Ben Eldridge passes

[Ridgegrass]

The legendary banjo player of The Seldom Scene, Ben Eldridge passed away of natural causes yesterday at age, 85. Ben was a great banjo player and a talented mathematician. He was a friendly, witty guy and well liked by all. Bassist Tom Gray is the lone surviving member of one of the most influential Bluegrass acts of all time, the original Seldom Scene. Ben was the final original member to leave the band, playing his last gig on new Year's Eve, 2015. at the Birchmere in Alexandria, the band's long-time Thursday night venue. Truly one of the greats in Bluegrass.
Ben's son, Chris is also a star, playing guitar with the Punch Brothers. So long Ben, say Hi to Duffy, Auldridge, and Starling. We miss you all. R.I.P.