Brian & Mike
Brian Wicklund and Mike Cramer are accomplished musicians known for their dynamic performances and contributions to the acoustic music scene. They are key members of the Minnesota-based band, the Barley Jacks, where their combined talents create a unique blend of bluegrass, swing, old-time, and Celtic influences.
Brian Wicklund is a celebrated fiddler and mandolinist with a career spanning several decades. As a teenager, he won numerous fiddle contests and later toured internationally with bands such as Stoney Lonesome, the Judith Edelman Band, the Kathy Kallick Band, and Brother Mule. Beyond performing, Brian is a dedicated educator and author of the best-selling "American Fiddle Method" published by Mel Bay. In 2024, he was inducted into the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to the state's musical heritage.
Mike Cramer is a versatile guitarist renowned for his proficiency in flatpicking and jazz styles. He has earned accolades including second place in the National Flatpicking Contest in Winfield, Kansas, as well as titles in the Minnesota State Flatpick Guitar Contest and the Upper Midwest Flatpick Championship. Mike is also an experienced educator, having taught at institutions like Grinnell College and the St. Paul Conservatory for Performing Artists. His teaching extends to workshops at events such as the Great Minnesota Uke Gathering, where he shares his expertise in ukulele, swing, and jazz guitar.
Together, Brian and Mike form a compelling musical partnership, captivating audiences with their skillful songwriting, virtuosic instrumentals, and engaging stage presence. Their collaboration is marked by a shared passion for acoustic music and a commitment to delivering performances that resonate with listeners.
