Toe-tapping, heart-warming _{by Madelaine Empson}

Guitarist Mark Mazengarb is not a professional promoter – “just passionate about bringing good bluegrass and country music to New Zealand”.

Like many, he explains, he discovered the brilliant American family band The Petersens on YouTube and was immediately hooked.

“To me, you can’t beat the timeless combination of strong vocal harmonies, good songs, and instrumental mastery.”

And so, Mark undertook the (somewhat daunting) task of getting the six-piece to our shores, where they’ll play Lower Hutt’s Little Theatre on the 21^st of February before heading north to play six more centres. 

“I’ve really tried to find venues that will match the music, and create that intimate setting that this music fits so well.”

The Petersens have toured throughout Ireland, Finland, Canda, the UK, and the United States. Banjo player and singer Ellen Haygood – the second-oldest Petersen sibling – says being invited to New Zealand is a dream come true for the family.

“We’ve heard nothing but amazing things from our friends who have visited and our fans who live there. It’s an honour to share our American roots music with new friends in such a beautiful place, and we’re looking forward to all the shows. Playing in the capital city of Wellington is a particularly special honour.”

Known for their tight harmonies, engaging stage presence, and capacity to build a genuine connection with audiences, the show will span gospel, bluegrass, country, and folk covers and originals, with silken vocals and heartfelt stories spun throughout.