Minnesota Bluegrass Magazine November 2017 by Minnesota Bluegrass

November 2017

Malina Brothers headline the

Harvest Jam Inside:

November 2017 Vol. 43 No. 10

Newsstand: $3 Subscription: $35

MBOTMA Hot Line

(to subscribe and for other information) 612-285-9133 or 800-635-3037 info@minnesotabluegrass.org P.O. Box 16408, Mpls, MN 55416 www.minnesotabluegrass.org Twitter: @mnbluegrass Facebook: minnesotabluegrass

MBOTMA Board of Directors

President: Laura Cooper - president@minnesotabluegrass.org Vice President: Nic Hentges Treasurer: Robbi Podrug Secretary: Shane Zack Board Members: Term expires 2017: Alan Jesperson Bill Lindroos - welindroos@gmail.com Rudy Marti - rudolphmarti63@gmail.com Gary Germond - gerpork@concast.net Term expires 2018: Dale Gruber - dalergruber@me.com Brett Day, Philip Nusbaum Youth Representative: Theo Hougen-Eitzman - theohelbg@gmail.com For meeting minutes and other Board business, go to: www.minnesotabluegrass.org/board-minutes

MBOTMA Staff

Events Manager: Matt Johnson eventsmanager@minnesotabluegrass.org Office Administrator: Darcy Schatz info@minnesotabluegrass.org

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

Minnesota Bluegrass Magazine

Editor: Doug Lohman, editor@minnesotabluegrass.org Contributors: Tony Tony Anthonisen, Bob Douglas, Wayne Erbsen, Martha Galep, Nic Hentges, Corey Mohan, Philip Nusbaum Coming Up: Loretta Simonet, John Brandberg Y’All Come: Bill Lindroos Wordmark: Katryn Conlin Photography: Doug Lohman, Jasper McCroskey Cover image: Back: Kelly O’Donnell Deadline for submissions: The 1st of the month preceding publication Submit content or request advertising guidelines at: editor@minnesotabluegrass.org. Minnesota Bluegrass is published monthly by The Minnesota Bluegrass & Old-Time Music Association™, a Minnesota nonprofit corporation, P.O. Box 16408, Mpls, MN 55416. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. The publisher is not responsible for the loss or return of unsolicited photos, recordings, or manuscripts. ©2017 Minnesota Bluegrass. All rights reserved. ISBN 0891-0537. 2

Thank you, MBOTMA members Membership as of November 1, 2017: 952

Patrons:

Peter & Bridgit Albrecht Tony & Ann Anthonisen Lenny & Colleen Baltus Gary & Karen Bartig Ron & Kathy Blade Barry & Annie Brooks Doug Chasar Gary & Janet Cobus Laura Cooper Bob & Marilyn Dodd William Fancher Jennifer Faulkner Mark & Kathleen Fisher Darrell & Marilyn Fuhr Tom & Jill Furrer Jon & Sharon Garon Art Geffen Gary & Jae Germond David Glatt Dale & Diane E Gruber Tom & Marlys Gustafson Michael & Paula Hildebrandt Mabel Houle Ann Iijima & Myles Bakke Jim Johnson David Johnson

Sustaining:

Vicki Andersen Rod & Barb Anderson Daryll & Mary Arntson Vaughn Asselstine Mariltn Bergum & Melvin Rupprecht Kenneth Bloch Susan Christensen-Wichmann Jane Conger Katryn Conlin Brian Cornell Bob & Vicki Dalager Hal Davis Doug Duncan Mary DuShane Matt Edwards Craig Evans Leon Evans Nathan Fjeld Jim Franczyk Warren Gumeson Timothy & Ginger Haaland David Holm Dick & Sue Hopperstad David & Laurette Hougen-Eitzman Mark Johnson

Janine Kemmer Jim Lally Russel Lane Loren Laugtug James Lee Douglas Lohman Richard Luckeroth Bob Lundeen Rudy & Jeanne Marti Rodger McBride Karla Menzel Bill Merrill Douglas & Georgene Nesheim Milaca RecFest David & Betty Pfeiffer Brian Ronning Tom & Cathy Schaefer Thomas & Barbara Schommer Thomas & Maragaret Schuveiller Penelope Scialla Denise & Tony Stachnik David Tousley & Margaret Brandes Donna Velasco Jane & Dobson West Jim Whitney John Wilcox John Johnson Howie & Maggie Jorgenson Chris Juettner David Lang Bill Lindroos & Rebecca Reifler Rolf & Lisa Lund Mac McKay Mary McSorley Susan & Joe Meyer Corey Mohan James Natwick Jerry Nelson Dennis & Jan O’Brien Linda & Tony Omann Dominic Orrico Bob Ostlund Gary Peterson Marty & Carol Schirber Wendy Schoen Howell Smith Rory & Marian Thompson Lynn & Carolyn Thorson Ross & Elizabeth Vaughan Rebecca Wagner & Dan Forsythe Tin Wankel David & Bonnie Warner Carole Wilson November 2017

From the President

November 2017

is open to everyone. Our members include people who love to listen to music and people who love to make music. As a member, you’ll be invited to participate in bluegrass and old-time music events and celebrations. You’ll receive discounted prices on admission to events and merchandise, and you’ll receive a subscription to Minnesota Bluegrass magazine. Becoming a member of MBOTMA is easy and affordable. Your membership will not only nurture your own interests, but help to ensure that the bluegrass and old-time music tradition is sustained and grows in Minnesota. Individual $35

Includes Minnesota Bluegrass, events discounts for one person, and a free classified ad.

Family $50

Includes Minnesota Bluegrass, up to four discounted tickets per event, and a free classified ad.

Band $75

Includes Minnesota Bluegrass, advance booking information for MBOTMA events, a free classified ad, and listings in the MBOTMA member band directory in print and on our website.

Sustaining Level $100

Includes Minnesota Bluegrass, first-class postage, events discounts, two free concert tickets, and a free classified ad.

Patron Level $150

Includes Minnesota Bluegrass, first-class postage, events discounts, four free concert tickets, and a free classified ad.

Add $18 for First Class or foreign postage to individual, family or band membership. Go to minnesotabluegrass.org and select the Membership tab to join online and pay with PayPal. Or mail in your personal information and payment to: MBOTMA, P.O. Box 16408, Minneapolis, MN 55416 Call 800-635-3037 or 612-285-9133 for details or if you would like to join by phone. Funding for MBOTMA provided in part by a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, through an appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature, a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, and private donors

Inside:

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

I recently returned home following a three week road trip to Tennessee, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia and Kentucky. Besides the incredible beauty of and hiking in the Appalachians, we visited a number of iconic music venues and museums including the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Ryman (Opry Country Classics), the Station Inn (Rob Ickes and Trey Hensley), the Blue Ridge Music Center, Floyd’s Country Store and the Birth of Country Music Museum (the Bristol Sessions). The Bristol Sessions have been donned the “big bang of country music.” The most notable folks discovered as a result of the Bristol Sessions were the Carter Family and Jimmie Rodgers. The museums offer historical perspectives regarding bluegrass, old time and country music. I was fascinated by the cross pollination of so many musical genres including African banjo, minstrel music, old time string band music, early country music, blues, bluegrass and others. Traditionalists tend to think bluegrass music should sound a certain way based upon the first generation folks like Bill Monroe, Flatt and Scruggs and the Stanley Brothers. Don’t get me wrong, I personally love “traditional” bluegrass. That said, the musicians in contemporary bluegrass bands demonstrate incredible prowess on their instruments and in their harmony singing. Bluegrass is not a stagnant one size fits all musical genre. Similarly, MBOTMA cannot be stagnant. I attended my first August festival in 1989. So far as I know, the internet was launched but largely not used by the masses, there were no smart phones or social media then. In addition, there were very few places to hear or play bluegrass or old time music. On Friday and Saturday nights, you could go to Dulonos. The Monday Night Square Dance Collective offered square dancing to live old time string band music on, you guessed it, Monday nights. The only other festivals in the region that I was aware of were the SPBGMA festivals in Southern Minnesota and Iowa. Now, there a number of major festivals in the area. MBOTMA’s evolution is in the hands of the board of directors and we need your input. We want your ideas regarding programming, fundraising, promotion, etc. The annual membership meeting at the Harvest Jam is the ideal place for you to present your ideas. You can also email me at president@minnesotabluegrass.org. Speaking of the Harvest Jam, I want to give a big shout out to Martha Galep and the Harvest Jam committee for all their hard work. I’m sure they still need volunteers. The MBOTMA website has all the information you need to sign up. The Harvest Jam also hosts the Great Minnesota Uke Gathering. You might want to check it out, because as Tony Anthonisen, long time MBOTMA volunteer and organizer of the event writes, You just never see someone playing a ukulele without a smile on their face! Laura Cooper

Become a Member The Minnesota Bluegrass & Old-Time Music Association

November 2017

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

Grass Clippings Hillbenders present Tommy: A Bluegrass Opry at the Dakota, Nov 4, 2017

The HillBenders are currently touring in support of their latest project, Tommy: A Bluegrass Opry. This release transforms The Who’s iconic album into a fully realized, full length bluegrass tribute. Check out their take on “Pinball Wizard” on

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=cLgbU7acsgY. It’s a fun watch! They will be appearing at the Dakota Jazz Club on November 4. Check Dakota website for details.

Monroe Crossing Bach and Bluegrass Jamboree For the Bach & Bluegrass Jamboree, the VocalEssence Chorus & Ensemble Singers will be joined by Minnesota-based bluegrass quintet Monroe Crossing. This seasoned group of performers have taken their repertoire of original music, classic bluegrass, and bluegrass gospel all the way to Carnegie Hall. The program will also include a boundary-expanding work from Minnesota composer Carol Barnett, whose Bluegrass Te Deum works the folk music into the form of devotional forms. The Bach & Bluegrass Jamboree will be held on Friday, November 10, at 8 p.m., at Roseville Lutheran Church. Seven years have passed since the singers of VocalEssence teamed up with Monroe Crossing to perform and record The World Beloved: A Bluegrass Mass, and now the two groups are reuniting for a new hybrid choral and bluegrass composition: Mortals & Angels: A Bluegrass Te Deum.

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

November 2017

www.elderly.com

Since 1972

Your home for New & Vintage Open Back Banjos and Accessories 888-473-5810

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

(toll-free in USA)

November 2017

All’s Fair in Love & Bluegrass By Nic Hentges

close to your monitor, making sure it is angled up to your ears, and not letting music stands or other musicians between you and the speaker. Now that we know a bit more about how to manage our needs on stage, it is time to start considering our audience. Yours in love and bluegrass

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

A couple of issues ago we discussed reinforcing your instrument using microphones or a pickup, and now it’s time to address the sound system itself. Always remember that great sound is a combination of the player, the monitors (speakers facing the band), and the mains (speakers facing your audience). I want to start by explaining why feedback occurs, then I’ll cover how we can use monitors to our advantage. When a microphone “hears” your instrument out of a speaker louder than the direct source itself, you have a signal loop. At that point, frequencies in harmful excess will “ring” or “squeal.” By utilizing stage monitors only to supplement what you do not hear without them, you will reduce the risk of feedback and increase the quality of sound for your audience. It is easy to think, “I need to hear everyone in my monitor” when, in reality, the musician standing right next to you may be audible without that assistance. If you’re having trouble hearing a particular instrument, try to determine whether that instrument should be louder, or if there is another instrument that is too loud and can be turned down. Be especially careful when huddling around a single condenser microphone, as is common with bluegrass bands. Sending that mic signal to your monitors can easily result in feedback. Positioning your monitors in the place of best rejection based on the type of microphones you’re using will also help minimize feedback. A cardiod microphone, whether dynamic or condenser, rejects sound best from directly behind the mic. However, a super cardiod microphone rejects best about 45 degrees left or right of directly behind the microphone. You can keep stage volume under control by standing

Art work by Marie Stier - a limited number of prints will be in auction

Scholarship winners play 7:15pm Jesse Lege and Friends 8pm Suggested Donation $15.00

Gumbo 5:30pm til its gone Silent Auction 5:30- 10pm Open Music Jam 5:30pm til ?

All happening at the Eagles Aerie #34 2507 E 25th Street, Mpls, MN November 2017

SWITCHED AT BIRTH â&#x20AC;¢ LABOR OF LOVE

CD Release Party!

Sunday, December 3, 2017, 4-8pm

With Special Guests, Cousin Dad!

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

Hook & Ladder, 3010 Minnehaha Ave, Mpls. http://thehookmpls.com/ Advance tickets $7, or $10 at the door. https://fanlink.to/LaborLove

November 2017

Volunteer Spotlight: Brett Day ByMartha Galep

November 2017

me to Brett. As soon as I heard his warm southern accent, I knew I was going to like this! Jana had explained that Brett, as Stage Manager, “knows everything so if you get confused just ask Brett.” Truer words were never spoken - I spent the next few days learning what I could about the workings of the Main stage and watching Brett coordinate it all. To this day, I am always aware of the time he puts in backstage - most people who attend our events have no idea of the long hours and weeks of preparation his Stage Manager job requires. In addition to the August festival work Brett does, he also serves MBOTMA in several other volunteer capacities. Last year he was elected to the Board of Directors, and he continues to serve on the Winter Bluegrass Weekend staff. Come to think of it, there are not many MBOTMA functions that don’t see Brett’s involvement in some way or another from Race for a Place Contest judge (who else but Brett would bring us a smart, capable scorer/timekeeper in the form of his generous wife Gwen?) to annual fundraiser volunteer, Brett has “seen it all”. I asked Brett about a lot of things related to MBOTMA, and I’d say his insight was what all MBOTMA members need to hear right now. He sees good things coming for MBOTMA. “It is a strong organization,” he said. “the future is bright and we are still true to our mission.” The goal of the Board of Directors is to promote bluegrass music, and Brett feels strongly that “MBOTMA has fostered this music community over the years and provided opportunities to listen and learn more about bluegrass. I wish we could do more of that.” He feels that the involvement of our younger set in crucial to the future success and growth of MBOTMA. His advice to these energetic folks? “Be vocal about the positive things MBOTMA can do. Take a leadership role by volunteering, running for the Board, serving on committees. Be a leader by putting your pas-

sions about bluegrass to work!” One would do well to work alongside Brett in any MBOTMA capacity, as he always has the best interests of the organization at heart. I want everyone to know how fortunate we are to have Brett’s focus working hard for us. As Nominations Chair, when Brett chose to run for the Board in 2016, I felt my blood pressure dropping back to a normal level. If one can have MBOTMA “heroes”, count Brett Day as one of mine! It would seem that Brett has followed his own advice for many years now, and those of us that hold MBOTMA near and dear need to know who to thank for so much that we enjoy. If it were not for folks like Brett who donate so much time and effort to our programs, we would never have made the friends we’ve made, enjoyed so much of the bluegrass we love, and felt ourselves to be a part of that bigger bluegrass community Brett spoke so fondly of. When you see Brett at the Harvest Jam, please take a moment to thank him for his dedication to MBOTMA and his years and years of work on MBOTMA’s behalf. You’ll get to hear that southern drawl and see his eyes sparkle when he smiles and speaks about MBOTMA, and that’s what volunteering is all about. Trust me. 9

