June 27: Symbiosis

Susan Garriques, Carl Dipper, and Steve Barnes have spent years performing—each as a solo
artist or with various groups—but their recent collaboration as Symbiosis has created
something truly special. With three guitars and three voices, they weave together a sound
greater than the sum of its parts, blending harmony, heart, and musicianship in a way that
wouldn’t be the same alone.

Through different musical journeys, they each found their way to Yancey County, North
Carolina, a place they now proudly call home. It was here that their paths converged, and
Symbiosis was born—quickly becoming a local favorite.

Carl Dipper, with his deep-rooted blues background, brings expressive, soul-stirring lead guitar.
Steve Barnes, a gifted songwriter, adds his signature touch on slide guitar. Susan Garriques,
also a songwriter, holds down rhythm guitar, but it’s her love of singing that truly shines.

Performing both originals and covers spanning multiple genres and generations, Symbiosis
offers an ever-evolving mix of folk, blues, Americana, bluegrass, and even some good old rock
and roll. No matter the song, their rich harmonies and dynamic instrumentation create a sound
that’s both timeless and uniquely their own.

The Orchard Music Program offers live, traditional music in support of our nonprofit mission to preserve the history, heritage, and culture of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Our hope is to educate the public about the Appalachian experience so that these important traditions may be carried forward with future generations.