Beppe Gambetta & Hayes Griffin
ART IS THE DAUGHTER OF FREEDOM
by GEOFFREY COLE
When Beppe Gambetta takes the stage, borders disappear and music becomes a universal language. Hailing from Genova, Italy, Gambetta has spent his career weaving together the rich traditions of American bluegrass, Italian folk, and European classical influences into a sound that is entirely his own. A master of flatpicking guitar, his playing is both technically dazzling and deeply emotional— bringing new life to old tunes and fresh perspective to contemporary acoustic music.
Though rooted in the traditions of bluegrass and flatpicking giants like Doc Watson and Norman Blake, Gambetta doesn’ t just imitate— he innovates. His distinctive right-hand technique and warm melodic sense have earned him international acclaim, and his globe-spanning collaborations have helped bring American roots music to audiences worldwide. Whether he’ s performing a centuries-old Italian ballad or an Appalachian standard, Gambetta plays with a rare blend of precision, passion, and joy.
His newest album, Terra Madre( Mother Earth), is a deeply personal and timely project that explores the intersection of tradition, culture, and environmental connection. Inspired by the global“ Slow Food” movement founded in his native Italy, the album is a musical meditation on the relationship between people and the land, blending original compositions with reimagined folk melodies from both sides of the Atlantic. Terra Madre showcases Gambetta’ s gifts not only as a guitarist, but as a composer, arranger, and cultural ambassador— offering listeners a rich, thoughtful journey through soundscapes
both familiar and new.
For this special performance at OIBF, Beppe is joined by American guitarist Hayes Griffin, a dynamic flatpicker known for his technical prowess, clean tone, and deep knowledge of roots traditions. A graduate of the New England Conservatory and a seasoned touring musician, Griffin brings a fresh, energetic voice to the duo. Together, Beppe and Hayes create an engaging and seamless blend of old-world and new-world acoustic styles— two master musicians in joyful conversation, trading melodies, harmonies, and stories from across the globe.
In addition to his musical work, Gambetta recently released a book titled Declarations of Love, a collection of essays, reflections, and stories from his decades-long journey through the world of acoustic music. With warmth, insight, and the same lyrical spirit that defines his guitar playing, the book offers a rare look into the heart and mind of a traveling artist dedicated to cultural exchange. Copies of Declarations of Love will be available at Beppe’ s booth throughout the festival— be sure to stop by for a chat and a signed copy!
Over the course of his career, Beppe has appeared on some of the world’ s most iconic stages— from the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville to the Kerrville Folk Festival in Texas— and has shared the spotlight with acoustic legends including David Grisman, Tony Trischka, and Dan Crary. His extensive discography, including both solo projects and cross-cultural collaborations, reflects his lifelong mission: to build musical bridges and celebrate the shared heartbeat of folk traditions across the world. Gambetta brings a fresh, global voice to the bluegrass tradition— reminding us all that great music knows no borders. IBF
OKLAHOMA’ S INTERNATIONAL BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL 2025 / 11