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

It is widely known that some of the finest things in the USA come from the state of North Carolina: college basketball, pork barbecue (slaw ON the sandwich, please) and Earl Scruggs to name a few. In Minnesota bluegrass circles, just about the finest thing from North Carolina is Brett Day, and North Carolina’s loss has been MBOTMA’s gain for many years. Growing up in Boone, N.C., Brett was exposed to bluegrass music at an early age as his grandfather dialed in the Grand Old Opry every Saturday night. The television stations from Bristol, VA., Charlotte, N.C., and Winston-Salem, N.C. would broadcast shows featuring country music, and much of it was bluegrass. Boone is a small mountain town even now, but back then radio and limited television were the only real connections to the music that Brett grew up listening to. This early exposure influenced Brett’s interest in bluegrass music, which stuck with him through graduate school in Auburn, AL, and later when he settled in Minnesota. Brett recalled his first connection to bluegrass in Minnesota was back when he heard the music on the radio from Minneapolis. He had moved here in 1982 and was in attendance at the last festival that MBOTMA held in Taylor’s Falls, MN. When the festival moved to Zimmerman, Brett’s connection with a cable access show in St. Paul allowed him permission to record the festivities, and I guess you could say his path as Stage Manager for the August festival was paved. Working with Jim Haney and Ron Olsen as volunteers (among many others), Brett helped build the stage at that venue. It was during this time period, before the move to El Rancho, that I met Brett. Jana Metge had been “scouting” for MC’s at the August festival, and she approached me and asked if I’d consider being an MC on the Main Stage. I agreed so she took me backstage and introduced

Harvest Jam Preview by Harvest Jam Staff

The Harvest Jam Acoustic Music Experience is scheduled for November 17 through 19, 2017, at the Marriott Minneapolis West Hotel. This twelfth annual event is produced by the nonprofit Minnesota Bluegrass & Old-Time Music Association (MBOTMA) and will feature stage shows, featuring Malina Brothers, Lil Rev, Noah John and Ringing Iron, Gloryland Gospel Band, plus the Race For A Place Band Contest, Kip’s Live Open Mic, MN Songwriter’s Association, a Saturday night banquet dinner, music exhibitors, a Sunday morning gospel show, theme jams, and, of course, lots of impromptu jam sessions. Stage Shows There will be stage shows on Friday from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., featuring Lil’ Rev, Malina Brothers, and Noah John and Ringing Iron. Saturday 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. features the Race for the Place Champion band, the Malina Brothers, and the Minnesota Songwriters Association. The Sunday morning gospel show from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. features The Gloryland Gospel Band and the Malina Brothers.

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

Race For A Place

The Race For A Place Band Contest will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. Ten groups will compete to win a $1,000 contract for a spot on the main stage of the 2018 Minnesota Bluegrass & Old-Time Music Festival and other prizes. The Race champions will be announced about 4:45 p.m. and be invited to perform later that evening at 8 p.m

Kip’s Live

Kip’s Live is an informal open mic in Kip’s Irish Pub located within the 10

Marriott Hotel. It all starts on Friday at 8 p.m. and on Saturday at 2 p.m. and finishes up about 1 a.m. both days. Minisets will be divided into a 20-minute set and a 30-minute set within each hour, allowing for a 5-minute emcee and setup time between sets. This odd set timing has been designed to allow for some different impromptu acts that have a short list but would like some mic time. There will be a simple single mic setup. If you have interest or a unique idea or just want to

moved the workshops to a larger, more spacious location. Here is a sampling of the line-up of interesting topics for bands and musicians we have planned. All About Your Instruments: with David Vincent, lead instructor in the Guitar building and repair program at the South East Technical College in Red Wing. Lloyd LaPlant from LaPlant Instruments along with others (TBA) will lead a workshop in instrument, care, repair along with tips and an instrument tasting of higher quality instruments played by some of our more famous stars of the weekend. Meet Cory and Jarrod: Join Jon Garon, Cory and Jarrod Walker Cory and Jarrod are from Nashville and play or have played in some of the most influential bluegrass bands going. Jarrod currently is with the Claire Lynch Band, Cory has played with Ricky Skaggs, Sierra Hull and currently with the Jeni Lynn Band) for a spectacular hour of Photo by Jasper McCroskey instrumental performance and a chance to Q and A some of Nashville’s hottest pickers. This get together with other band peers that is not to be missed if you want to get up you have always wanted to sing and play close and see how the real pros do it. with, the Kip’s Live Open Mic may be Banjo Romantika: An independent the stage for you. To sign your group up film about Bluegrass Music in the Czech for a slot prior to the festival, check out Republic. Our headline group The Malina the schedule and Sign-up Genius link on Brosthers are from the Czech Republic. the MBOTMA website. You can sign up Meet the Malina Bros: 45 minute to emcee, too! This is a great gateway to meet and greet with our weekend becoming a regular MBOTMA emcee at headliner band. concerts and festivals.

Workshops

The Harvest Jam Acoustic Music Experience features a band development workshop series. You’ll find these workshops scheduled on Saturday morning and afternoon. We recently

GMUG!

The Great Minnesota Ukelele Gathering will be held at the Harvest Jam. Featured workshop/jam leaders and concert performers will be Lil Rev and Fred Sokolow. November 2017

There will be workshops, organized jam sessions, as well as ukulele vendors. See the article on GMUG in this issue. For complete information, go to www. GreatMinnesotaUkeGathering.com.

Banquet Dinner

Attendees to the Harvest Jam get a chance to gather on Saturday evening for a grand banquet held in the main ballroom. Each year we celebrate our final event by feasting on a delicious meal while enjoying a dinner program that includes the results of the MBOTMA Election, a performance by the Race for a Place Contest winner and various tributes and recognitions of “our heroes!” Sav v y festival goers know that their ticket into the banquet affords them a chance to grab a great seat for the evening concerts to follow. The ballroom will open up at the end of the dinner, but diners can keep their choice seats for the remainder of the evening. As always, there will be a social hour prior to the banquet so diners can visit and enjoy some music by Double Down Daredevils, while selecting their dinner seating. Those with banquet tickets will arrive prior to the banquet and check in with the seating volunteers who will provide a seating chart. The event organizers ask that diners present tickets at time of seat selection for ALL parties wishing to sit together, in order to guarantee that guests that wish to sit together can be accommodated. Please remember that this is a “first come” seating basis.

It will be conducted at the conclusion of the banquet. Hotel staff will open the ballroom to general admission, and all attendees are invited to this open meeting. It is a chance to hear from our Board of Directors and ask questions about our organization. All are encouraged to November 2017

Music Vendors

Somewhere in the flurry of activity, you’ll need to find time to visit the vendor room. Right across from the main ballroom, the vendor room will be open from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday.

