tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23311100552002565582024-03-12T20:44:52.083-07:00Bluegrass Music Museum NewsBluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-52507649434834226502011-05-03T12:06:00.000-07:002011-05-03T12:19:16.509-07:00ROMP will feature young bands and new late-night events!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/ROMPLineup.php"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 318px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjawJOKr8VVDdhDf2Riyl_3IEYp7OOMeqBQPcbWoPnfhHh1CdrALq7jFXkbdR2ASdaqrwNJEFffSXmZPlrWlhXAgOpNZhRmiJGv5FOaphocjtsTJ-ARYuCDJXyIdLMKADIIips4SjCNAg/s320/tbtF11_mediumres.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602570085791683122" border="0" /></a><br /> <style>@font-face { font-family: "Cambria"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; }</style> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" >So many young bands are coming up through the bluegrass tradition and taking the music in new directions, creating a place in the musical lexicon for themselves and their music! We are please to feature many of these bands at <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/romp.php">ROMP 2011: Bluegrass Roots & Branches Festival</a>.<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" >Trampled By Turtles, from Minnesota, has so much energy and talent that they’re literally driving the music in front of them as they push to the foreground of fame. We find it greatly interesting that we’re getting more hits on our website and calls for tickets from TBT fans than from any other band in our quite stunning line-up. It proves that bluegrass is reaching young people, bringing them up in a tradition of incredible virtuosity and launching them on an amazing musical journey.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/ROMPLineup.php"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 187px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg438Ze2q6OWhK1y4_L_NlPxy0GELhUNWWnz_OZ0yKATONEwVrMqNqGabnSbGVCDz0NLSXSwjUdEdNsXi9ch8KEWHUV80CXjeG7-5g_znFcDnVwqGp0IyPTsZhMVDbRVVSvxIgK_RjZ7A/s320/punchbros.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602570285663820898" border="0" /></a>Then there’s Chris Thile, one of the finest musicians alive at this time, with his band of outrageously talented genre-benders, Punch Brothers. And Carolina Chocolate Drops, keeping the string band tradition alive by pumping it full of new life and energy and taking it to adoring audiences everywhere—they are quite the phenomenon!</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" >We could go on and on about the musicians in the ROMP line-up, as each band is marvelous in its own right. The non-traditional aspect of this year’s line-up is intended to illustrate the wide range of influence bluegrass music and Bill Monroe have had – and increasingly continue to have – on today’s music culture. We are so very fortunate to have them come to the heartland of bluegrass music to perform for us this June.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style=";font-family:";" ></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/ROMPLineup.php"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 217px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgegiWPgSz3KNKmadRRhoG1fndFmipX_ns5wEywvkXCtvr5DvqlbRWoN5KtgM7o5CqgR-pIwE1pQMHZAUi0TnL3m7iOrNxw3WMm6E6gmYLI_aRarYXhWOiZ6u2S0JDf9O5keVRODHnCMhg/s320/farewell-drifters.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602570771236387858" border="0" /></a>We'll also be kicking off new <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/ROMPLineup.php#late">late night</a> events at <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/romp.php">ROMP 2011</a>, including performances, bonfires and all-night jams! Some of the featured late night acts are The Farewell Drifters, Coralee & The Townies, The Vespers and The 23 String Band. You must have a 3-day pass to camp and attend all-night events. Go to http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/romp.php for more info!<br /></span></p>Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-55724714039961659382011-04-01T17:19:00.000-07:002011-04-01T17:38:55.482-07:00Steve Martin at ROMP 2011<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/romp.php"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 276px; height: 183px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh84XA7IflkZzTyv5G8VkZtPtZY4dK_1-GzkI-pvTUUpz7PFQLYigG-D6QfMJrWh2DOdMs8yqEzMM_GJdHJ66Qh38wi6O8plwn8AL8oibLHxOzPadJeQBTJymn1UH2pTrnOZAkUEeywT7c/s320/images-4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590776794383206546" border="0" /></a><br /> <style>@font-face { font-family: "Cambria"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; }</style><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-family:";" ><span style="font-size:180%;">Who doesn’t love Steve Martin?</span> <span style="font-size:100%;">He’s so funny, you start to laugh before he even says anything. It’s a preconditioned response!<br /></span></span><p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" ><br /></span></p><p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);" class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";font-size:100%;" >We were completely thrilled to learn about his banjo skills and his love for bluegrass music. He is truly a great ambassador for bluegrass. Quite the Renaissance man. It’s small wonder his new CD, <a href="http://www.stevemartin.com/stevemartin/music.html"><span style="font-style: italic;">Rare Bird Alert</span></a>, is already #1 on the charts!</span></p><p style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style=";font-family:";" ><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-size:100%;" >Steve Martin will appear with the Steep Canyon Rangers at our 2011 <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/romp.php">ROMP: Bluegrass Roots & Branches Festival</a> on June 23 at 8:00 p.m. Click to see the full <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/ROMPLineup.php">line-up</a> or order <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/ROMPTickets.php">tickets</a>. Three-day tickets come with free camping at Yellow Creek Park!</span><br /></span></p>Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-29113596317858392072011-03-29T09:43:00.000-07:002011-03-29T10:01:47.249-07:00Emmylou Harris added to ROMP 2011 Line-up!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.emmylouharris.com/"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 198px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgharEBAxvQYcv_0vHI3KPDvljG5qlCAcMpQeK84M1lfxLYZipEAQRPc21No2sIEc4UEPT8Dbi_6qJOiHGJysV2G2hCUsgzvZYvqvml6do_tLTTaSxK2qGcIw7RiR5Y0FcDPIvahf3G5ss/s200/EmmylouHarris.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589544784623877794" border="0" /></a><br />We are THRILLED with the musical line-up for our <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/romp.php">ROMP 2011 Bluegrass Roots & Branches Festival</a>! And even more excited that we've added <a href="http://www.emmylouharris.com/">Emmylou Harris</a> to Saturday night's <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/ROMPLineup.php">program</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/ROMPLineup.php"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 160px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_XC0F9l3RR7RBvNMU2fUDKn7upfI57TzPFloP-vYzijyWLPLUBsu-bzijxRejYFO6SJx5iMktm3ANis5SnNGSk4zO34kFygUjXK4w8uprinhcr62kKZL60SUa3YCLaoaz-KoxMMFsc4/s200/markseliger1april2008jp.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589544968861340546" border="0" /></a><br />Emmylou has had us all in the palm of her hand for many decades. Not only is she achingly beautiful, but her voice is a national treasure. We’re all looking forward to hearing her in person, singing songs from her soon-to-be-released album, <a href="http://www.nonesuch.com/albums/hard-bargain"><span style="font-style: italic;">Hard Bargain</span></a>.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.nonesuch.com/albums/hard-bargain"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 143px; height: 143px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1rzY_s_TWoNt24madDqdPevz6TUCGZKnZ0TwMje-5JVp0zvkz5tqHeYjfBVaEtStxqFiP3lgS3ynl8R8tJNvqDX8SxzMazvxuREWdok8n8dv_iPfuIheEggfgJ-TiYKGpdCiPib5kL00/s320/hb143.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589546674344752914" border="0" /></a><br />Check out ROMP 2011 info, <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/ROMPTickets.php">tickets</a>, free camping, line-up and more on our web site: <a href="http://www.bluegrassmuseum.org/">http://www.bluegrassmuseum.org</a><br /><br />Want to be on our street team? Email Danny@bluegrassmuseum.org for details!Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-43680099736397183072011-03-07T11:02:00.000-08:002011-03-07T11:53:06.619-08:002011 Bluegrass in the SchoolsThe International Bluegrass Music Museum is proud to announce the successful completion of its 9th annual All-School Bluegrass Assembly Programs. These assemblies are key components of the museum’s far-reaching <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/bluegrassInTheSchools.php">Bluegrass in the Schools</a> program.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL3ULwVGwaCFKFw-bEFxBYVFoGywiVVdOwrUg-9wKC8Fu9EPRvPvhPmD4ZhP2lmQRNQXl-urjIDOl4F-GJ_ZO40KYmvzn3I0LMyadCLPW068NS_xQvNov7YDjk_OCXYNXUQ9iLXlKLuPQ/s1600/-1.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL3ULwVGwaCFKFw-bEFxBYVFoGywiVVdOwrUg-9wKC8Fu9EPRvPvhPmD4ZhP2lmQRNQXl-urjIDOl4F-GJ_ZO40KYmvzn3I0LMyadCLPW068NS_xQvNov7YDjk_OCXYNXUQ9iLXlKLuPQ/s200/-1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581423302002025442" /></a><br />For three weeks in January, local professional musicians performed at 23 area elementary schools. The 45-minute program consisted entirely of Bill Monroe compositions. <br /><br />Universally known as the Father of Bluegrass Music, Bill Monroe was born and grew to manhood in nearby Ohio County, Kentucky. 2011 marks the <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/CentennialCelebration.php">100th anniversary</a> of his birth on September 13, 1911.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJdAbbQBZSd2ohbYS0n_GB33_9BpVMQa2Iz3_FXoB-fMotmD2guInNgOAo7GHxRdnbKq3YY2lMp3Yrf6I02GTM3gs_3N4ulT-G_RzArDHL77r_iuDNGmpqIM0etbsPy4ayt1Q0MHeoYFY/s1600/-2.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJdAbbQBZSd2ohbYS0n_GB33_9BpVMQa2Iz3_FXoB-fMotmD2guInNgOAo7GHxRdnbKq3YY2lMp3Yrf6I02GTM3gs_3N4ulT-G_RzArDHL77r_iuDNGmpqIM0etbsPy4ayt1Q0MHeoYFY/s200/-2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581423305479862434" /></a><br />The band went from school to school educating children about bluegrass music and the pivotal role Monroe played in the creation of the bluegrass music genre. <br /><br />The program was led by the museum’s education director, Randy Lanham. