
RIPON, Wis (WRPN)- Thrasher Opera House in Green Lake is proud to announce an evening of high-energy acoustic music featuring Midwestern linchpins Pert Near Sandstone and the triple-crown winning quartet The Fretliners. The performance brings together two generations of string-band excellence for a night that celebrates the evolution of the old-time sound.
The Midwestern Roots of Pert Near Sandstone

Since their first recordings in a Minneapolis basement over a decade ago, Pert Near Sandstone has become a cornerstone of the American roots scene. Known for their “energized interpretations” of traditional old-time music, the band has performed at the prestigious Telluride Bluegrass Festival and toured alongside legends such as Del McCoury and Sam Bush.
Beyond the stage, the band has left an indelible mark on the industry as the co-founders of the Blue Ox Music Festival. Since 2015, the festival has become a national pilgrimage, hosting icons like Bela Fleck and Tyler Childers. Fans can expect fresh energy at this performance, as the band is currently back in the studio with original founding member Ryan Young (of Trampled By Turtles) working on their latest studio album.
The Meteoric Rise of The Fretliners
Joining the bill are The Fretliners, a band that made history in 2023 by sweeping both the Telluride Bluegrass and RockyGrass band competitions—a feat only achieved once before. Defined by powerful harmonies and a sound that feels simultaneously timeless and groundbreaking, their self-titled debut album has earned widespread acclaim for its lyrical depth and instrumental craft.
Event Details
Tickets: $30 available at www.thrasheroperahouse.com
Venue: Thrasher Opera House, Green Lake, WI
Date: Thursday, March 26, 2026
Time: 7:30 p.m.

Bob Nelson is News Director in Ripon, and the voice of newscasts on WRPN and WAUH. Email him at [email protected].
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