Stephen Mougin: Musician, Teacher, Songwriter, Studio/Label Owner, Producer. At Large member since fall 2013 In brief, what brought you to bluegrass music? Bluegrass has been a part of my life since about 6/7 years old when my Dad started playing guitar and seeking out jam sessions. What do you hope to bring to the bluegrass community by serving on the board of directors? I'm interested in helping to preserve the traditions, encourage growth, increase exposure, and find ways to help Bluegrass professionals "do what they do." How have you seen the bluegrass industry change in your time working in it? Through many years of touring, I've noticed a change in the amount of venues and available gigs. The record industry has been turned on its head, leaving folks to figure out new ways to make albums (crowd sourcing, social media campaigns, home studios, etc.). I think that it's both easier AND harder to make a living in Bluegrass music at this point in time. Easier because access is UNLIMITED (inexpensive home recording, free social media for fan contact, internet search capabilities for booking contacts/events). Harder because it's hard to pierce through the constant barrage of bands doing EXACTLY what you are doing! Harder because of seemingly fewer gig opportunities (though folks are finding some pretty creative ways to rectify this!). What projects are you working on for the future of bluegrass music right now? I teach. A LOT. On top of my private students, I'm the Director of Bluegrass at Bethel University in McKenzie, TN. Spending time with youth is the most immediate way to "work on the future of bluegrass music," in my opinion. Through workshops, camps, and individual lessons, I try to spread my love of Bluegrass (old and new) and instill a passion for jamming and making music with others. What is your favorite (bluegrass) album and why? SO hard. My computer has a little under 18,500 songs... I'm a Flatt & Scruggs NUT, so I'd have to say Live at Carnegie Hall (or Vanderbilt for that matter). SO much audible energy, precision and massive desire to entertain! Give us the top three best festivals you’ve attended. Telluride! WOW. Amazing music, with fantastic collaborations not seen elsewhere. Then, there's the UNBELIEVABLE scenery!!! Thomas Point Beach. I have memories of attending that festival as a kid (back when they had 2 each year!!). So many great jams and so many lifelong friends! Smokey Green Festival in Schylerville, NY. It was a week-long shin-dig that had music on both weekends and more in the middle. We got to jam with EVERYONE you wanted to, because you were there so long! Great times and a great bluegrass education! What is your advice to someone fresh to the bluegrass industry? Find a bluegrass mentor! This industry is like one giant family and most folks are HAPPY to help! Ask as many questions as you can, observe what your peers are doing (what works, what doesn't), observe what the pros are doing.
Be the BEST you can be. In music, in business, in life. If you're not working hard, you're probably not doing it right! So many bands and individuals offered me guidance throughout my career, and many still do. Try to glean ideas and inspiration from everyone you can. The music is fun part, sometimes we forget that. Have fun pickin'!