Old Time Fiddle Jam with Mary DuShane. Very popular jam last year. Rosin up that bow and jump in! Country Jam with Dan Fish of the Now and Then Band. Country classics you know and love. Progressive Bluegrass Jam with Zach Tauer and the Common Ground Company. Fun local band with a lot of youthful energy! Songwriters Jam - Hosted by the Minnesota Association of Songwriters. Come listen or bring your own originals! Singers Jam hosted by Tom Peschges - The Double Down Daredevils. No fiddle tunes allowed! This is for singers! A mic and a small PA will be provided so the singers can be heard over the instruments. You can bring your own harmony singers or ask for help from the group or make it a sing-along and invite everyone to join in, it’s up to you!. Locations to be announced.

Annual MBOTMA Membership Meeting:

6:45pm on Saturday, November 18, 2017 in the main ballroom.

Tickets & Lodging

A weekend ticket that includes everything except the banquet dinner can be had in advance for only $35 ($30 for members). A VIP ticket that includes the dinner along with weekend admission is $55 ($50 for members). Daily admission prices at the door will be $15 on Friday and $25 on Saturday. Teens are half price and kids are free. For more information and advance tickets for the Harvest Jam Acoustic Music Experience call 800-635-3037 or visit www.MinnesotaBluegrass.org. For hotel reservations (you won’t want to go home) contact the Marriot Hotel at 952-5444400 and ask for the Minnesota Bluegrass Festival rate. The Minneapolis Marriott West is located in Saint Louis Park, near the intersection of Hwy 169 and I-394.

Photo by Doug Lohman

Theme Jams A very popular feature of last year’s Harvest Jam, The Theme jams, will be back this year! With the Hayloft jam rooms upstairs, plus spaces in the hotel lobby, side rooms, the ballroom foyer, the workshop room at night, the ballroom late night, plus hallways and pool area, we count space for more than 20 simultaneous jams. This is a picker’s festival, and there will also be several “theme jams” planned. Y’all Come; a Friday night jam led by the Biscuit Boys, Tim Wankel and friends, 3 and 4 chord songs, standards that most people know or will catch up to real quickly. Great way to get the fingers loosened up and ease into the weekend.

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

The Annual MBOTMA Membership Meeting

attend. Tickets for the banquet dinner are available by purchasing the VIP Ticket, which includes admission to the dinner. These tickets are limited and it is strongly encouraged that those wishing to attend the banquet purchase tickets early as they will sell out. See you there!

Ukuleles at a Bluegrass and Old-Time Festival? by Tony Anthonisen

During a recent visit to the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol, Virgina, MBOTMA President Laura Cooper learned about “the inclusion of the ukulele . . . on the Bristol Sessions [in 1927].” The exhibit plaque at the Museum says, “the ukulele’s small size and simple technique made it prominent in popular and folk music . . . including . . . the Sessions.” It also mentions the banjolele! The ukulele remains a part of the county, oldtime and bluegrass music tradition. Another ukulele boom started in about 2001. Statista.com reports that 501,000 ukuleles were sold in the United States in 2009, 1,197,000 in 2015, and 1,400,000 in 2016.

The 2017 Great Minnesota Uke Gathering (GMUG) at the Harvest Jamboree

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

The 2017 Great Minnesota Uke Gathering takes place within the Harvest Jam. It is a Minnesota and area get-together for all ukulele players (or want-to-be players). It includes concerts, workshops, jams, and sing-alongs for all skill levels. Plus, there are even beginner ukulele lessons! Your Harvest Jam ticket includes admission to both Harvest Jam and GMUG events and concerts. • Featured ukulele instructors and performers include Lil Rev and Fred Sokolow, international ukulele artists.

Fred Sokolow 12

They will be doing a series of workshops on Friday and Saturday, and will perform a Main Stage concert Friday evening. There will be a Fred Sokolow blues jam on Friday evening and a Lil Rev led jam Saturday evening. These jams are for all skill levels. • Minnesota-based jazz/swing/bluegrass specialist Mike Cramer will teach ukulele workshops on moveable chords. • A Saturday Donegal Ballroom concert and workshop will showcase the

award-winning U Can Jug or Nots jug band. • Singer and die-hard ukulele fan Rhonda Laurie, along with Mike Cramer, will entertain us with a pop-up concert on Saturday. • An open mic and jam appropriate for all levels using the Daily Ukulele: 365 Songs for Better Living will be led by THUG (Two Harbors Ukulele Group) ukers Al Anderson, with Dale and Brenda Moe. • Learn and Improve will feature beginner ukulele lessons and expert help for those who want to move to the next playing level from ukulele and music educators., Dr. Chris Russell and Tony Anthonisen. The uke boom is still going strong! The ukulele is inexpensive, easy to play and a ton of fun! Why not be part of the fun at the 2017 GMUG and Harvest Jam? For complete 2017 GMUG details, go to www.GreatMinnesotaUkeGathering. com For the complete GMUG schedule, go to www.bluegrassfun.com/2017-gmugschedule.html.

Lil Rev November 2017

Shortenin’ Bread by Wayne Erbsen

“Shortenin’ Bread” certainly wins a prize for longevity. After all, it has been around for over 150 years. This version of “Shortenin’ Bread” comes from my new book, Ukulele for the Complete Ignoramus! I can’t tell you why, but I find playing Shortenin’ Bread almost addictive. When I start to play it, I can barely force myself to stop. I must not be alone because this song has been popular since the early to mid 1800’s. Known as a “plantation song,” it is also likely that it was a favorite on the minstrel stage with blackfaced performers. The song was first collected and published in 1915. All this talk about shortenin’ bread is making me hungry! If you’re in the same fix, put your skillet on a hot fire. While it’s getting hot, mix up some corn meal and add some bacon gravy and bits of crisp bacon, which are called “cracklins.” No wonder it’s sometimes called “cracklin’ bread.” Pour your mixture into a hot greased skillet, and sit back while you wait for it to cook. In the

Mama’s little baby loves shortenin’, shortenin’ Mama’s little baby loves shortenin’ bread. Mama’s little baby loves shortenin’, shortenin’, Mama’s little baby loves shortenin’ bread. Put on the skillet, put on the lid, Mama’s gonna make a little shortenin’ bread. That ain’t all she’s gonna do, Mama’s gonna make a little coffee too. (Chorus) Three little boys, lying in bed, Two was sick, and the other most dead. Sent for the doctor, and the doctor said, Feed them babies on shortenin’ bread. (Chorus) Slipped in the kitchen, slipped on the lid, Slipped my pockets full of shortenin’ bread. Stole the skillet, stole the lid, Stole the gal to make shortenin’ bread. (Chorus)

November 2017

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

meantime, pick a little bit of Shortenin’ Bread on the ukulele. Try not to get hungry while playing Shortnin’ Bread! I like the Cowboy Strum on this classic. It is mostly D, played with the middle finger to make shifting to the A in the split measures a little easier. From the D, roll your finger to the 4th string for the A. To play the melody, play all the notes on the 2nd fret with your first finger. That way, you can reach the 5th fret with your pinky without moving your hand. Wayne Erbsen has been chasing songs and their background histories for close to fifty years. He has written over thirty song and instruction books for bluegrass and clawhammer banjo, fiddle, mandolin, guitar, and ukulele. He claims he can teach even a frog to play. See for yourself by visiting www.nativeground. com.

www.cs-center.org

Building a “Civil Society” throughout the entire state of Minnesota Malina Brothers: www.malinabrothers.com Banjo Romantika: www.banjoromantika.com Druhá Tráva: www.druhatrava.us

Wegen’s Guitar Picks ®

6625 Penn Ave. S. Richfield, MN 55423 (612) 861-3308

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

www.homesteadpickinparlor.com folkmuse@aol.com and you can find us on Facebook

Making the world safe for discerning fans of Traditional Music since 1979

Michel Wegen is a recognized Dutch model maker using sculpting and airbrush art techniques to meet the needs of clients such as theme parks, ad agencies and museums. In his search for new markets, Michel some years ago took on the design of the lowly pick. The results have been phenomenal. Wegen Picks endanger no animal species, and they are a fraction of the price of the illegal picks that do. We have eight models for guitar and mandolin on hand in a variety of thicknesses. Try one out on your next visit.

