New bluegrass association in South Dakota

South DakotaThe East River & Missouri River Valley Bluegrass Music Association is now operational in South Dakota. Their intention is to serve as an organizational force for fans, patrons and both professional and amateur musicians in southeastern South Dakota, northwestern Iowa and northeastern Nebraska.

In their official announcement, they describe their purpose as three-fold:

  • To sponsor and promote the performance of bluegrass music by providing an environment and dedicated venues where both amateur and professional musicians can assemble to perform bluegrass music in informal gatherings as well as professional concert settings;
  • To promote, educate and nurture the development of young people and novice adult players, in order that they may become skilled and knowledgeable instrumental and vocal practitioners of bluegrass music performance; and
  • To educate the community at large in the rich history, traditions and especially the repertoire of bluegrass — a unique form of American improvisational roots music. The Association will endeavor to do this by permitting public access to open, informal musical gatherings, as well as formal concerts sponsored by the Association. When possible, the Association will also endeavor to educate the community about upcoming local and regional bluegrass music concerts, festivals and workshops.

South Dakota grassers Alan Reinpold and Jon Hittle served as the impetus behind the formation of this new group, who will be sponsoring a monthly open jam at the Washington Street Arts Center in Vermillion, SD on the second Sunday of each month. It will be held from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m., local time. Pickers at all skill and experience level are invited to attend.

At this time, the East River & Missouri River Valley Bluegrass Music Association has no web presence, but interested parties are invited to contact Alan or Jon for more information (Alan Reinpold 605-987-4191, Jon Hittle 877-621-4118 jbecoyote@yahoo.com).

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About the Author

John Lawless

John had served as primary author and editor for The Bluegrass Blog from its launch in 2006 until being folded into Bluegrass Today in September of 2011. He continues in that capacity here, managing a strong team of columnists and correspondents.