Backstage with Bluegrass Spartanburg Creating a Welcoming Environment through Hospitality
Since the first Bluegrass show in 2015, Piedmont Club General Manager Peter Grzan has provided catering for the bands, serving extravagant dinners backstage before each concert. More than just fulfilling the hospitality rider, Peter has gone above and beyond earning a name for the series as one of the best in the region.
Q. How long have you been a Bluegrass fan? A.
Since 2003. A friend invited me to check out Merlefest in Wilkesboro, NC, and we have attended every year since (except for 2020 due to COVID).
Q. How long have you played guitar and performed? A.
A.
I was a part of the initiative that was started by Andrew Babb back in 2015, and it was known back then as the Chapman Cultural Center Bluegrass Series. I was essentially brought in to fulfill hospitality riders and feed the guest artists.
I started playing the guitar when I was 13, however performing was a different story. I suffered terrible stage fright until I was in my early 40’s.
Walk us through a typical behind-the-scenes/ backstage pre-concert night for you and your team.
Q. Do you have any bluegrass festival traditions?
A. It is fun, but can be a bit hectic. It all depends
A.
At Merlefest, they have what they call “picking tents”. I love jamming with musicians of all ages and backgrounds. At the end of the four days, my fingers are pretty well calloused up.
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Q.
When did you first get involved with Bluegrass Spartanburg?
Q.
on the bands and what is in the rider. We have had a number of bands that stated that they would be happy with water and coffee. Others have had extensive riders with special requests such as vegan options, specific beverages such as particular wines, flavored beverages, teas and kombucha. We make sure that everyone has a great experience.