November 2017

Fold #1 Fold #2 MBOTMA PO Box 16408 Minneapolis, MN 55416

PLACE FIRST CLASS STAMP HERE

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

MBOTMA Election Judge c/o Kenneth Bloch 19877 182nd Ave NW Big Lake MN 55309

November 2017

Board of Directors Election Ballot

Please read the instructions carefully.

Mailed ballots must be received by Tuesday, November 14. Ballots must be handed in by 3 p.m. on Saturday, November 18th.

LOOSEN STAPLES

Step 1: Remove the ballot from the center of the magazine. Loosen the center staples and it will come right out. (You will still have a complete magazine after it has been removed.) Step 2: Cut the ballot in half along the fold. Return just this sheet. Step 3: Mark the ballot. Vote for TWO officers and FOUR At-Large Board Members. Step 4: Fold the ballot in thirds, with this side on the inside and the address on the outside. Do not place your return address on the ballot; your vote is confidential. Step 5: To vote by mail, staple or tape the ballot closed, apply a first class stamp, and mail. To vote in person, seal the ballot and bring it to the Harvest Jam, November 18–20, 2016

Minnesota Bluegrass and Old-Time Music Association Official

IMPORTANT Reminder: This page serves only as a Board Election ballot. Please do not include checks, membership renewals, or any other correspondence for MBOTMA. Ballots will not be opened until the Harvest Jam. Ballots received after the Harvest Jam will not be opened. Returning Board members - terms end in 2018: Laura Cooper- President, Nic Hentges - Vice President, Board Members at Large - Dale Gruber, Brett Day, Phillip Nusbaum

Secretary: (Vote for 1) ☐ Shane Zack Additional ballots will NOT be available at the Harvest Jam

Treasurer: (Vote for 1) ☐ Robbie Podrug Write In:_____________________ AT-LARGE BOARD MEMBERS: (Vote for 4) ☐ Bill Lindroos ☐ Rudi Marty ☐ Alan Jesperson

VOID

Other (Write-in): MinnesotaBluegrass.org

This is your only ballot

____________________________ ____________________________ ____________________________

Mailed ballots must be received by November 14, 2017 OR Bring them to the Harvest Jam by 3 p.m., Saturday, November 18, 2017 Harvest Jam, November 17-19, 2017 Marriott Minneapolis West 9960 Wayzata Boulevard Just west of Highway 169 and north of I-394. Coming from I-394, exit at Hopkins Crossroad and go east on the north frontage road. For more information, visit minnesotabluegrass. org.

____________________________

November 2017

CUT ALONG THIS EDGE

Write In:_____________________

For Secretary: Shane Zack

Shane Zack has been playing mandolin in the Minnesota bluegrass community for 15 years. Outside the bluegrass world he has 13 years of experience working in notfor-profit organizations, 5 years of this experience working in organizational administration, 3 years experience working in board development in a variety of settings. This experience includes constituent surveying, auditing non-profit health with a focus on board to programming relationships. He has participated in the design of 2 strategic planning processes. In addition to playing mandolin, he is also a wedding officiant, amateur dendrologist, pysanky decorator, and aspiring bluegrass historian.

For Treasurer: Robbi Podrug

For Board Member at Large: Rudy Marti

I am a CPA with broad knowledge of non-profit as well as for-profit organizations. I have set up three nonprofits, sat on the board of two, and shepherded two non-profits through potentially fatal transactions. I took over as Treasurer at the beginning of 2017, understanding the challenges facing MBOTMA. The Board has done a lot of work this past year, and it has been a privilege to be a part of it. There is still work to be done to ensure MBOTMA can fulfill its mission in a fiscally responsible way, and I would like to continue that work. Oh, and I have played fiddle in various bluegrass bands across the country for the last 40 years.

As a candidate for the MBOTMA Board of Directors, I think I can offer a unique perspective. I am not a musician and I am not in a bluegrass band. I sit in the audience enjoying and listening to all the different types of bluegrass music. I currently sit on two festival committees for MBOTMA, the Kickoff Festival and MBOTMA Festival. My wife and I have owned and operated our profitable business for over 30 years. What I can bring to the table is a working knowledge of accounting, marketing, public relations and people management. Volunteers are the key to MBOTMAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success. I share in the commitment and passion that so many of our members have for the MBOTMA organization.

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

Ask not what MBOTMA can do for you, but what you can do for MBOTMA. November 2017

For Board Member at Large: Bill Lindroos

I have volunteered at MBOTMA events for many years and currently serve on the Kickoff and August festival and the State Fair contest committees. For the last year I have also served on the Board of Directors. It has been a challenging but very rewarding year, and I believe that we have made substantial progress in positioning MBOTMA for continued success. However, much remains to be done, and I would very much like to continue this work.

For Board Member at Large: Alan Jesperson

I am Alan Jesperson, and I am interested in running again for a position on the MBOTMA Board of Directors. I feel the Board we have at this time is the best we’ve ever had. The diverse skills and and vast experience makes this a great gathering. I have been in the bluegrass world for 50 years and have seen everything, it seems. I believe my history makes me a good candidate to help guide the board. Having played in a band for decades and booking bands for decades and promoting the Laughing Waters Bluegrass Festival for 19 years makes my viewpoint of value. I can view the workings of the board from a unique position.

For Board Member at Large: Joe Hallman

I want you to consider voting for me for the board of MBOTMA. I have been a member of this great organization for 15 years, have worked as a volunteer on several occasions, played music, sang, had fun, and have gotten to know many fantastic musicians through the years. I am a retired theology professor with 40 years of teaching experience, two books in print, and several articles. Now in retirement I am dedicated to music of all kinds, especially roots music – bluegrass and old time. I spent a full year after retirement studying the origins of one of our greatest national treasures, American music. I hope to contribute to the renewal of MBOTMA, making it an even greater venue in the 21st century.