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZvP0sfZQy_Ofn-C1EFODPTNRpI-0TB9NVNFtwmvrGS03G8BuxhAsoVYjIY0hSyWFrd6XrNQfSTm4_UM_ZhereovgEDLIVWv9bNx8-F1Ljcek3W8ATM4mPK8cerce1Nr7oYoYGE4iS08/s1600/-3.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZvP0sfZQy_Ofn-C1EFODPTNRpI-0TB9NVNFtwmvrGS03G8BuxhAsoVYjIY0hSyWFrd6XrNQfSTm4_UM_ZhereovgEDLIVWv9bNx8-F1Ljcek3W8ATM4mPK8cerce1Nr7oYoYGE4iS08/s200/-3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581423019621784194" /></a>Randy played the fiddle and was accompanied by Jeff Hardesty on guitar, David Morris on banjo and Danny “Hootenanny” Clark—the newest member of the museum staff—on mandolin. <br /><br />Slides were shown of original artwork created by dozens of artists inspired by Bill Monroe songs. The original art is on display at the museum in <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/centennialArtExhibit.php">“The Bill Monroe Centennial Art Exhibit”</a> through September 12, 2012.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxlnCr_yHxTYUqv8QvrAJLfMhNiKMzyeG7OrgaUN27hGGV7hqQp4LM_LJExg4NknATXTELstvm_OkIJ1FdXW_Snx0YZnbxHHU3XGeXuAGY3ems7u5JIp-gKjyxdWgTbo9_KwmvxZpSinc/s1600/CIMG0197.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxlnCr_yHxTYUqv8QvrAJLfMhNiKMzyeG7OrgaUN27hGGV7hqQp4LM_LJExg4NknATXTELstvm_OkIJ1FdXW_Snx0YZnbxHHU3XGeXuAGY3ems7u5JIp-gKjyxdWgTbo9_KwmvxZpSinc/s200/CIMG0197.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581425857154034882" /></a><br />This year’s Bluegrass in the Schools program reached an audience of over 8,500 students. The overall crowd favorite was Monroe’s original tune, “Uncle Pen,” which commemorates his uncle Pendleton Vandiver’s now-famous role in teaching young Monroe how to play fiddle tunes and adapt them to the mandolin…at breakneck speed. Uncle Pen’s fiddle is <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/currentExhibits.php">on display at the museum</a>, as well.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzuJTzmmbxC41KVSkjARKXfP0kVlH24WRJTGpNMB_QMCrpv7xXpTTzo48AEEtshNh2BdARw748GHa0EOZEyG4fYTTSW2299tQsHrAt4BdS26wcN0zng3IEjsgtme5juTzl3PQbrZKmaUg/s1600/CIMG0313.JPG"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzuJTzmmbxC41KVSkjARKXfP0kVlH24WRJTGpNMB_QMCrpv7xXpTTzo48AEEtshNh2BdARw748GHa0EOZEyG4fYTTSW2299tQsHrAt4BdS26wcN0zng3IEjsgtme5juTzl3PQbrZKmaUg/s200/CIMG0313.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581419528537762530" border="0" /></a><br />For students whose interest is sparked by these annual assembly programs, the museum hosts the <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/bluegrassInTheSchools.php#Kentucky%20BlueGrass%20AllStars">Kentucky BlueGrass AllStars’</a> <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/kentuckyBluegrassAllstars.php">Saturday Lessons Program</a>. <br /><br />The program is bi-weekly and allows regional residents of all ages to take group lessons on the fiddle, guitar, banjo and mandolin. The museum supplies instruments and professional instructors.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggVxJOkPgSGiJAxAVXTZcm4IcNFgmdVhIA40RuxAvUhUE0KXh1wX90OyqzYcVLoVc-Tj6zeRe5o_E81IoXFn_WEQ-1qdvrEk4_sFmEhTbzzYcBZ6hZtKRRUNFq73ryxazwbSQkcn-GwH8/s1600/CIMG0236.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggVxJOkPgSGiJAxAVXTZcm4IcNFgmdVhIA40RuxAvUhUE0KXh1wX90OyqzYcVLoVc-Tj6zeRe5o_E81IoXFn_WEQ-1qdvrEk4_sFmEhTbzzYcBZ6hZtKRRUNFq73ryxazwbSQkcn-GwH8/s200/CIMG0236.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581424788979143746" /></a><br /><br />The Kentucky BlueGrass AllStars perform each year at <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/romp.php">ROMP</a>, the museum’s festival. In 2011, the AllStars will perform at 12:00 noon on June 25 on the Main Stage at Yellow Creek Park.Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-77269643030001164932011-02-14T09:01:00.000-08:002011-02-14T09:17:20.558-08:00The Coal Porters performance to benefit the IBMM<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Jkz5EsZt30_MVM8PvGFqcxC53QtOvgWcu7YFL53qThmOs8glNBbGwTHCW3XVADg0edogP3eypLQHq4uSbiSDhylwt1ZzpNsRoVTf4HQj5AjrnkqzEenY44vR3NtS7FsxdHgibaFPnlo/s1600/The-Coal-Porters1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 280px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Jkz5EsZt30_MVM8PvGFqcxC53QtOvgWcu7YFL53qThmOs8glNBbGwTHCW3XVADg0edogP3eypLQHq4uSbiSDhylwt1ZzpNsRoVTf4HQj5AjrnkqzEenY44vR3NtS7FsxdHgibaFPnlo/s400/The-Coal-Porters1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5573595112285324802" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.sidgriffin.com/the-coal-porters/">The Coal Porters</a> will perform at the <a href="http://www.bluegrassmuseum.org">International Bluegrass Music Museum</a> on Tuesday, February 15 at 7:00 p.m. as part of our Centennial Concert Series, a benefit for the IBMM. We talked with mandolinist Sid Griffin about the band, his Kentucky heritage and the upcoming show in this interview.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">IBMM: Can you tell us a little about your Kentucky roots, and maybe how they play a part in both your music and other artistic endeavors?</span> <br /><br />Sid Griffin: Being eighth generation Kentucky Southern Baptist on both sides of my family has its strong points and its weak points. In times past the Griffins and the various other branches of the family tree played music to entertain each other and themselves. No radio, no TV, no phonograph records, right? So there is a classic example of the folk tradition there. Even my grandmother played the fiddle and she was pretty strict, no messin' around with her. <br /><br />But, as time went on entertainment was supplied to Kentuckians, especially after FDR got the Tennessee Valley Authority to run electricity to the smaller communities in the 1930s. And like the rest of the USA the local traditions began to become homogenized and more like they were in the rest of the country or more like what folks heard on the national radio network broadcasts of the day out of places like Manhattan. <br /><br />So, in many ways this was a bad thing and soon you had families like the Griffins downplaying or even poo-pooing the playing of musical instruments around the house. Which is what happened to me and my generation. How sad is it when a guitar or a mandolin or a banjo are considered poor expenditures of time in a Kentucky household? Pretty damn sad if you ask me.<br /> <br />Anyway after starting in bluegrass as a tyke, finding it difficult and thinking it old man's music, I moved to rock & roll and did really well with it for years. I actually made money at it, top that, eh? But it gets old playing rock and roll as you hit forty, as you get older, you begin to feel a bit foolish. So after a tragic car accident in London almost killed the drummer of my last rock group I decided, while he was recuperating, to start playing the mandolin, to explore acoustic music where you needed no amps or drums. And I have never turned back. <br /><br />I should now thank the marvelous <a href="http://www.bluegrassmuseum.org">Bluegrass Museum</a> there in Owensboro as their <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/mandoCamps.php">Bill Monroe Mandolin Camp</a> has been a major influence on my playing and enthusiasm for this acoustic music nowadays.<br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">IBMM: When was the last time you performed in Kentucky?</span><br /><br />Sid Griffin: I think I played a couple of solo gigs in Covington and Louisville in the last few years when I was coming home to visit my then ailing and now deceased parents. I believe the last band gig I did was 2004 at the World Of Bluegrass Festival in Louisville, the Coal Porters played that. It was a blast, a total blast, and the last one in Kentucky as it then moved to Nashville. Gigs in Louisville, Lexington and such are pretty much a blast as all my relatives and old friends come out to see me, it really is as much a social event as a musical one!<br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">IBMM: Would you like to say anything to the folks about the upcoming Tuesday show? </span><br /><br />Sid Griffin: Come see the Coal Porters and support the marvelous Bluegrass Museum Tuesday night because in a few years a ticket to see the Coal Porters is probably going to be awfully, awfully expensive! On a more serious note we really are a very entertaining band with a world class fiddler and a world class banjo man. Plus I think our original songs are strong, I am immensely proud of them. We've played several hundred shows so surely by now we know what we are doing! <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="font-weight:bold;">The Coal Porters, from London, England<br />Benefit Concert for the Bluegrass Museum<br />February 15 at 7:00 PM<br />At the museum, 117 Daviess Street, Owensboro, KY 42303.<br />Tickets are $10 and include a reception with wine and food. Seating is limited.<br />Call 270-926-7891 to reserve your tickets.</span></span>Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-73981792950135760322010-12-28T16:04:00.000-08:002010-12-28T16:24:39.011-08:00IBMM's Centennial Celebration to feature all living Bluegrass Hall of Fame members!More than 15 members of the Bluegrass <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/hallOfFame.php">Hall of Fame</a> will perform at the <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/home.php">International Bluegrass Music Museum’s</a> Bill Monroe Centennial Celebration, September 12, 13 & 14, 2011, at RiverPark Center located next door to the museum in Owensboro, Ky. The event celebrates the life and 100th birthday of Bill Monroe, popularly known as the Father of Bluegrass Music, who was born in nearby Rosine, Ky., on September 13, 1911.<br /><br />Performers include <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/zbioJesseMcRenyolds.php">Jesse McReynolds</a>, <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/zbioEarlScruggs.php">Earl Scruggs</a>, <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/zbioRalphStanley.php">Ralph Stanley</a>, <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/zbioMacWiseman.php">Mac Wiseman</a>, <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/zbioDocWatson.php">Doc Watson</a>, <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/zbioJDCrowe.php">J. D. Crowe</a>, <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/zbioBobbyOsborne.php">Bobby Osborne</a>, <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/zbioEddieAdcock.php">Eddie Adcock</a>, <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/zbioTomGray.php">Tom Gray</a>, <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/zbioKennyBaker.php">Kenny Baker</a>, <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/zbioCurlySeckler.php">Curly Seckler</a>, <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/zbioEverettLilly.php">Everett Lilly</a>, <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/zbioLewisFamily.php">The Lewis Family</a>, <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/zbioBillClifton.php">Bill Clifton</a>, <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/zbioTheDillards.php">Rodney Dillard</a>, Melvin Goins, Paul Williams. Other <a href="http://bluegrassmuseum.org/general/pioneersOfBluegrass.php">Pioneers</a> and Blue Grass Boys will be performing, as well.