Seagrove Fiddlers’ Convention, which is relocating to Southwestern Randolph High School outside of Asheboro, NC, will be offering a new award this year. The prize is given in memory of the contest’s most recent promoter, Maxton Byrd, who passed away in January. Though in his 80s and wheelchair-bound, Byrd took on the convention with the aid of a committee after COVID when it appeared the annual event might not return.
The Maxton Byrd Memorial Bluegrass Award will be presented to someone who has made significant contributions specifically to the Seagrove Fiddlers’ Convention. The new recognition joins the Alan Perdue Memorial Bluegrass Appreciation Award and the Greg Corbett Youth Banjo Award which are given annually at the competition in memory of these fine central North Carolina musicians who left us far too soon (in their 40s).
The 71st Annual Seagrove Fiddlers’ Convention will be held on Saturday, March 21, at Southwestern Randolph High School, 1641 Hopewell Friends Road, Asheboro. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. when registration begins. Youth competition gets underway at 5:30. A panel of qualified musicians, singers, and songwriters will serve as judges. Geoffrey Keyes will provide professional sound and stage.
Over $2,500 will be awarded in 22 categories involving 66 prizes. Admission is $12 for adults. $5 for children 6-12. Free for children under 6. Cash only. Concessions will be available.