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

Annual MBOTMA Membership Meeting: at the Harvest Jam 6:45pm on Saturday, Novemeber 18, 2017 “A banjo will get you through times of no money, but money won’t get you through times of no banjo” John Hartford 18

November 2017

Friday, November 10, 2017 Daytime Jam Sessions with Dick Kimmel 4:30 PM Social Hour 8:00 PM History of Bluegrass and Stringband Music with Dick Kimmel Saturday, November 11, 2017 Daytime Jam Sessions with Dick Kimmel and Pamela Longtine 7:30 PM Bluegrass Concert with Dick Kimmel and Pamela Longtine

Featuring

Dick Kimmel & Pamela Longtine November 2017

(800) 328-3325 www.gunflint.com 19

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

Three Night Packages starting at $199

Ukuleles, Banjo Ukuleles and the American Banjo Museum Hall Of Fame By Corey Mohan

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

The house lights went down in the historic Kings Theater in Portsmouth, England. Sporadic audience titter greeted the emcee Joe Black, as he stepped onto the stage, impeccably dressed, in drag. What followed was 7 hours of ukulele performances interspersed with the humorously bawdy banter of our host, a dinner break (thank goodness) and for me a mind-boggling variety of styles and artists. I wasn’t in Minnesota anymore. This was the 2015 Grand Southern Ukulele Festival and grand it was - three full days of performances, jams and workshops. Downtown Portsmouth was thick with uke players and singers. There wasn’t a pub or Fish and Chips shop that didn’t have a rowdy sing-along in progress. I was there to see two stellar uke/ banjo-uke players, Belgium-based Remco Houtman-Janssen aka Ukulelezaza and the U.K.’s own, Andy Eastwood. A highlight for me was Ukulelezaza dazzling the crowd at Kings that evening with his instrumental virtuosity on Hoagy Carmichael’s New Orleans. The next day I attended workshops from both him and

Ukelelezaza 20

Kings Theater, Portsmith England

Andy. Ukulelezaza’s teaching focused on his right hand wizardry while Andy taught the strums of the late, great George Formby, a banjo ukulele original and, during the middle of the last century, one of the most popular performing artists in the U.K. Which brings me to the Banjo Hall of Fame...and two upcoming events right here in the Twin Cities area. In 2016, George Formby was inducted into the American Banjo Museum Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City. Andy Eastwood, heir apparent to George, was flown in to celebrate this achievement and demonstrate George’s trade mark rhythms. In Andy’s words, “Although many were aware of Formby, few had seen his style played live before and when I took to the stage and played his famous “Leaning on a Lamp-Post” the reception was terrific.” Closer to home, our uke community will be treated to national performers Lil’ Rev, Fred Sokolow, and Minnesota’s own, Mike Cramer in a variety of workshops, jams and concerts at Marriott Minneapolis West over three days, November 17 to 19. More details at http://www.

bluegrassfun.com/2017-great-minnesota-uke-gathering.html. Then on January 3rd Ukulelezaza comes to town! Between the 3rd and the 10th, he’ll be featured in a house concert, club dates and other events around the Twin Cities. On the 6th, he’ll teach uke/banjo uke workshops

Andy Eastwood November 2017

George Formby at the West Bank School of Music and later that night take the Cedar Cultural Center stage opening for Dan Newton’s Cafe Accordion Orchestra. For more information, a full schedule events and how to re-

ARMADILLO SOUND & DESIGN

American Banjo Museum, Oklahoma City, OK serve a spot, check out zazamn.weebly. com, zazamn2018 on FaceBook or call 651.368.6316. What a treat. In the space of a little more than 6 weeks, two great events,

two opportunities to enjoy and learn right in our backyard. No need to travel to Portsmouth England this year though I guarantee the Kings Theater alone is worth it.

Scrapegoat Skin & Bones seeking experienced, quality upright bassist.

Serving the acoustic music community for over 35 years.

Complete production services, sound and lights.

You know Doug’s attention to detail in the live concert… Let him help you craft your next recording project.

612-306-3490 douglohman@aol.com November 2017

Regularly performing. Unique High Class Hoedown music style. Originals and covers. Classic Outlaw Country, Modern Americana & Bluegrass and much more.

See www.scrapegoatproductions.com See Scrapegoat Skin & Bones on FaceBook Email interest to scrapegoat@comcast.net

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

Complete studio and live multi-track recording with Protools©.

CD Review

Bob Bovee Rails, Trails and Tall Tales

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

by Doug Lohman

Nebraskan native Bob Bovee is one of Minnesota’s old-time treasures, and it shows with his latest CD, Rails, Trails & Tall Tales. Bob’s selection of 18 tunes and songs showcases his depth of knowledge in the traditions of old-time music. Bob has been pursuing old-time and cowboy music all his adult life. He has played all over the country for shows, concerts, and dances. I consider him one of the best guitar players when playing for a dance. His rhythm guitar playing is perfectly percussive and steady. This CD is a very good example of that guitar playing. This is a simple recording. It’s Bob’s voice accompanied by, mostly, his guitar, but also harmonica, banjo, autoharp. In this day and age, we can be bombarded by complex music from all over the world. When these simple songs were written, people did not have access to music from any father away than they could walk or ride a horse. These are stories about simple life, simple things, simple people, unencumbered by modern technology and pace of today’s life. Many of his sources are his family, great grandmother, grandmother, uncle, cousin. You can imagine them putting the spark into him at an early age. These simple songs are stories, someone’s take on their life or an event. The hard life on the frontier in the song “Starvin’ to Death on a Government Claim.” The loneliness of prison in the song “Colorado Prisoner.” The intrigues and twists of love in “The House Carpenter.” Missing home in “Back to My Wyoming Home.” Living in times of uncertain/confusing/new technology in “The Mowin’ Machine.” Story songs from times past. It’s not hard to get into the heads of these folks and relate. The liner notes give us a glimpse into 22

“Simply enjoyable is my one sentence recap of Rails, Trails and Tall Tales.” the music trivia stored in Bob’s brain. He credits the earliest writers of these songs and even gives us the record labels and numbers, I would suppose, in order to prod us into doing research on our own. Many of the old songs had many different versions, and he points this out and, lists them. I find this interesting as it gives us a peek at the folk process. Most of these tunes, except for Black Hammer Strut, which he made up (his words), were written way before there was any way of recording them. Just handed down; learned from listening and copying. Throughout the CD you hear traces of other songs.

The CD is an enjoyable listen, and a good sample of Bob’s vast repertoire of old time, country and cowboy tunes and songs. The liner notes are informative and interesting to read, and you get a little insight into why he chose the tunes. It is impeccably recorded, thanks to Dakota Dave Hull. Bob’s voice and instruments are natural. I felt like he was right in my living room singing and playing, just for me. Simply enjoyable is my one sentence recap of Rails, Trails and Tall Tales. Christmas is coming soon. Bob’s contact info can be found at boveeheil. com or any simple google search. November 2017

Bluegrass Saturday Morning By Phil Nusbaum

November 2017

Bluegrass Review Supporters Hoffman Guitars www.hoffmanguitars.com (hand crafted Hoffman guitars, authorized Martin repairs) Minnesota Bluegrass and Old Time Music Association www. minnesotabluegrass.org (membership organization supporting bluegrass experiences) John Waddle Violins: www.waddleviolins.com (Dealer of international & domestic, new & old violins, bows, cases) Weekly Playlists, Listen Online 1. PRX To locate Gems of Bluegrass and the Bluegrass Review online, type in the search box at www.prx.org and you should get many hits. Bluegrass Saturday Morning is streamed and, also, archived at the new url for KBEM 88.5 www.jazz88.fm. 2. www.bluegrassreview.com Bluegrass Review playlists are located at www. bluegrassreview.com. Just use the “programs” link you’ll find at the top of the page. Then look for the show for whichever week is current. The current week’s show should come to the top, and scroll down to view earlier playlists. Scroll down all the way to access a player enabling you to stream the show. 3. www.jazz88.fm To stream KBEM programming, at www.jazz88.fm, click on “listen live.” Bluegrass Saturday Morning playlists are located at www.jazz88.fm. At the top of the home page on the right-hand

The Bluegrass Review in Minnesota Check www.bluegrassreview.com for a complete station list. Station