<br /><br />Tickets to the Centennial Celebration are limited to just 1,500 and sold in advance by reservation only. Ticket prices are tiered for the three days filled with exclusive events, concerts, exhibits, interviews and field trips. Three-day passes range from $175 for orchestra level seating to $100 for second balcony. Call 270-926-7891 to purchase tickets to this once-in-a-lifetime event. <br /><br />The Centennial Celebration will feature all of the living members of the Bluegrass Hall of Fame with their bands in concert, as well as reunions of museum honorees The Pioneers of Bluegrass—musicians who began working before 1960—and the Blue Grass Boys, veterans of Bill Monroe’s band over the years. The Pioneers and Blue Grass Boys will perform on stage and interact informally during jams, discussions and as audience members. <br /><br />During the Centennial Celebration, the museum will premier a documentary film featuring the story of Bill Monroe as told by the Blue Grass Boys’ remembrances through the decades. An exhibit of their artifacts will open, as well. The museum will also premier an original musical based on Bill Monroe’s life.<br /> <br />The Bill Monroe Centennial Celebration will take place immediately following the 6th annual Monroe-Style Mandolin Camp, a one of a kind camp devoted to the mandolin performance style of Bill Monroe, taking place September 9-11, 2011 at the International Bluegrass Music Museum.<br /><br />For more information about coordinated Centennial Celebration events throughout Kentucky, see the dedicated Web site at <a href="http://www.billmonroe100birthday.com">http://www.billmonroe100birthday.com</a> created by the Owensboro Daviess County Convention & Visitor’s Bureau.Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-34194720732611540262010-11-30T12:42:00.000-08:002010-11-30T12:58:53.239-08:00IBMM's Monroe-Style Mandolin All-Star Faculty Concert to be broadcast on WNIN-FM!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNcqi-0PZn4d4JkUCGk4PjgcZSJc8-oLInXLTkpALGZYmMDMnarPNCnj6jvdapWYqEH5Zz2h9brQ7aUFQV3C3GwjDJbv71RjFrs-Ejq_No-z42WyaEfzYpJM-UA4Tl31KDCB67NaWSwoI/s1600/wnin.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 201px; height: 91px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNcqi-0PZn4d4JkUCGk4PjgcZSJc8-oLInXLTkpALGZYmMDMnarPNCnj6jvdapWYqEH5Zz2h9brQ7aUFQV3C3GwjDJbv71RjFrs-Ejq_No-z42WyaEfzYpJM-UA4Tl31KDCB67NaWSwoI/s400/wnin.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545450037409417522" /></a><br />The Monroe-Style Mandolin All-Star Faculty Concert will air on Saturday, December 11 at 8pm CST on WNIN-FM, with a repeat on Wednesday, December 15 at 7pm central time. WNIN is based in Evansville, Indiana, and can be heard throughout the Tri-State area (including southern Indiana, western Kentucky and southeastern Illinois). The broadcast will also be streamed on the Internet at http://www.wnin.org.<br /><br />The concert was recorded live at the International Bluegrass Music Museum in Owensboro, Kentucky, on September 10, 2010, featuring camp director Mike Compton (Nashville Bluegrass Band, Elvis Costello & The Sugarcanes), associate director Dr. Richard Brown (The Reunion Band), Hall of Fame member Bobby Osborne (Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press), Gibson master luthier David Harvey, Skip Gorman, David Peterson (David Peterson & 1946), IBMM education director Randy Lanham and co-director David Morris, and others.<br /><br />Production and broadcast of the Monroe-Style Mandolin All-Star Faculty Concert is a partnership between WNIN Tri-State Public Media and the International Bluegrass Music Museum. The Monroe-Style Mandolin All-Star Faculty Concert is the highlight of the Monroe-Style Mandolin Camps held the second week of each September at the museum. For more information go to http://www.bluegrassmuseum.org.Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-3232494163748528912010-11-19T07:02:00.000-08:002010-11-19T07:11:03.950-08:00World Progress Report VideoIn September 2010, World Progress Report with Joan Lunden (a program that appears on PBS stations) came to Owensboro to tape a segment about the International Bluegrass Music Museum. They visited us during our Bill Monroe Style Mandolin Camp and All-Star Faculty Concert, which resulted in some great performance and workshop footage.<br /><br />Here's the video! It's a wonderful introduction to the Museum for anyone who hasn't been here yet. And it's also a good introduction to bluegrass music in general for your friends who aren't yet "in the know." Hope you like it!<br /><br /><br /><object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/OJ6XcXr3R-8?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/OJ6XcXr3R-8?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object>Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-5193147674415987712010-08-24T14:00:00.000-07:002010-08-24T14:11:00.652-07:00Bill Monroe Exhibit to Include Rare Artifacts<span style="font-weight:bold;">Uncle Pen’s fiddle and Monroe’s famous mandolin headstock spotlighted</span><br /><br />The International Bluegrass Music Museum will open its Bill Monroe Exhibit as part of the worldwide Bill Monroe Centennial Celebration on September 10, 2010, just three days prior to what would have been Mr. Monroe’s 99th birthday. The opening will begin at 6:00 p.m. (CST) at the IBMM, 217 Daviess Street, Owensboro, KY 42303, and will include a reception with food and drink, as well as an all-star bluegrass concert, with faculty from the Monroe-Style Mandolin Camp performing. <br /><br />Tickets to the Exhibit Opening & Reception are $10. Tickets to the concert only are $20 and are limited to 125, so reservations are recommended. Tickets for persons attending both the Exhibit Opening & Reception and the All-Star Faculty Concert are $25. Call 270-926-7891 for tickets.<br /><br />Featured in the Bill Monroe Exhibit are many of Monroe’s personal artifacts and clothing, records and other items, illustrating the impact of his long and eventful career, which spanned nearly seven decades and resulted in the creation and global propagation of one of America’s scant original musical genres. Showcased in this exhibit will be two major artifacts never before displayed in a museum setting: Uncle Pen’s fiddle and the famous headstock veneer from Bill Monroe’s mandolin.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQRL3TeZhz6s76vLHZ-jBz9RmdxB_DvicYh_a2wiZZj83n2VfVND98gImx8FEGgY35MbnbACBpcvcm0yf7cwUUeHZZvJkmu8nERD08vA5z-kFo2IKgo5EMvLzomgd0O_pnZbtAvqlhPtI/s1600/100_3429.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQRL3TeZhz6s76vLHZ-jBz9RmdxB_DvicYh_a2wiZZj83n2VfVND98gImx8FEGgY35MbnbACBpcvcm0yf7cwUUeHZZvJkmu8nERD08vA5z-kFo2IKgo5EMvLzomgd0O_pnZbtAvqlhPtI/s320/100_3429.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509085848757310242" /></a><br />Bluegrass musicians and fans know that this fiddle and its owner, Pendleton Vandiver, were enormously influential in Bill Monroe’s life. After the death of his parents, Bill, then age 16, lived with his Uncle Pen, who taught him mountain and Celtic fiddle tunes which Bill transposed onto the mandolin, making him one of the first to play the mandolin in this manner. <br /><br />Uncle Pen’s fiddle was acquired by one of the most instrumental people in establishing the IBMM, Terry Woodward of Owensboro, Kentucky, who has gifted the instrument to the museum for the duration of the centennial celebration. This fiddle has been used in recent recording sessions by fiddlers Ricky Skaggs, Stuart Duncan, Fletcher Bright and Tim O’Brien to record a soundtrack for a motion picture being made of Bill Monroe’s life starring Golden Globe-nominated actor Peter Sarsgaard. <br /><br />The other major artifact, the original headstock veneer from Bill Monroe’s world-famous Gibson 1923 F-5 Lloyd Loar mandolin, is part of a legend well-known to fans and it is considered by some to be the quintessential bluegrass relic. After a disagreement with Gibson, Monroe removed the company’s name from the headstock with a pocketknife, leaving only the word “The.” He performed with the mandolin in that condition from around 1951 until 1980 when Gibson replaced it along with completing several other repairs. It was thought to have been lost or scrapped until recently.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpoDCDkld-mpMVT1g85lSGNOt274gE2dJhmhQJqGglHEQ_NHtB9ALpPTLF_wclAWyM_6r-emJQxMirshKb0t2lhwk1Qku2iSF0lbSttIxj6U3EI9r9vbmaUFuSGTk22734M947yF8A1Bw/s1600/5O9A1436.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpoDCDkld-mpMVT1g85lSGNOt274gE2dJhmhQJqGglHEQ_NHtB9ALpPTLF_wclAWyM_6r-emJQxMirshKb0t2lhwk1Qku2iSF0lbSttIxj6U3EI9r9vbmaUFuSGTk22734M947yF8A1Bw/s400/5O9A1436.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509086496534715026" /></a><br /> <br />The veneer was auctioned at Christie’s in New York City in December of 2009. The IBMM’s executive director, Gabrielle Gray, made the trip from Owensboro hoping to be the top bidder and acquire the artifact for the museum. She was outbid by Laura Weber Cash, an accomplished vocalist and award-winning fiddler, who has agreed to place it on loan to the museum.<br /><br />Laura Weber Cash, an accomplished musician with an impressive vocal resume, won the highly coveted first place award in the National Fiddle Championship both as a 17-year-old in the Junior Division and 20 years later in the Adult Division. She is married to John Carter Cash, grandson of Maybelle Carter and the only child of June Carter Cash and Johnny Cash. John is carrying on the family tradition as a singer, songwriter and record producer. Laura and John graciously agreed to loan their newly acquired artifact to the museum for the duration of the centennial celebration.<br /><br />Coinciding with the Bill Monroe Exhibit opening will be the 5th annual Bill Monroe-Style Mandolin Camp, which draws campers from around the world to learn the legendary, virtuosic, idiosyncratic mandolin style that Monroe created and perfected over many decades. Campers are treated to an annual concert—essentially heaven for mandolin players—with some of the best instrumentalists in the world playing music in the manner Bill Monroe made famous.