From Fiddle to Festival: Launching the Heritage Bluegrass Series

On a recent episode of Jams 'N' Cocktails Live, host Brad Brock opened the doors to the legendary JNC Lounge for a celebration of something truly special: the rebirth of bluegrass music in Vero Beach, Florida. Featuring special guest and fiddle extraordinaire Tom Callino, the show spotlighted the upcoming Heritage Bluegrass Music Series, a free, community-centered concert experience kicking off this October at the historic Vero Heritage Center.

With warmth, wit, and a passion for roots music, Brad and his co-hosts Jordyn Taylor and Captain Cocktail led viewers through an exciting night of storytelling, live music, and laughter. The centerpiece of the conversation was Tom Callino’s inspiring journey through the Florida music scene and his role in resurrecting a dormant bluegrass tradition in Vero Beach.

Tom, a lifelong fiddler and longtime advocate for local music, shared his personal history with the Heritage Center’s bluegrass nights. He recalled spotting a magnet for the Blue Cypress Bluegrass Band on a neighbor's car years ago, a moment that eventually led him to become a driving force behind the community jam sessions that helped reignite interest in the genre.

That love for collaboration and connection is what birthed the Heritage Bluegrass Music Series, a monthly event that will showcase a diverse lineup of Florida-based and touring bluegrass acts. Each concert will be followed by open jam sessions, inviting musicians of all skill levels to participate in the communal spirit that defines bluegrass music.

One of the most heartwarming stories of the night was Tom's account of Ian Lane, a young fiddler from Vero Beach who was once too shy to take his instrument out of its case. Thanks to Tom’s encouragement and the supportive jam community, Ian blossomed into a talented performer who recently graced the stage of the Grand Ole Opry with Rhonda Vincent. It was a powerful reminder of the transformative power of music mentorship and local arts.

The series will feature acts like Penny Creek, Southern Express, the Flatlanders, Remedy Tree, and more, each offering their own flavor of bluegrass, from traditional to newgrass fusion. With performances scheduled every third Wednesday from October through May, the series aims to become a cultural staple in downtown Vero Beach.

The Heritage Center itself is the perfect backdrop. A historic venue with deep community roots, it once hosted USO dances in the 1930s and now stands as a testament to old Florida charm and resilience. The revitalized music series honors its legacy while inviting a new generation to join the jam.

And in true JNC fashion, the episode wasn’t all earnest conversation. The crew also celebrated National Peach Day with their Shot of the Week: the Georgia Peach, a mix of peach schnapps, whiskey, OJ, and cranberry. Captain Cocktail later returned with a Crown Royal Chocolate old-fashioned that had everyone raising their glasses. Add in the always-entertaining Name That Tune segment (bluegrass cover edition!) and the latest in pop culture with The Jordy Files, and it was a well-rounded evening of music, mischief, and meaningful moments.

Perhaps most importantly, Tom and Brad emphasized the community impact of the Heritage Bluegrass Music Series. Proceeds from 50/50 raffles at each show will benefit local school music programs, from middle and high schools to nonprofits like the Gifford Youth Orchestra. It's music with a mission—to inspire, educate, and bring people together.

Whether you're a lifelong picker or just discovering the twang of bluegrass, this JNC episode is a must-watch. And when October rolls around, make sure to mark your calendar. Bluegrass is back in Vero Beach, and it's sounding better than ever.