Willoughby Sprig

Christopher Burrus co-founded Willoughby Sprig with his twin brother Nicholas while studying double bass and viola da gamba at Valparaiso University. His interest in folk traditions and obscure musical instruments led him to learn the mandolin, banjo, button box and hurdy gurdy. He writes much of the music for Willoughby Sprig, and finds inspiration in old bridges, fine ships, hootenannies, tweed, and phantoms.

Nicholas Burrus plays mountain dulcimer, harmonium, violin, whistle and many other instruments for Willoughby Sprig. Majoring in harp performance and art in college, he co-founded Willoughby Sprig with his  brother to pursue composition on folk instruments, melancholic wanderings, and travel narratives in music.

Joe Mynhier plays guitar, viola da gamba, and cello with Willoughby Sprig. While at Indiana University he gained experience in with a wide selection of repertoire for viol consorts and was a founding member of Les Touches.

Jordan Stout plays Willoughby Sprig’s assorted international percussion instruments and ukulele. He has a lifelong history with many marching and military drumming corps that somehow never put a dent in his sense of humor.

Matthew Maher (Guest Songwriter/Performer) provided vocals, oboe, low whistle, harmonium, found percussion, as well as tune/songwriting on “The Screaming Hollow and Other Hoosier County Favorites.” He can now be found constructing homes and supervising volunteers for Habitat for Humanity in Wilmington, DE, as well as completing a warm weather wood working project: a cherry candle-stand in the Shaker style.