<br /><br />The All-Star Faculty Concert begins at 8:00 p.m., also in the RiverPark Center Complex, and is open to the public. The concert features mandolin camp faculty members, including Camp Director Mike Compton, Associate Director Dr. Richard “Richie” Brown, Bluegrass Hall of Fame member Bobby Osborne, Skip Gorman and David Harvey, as well as special guests Danny Jones (former Blue Grass Boy), Dave Peterson (band leader), luthiers Will Kimble and Paul Duff, and others yet to be announced.<br /><br />The Bill Monroe Exhibit is the second of three special shows that will be open during the two-year Bill Monroe Centennial Celebration. The Bill Monroe Centennial Art Exhibit is the first exhibit in the set, which opened to an overflowing crowd at the museum on opening day of ROMP, the museum’s summer cultural festival. <br /><br />The art exhibit is comprised of visual artwork by dozens of artists inspired by the music of Bill Monroe. The various forms of art depict specific songs or lyrics. The songs play in the exhibit hall and lyrics are posted beside the art. This exhibit will remain at the museum throughout the centennial celebration period. All works are for sale, with the museum receiving 40% of the proceeds.<br /><br />The third Bill Monroe Centennial exhibit will open September 13, 2011, his 100th birthday, and will feature the artifacts of The Blue Grass Boys—the legendary members of Bill Monroe’s band over many decades—as well as expand upon the Bill Monroe Exhibit.<br /><br />The International Bluegrass Music Museum is located in downtown Owensboro in the RiverPark Center Complex, 217 Daviess Street. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sunday 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. For information call 270-926-7891 or visit the museum’s website: <a href="http://www.bluegrassmuseum.org">http://www.bluegrassmuseum.org</a>.Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-29056916510726083482010-06-01T16:55:00.000-07:002010-08-17T17:04:04.500-07:00IBMM's Bill Monroe-Style Mandolin Camp 2010<span style="font-weight:bold;">Our Bill Monroe-Style Mandolin Camp will be held at the IBMM in Owensboro, September 10-12. <br /><br />From Camp Director Mike Compton:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">This year's Monroe Mandolin Camp at the IBMM will feature what we think is a bit more adventurous and varied schedule than in years past. We have returning instructors Richie Brown and Skip Gorman and myself from last year. Joining us will be bluegrass legend Bobby Osborne for his second time. <br /><br />We are looking to Bobby for his memories of days working in close contact with Monroe and hope to include a storytelling class along these lines relating tales of working with Bill backstage at the Opry, working the road, etc . <br /><br />In addition to that, I have suggested that Bobby teach a couple classes on bluegrass style singing, and he is of a mind this is a good idea, so this is of special interest for those who are fans of authentic bluegrass style singing. Also, he will bring his own unique mandolin style to the table. <br /><br />We have on staff this year, Dave Harvey and are proud to get him. I think that he is one of the most gifted technicians to ever play a mandolin. Dave's father was an outstanding Monroe style player as well, so Dave gets his influence in that area honestly. He is also very adept at playing in more contemporary stylings, so I think this is an opportunity to learn from him how to step outside the box a bit, to give the old ideas a new twist. <br /><br />We also are including this year a general help desk for those whose questions are not being answered elsewhere. Each of us will man the desk during the weekend, so be watching for that. Bring questions and come sit a spell. <br /><br />We are fortunate to have luthiers Will Kimble and Paul Duff with us this year. They have a very informative lineup of topics regarding the history of the F5 mandolin, construction, finishes, self-maintenance, how to install frets, etc. <br /><br />This is not to be missed for those who are interested in not only playing the mandolin, but possibly building their own. I know that in years past we've had students who were interested in this area, so here's your chance to get your feet wet. <br /><br />Finally, we will still have the instructor concert as well as the all-night jam at Gabrielle's house. I think this year's event will be better than ever, so tell about 20 of your closest friends and come on to Owensboro this September!<br /></span><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Registration is limited, so don't wait!</span> <a href="http://www.bluegrass-museum.org/general/mandoCamps.php">Click here for more details.</a>Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-48927878429884366082010-04-30T15:23:00.000-07:002010-08-11T15:34:43.188-07:00Pioneers of Bluegrass Exhibit<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy4j0olMbPnN91OaJVHJL0itWB5HicrreNr8Oayn2LU0FtEifk1YCT6ERnRLaw-H7O5NJ8aab0qGqPFFQRAFH7jdlf6vlVXj4YOssmQ20MfaaNwNzhgpBxTEUSFdGyL_RgIGqOpBBSPtc/s1600/20100217_10.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy4j0olMbPnN91OaJVHJL0itWB5HicrreNr8Oayn2LU0FtEifk1YCT6ERnRLaw-H7O5NJ8aab0qGqPFFQRAFH7jdlf6vlVXj4YOssmQ20MfaaNwNzhgpBxTEUSFdGyL_RgIGqOpBBSPtc/s400/20100217_10.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504282198968262098" /></a><br />Pioneers of Bluegrass Exhibit<br />By Forrest Roberts<br /><br />The Pioneers of Bluegrass Exhibit highlights over sixty first generation bluegrass musicians. Artists from across the country contributed artifacts and then gathered at ROMP 2009 to tour the exhibit, reminisce, renew old friendships and perform.<br /><br />The exhibit includes historic and contemporary photographs ranging from the Original Blue River Boys and Tony Ellis with Reno and Smiley and the Tennessee Cutups in the 1940’s to more contemporary pictures of the Osborne Brothers, Jim and Jesse McReynolds and J.D. Crowe.<br /><br />One section is devoted to instruments, including those owned by Curly Seckler, Ramona Jones, Pete Goble and others. Posters, performance clothes and album covers can also be viewed in the collection, along with more unique items, such as the first edition of Bluegrass Unlimited produced on a mimeograph machine; a piece of wood carved by Bill Monroe with the names of the Blue Grass Boys at the time; and some of Monroe’s smoking pipes, which presumably only had Prince Albert tobacco in them.<br /><br />The Exhibit will continue on display until September of this year.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIQ3hC_UDxajCT-raYnhQ7OLqiwe59V0Jc899nAniW8uxXM3fMCWYEE9ArO6a8stSjK7rssioWgG9E5GmYL3rF9XWeqEcFaNBT9ymNovaY7EEwGRAe8-jsBU_xRzO_SSeNTWBYv4SsJQU/s1600/20100217_65.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIQ3hC_UDxajCT-raYnhQ7OLqiwe59V0Jc899nAniW8uxXM3fMCWYEE9ArO6a8stSjK7rssioWgG9E5GmYL3rF9XWeqEcFaNBT9ymNovaY7EEwGRAe8-jsBU_xRzO_SSeNTWBYv4SsJQU/s400/20100217_65.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504283774896537426" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoyFFwBIred1PGd8cwoT1JCHB8kCegb-APb9Yef9XGR21ekmRSLp1gHz5CywZbdaK4XuS-1_JcCzNI6Sw4K8d4J6mmD4r33RVvDcUwPwtbJqkIjWGY0xq-83T60mpE3SX8HUUKcSvD-O4/s1600/20100217_12.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoyFFwBIred1PGd8cwoT1JCHB8kCegb-APb9Yef9XGR21ekmRSLp1gHz5CywZbdaK4XuS-1_JcCzNI6Sw4K8d4J6mmD4r33RVvDcUwPwtbJqkIjWGY0xq-83T60mpE3SX8HUUKcSvD-O4/s400/20100217_12.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504283773547232690" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-aP3-G8afMageBYxlKUvEJQNcvun_q9oQ-xw_vL-PM7RJZB84LEuLDcgd07ZSBYH8MPPCflz8W-CYoKdjLdnwaGhaapZ0flhYyMWIJinhl2njujl60tWF6zc0gPZfBWemOnwe9ex0-uc/s1600/20100217_03.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-aP3-G8afMageBYxlKUvEJQNcvun_q9oQ-xw_vL-PM7RJZB84LEuLDcgd07ZSBYH8MPPCflz8W-CYoKdjLdnwaGhaapZ0flhYyMWIJinhl2njujl60tWF6zc0gPZfBWemOnwe9ex0-uc/s400/20100217_03.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504283763117236306" /></a>Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-89855843606380139662010-04-28T14:43:00.000-07:002010-08-11T15:13:14.518-07:00Recent Donations Add to Museum's ExhibitsAcquisitions Update<br />by Forrest Roberts<br /><br /><font style="font-weight: bold;">Ronald Stuckey</font><br />Ronald Stuckey is a retired professor of botany from Ohio State University. In addition to aquatic and wetlands plants, Dr. Stuckey loves bluegrass music and for years photographed his favorite artists at bluegrass festivals and concerts. He then exchanged his photographs for the artists’ CDs and tapes. Dr. Stuckey also collected programs, articles, flyers and other bluegrass memorabilia. Dr. Stuckey made his first donation to the International Bluegrass Music Museum in 1995 with the donation of a 1947 souvenir program from the Grand Old Opry. In 2009 Stuckey donated the rest of his collection which included hundreds of photographs, tapes, CDs and other items.<br /><br /><font style="font-weight: bold;">Benny Cain</font><br />Benny Cain and his wife, Vallie, for many years performed as a bluegrass duet in the Washington, D.C., area. In his later years Mr. Cain gave much of his professional memorabilia to his friend and fellow musician, Andrew Acosta. In 2009 Mr. Acosta donated this collection to the IBMM. The collection includes sheet music, song books, tapes of live performances, historic photographs, music publications and much more.<br /><font style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Henry “Red” Horrocks</font><br />Longtime Museum supporter Henry “Red” Horrocks has made several donations of bluegrass memorabilia over the years. His latest donation includes bluegrass related books; discographies; song and photo souvenir albums; newsletters and journals; autographed photographs, vintage albums and other miscellaneous items.<br /><br /><font style="font-weight: bold;">Owen Lawson</font><br />Owens Lawson owns an antique store in Owensboro. He had collected historic photographs and newspaper clippings, vintage song books, song folios, magazines and souvenir booklets with the intent to sell them. When it was suggested that such a unique and valuable collection should be donated to the Museum, he readily agreed.<br /><br /><font style="font-weight: bold;">Don Sherburne</font><br />Don Sherburne has been sending portions of his extensive record collection to the Museum for years. His most recent shipment included a gift of 62 vintage albums, including 10 of Bill Monroe’s releases.