The 7:30 p.m. concert was preceded by a 6:30 p.m. tailgate party at the Augusta Dance Pavilion.

During the concert, country-rocker Elise Davis kicked things off at The Harper-McNeeley Auditorium on the Campus of Davis & Elkins College with an intimate singer-songwriter set. Davis played songs of love and loss, inspired by her own life experiences. Following Davis’ were the energetic Americana band Mountain Heart. The group’s lively set featured a mix of bluegrass-infused Americana and was highlighted by a well-received cover of Steely Dan’s “Reelin’ in the Years.”

Legendary Austin-native guitar-slinger Eric Johnson gave an inspired performance that mixed virtuoso fingerstyle guitar and melodic piano ballads. Known for his soaring electric guitar compositions, Johnson has always enjoyed playing acoustic guitar. It’s a side of his playing he only recently brought to the forefront with the release of his album “EJ.”

Sara Watkins is best known as a member of the bluegrass ensemble Nickel Creek, where she shared the stage with Chris Thile and her brother, Sean Watkins. An accomplished violinist and songwriter, Watkins also plays guitar. Her set was highlighted by her composition, “Young in All the Wrong Ways.”

Dan Tyminski, left, and Ronnie Bowman perform Saturday at a live taping of Mountain Stage in Elkins.

Dan Tyminski and Ronnie Bowman have been friends and musical associates for decades, having played together in the Lonesome River Band. Tyminski is best known for his association with Alison Krauss and Union Station, as well as voicing George Clooney’s musical parts in the film “O Brother Where Art Thou?”

Bowman is an accomplished songwriter, having penned hits made famous by numerous musicians. He also is IMBA Male Vocalist of the Year.

Tyminski and Bowman received a standing ovations upon closing their set with “Man of Constant Sorrow” from the “O Brother Where Art Thou?” soundtrack.

Elkins resident Joyce Chenoweth said she went to the taping to see Watkins and Tyminski and Bowman perform.

“I came here to see Dan. I love him,” she said. “I love Sara Watkins, too. I’ve listened to Mountain Stage before, but this is the first time I’ve seen it live. I’m glad I came.”

Guitar legend Eric Johnson plays an acoustic fingerstyle song on Mountain Stage.

Patty Davis and her husband, Ralein, had no idea the Mountain State Forest Festival was happening. They are fans of National Public Radio and follow events like Mountain Stage frequently.

The Davises said they planned to take in some Forest Festival events on Sunday.

Ralein Davis said he was particularly impressed with Tyminski’s and Bowman’s performance.

“They harmonize so well together,” she said.

Forest Festival Assistant Director Michelle Pratt said the Mountain Stage concert was well-received by fans.

Members of the band Mountain Heart Perform.

“Everyone has loved it. I think everyone had an enjoyable evening,” she said.

Larry Groce performs Saturday during a taping of Mountain Stage.

Elise Davis plays a song on Saturday.