Braintree Bluegrass Brunch with Ida Mae Specker & Her Band

Ida Mae Specker is an old-time fiddler, vocalist, educator, and composer from southern Vermont whose work blends original and traditional material while bringing new life to American folk music. A third-generation fiddle player, her music is rooted in the belief that folk traditions evolve through place, community, and in-person connection.

Performing alongside her father, legendary Vermont fiddler John Specker, Ida Mae creates a sound that is deeply grounded in tradition while boldly original. The late Robert Resnik once described the Specker family as “Vermont Folk Heroes.”

Ida Mae has shared the stage with artists including Yo-Yo Ma, Jeremy Dutcher, Donna the Buffalo, and Jake Blount, among others.
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Bring your dancing shoes!
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Learn traditional American social dances, including contra dances from New England, square dances from the Southern Appalachians, and reels with roots in Ireland and Scotland.

Gibson teaches gender-free dances (traditionally, participants had either a 'lady' or 'gent' role), ensuring that all are welcome.