Frogwater is Susan Jeske Dermody & John Nicholson. Susan has been playing violin since her classical music and Suzuki classes as a child. In 1989, she turned from classical violin to “fiddle” and joined the Milwaukee Celtic ensemble, the Glenghillies. The Ghillies, as they became known, developed a popular following among all age groups and backgrounds. They played pubs and festivals throughout the US and Canada. On occasion, they even shared a stage with the Ireland Chieftains.

In 1995, John Nicholson returned to Milwaukee from California and joined the Ghillies, bringing banjo, guitar and vocals to the group. After the group dissolved in 1997, Susan and John continued playing together and co founded Frogwater. This new venture featured a cross pollination of musical genres; Celtic, Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Blues. Their performances are particularly influenced by their love of Irish and Scottish music. As they add an emphasis on old-time American music, Frogwater frequently includes another Milwaukee musician, Li’l Rev, on harmonica, guitar and ukelele.

For the past several years, Frogwater has performed regularly at Milwaukee’s Summerfest, Irish Fest, Bastille Days and Rainbow Summer. They also perform at numerous other fairs and contra dances across the state and Midwest. They received honors as best band in the Bluegrass and Country categories in WAMI (Wisconsin Are Music Industry) awards two years running, and are winners of other readers’ polls, as well. In addition to their performance schedule, John teaches guitar at UW-M Extension, and Frogwater has found time to write original material, and record two CDs.

Frogwater kicks off this year’s Sugar Maple Fest Friday night at 5pm!