<br /><br />The IBMM appreciates very much all the donations it receives and thanks all donors, both those appearing above and others, not mentioned here, who will be highlighted in future blogs.Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-24002024253863587332010-03-19T12:38:00.000-07:002010-03-19T12:40:03.851-07:00IBMM Announces new concert series in OwensboroThe International Bluegrass Music Museum is pleased to announce a new benefit concert series to be held at the Museum in Owensboro, Kentucky and beginning this month. ‘Musicians for the Bluegrass Music Museum’ was conceived and organized by Ernie Evans, guitarist for Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike, a longtime supporter of the Museum and its programs.<br /><br />The series will begin on Friday, March 26th with a performance by the James King Band. More concerts will follow in April, featuring Summertown Road and Kenny & Amanda Smith. There are more musicians who have expressed interest, according to Evans, such as Blue Moon Rising, Brand New Strings and Jeff & Vida.<br /><br />Evans says he got the idea for a concert series after donating a show with Liberty Pike back in December. “Based on the enthusiasm of a sold out crowd, it occurred to me that if other bands were to follow suit, that a series of concert could have a huge impact that would benefit the museum,” Evans says. <br /><br />“I realize that funding is difficult for any non profit organization today and after visiting the museum it became obvious to me that it is costly to maintain a first class facility like IBMM.”<br /><br />Evans himself will take part in the concert series with a performance later this spring with Liberty Pike celebrating the release of their new CD, <span style="font-style:italic;">Blame it on the Bluegrass</span>, recorded at the Museum during their Bluegrass in the Schools residency in January.<br /><br />Evans is busy recruiting more bands to the cause through his personal connections and through social networking. He created a group on Facebook called ‘Musicians for the Bluegrass Music Museum’ to spread the word throughout the bluegrass community.<br /><br />Any bluegrass bands are welcome to help, Evans says. “Most artists that are touring nationally will, at some point in time, travel through or close to Owensboro,” he says. “We are flexible on what day of the week concerts can be held. So it can be convenient to the artist’s itinerary.”<br /><br />Even if bands don’t travel to Kentucky, Evans says they can still assist by helping to spread the word. Bands can also become members and can donate proceeds from special shows.<br /><br />The price for the ‘Musicians for the Bluegrass Music Museum’ series will be $10 per ticket. All performances will take place at the Museum at 7 PM. For more information on tickets and specific dates, see www.bluegrassmuseum.org or call 888-MY-BANJO.<br /><br /><br />SCHEDULED CONCERTS<br /><br />Fri, March 26th-James King Band <br />Thurs, April 1st-Jack Hicks and Summertown Road<br />Thurs, April 15th-Kenny & Amanda SmithBluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-55270701841726099872010-03-04T12:15:00.000-08:002010-03-04T12:39:07.448-08:00Pete Wernick’s world-famous Jam Camp comes to ROMP<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5v86RcJEkASfezTnZrLWCG-GfsGctuokdmjWGIIzljU4lyMwNJU4T46hoQ8sqzAuqWemhnoLpUWPocn2yGw3ioG7Tk7mNPG2aY6-hN0zsWv-M_BKa0AcwOIi29pVGVVblMW-FuNaKvRI/s1600-h/wernick-solo-1.5mb.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5v86RcJEkASfezTnZrLWCG-GfsGctuokdmjWGIIzljU4lyMwNJU4T46hoQ8sqzAuqWemhnoLpUWPocn2yGw3ioG7Tk7mNPG2aY6-hN0zsWv-M_BKa0AcwOIi29pVGVVblMW-FuNaKvRI/s200/wernick-solo-1.5mb.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444879182466476050" /></a>For the first time ever, the <a href="http://www.bluegrass-museum.org/general/master.php">Bluegrass Museum’s</a> <a href="http://www.bluegrass-museum.org/general/romp.php">ROMP</a> activities will include a music camp. <a href="http://drbanjo.com/camps.php">Pete Wernick’s Jam Camps</a> have inspired “closet pickers” all over the country and will make a stop in Owensboro during ROMP, June 21st-24th. The camp will be held at the Museum from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Wednesday, and 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM on Thursday. Pete plans to include special guests and top bluegrass talent to help teach at the camp.<br /><br />Bluegrass jam camps were first conceived by Pete to help encourage novice fans to participate in the bluegrass community. “A jam camp is to help closet players or people getting into bluegrass—or even more experienced musicians—develop their ensemble skills,” Pete says. “A lot of people are learning to play bluegrass, but are rarely taught the skills involved in playing as part of a group.”<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK2afyz2E1RjOr8uwD_gEa4aiOrGrE_gSL0BXHY8SG3MMv_QG3ujbwtOSESgLcgoD2AL8EvxQSUqRBBq82TBX8iuWbOyhcaTIjdxfKAyowXlEgSAMbZQpENuAG8yBE4kYVe1ok3qyvLcw/s1600-h/banjo-camp-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 185px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK2afyz2E1RjOr8uwD_gEa4aiOrGrE_gSL0BXHY8SG3MMv_QG3ujbwtOSESgLcgoD2AL8EvxQSUqRBBq82TBX8iuWbOyhcaTIjdxfKAyowXlEgSAMbZQpENuAG8yBE4kYVe1ok3qyvLcw/s400/banjo-camp-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444877758030992754" border="0" /></a> Pete uses a variety of teaching methods, including traditional classroom workshops, large group lessons and small group ensemble in a fun, low-pressure environment. “In a few days, everyone gets the hang of the process. Even if they can't lead a song or take a solo, they can be a ‘follower-alonger’ as we say.”<br /><br />Using multiple teaching strategies ensures that everyone is included in the learning process, Pete says. “People learn all sorts of ways, but one thing we try to make clear is that bluegrass is not about reading chord changes or solos from a piece of paper or only being able to play what you've memorized,” he continues. “We show how to follow along by watching and hearing the basic chord changes, which is the key to making it all work. We even teach how to solo convincingly when you barely know the song, but are just going from the chord pattern.”<br /><br />Soloing isn’t a requirement nor is it the main focus of the camp, according to Pete. All that is required of potential Jam Campers is the ability to tune their instruments and change smoothly between G, C, D and A, nothing more. “We especially like to welcome people who have been struggling with trying to play instrumental solos as a way of starting to play bluegrass,” Pete says. “We tell them to never mind that, it's more about following chords, keeping rhythm and hopefully doing some singing. It's often news to them that singing is more fundamental than instrumental soloing, and that we don't expect people to play at fast tempos.”<br /><br />Pete, who was a long-term president of IBMA, says he’s especially pleased at the success of the Bluegrass Museum and is looking forward to seeing old friends and returning to the Riverpark Center. “This building and the IBMM are living monuments to the dedication of people worldwide to the beauty and power of bluegrass music,” Pete says. “As a native of New York City, I understand if people are surprised at my lifelong commitment to bluegrass, but it feels as natural as can be, and returning to Owensboro and the Museum are going to be among my highlights of 2010.”<br /><br />For Jam Camp information and registration, point your browser to <a href="http://drbanjo.com/camps-owensboroinfo.php">DrBanjo.com</a>.Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-33607447696018967982009-12-17T14:42:00.000-08:002009-12-17T14:49:50.335-08:00Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike to bring even more bluegrass music into Kentucky elementary classrooms!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv1rnC1Tmr0zdnzkkhXa6wOKnLOua4Bvv_ExnFr-SrBChjMwpkK_cktK5e8j0csnLvUal7twtaflsCDB2xTTJVku_-LB-zpPwFeZ5f0ZgL5HaLQtC_qyiz387Kg5xTqsmFE7TN7_iKnEo/s1600-h/valsmith.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 230px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv1rnC1Tmr0zdnzkkhXa6wOKnLOua4Bvv_ExnFr-SrBChjMwpkK_cktK5e8j0csnLvUal7twtaflsCDB2xTTJVku_-LB-zpPwFeZ5f0ZgL5HaLQtC_qyiz387Kg5xTqsmFE7TN7_iKnEo/s320/valsmith.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416340101193912098" /></a><br />Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike will perform concerts in 21 Owensboro, Ky.-area elementary schools during the month of January. The All-School Bluegrass Assemblies are a part of the International Bluegrass Music Museum’s Bluegrass in the School Program (BITS).<br /><br />The January dates mark Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike’s second term as the featured artists for this presentation. They were the very first assembly program presenters in Owensboro in 2004 and their overwhelming popularity created a successful foundation for a program that is now in its seventh year of implementation. <br /><br />“Our presentation is about 45 minutes and covers the basics about how and where bluegrass was formed,” says Liberty Pike’s Becky Buller. “Valerie is a former junior high music teacher and has a knack for putting together a program that keeps the students engaged 'til the last,” she adds.<br /><br />The in-school concerts by national acts are a much-anticipated annual event in the Owensboro area, taking place as part of the Museum’s ongoing educational outreach efforts. Schoolchildren, faculty and administrators, as well as parents who take in the concerts during the school day, often report back that they are the best programs they’ve ever seen in the schools. <br /><br />“The students seemed to have a lot of fun and were really open-minded to learning about this uniquely American music,” Buller agrees. “I would encourage other bands to look for ways to reach out to students in their own communities with this kind of program. Who knows? They may catch the attention of a kid who will grow up to be one of the next icons of our music!”<br /><br />The Museum’s BITS program is designed to interest elementary-age schoolchildren in bluegrass music. If—after receiving an eight day, in-depth introduction to fiddle, guitar, mandolin and banjo in their classrooms—they want to learn to play bluegrass, they can then sign up for group lessons at the Museum, with instruments on loan as part of the Saturday Lessons Program. <br /><br />After four years, 1,711 beginning and intermediate students of all ages have taken group music lessons in this one-of-a-kind, authentic and historic setting. There’s nothing else quite like learning to play bluegrass while surrounded by the actual clothing, posters, photographs and artifacts of Bill Monroe and other greats!