Day

Time

KLQP-FM, 92.1 Madison

Monday

8 PM

KMSU-FM, 89.7 Mankato; 91.3 Austin

Sunday

10 AM

KBEM-FM, 88.5 Minneapolis

Saturday

11 AM

KSRQ-FM, 90.1 Thief River Falls

Sunday

11 AM

KQAL-FM, 89.5 Winona

Saturday

9 AM

KDDG-FM, 105.5 Albany

Saturday

9 PM

WTIP-FM, 90.7 Grand Marais

Thursday

10 PM

KUMD-FM, 103.3 Duluth

Saturday

4 PM

KRWC-AM, 1360 Buffalo

Sunday

5 PM

KOJB-FM, 90.1 Cass Lake

Sunday

6 PM

KSCR-FM, 93.5 Benson

Sunday

6 AM

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

World of Bluegrass It certainly is a wonderful time. World of Bluegrass, supported by the International Bluegrass Music Association, comes to Raleigh, NC the last week of every September. The business conference takes place the beginning of the week. On Thursday, the business conference fades into a massive fan-based event. I usually go to the business conference, as performers are available for interviews. Also, there are several opportunities for radio people to get together to talk about mutual concerns. In 2017, radio people also met with label representatives. There are big luncheons where we listen to bands. These are fun, too, because you usually sit at a table with people you’ve not met previously. And there are always rich desserts, and dishes that include grits that remind you that your location is south of US 40. But the big draw is seeing bands perform. Understand that World of Bluegrass serves as a booking conference. This means that bands are all practiced up and putting their best feet forward. During the day, rooms in the Raleigh Convention Center are taken up with meetings, but as the weekend approaches, more and more stages are set up in the Convention Center. Performances start in the afternoon and carry on through the evening. Most stages feature a different bluegrass band every hour. Meanwhile, a short distance from the Convention Center, a dozen music clubs present bluegrass bands. The bluegrass starts early and ends late; and, generally, the clubs present different groups every hour. You can get a ticket that gets you into all of the events throughout World of Bluegrass, or you can pay by the day. You show your pass and go into any venue you want. If you like to listen to bluegrass, I can think of no better way to do it. You wind up staying up pretty late for days on end, but once you accept that airplanes are for sleeping, you’re OK. For interviews, I recorded memorable hotel room sessions with Rebekah Long, members of the Railsplitters, and Jesse Iaquinto of the Fireside Collective, plus sessions done in Convention Center rooms with Becky Buller and Louisa Branscomb, among others. They will be broadcast on the Bluegrass Review in the coming months. As the business conference was turning into the part of World of Bluegrass dedicated to the fans, I flew home in order to participate in KBEM’s fall fund-raising activities. But I know that the later event is massive. Everybody moves outside where there are multiple stages for bluegrass concerts attended by seas of people, and they tell me that everybody has a good time.

Harvest Jam

Acoustic Music Experience November 17-19, 2017 | Minneapolis Marriott West Hotel | St. Louis Park, MN The 2017 Harvest Jam Acoustic Music Experience will be Friday through Sunday, November 17–19 at the Marriott Minneapolis West Hotel. The 12th annual Harvest Jam will feature stage shows with headliner Malina Brothers from Czech Republic on Saturday evening, a 30 minute set by them on Friday, and a gospel set Sunday morning. Several bands will also perform on Friday and Saturday evenings, including Little Rev, Noah John and Ringing Iron & more! Race for the Place Band Contest is held on Saturday from 10:00am–5:00pm, the Saturday Banquet Dinner (get the best seats for the evening concert), Kip’s Live Open Mic in Kip’s Irish Pub throughout the weekend, a workshop program,including a documentary film called “Banjo Romantika” about the history of bluegrass in the Czech Republic (sponsored by the Czech & Slovak Cultural Center of MN), music vendors, Sunday morning gospel show, and lots of jam sessions! To book lodging contact the Marriott at 952-5444400 and ask for the Minnesota Bluegrass festival rate!

Saturday Night Ballroom Concert with

Malina Brothers & Sunday Gospel set!

Advance price and member discount tickets for the Harvest jam are on sale as of October 1. A general admission weekend ticket (without the banquet dinner) is $35 for adults, $30 for members, and $15 for teens. Children 12 and under are free. A VIP weekend ticket that includes the banquet dinner is $55 for adults, $50 for members, $25 for teens, and $10 for kids. Banquet dinner tickets are not sold separately but only as part of the VIP package. Single day tickets are not available in advance. Gate prices will be $15 on Friday and $25 on Saturday, with teens half price and kids free. Special Event: Minnesota Songwriters Association will host workshops in the Hayloft area!

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

BANJO ROMANTIKA (film documentary) — introduces the musicians who play this unique bluegrass hybrid. Czechs first heard bluegrass during World War II, when it was broadcast to American soldiers. The music represented freedom to dissatisfied Czechs living in a communist state. Czechs’ love for the music was solidified when Pete Seeger visited and performed in 1964. Inspired by classic American bluegrass sounds, an assortment of musicians from across the formerly communist Czech Republic have melded the Sponsored in past, the political and the part by present into a lively musical tradition entirely its own. www.banjoromantika.com

Great Minnesota Uke Gathering @ Harvet Jam Workshops | Jamming | Friday Eve Concert 2017 Headliner Lil Rev — a Milwaukeebased, songwriter, instrumentalist, storyteller, historian, educator and interpreter of American roots music and culture.His fascination with all things ukulele and harmonica keep him busy teaching and performing all across North America. Find out more at www.bluegrassfun.com.

Harvest Jam Tickets Available Sunday – October 1, 2017! Find all the details online at www.minnesotabluegrass.org or call 800-635-3037.

November 2017

MBOTMA Calendar of Events Concerts and events presented or supported by the Minnesota Bluegrass & Old-Time Music Association

The following events are presented by the Minnesota Bluegrass & Old-Time Music Association (MBOTMA) or supported in part by MBOTMA, and made possible in part by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

November 17-19, 2017 - Friday through Sunday Harvest Jam Acoustic Music Experience:

St Louis Park, MN: Marriott Minneapolis West Hotel (9960 Wayzata Blvd). This 12th annual event will feature stage shows Friday night, all day Saturday, and Sunday morning featuring the Malina Brothers, Lil Rev, Noah John & Ringing Iron, and more. Plus the Race For A Place Band Contest on Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the Saturday Banquet Dinner (get the best seats for the evening concert), Great Minnesota Uke Gathering, Kip’s Live Open Mic in Kip’s Irish Pub throughout the weekend, workshops, musical exhibitors, a Sunday morning gospel show, and lots of jam sessions. For more information 800-635-3037 or www. MinnesotaBluegrass.org. To book lodging contact the Marriott at 952-544-4400 and ask for the special Minnesota Bluegrass rate. Presented by the Minnesota Bluegrass & Old- Time Music Association (MBOTMA).

January 28, 2018 - Sunday MBOTMA’s 2018 Fundraiser 2to10 Party: 2:00 PM

to 10:00 PM, Place TBA. A celebration of all things MBOTMA featuring 8 bands and more. Plus silent auction, raffles, and lots of jam sessions. Suggested admission donation of $15 with all proceeds to benefit the Minnesota Bluegrass & Old-Time Music Association (MBOTMA). Food and beverages available. For more information call 800-635-3037 or visit www. MinnesotaBluegrass.org.

MBOTMA’s Website: www.minnesotabluegrass.com

November 2017

& Old-Time Music & Dance, Crowne Plaza Minneapolis West Hotel in Plymouth, MN (3131 Campus Dr, I-494 & Hwy 55). Some fifty groups will be performing bluegrass, old-time stringband, and related forms of acoustic music on several stages, including the Saturday Night Headline Concert and the Dance Hall. Plus workshops, dances, instrument exhibitors, and jam sessions around the clock. Early Bird Jam starts Thursday, March 1, at 6:30pm. For more information call 1-800-635-3037 or visit www.MinnesotaBluegrass.org. To book lodging contact the Crowne Plaza at 763-559-6600 or the nearby Residence Inn at 763-577-1600. Ask for the special Minnesota Bluegrass Festival rate.

