The Welter Brothers

The Welter Brothers (Corban and Jackson) are simultaneously scholars of traditional music, and practical working musicians. They demonstrate a technical flash that comes from a youth spent jamming at bluegrass festivals, alongside an interest in the folk process and the art of aural storytelling (across many cultures). They have special affinity for eclectic and obscure regional music, but aren't too proud to play "Folsom Prison Blues" or "Pancho and Lefty" for the tipsy guy waving a $20 in the back of a small town bar. As with any sibling duo, their "blood harmony" sets them apart, proving that the "brothers" part isn't just a band name.

In addition to their musical skill, the Welter Brothers' DIY approach has forced them to be resilient and resourceful. Corban's desire to have a fuller, stronger duo sound led him to building the "Kick Box" he uses on stage. This homemade electric instrument provides a steady pulse, and fills out the lower frequencies in the Brothers' sound - allowing guitar driven fiddle tunes to have a sturdy momentum that can rouse even the loudest dive bar. Corban and Jackson have evolved a live sound system/methodology that guarantees a very clear and balanced sound in almost any setting. Because bad sound is so common in small venues without a dedicated house engineer, many people are astounded by how good the Welter Brothers sound, regardless of venue.

Corban is a graduate of Berklee College of Music and is the "music nerd" of the duo. He can often be found composing fiddle tune variations, or practicing soloing through jazz standards on guitar or mandolin to stretch his improv chops. He works 2 days a week at a local record store where he can be found sorting, pricing, and chatting with customers - all while listening to everything from Paganini to Chick Corea.

Jackson has a love of history and anthropology that drives his interest in extremely long narrative ballads, as well as things like linguistic evolution and the migration of ancient people groups. He has an audio engineering degree from Northwest College in Kirkland.

Both brothers believe that folk music is a radical force - music that belongs to everyone, but cannot be owned by anyone. Their mission is to spread the love of these communal arts while, in the words of Utah Philips "Making a living, Not a Killing".