Darren Nicholson to Leave Balsam Range

Mandolin player, friend, partner, and founding member, Darren Nicholson has decided to leave Balsam Range to pursue his own solo career. Nicholson will appear at the next four shows with Balsam Range. November 11th is in Rocky Mount, NC, and December 1, 2, and 3 will be at Lake Junaluska,NC for the Balsam Range Art Of Music Festival. 

The band writes, "As we come to this place where the roads diverge, we want everyone to know that Balsam Range supports Darren in his new direction, and we remain friends. We also want folks to know, the remaining four of us will continue to pick and sing together as Balsam Range. So, to Darren we say, `We love you, brother' ... and to each of you, we say, `Thank you for being there!'"

Nicholson has this to say about the departure, "I'm very grateful for the last 15 years. Balsam Range has been a huge part of my personal and professional development, as well as a part of my family. What stands out in my mind are the recordings and the songs that seem to have impacted so many people. I feel blessed to have been a part of such influential music, but even with that, the most important takeaway is the incredible people I've been able to meet along the way.

"In bluegrass, you don't really have fans, but friends; whether it's industry people or folks who enjoy and support the music. These are the connections that motivate you to keep going. I'm really inspired by music and life in general right now. It's simply time to start a new chapter. I am looking forward to new releases, recordings, and a slew of live performances already on the books for 2023! I just want to say a huge thank you to all who have supported the band and me over the years. I hope to see you all soon!" 

Tags : Balsam Range darren nicholson bluegrass music