For more than 40 years, mandolinist and composer David Grisman has been busy creating “dawg” music, a blend of swing, bluegrass, Latin, jazz and gypsy. In doing so he inspired a new genre of acoustic string instrumental music — and created a  niche for himself in the world of contemporary music. In addition to his own renowned groups like Old and In the Way and the David Grisman Quintet, Grisman has recorded with such bluegrass greats as Earl Scruggs, Tony Rice and Doc Watson, as well as jazz artist Stephane Grapelli, and the Grateful Dead.

Grisman will be in Napa June 20 to perform at the Opera House with the David Grisman Quintet.

Praised for his mastery of the mandolin, as well as his talents as a composer, bandleader, teacher and record producer Grisman’s role as an acoustic innovator continues to grow. After recording for several major and independent labels, Grisman founded his own company, Acoustic Disc, which he runs from his studio in Northern California. After launching the label in 1990, Grisman entered the most prolific period of his career, producing more than 50 acclaimed recordings of acoustic music, five of which have been nominated for Grammy Awards.

Joining Grisman onstage during the Quintet’s Opera House performance is Frank Vignola, considered by many to be among the top-ranked guitarists on the music scene today. Vignola has recorded and or performed with a variety of notables including Chet Atkins, Madonna, Woody Allen, Ringo Starr, Manhattan Transfer and Mark O’Connor. The remaining Quintet members include Matt Eakle on flute, Jim Kerwin on bass and George Marsh on drums. 

The David Grisman Quintet

Wednesday, June 20, 8 p.m.

Napa Valley Opera House

Tickets: $40 and $35

Box Office: 226-7372