Rooted in tradition yet unafraid to venture into new musical territory, the Henhouse Prowlers occupy a space that defies easy categorization—one that is consistently fresh, relevant, and captivating. To date, this Chicago-rooted band has toured 30 countries across five continents, collaborating with the U.S. State Department and through their own nonprofit, Bluegrass Ambassadors. These global experiences have not only shaped their worldview but also reinforced their mission: to build bridges between cultures through music. For the Henhouse Prowlers, the work extends far beyond the stage: they are deeply committed to using their art in the service of a more connected and compassionate world.

 

With two decades proudly under their belts, the Prowlers’ sight remains fixed on the future. Ever constant in the group’s electric performances is their ability to showcase their passion for music and people. All four members possess a knack for storytelling, compelling songwriting, and intricate instrumentation; each offers the utmost artistic prowess, building on one another’s magic night after night. The lineup is Jon Goldfine on bass, Jake Howard on mandolin, Ben Wright on banjo, and Chris Dollar on guitar.

 

One of the most exciting things about this band is their enthusiasm for teaching workshops. As Bluegrass Ambassadors, the band has found profound commonality with people from different cultures through music. From performing Qawwali music in Pakistan and West African hip-hop in Nigeria, to traditional Tatar songs in Siberia, and Bluegrass in America, every culture has “music of the folk” that courses through the minds of its people. Through these interactions with musicians and music fans across the globe, an understanding that people have a whole lot more in common than music (despite our differences) becomes evident quickly. The Bluegrass Ambassador Workshop is supplemented by videos and photos of their adventures, and performances of international tunes, alongside discussion of translations, cultural and musical variances and more!

 

They also offer a “Music Business Workshop: How to build a band and make a living playing music!” The Henhouse Prowlers have been a fully functioning and touring band for more than 15 years. While the industry continues to change on both a macro and micro level, getting started on the right foot has never been more important. This workshop covers everything from promotion and finances to tips on how to book, promote, and get along on two-month international tours. Being a lifelong musician has its challenges, but it’s more possible than ever if you’re well prepared for the realities of life on the road (and at home).

 

Each member of the band also gives workshops on their respective instruments. For more information, visit their website: https://www.henhouseprowlers.com.

 

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ANC FF MEMBERS, help us plan ahead! Please let us know what workshops you are interested in attending.

 

Send an email to folks@anchoragefolkfestival.org. Please put “HP Workshop Requests” in the Subject line.