Across the Blue Ridge

Last night in the recital hall of the School of Music Building at UNCG, Greensboro was treated to a concert of acoustic music "Across the Blue Ridge" and across the decades. The concert tour, dubbed "Old Sounds, New Trails," was presented by the Blue Ridge Music Center and 88.5WFDD. Paul Brown, longtime voice of NPR's Morning Edition and Talk of the Nation, not only played music, but also kept the audience engaged as master of cermonies. The concert was a survey of music from acapella gospel to old-time, bluegrass, and blues.

On stage, above from left to right, are Paul Brown, Terri McMurray, Laurelyn Dossett, Tolly Tollefson, Alice Gerrard, and Scott Manring. Also performing were Craig Smith, Rich Hartness, and JM Hartness.  While the age range of the musicians spanned nearly six decades, they all played with passionate commitment to musical styles that are such a part of North Carolina's history. Alice Gerrard, playing guitar above, has been nominated for a grammy for her album, Follow the Music. We wish her luck and give a big, virtual applause to everyone involved in bringing this special concert to Greensboro.

Comments

[William Kendall]

Just from the title of your post I would have expected bluegrass.

[David T]

William Kendall, there is Bluegrass and much, much more. Old Time music, a direct descendant of Scots-Irish fiddling combined with African banjo and string band music, is very much alive in the Blue Ridge. There's religious-inspired gospel, country blues and traditional unaccompanied ballads. This show featured great performances by a group of talented people celebrating the diversity of our region's music.

Thanks for reading!