Based in the Adirondack foothills of Remsen, NY, Cincinnati Creek is a premier acoustic ensemble that has been captivating Central New York audiences since 2008. Named after the local waterway running through their home region, the group features a tight-knit lineup of seasoned musicians who bring decades of collective performance experience to the stage.
Cincinnati Creek delivers a vibrant, high-energy mix of traditional bluegrass, soulful gospel, classic folk, acoustic pop, and original tunes. They are widely celebrated for their tight, soaring vocal harmonies that anchor their acoustic arrangements. Lively, foot-tapping melodies spanning multi-genre covers and traditional standards. Historical storytelling, featuring original songs deeply rooted in regional folklore. Humorous stage banter, keeping live performances lighthearted, interactive, and fun.
Cincinnati Creek members: Lori Thompson (Mandolin, Guitar, Lead & Harmony Vocals): A founding member who cut her teeth in her father’s bluegrass band, The Suttons, before playing with regional favorite Stump Hollow. Lori is the band's primary songwriter, frequently drawing inspiration from Central NY history (such as her popular local track, "The Ghost of Wash Loomis"). Her music has been featured on the regional television program Mohawk Valley Living.
Cathy Martin (Upright Bass, Lead & High Harmony Vocals): A multi-talented founding member who keeps the band's rhythmic drive on the stand-up bass. With a rich background performing in the Remsen Community Choir and as a pianist, she adds beautiful high-register harmonies to the group's signature sound.
Chris Pepe (Banjo, Bass Vocals, Sound Engineer): Inspired to pick up the banjo after attending the iconic Fox Family Bluegrass Festival, Chris previously played alongside Lori in Stump Hollow. He provides the driving five-string roll, deep bass vocals, and manages the band's live audio engineering.
Joe Rowlands (Guitar, Harmonica, Lead & Harmony Vocals): Joining the lineup in 2021, Joe is well-known in the Central NY music scene as the founder of the Celtic group Rattlin' Bog. He infuses the band’s sets with rich harmonica accents, versatile guitar playing, and quick-witted humor.
A true staple of the regional music community, Cincinnati Creek regularly performs at beloved venues and community events.
Refreshments will be available during intermission.
The Remsen Concert Series 2026 is made possible in part with funds from the Statewide Community Regrants Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by CNY Arts. Plus members, sponsors, and community support.