Tribute Events at World of Bluegrass

Recently we mentioned some of the special interest events that are taking place next week at the IBMA’s World of Bluegrass convention.

In addition to the storytelling sessions there are three special performances: two in memory of the music of the recently departed Doc Watson and Earl Scruggs, and one recalling the release of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s ground-breaking Will The Circle Be Unbroken album.

Each of these events will take place in the convention center (Rooms 209/210), and are free to all registrants.

Tuesday, September 25

The Doc Watson Hour – Music in the Round. 10:30-11:30 am

In what is being described as “a session you won’t soon forget” some outstanding and accomplished musical artists will discuss, and illustrate through playing, the unique musical styles and techniques employed by the great Doc Watson – all of which set him apart and gave him his signature sound.

The extraordinary line-up includes Buddy Greene (harmonica), Ricky Skaggs (mandolin), Jack Lawrence (guitar), Chris Jones (guitar), Bryan Sutton (guitar) and Missy Raines (bass).

 

Wednesday, September 26

Will The Circle Be Unbroken, 40 Years Later! What led up to the making of Will The Circle Be Unbroken? 1:30-3:30 pm

In this fascinating session with John McEuen, you’ll hear the stories behind this epic recording and see many previously unseen photos of the magic session, shot by producer William E. McEuen.

Questions will be welcomed, while it is hoped that those in the audience will share comments on the influence of this historic recording also.

 

Thursday, September 27

What I Learned From Earl about Music & Life. 1:30-3:00 pm

With the passing of Earl Scruggs earlier this year, we have all been reflecting on his monumental contributions to bluegrass music. In this session, three banjo players will lead a wide-ranging discussion of how Earl, the musician – and Earl, the man – have shaped and informed our own ideas about life and art.

Kristin Scott-Benson and Tony Trischka will be guided by moderator Ira Gitlin.

Audience participation is encouraged!

 

And the ‘goodies’ extend to three further “specials” each of which takes place in the Convention Center Hall, NCC Level 1.

Admission to these evening events – each scheduled for 6:15-7:00 pm – is included in the day’s World of Bluegrass registration or is available with a $25 one-night ticket at the door.

Monday, September 24

Slidegrass: Honoring the Music of Dobro Pioneers Josh Graves & Pete “Bashful Brother Oswald” Kirby.

 

Tuesday, September 25

Heart & Soul: A Concert Honoring Hazel Dickens.

Special guests include Alison Krauss, Kathy Mattea, Laurie Lewis, Claire Lynch, Dudley Connell, James King, Della Mae, Tom Rozum, Sally Love and Todd Phillips.

 

Wednesday, September 26

40th Anniversary Will the Circle Be Unbroken Sing-along with John McEuen and friends.

 

A detailed schedule of the many events, professional development sessions, activities and performances that take place during IBMA’s 2012 World of Bluegrass convention may be found at www.worldofbluegrass.org website.

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About the Author

Richard Thompson

Richard F. Thompson is a long-standing free-lance writer specialising in bluegrass music topics. A two-time Editor of British Bluegrass News, he has been seriously interested in bluegrass music since about 1970. As well as contributing to that magazine, he has, in the past 30 plus years, had articles published by Country Music World, International Country Music News, Country Music People, Bluegrass Unlimited, MoonShiner (the Japanese bluegrass music journal) and Bluegrass Europe. He wrote the annotated series I'm On My Way Back To Old Kentucky, a daily memorial to Bill Monroe that culminated with an acknowledgement of what would have been his 100th birthday, on September 13, 2011.