North Florida Taildraggers

The seeds of the group that became the North Florida Taildraggers were first planted at a conference. The story goes that Trey Brewer and a handful of other Northeast Florida musicians attended a conference held by the International Bluegrass Musicians Association and had a great time. Afterward, they wanted to keep the fun and music going, so they started a regular Monday night jam session.

Bluegrass jam sessions tend to grow into bands, and — since Trey Brewer is a pilot and a jam session or two may have been held in a hangar — this band became the North Florida Taildraggers.

The band members are Justin Lane, a well-known local guitarist; Jan Brewer a biologist by day and upright bassist at night; Don Ben who plays both guitar and dobro; Maggie Widner, an experienced classical and bluegrass violinist; and Trey Brewer, who plays both mandolin and guitar. Simply listing the musicians doesn't do the band justice. Each has played with other groups, participated in folk festivals, and developed a following. Their performances are lifted by excellent bluegrass instrumental solos and outstanding vocal harmonies.

Trey Brewer performs frequently in the area as a solo act and with Northeast Florida music organizations.