<br /><br />"Bluegrass is one of the few truly American musical genres," Buller says. "The museum is preserving all the wonderful stories of Bluegrass' creators and innovators for not only future generations of musicians, but also for the public at large. By becoming a member, we are supporting the preservation of a national treasure," she says.<br /><br />Sponsors of the Museum’s BITS program are the Michael E Horn Family Foundation, Lester E. Yeager Charitable Trust, Kentucky Arts Council and the John D’Addario Foundation for the Performing Arts. Participating school systems are Daviess County Public Schools, Owensboro Public Schools and Owensboro Catholic School System. <br /><br />For more information on the Museum’s educational outreach and lessons programs, call Gabrielle Gray at 270-926-7891 or email her at Gabrielle@bluegrassmuseum.org.<br /> <br />Assembly schedule for Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike:<br /> <br />Jan 11<br />8 am Foust <br />10 am Newton Parrish<br />1 pm West Louisville<br /> <br />Jan 12<br />8:15 am Cravens<br />10 am Tamarack<br />1 pm Country Heights<br /> <br />Jan 13 <br />10 am Sutton<br />1 pm Meadowlands<br /> <br />Jan 14<br />8:15 Catholic K-3 Campus<br />10 am Catholic 4-6 Campus<br />1 pm Sorgho<br /> <br />Jan 15<br />8 am Whitesville Elementary<br />1 pm East View<br /> <br />Jan 19 <br />8 am Mary Carrico Knottsville<br />10 am Saint Marys of the Woods Whitesville<br />1 pm Deer Park<br /> <br />Jan 20<br />8:30 am Estes<br />1 pm Burns<br /> <br />Jan 21<br />1 pm Southern Oaks<br /> <br />Jan 22<br />9:30 Audubon<br />1 pm HighlandBluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-44567701432013026602009-12-16T09:53:00.000-08:002009-12-16T10:20:17.419-08:00Holiday Concert Fun<center><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif20R-Zyj1beh48b3cCoPzKTwswHsNSAhXk-oO0022i3j_yElrgrMGgR4B4tQOfXRx04YWlZrI8vw1LAfLGkU4IqZ0TbFblMvO6xFAKUvfHtTA1e-I5yqHs16S85KmASFpuooQ7nOCzwo/s1600-h/100_3598.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif20R-Zyj1beh48b3cCoPzKTwswHsNSAhXk-oO0022i3j_yElrgrMGgR4B4tQOfXRx04YWlZrI8vw1LAfLGkU4IqZ0TbFblMvO6xFAKUvfHtTA1e-I5yqHs16S85KmASFpuooQ7nOCzwo/s400/100_3598.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415895854739522818" /></a></center><br /><br />Our Holiday Concert fundraiser December 10 was a resounding success. Valerie Smith & Liberty Pike were so funny and entertaining that the “sell-out crowd” (about 75 more than filled up the Bluegrass Unlimited Theater) was on their feet clapping several times. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixf-qvgEQGCRnyyAyAGAyUX14NPXs4of12iHCicu_6D3HflQWdgG2kv0h8PZsnupaUFtaapSjJCYILi9OKymHr5iWfN6a_eeI4tlNU1Xg4JdAXaDLeH1hyphenhyphen7cQqebSo14zthqzgAB4D4YU/s1600-h/100_3601.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixf-qvgEQGCRnyyAyAGAyUX14NPXs4of12iHCicu_6D3HflQWdgG2kv0h8PZsnupaUFtaapSjJCYILi9OKymHr5iWfN6a_eeI4tlNU1Xg4JdAXaDLeH1hyphenhyphen7cQqebSo14zthqzgAB4D4YU/s400/100_3601.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415900262789569970" /></a><br /><br />The concert lasted nearly 3 hours and no one left before it was over, amazing for a weeknight. We made a few hundred dollars and many more friends. Now it seems everyone wants a concert date. The show was broadcast on RBI and the museum is getting offers now from other national acts to do benefit concerts in like fashion.<br /><br /><br /><center><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioAMR8ApCQriIUtvu4Gv8pF0C5yL93U08RXbN-EUahWBlhnI3UbBlozKhL7Z7ahlnAPvCVhEKArGvWWCMFCKwYBLBaz4iF4zP2Y2_iWCxpwSMFTdEM_y30OlI4rM0Oy2SKICYRJnt7t7g/s1600-h/100_3588.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioAMR8ApCQriIUtvu4Gv8pF0C5yL93U08RXbN-EUahWBlhnI3UbBlozKhL7Z7ahlnAPvCVhEKArGvWWCMFCKwYBLBaz4iF4zP2Y2_iWCxpwSMFTdEM_y30OlI4rM0Oy2SKICYRJnt7t7g/s400/100_3588.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415895848160931298" /></a></center><br /> <br />Up-N-Gone opened with a fine 20-minute set, staying to join in for a finale where both bands performed and the audience sang along. A frolicking good time was had by all.<br /><br /><center><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCA25c8N2jL4ccYQamxu0Kxs9t8Mq1tfWYZ4lUv0hQ1PYfY5LBCgSmFJs-eTtGyGoIC_Ed6U35ID6hh9ozsNZm8sMVTQgBn4jg77numTsZziyPL3jfqSfOqoCjFwdf2d6GT2M9UbIq_g4/s1600-h/100_3578.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCA25c8N2jL4ccYQamxu0Kxs9t8Mq1tfWYZ4lUv0hQ1PYfY5LBCgSmFJs-eTtGyGoIC_Ed6U35ID6hh9ozsNZm8sMVTQgBn4jg77numTsZziyPL3jfqSfOqoCjFwdf2d6GT2M9UbIq_g4/s400/100_3578.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415895841504375522" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiFj8sUES66jyxG5M8dRJgkZNhaYFtg2IAGhRSoAsQCBmvViig4d9-IHXBcTElG21lsMF6pYwLnK4P3JXAx1GKuh9SDrVlfg4tNfBjswY0oORrZKHt4s3-4gK1LxX7F4Bcc2ae8YiyQEs/s1600-h/100_3610.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiFj8sUES66jyxG5M8dRJgkZNhaYFtg2IAGhRSoAsQCBmvViig4d9-IHXBcTElG21lsMF6pYwLnK4P3JXAx1GKuh9SDrVlfg4tNfBjswY0oORrZKHt4s3-4gK1LxX7F4Bcc2ae8YiyQEs/s400/100_3610.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415894863137513586" /></a></center>Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-29770605055342501992009-12-09T20:13:00.000-08:002009-12-09T20:36:17.581-08:00Adding to the Museum Collection: Gabrielle goes to the Christie's AuctionI have just returned from a trip out East during which I attended the auction at Christie's in the Rockefeller Center in New York City. The museum bid on two Monroe artifacts—the Gibson mandolin headstock veneer, which we didn't get, and the statuette commemorating his induction into the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame, which we did get. <br /><br />It was "Wild and Wonderful" (yes, I drove through West Virginia!) to see all the interest in the Bill Monroe artifacts. When the headstock veneer was introduced, they made an announcement that there had been a LOT of interest in the upcoming piece. I think they were surprised at that, but I certainly wasn't. <br /> <br /><a href="http://www.christies.com/lotfinder/lot_details.aspx?intObjectID=5273001">See a picture of it here.</a> <br /><br />There were bidders in the audience (including me) and callers on the phones. The bidding went SO HIGH, SO QUICKLY it made my head spin, and suddenly it was out of reach. I was disappointed because I had driven a LONG way to be there and I wanted that artifact for the museum so that everyone all over the world could enjoy it—and the story that accompanies it—forever, but I know whoever bought it will take excellent care of it because they spent $37,500 (plus taxes & fees) to get it!<br /><br />Here's what we did acquire:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHhyoR2iqZuanW5ToDlfGGeLKqy8rDXfd5GKty25k0utxiSkVmNsAfXcX5pSnQyH4uPzTW3wZ-JdOxmWlCH2wsoV0AKaCLL4kPSVu1LPA0TKXY7tcNJkEPZdkmo-Fx40Dk10U7JZeu61k/s1600-h/rocknroll.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 161px; height: 340px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHhyoR2iqZuanW5ToDlfGGeLKqy8rDXfd5GKty25k0utxiSkVmNsAfXcX5pSnQyH4uPzTW3wZ-JdOxmWlCH2wsoV0AKaCLL4kPSVu1LPA0TKXY7tcNJkEPZdkmo-Fx40Dk10U7JZeu61k/s400/rocknroll.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413459009154609714" /></a><br /><br />It’s the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction award presented posthumously to Bill Monroe in 1997. It will make a great addition to our permanent Big Mon exhibit at the Museum.Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-15985967810460155982009-12-02T11:49:00.000-08:002009-12-02T11:52:47.054-08:00Concert Video Night Dec. 12!On December 12, 2009 at the International Bluegrass Music Museum in Owensboro, Kentucky, the museum will present a night of Old-Time & Progressive Bluegrass as videotaped by Kentucky Educational Television for their “Jubilee” series on public television. All these performances were videotaped at ROMP, the Bluegrass Museum’s annual festival which takes place the 4th weekend of June.<br /> <br />The event is free and open to the public. Featured artists and times are:<br /> <br />5:00 PM Foghorn String Band (Old Time)<br />6:00 PM Tim O’Brien (Progressive)<br />7:00 PM Uncle Earl (Old Time)<br />8:00 PM Adrienne Young & Little Sadie (Progressive)<br />8:30 PM Cadillac Sky (Progressive)<br /> <br />This event is part of The Holiday Stroll, during which many downtown Owensboro businesses will be open and welcoming to the public, showing off their holiday decorations, exhibits, menus and merchandise. Free refreshments will be served at numerous businesses, including the Bluegrass Museum. Get into the holiday spirit with strolling carolers, live performances, and storefront decorations making this a reminder of the good old days of being downtown at Christmas. Singers, instrumentalists, dancers, storytellers and actors will perform in storefronts and outside along Second and Third streets from Daviess to St. Ann.<br /> <br />The Bluegrass Museum is located in the RiverPark Center Complex, 117 Daviess Street, in downtown Owensboro just under the blue bridge… over the legendary Ohio River that is the subject of so many bluegrass songs.Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-77864143078142300552009-11-30T11:44:00.000-08:002009-12-02T11:48:33.519-08:00Calling all bluegrass associations around the world!The International Bluegrass Music Museum wants to partner with you! We’re starting an official Bluegrass Museum Ambassadors Program, and we’re inviting your association to participate. <br /> <br />Your association will appoint or elect a person who is willing and enthusiastic about being an Ambassador from your association to the International Bluegrass Music Museum. This Museum Ambassador will work with the Bluegrass Museum on special projects, report news and information for our newsletter, report Museum news back to your association for members and newsletters, encourage Museum membership and donations, encourage donation of bluegrass artifacts to the Museum and attend a yearly meeting of Ambassadors at ROMP in Owensboro each year. ROMP takes place the 4th weekend of June. <br /><br />Ambassadors will receive a complimentary IBMM membership, a VIP ROMP pass (which includes VIP access to all events, backstage privileges, meals with Artists/Pioneers), and an Ambassadors t-shirt. The museum will arrange low-cost lodging for your stay at ROMP, getting you in on our artists’ rates (typically $54/night + tax).<br /><br />What we need from you:<br />Designate your official Museum Ambassador and send us the following information.<br /><br />Association Name:<br />Ambassador:<br />Mailing Address:<br />Phone Number: <br />Email Address:<br />T-shirt size: S M L XL 2XL<br /> <br />Please mail this information to the address below or email it to gabrielle@bluegrassmuseum.org.