largely overlooked.
In 2001, Martin returned to the banjo when asked to play on Earl Scrugg’s remake of, “Foggy Mountain Breakdown.” Martin later released his first album, “The Crow” in 2009 and soon began collaborating with the Steep Canyon Rangers. Since then, Martin and the Steep Canyon Rangers have performed extensively, including performances at Carnegie Hall, the New Orleans Jazzfest and Bonnaroo Music Festival. In 2011, Martin and the Steep Canyon Rangers were named 2011 Entertainer of the Year by the International Bluegrass Music Association. Now we welcome Steve Martin and the Steep Canyon Rangers to the Ravinia stage on Sunday, June 24, for an incredible night of music and comedy with America’s most loved performer.
Lawn tickets are still available at Ravinia.org!