<br /><br />International Bluegrass Music Museum<br />Attn: Bluegrass Ambassadors<br />207 East Second Street<br />Owensboro, KY 42303Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-13371076863720013612009-11-23T11:38:00.000-08:002009-12-02T11:42:11.877-08:00Holiday benefit concert at Bluegrass MuseumValerie Smith & Liberty Pike will be giving the International Bluegrass Music Museum an early holiday present—a concert benefiting the museum on December 10th at 7:00 p.m. with opening support by Up-N-Gone. <br /><br />“We love spreading the joy and meaning behind the Christmas season in song,” Smith says. “We are especially grateful this holiday season for our wonderful fans; you folks have made it possible for us to continue doing what we love to do, even in this difficult economy. Thank you!”<br /><br />This concert will take place in the museum's ‘Bluegrass Unlimited Theater’ and will be broadcast globally over RBI: Radio Bluegrass International, the museum's online radio station. If you can't make the concert, you can still be there virtually by going to the museum’s website, www.bluegrassmuseum.org and clicking on RBI (the radio icon on the upper left-hand corner of the home page).<br /><br />“The International Bluegrass Music Museum is preserving an important part of America's musical history in a very welcoming, interactive, fun yet classy way,” Smith says. “We're proud to be part of their outreach to the community, both as part of their upcoming ‘Bluegrass In The Schools’ program in January and with our Christmas Concert on Dec. 10th, where folks can expect a mix of our regular material as well as songs of the season.”<br /><br />Concert seating for Valerie Smith & Liberty Pike is quite limited—call in advance for reservations. Tickets are $10 per person, in advance or at the door. For reservations, call 888 MY BANJO (888-692-2656).<br /><br />The Bluegrass Museum is located at 117 Daviess Street, in downtown Owensboro, Ky. The museum is inside the RiverPark Center Complex, a large red brick building on the right, just beside the blue bridge over the Ohio River. Directions are on the museum's website under ‘Plan A Visit.’Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-54631476339955770242009-11-17T11:43:00.000-08:002009-12-02T11:44:19.763-08:00Blue Grass Boys Reunion!The International Bluegrass Music Museum will host a gathering of all living Blue Grass Boys who played with Bill Monroe as part of the Pioneers of Bluegrass Reunion held during its River of Music Party (ROMP) in June.<br /><br />This will be the third annual reunion event, but the first to include a Blue Grass Boys gathering. To date, more than 60 “pioneers”—those musicians who were working in bluegrass before 1960—have attended the event. ROMP 2010 is scheduled for June 24-26, and museum director Gabrielle Gray says she hopes to attract as many of the 90 or so living Blue Grass Boys to the event as possible.<br /><br />The Museum will also be making a documentary of the gathering, to supplement its Video Oral History Project that has recorded 175 interviews with bluegrass pioneers. In addition to the reunion events and main stage concert, ROMP features a Pioneers Recognition Ceremony, the Legends Supper, the IBMA Bluegrass Hall of Fame unveiling, a film festival and more.<br /><br />For information on the reunion, call the museum at 888-MY BANJO or e-mail Gray at gabrielle@bluegrassmuseum.org.Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-4882303135976467392009-10-26T11:53:00.000-07:002009-12-02T11:59:24.465-08:00Museum-sponsored musical on Kentucky Educational Television<span style="font-style:italic;">Lincoln in the Land of Bluegrass</span>, an ambitious stage musical produced by the International Bluegrass Music Museum in Owensboro has been scheduled to air on Kentucky Educational Television during the first week of November. <br /><br />The production, which presents stories from Abraham Lincoln’s life set to bluegrass music, was directed by Dr. Teresa Wills and features hundreds of area elementary schoolchildren in acting, singing and dancing roles. The students, from Newton Parrish, Country Heights, Catholic 4-6 Campus, and Foust wrote melodies, lyrics and performed the songs they had penned. Lincoln is part of the larger IBMM ‘Bluegrass in the Schools’ (BITS) program.<br /><br />The Lincoln musical was the brainchild of area mail carrier Rick Miller, who had researched and written the dialogue, as well as words to half of the songs, before pitching the idea to IBMM Director Gabrielle Gray. Miller and Gray enlisted the assistance of BITS volunteer Randy Lanham to compose music for Miller’s songs and to tutor the student actors and musicians in the art of traditional bluegrass songwriting. <br /><br />Lanham then coordinated with the elementary school teachers who coached their students through the final production. Dance sequences were choreographed by Barry Lanham of the dance troupe Foot Stompin’ Express, which also performed in <span style="font-style:italic;">Lincoln</span>. Students from Foust Elementary choreographed their own dance steps for the original song they had written for the musical.<br /><br />In her role as producer of the event, Gray, emphasizes that the success of <span style="font-style:italic;">Lincoln in the Land of Bluegrass</span> underscores the importance of educational programs to the IBMM mission. “As our board and staff go steadfastly about the business of nurturing, sponsoring and growing bluegrass from our youth up, it is wonderful to get to see the results of our efforts not only appreciated but ‘limelighted’ by others,” she says.<br /><br />Educational programs at the IBMM are made possible through donations, grants and sponsorship by various individuals and organizations, including the Michael E. Horn Family Foundation, Kentucky Arts Council, Lester E. Yeager Charitable Trust and D'Addario Foundation for the Performing Arts. The museum plans to mount a similar musical production on the life of Bill Monroe, to be performed at their Centennial Celebration of his birth on Sept 13, 2011.<br /><br /> <span style="font-style:italic;"><br />Lincoln in the Land of Bluegrass</span> airs on Kentucky Educational Television:<br /> <br />Tuesday, November 3, 8:00 p.m. CST<br />Wednesday, November 4, 12:00 a.m. CST<br />Wednesday, November 4, 12:00 p.m. CST<br />Friday, November 6, 11:00 p.m. CST<br />Saturday, November 7, 1:00 a.m. CSTBluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-45848786426243172172009-10-17T11:24:00.000-07:002009-12-02T11:53:43.237-08:00Monroe-Style Mandolin Camp preserves bluegrass historyThe International Bluegrass Music Museum established the Monroe-Style Mandolin Camp in an effort to preserve the unique, historic performance art of Bill Monroe, “The Father of Bluegrass," by teaching his style of mandolin playing and songwriting to a new generation of players. A faculty consisting of some of the greatest ambassadors of Monroe-style mandolin are assembled each fall to examine issues related to the development and execution of Monroe's mandolin style. The fourth annual camp was held in September 2009, welcoming 45 participants and 12 guests to the program held at the Museum. All of the campers, including four or five who are repeat students, became Museum members.<br /><br />As arguably the most well-respected purveyor of Monroe’s style, it was no surprise that the Museum tapped Mike Compton to head the mandolin camp. “The primary goal of the Monroe Mandolin Camp is to preserve and further the mandolin art of Bill Monroe,” he says. “In order to achieve this goal, we have sought the most accomplished and knowledgeable practitioners of the art from coast to coast, most of whom have highly respected musical careers of their own.”<br /><br />The Camp was a great success this year, Mike says. “Rave revues from this year's student body, as well as comments from the instructor staff, confirmed the progress we have made in focusing the curriculum. There were a number of students who made this year's event their fourth in a row and there is every indication that many of them will be returning next year,” he says.<br /><br />“The classes were designed to offer something of value to all skill levels. Pertinent subject matter was presented using lectures, sheet music in standard notation/tab, audio samples and ‘call-and-response.’ There were also short individual sessions that offered the students a chance to address questions ‘knee-to-knee.’” Looking forward to next year, Mike plans to incorporate more multimedia to enhance the experience, as well as appeal to those with more visual learning styles. “Hopefully, we will be able to include some of the video footage available on Monroe's various bands as another angle to convey the information.” <br /><br />Together with knowledgeable instructors and a strong curriculum, campers delve deeper into the Monroe sound, as well as partake in a healthy dose of jamming each night. Jamming is vital to any good camp camp, according to Compton, because “the music is the vehicle towards an end.” And the nightly jam circle means just as much to the instructors as to the campers, he says. “It is pure joy, sometimes even ecstasy, to be able to play Bill's tunes with other people that love the form as much as I do. It's just being able to interact and make the sound, to find other people who share a common interest.”Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-58602674609777893012009-10-12T10:05:00.000-07:002009-12-02T10:09:40.301-08:00‘Saturday Lessons Program’ brings new musicians to bluegrass!The Saturday Lessons Program kicked off its fourth year on October 10 at the International Bluegrass Music Museum (IBMM) in Owensboro, KY. The group lessons program provides instruction in fiddle, guitar, mandolin and banjo to students and community members of all ages. Students are taught in groups of 10-15 for 45 minutes twice a month at the museum, and loaner instruments are available for those who do not have one.<br /><br />Students range in ability from beginner to intermediate, and some have been attending Saturday Lessons for several years. The group lesson format is a good way to introduce newcomers to bluegrass music, says fiddle instructor Randy Lanham. And compared with individual lessons, the program is more affordable at $30 for the fall semester. “A group lesson goes slower. It’s not quite as much information, not quite as fast, and it’s a great way to learn with the cheaper price and less time required,” says Lanham. <br /><br />Beginners learn familiar bluegrass standards such as “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” and “Blue Moon of Kentucky.” More experienced students work together as in a band format and learn more advanced musical parts, says Lanham. “There are about 25 students that have been coming for years. With them, we teach not only the melody part, but the harmony part and solos. And they learn a variety of songs: a patriotic song, an Irish song, a gospel song,” he says.<br /><br />The first day of lessons kicked off smoothly, according to Lanham. “Sometimes the first day can be chaotic for new students. There are broken strings, instruments are out of tune and some students show up at the wrong time. This went really well, we didn’t have a lot of those problems.”<br /><br />Participants come to the Saturday Lessons program from a variety of communities and from all walks of life, with many students coming from local schools, says Lanham. “Another museum program I’m involved in is the Bluegrass in the Schools, and that generates a lot of interest in lessons, so the two programs kind of go hand in hand.”<br /><br />The spring Saturday Lessons program is twice as long, classes are generally larger, and it culminates in a performance of all students in the Kentucky BlueGrass AllStars at the IBMM’s River of Music Party (ROMP). The spring semester registration fee is $60, and each additional immediate family member is only $30. Students performing at ROMP will also receive free 3-day admission to the festival as an AllStar, as well as a 3-day complimentary pass for a parent or friend. The next Saturday Lesson term begins February 20, with a registration deadline of January 30. For more information call 270-926-7891 or visit the IBMM website at www.bluegrassmuseum.com.Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2331110055200256558.post-35881043162641451642009-06-22T08:20:00.000-07:002009-06-22T08:21:39.019-07:00The Pioneers of Bluegrass Music are Gathering at ROMP, the “River of Music Party 09” in Owensboro, Kentucky, June 24-27.<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5Crick%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C07%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="country-region"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="State"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="City"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="PlaceName"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="PlaceType"></o:smarttagtype><o:smarttagtype namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" name="place"></o:smarttagtype><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><style> <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:Arial; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">The <st1:placename st="on">International</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Bluegrass</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Music</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Museum</st1:placetype>’s annual festival, ROMP, the <st1:placetype st="on">River</st1:placetype> of <st1:placename st="on">Music Party</st1:placename>, takes place Wednesday through Saturday, June 24-27, at the museum in downtown <st1:city st="on">Owensboro</st1:city>, at the <st1:placename st="on">RiverPark</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Center</st1:placetype> next door to the museum, and at <st1:placename st="on">Yellow</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Creek</st1:placetype> <st1:placetype st="on">Park</st1:placetype>, on the eastern outskirts of <st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on">Owensboro</st1:city>, <st1:state st="on">KY.</st1:state></st1:place></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Bill Monroe, known universally as The Father of Bluegrass Music, was born, grew to manhood, and is buried in <st1:city st="on">Rosine</st1:city>, <st1:state st="on">KY</st1:state>, a half-hour from <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Owensboro</st1:place></st1:city>, where ROMP and the Pioneers of Bluegrass Gathering are taking place. Many of the bluegrass pioneers attending ROMP ‘09 played in <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Monroe</st1:place></st1:city>’s band, The Bluegrass Boys. Others formed their own groups and took the music he created and they helped to shape - <st1:state st="on"><st1:place st="on">Kentucky</st1:place></st1:state>’s official state music - to cities, towns & countries far and wide. Together they have grown a bluegrass fan base numbering in the tens of millions in 75 nations. People from all over the world will be in <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Owensboro</st1:place></st1:city> to celebrate this occasion. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Over 60 of the iconic artists who were among the earliest practitioners of bluegrass music, a unique American art form, will be coming from coast-to-coast and as far distant as <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">Japan</st1:place></st1:country-region> to take part in this event. They are gathering to visit with lifelong friends and to revisit the museum that will preserve their collections, artifacts, and life histories. They will be remembering and re-telling their life histories for old and new fans, telling side-splittingly hilarious and poignant stories on live radio broadcasts, exhibiting their artifacts from lifetimes of performances, performing with their bands onstage and in jam sessions, and being formally honored, individually and <i style="">en masse</i>. The sheer scope of their combined lifetime experiences in shaping and disseminating one of our nation’s original music genres (of which there are but a scant handful), and the vast numbers attending, make this a seminal, once-in-a-lifetime event not to be missed by anyone who treasures traditional acoustic music.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">In 2003 the museum began professionally videotaping the lives of this pioneering first generation, musicians who were professionally playing bluegrass music by the mid-20<sup>th</sup> century. To date, 170 first-person interviews and nearly half as many concert performances have been filmed, creating a priceless treasure trove -- one of the nation’s most informative and comprehensive folk archives. (For an interview with Video Oral History Project director, Joe Gray, call 502-244-9444.) <span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Documentary-style films of these musicians will be shown during the “Bluegrass Masters Film Festival” taking place during ROMP and the Pioneers Gathering.<span style=""> </span>From Earl Scruggs to Pete Seeger to The Ozaki Brothers and dozens more, one can learn about their histories from the musicians who shaped this exhilarating, virtuostic music that has spread globally with a rapidly expanding fan base, particularly since the advent of <u>O Brother, Where Art Thou?</u> in 2000. An extensive exhibit of their artifacts will open on June 24 at the museum in the gallery beside the Hall of Fame.<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">To honor these legendary figures, the museum is hosting a Legends Supper on Thursday June 25, followed by The Legends Concert at 7 PM during which each of the pioneers will be formally introduced and honored for their contributions to bluegrass music. <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Chattanooga</st1:place></st1:city> realtor/lifelong fiddle player Fletcher Bright, of The Dismembered Tennesseans (the longest-running bluegrass band still performing) is sponsor of this mega-event. (For an interview, call him at 423-752-0112.) </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Wednesday’s events begin with a full slate of performances by “regional” (i.e. within a 75-mile radius of <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Owensboro</st1:place></st1:city>) bluegrass bands who have donated their performances to this event. That evening, the much-anticipated “ROMP Kick-Off Concert” takes place at 7 PM<sup> </sup>at the <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">RiverPark</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Center</st1:placetype></st1:place> and features Marty Stuart & The Fabulous Superlatives, The Del McCoury Band, and Mike Snider.<span style=""> </span>This concert is a gift to the museum from its founder, Terry Woodward, in celebration of the 60<sup>th</sup> anniversary of his business, WaxWorks.<span style=""> </span>Woodward is covering all the costs of the concert and the museum is receiving all the proceeds from the ticket sales. (For an interview, Woodward can be reached at 270-926-0008.) </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Thursday from 11 AM and continuing through Friday night, see the Pioneers in Performance. Those bringing bands and performing onstage include Gloria Belle, Tony Ellis, Dave Verny, Tom Gray, Les Woodie, Eddie & Martha Adcock, Jim Smoak, Jesse McReynolds, Bill Clifton, Jimmy Gaudreau, Paul Williams, Larry Sparks, Melvin Goins, Al Hawkes, Jimmy Cox, Bud Reed, Ralph Reed, David Reed, Ernest Ferguson, Homer Bailes, Roger Sprung, The McCormick Brothers, The Ozaki Brothers, Bobby Osborne, and J. D. Crowe.<span style=""> </span>Many other bluegrass pioneers will be attending, including members of the Hall of Fame.<span style=""> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Friday June 26<sup>th</sup> and Saturday June 27<sup>th</sup> the festival will move outdoors to <st1:placename st="on">Yellow</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Creek</st1:placetype> <st1:placetype st="on">Park</st1:placetype>, a spacious and scenic park on the outskirts of <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Owensboro</st1:place></st1:city> where most of the national acts will be playing, such as Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, The Dan Tyminski Band and many others. Festival-goers will be treated to instrument and vocal workshops, a trade show, arts & crafts and instrument vendors, concessions, free tent camping and free parking. Bring a blanket or chair, sunscreen & water. Coolers and picnics are allowed. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial;">ROMP ‘09 is sponsored by the <st1:placename st="on">International</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Bluegrass</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Music</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Museum</st1:placetype> in <st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on">Owensboro</st1:city>, <st1:state st="on">KY.</st1:state></st1:place> For ticket info and band lineup, call the museum at 888-MY-BANJO, or visit us online at <a href="http://www.bluegrassmuseum.org/">www.bluegrassmuseum.org</a></span>Bluegrass Music Museumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10265677325727841657noreply@blogger.com0