Get a PDF of Minnesota Bluegrass before everyone else... If you are already a member and want

to receive Minnesota Bluegrass in electronic form instead of by postal mail, it will be emailed to you directly before it is available to the general public. If you only want the digital copy or you have problems opening the file, please contact the Minnesota Bluegrass editor at editor@minnesotabluegrass.org.

Contribute to Minnesota Bluegrass Magazine. Write a Review of a favorite concert or CD. Write an article about your favorite jam. Tell us about how you came to like Bluegrass and Old-Time String Band Music. editor@minnesotabluegrass.org

ATTENTION BLUEGRASS JAMMERS!

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

Info and news about our events. Buy tickets on line Donate History Complete calendar of Festivals Magazine, read past issues Links to Member Bands

March 2-4, 2018 - Friday-Sunday The Winter Bluegrass Weekend: A Festival of Bluegrass

In the next couple of months, MBOTMA will be updating and converting its jam schedule to a link connected to our website. That way it will be available 24 -7 at your fingertips. If you head up a jam, attend a jam, or know of a jam, please contact Tony Stachnik at tdjejs@msn. com. Thank you and keep on jamming! 25

Coming Up Venue abbreviations

318: The 318 Café, 318 Water Street, Excelsior, 952-401-7902, www.three-eighteen.com 331C: 331 Club, 331 13th Ave NE, Mpls, 612-331-1746, www.331.mn AGr: Amazing Grace Bakery & Cafe, 394 S Lake Ave, Duluth, 218-723-0075, www.amazinggraceduluth.com APHC: “A Prairie Home Companion,” Minnesota Public Radio AST: Aster Cafe, 125 SE Main St, Mpls, 612-379-3138, www. astercafe.com BSC: Black Sheep Coffee Cafe, 705 Southview Blvd., South St. Paul, 651-554-0155, www.blacksheepcoffee.com BTC: Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua, Bayfield, WI, 888-244-8368, www.bigtop.org BoDD: BoDiddley’s Pub and Deli, 129 25th Ave S, St. Cloud, 320-252-9475 CED: Cedar Cultural Center, 415 Cedar Ave S, Mpls, 612-3382674, www.thecedar.org CJ: Celtic Junction, 836 Prior Ave, St Paul, 651-330-4685, www. thecelticjunction.com CrH: Creek House Concerts, www.creekhouseconcerts.com, 651-633-5353. MUST call and reserve for these events. DAK: Dakota Jazz Club, 1010 Nicollet Mall, Mpls, 612-332-1010, www.dakotacooks.com DuG: Dunn Brothers on Grand, 1569 Grand Ave, St. Paul EAG: Eagles Club, 2507 E 25th St, Mpls, 612-729-4469, www.Mplseagles34.org

FITZ: Fitzgerald Theater, 10 E Exchange St, St Paul, 651-2901200, www.fitzgeraldtheater.publicradio.org GINK: Ginkgo Coffeehouse, 721 N Snelling Ave, St Paul, 651-645-2647, www.ginkgocoffee.com GKb: Grand Kabaret, 210 N Minnesota St, New Ulm, 507-3599222, www.thegrandnewulm.com HOB: The Loft at Hobgoblin Music, 920 State Hwy 19, Red Wing, 877-866-3936, www.stoneyend.com MER: Merlins Rest, 3601 E Lake St, Mpls, 612-216-2419 OAK: Oak Center General Store, 67011 Hwy 63, Lake City, 507-753-2080, www.oakcentergeneralstore.com RIV: Riverview Café & Wine Bar, 3747 42nd Ave S, Mpls, 612-7294200, theriverview.com ROCK: Rockwoods, 9100 Quaday Ave NE, Elk River, 763-2224353, www.nograsslimit.com/RockwoodsCalendar.html SHL: Sheldon Theatre, 443 W 3rd St, Red Wing, 800-899-5759, www.sheldontheatre.org TAP: Tapestry Folkdance Center, 3748 Minnehaha Ave S, Mpls, 612-722-2914, www.tapestryfolkdance.org UMC: Underground Music Café, 1579 Hamline Ave N, Falcon Hts, 651-644-9959, undergroundmusiccafe.com VC: Vieux Carre, 408 St Peter St, St Paul, 651-291-2715, vieuxcarre.com WmH: The Warming House, 4001 Bryant Ave S, lower level, Mpls, 877-987-6487, thewarminghouse.net ZUM: Crossings at Carnegie, 320 East Ave, Zumbrota, 507-7327616, www.crossingsatcarnegie.com

To post gigs and events to this calendar, request the link to our online submission form to editor@minnesotabluegrass.org

November 4 Saturday

The Hillbenders

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

present Tommy: a Bluegrass Opry Dakota Jazz Club 1010 Nicollet Mall, Mpls, MN 612-332-1010 - 7pm www.dakotacooks.com

10/27 – Friday

SPECIAL ATTRACTIONS November 11 Saturday

Hugelen Cajun Music Scholarship Fund Raiser

with Jesse Lege and the New Riverside Ramblers Eagles Club #34 2507 E. 25th St, Mpls, MN 5:30-10pm pm

• Bob Bovee, MacArthur House, Marlboro, VT, 7:30pm • The Fish Heads, Sir Benedict’s Tavern, 805 E Superior St, Duluth, 218-7281192, 6pm • Charlie Parr (Acoustic), CED, 8pm • Dick Kimmel & Pamela Longtine, Becker County Historical Museum

November 12 Sunday

November 17-19 Friday-Sunday

20th Anniversary MBOTMA’s String Theory Show Harvest Jam Acoustic Dakota Jazz Club Music Experience 1010 Nicollet Mall Mpls, MN 612-332-1010 - 4pm www.dakotacooks.com

(History of trad stringband/bluegrass music), Detroit Lakes • Kari Arnett, Mother Banjo, WmH, 8pm • Ordinary Folk, BoDD, 7:30pm • The High 48s, Wiese Auditorium/ KBEK Radio, 208 Broadway Ave S, Braham, MN, 844-200-5235, 8pm • Tiller Black, Charlie’s Irish Pub, 101

Marriott Minneapolis West Hotel 9960 Wayzata Blvd St Louis Park, MN See AD page 24

Water St, Stillwater, 7:30pm

10/28 – Saturday

• One Ukulele, Fulton Farmers Market, 4901 Chowen Ave S, Mpls, 10am • Boiled in Lead, OAK, 8pm • Alternate Route, BSC, 10am • APHC - Hosted by Chris Thile, Broadcast live from Pasadena Civic Auditorium, Pasadena, CA, November 2017

Ukulelezaza's Twin Cities Tour

• 10/31 – Tuesday • Stringdingers, 331C, 8:30pm • The Jugg Sluggers, RIV, 7:30pm • 11/1 – Wednesday • The Langer’s Ball, Dubliner Pub, 2162 University Ave W, St Paul, 9pm

11/2 – Thursday

• Monroe Crossing, Story Theater Grand Opera House, 512 Broad St, Story City, IA, 7pm • Teague Alexy, 331C, 9:30pm • Granger’s Moonshine, UMC, 5pm • Gloryland Gospel Band, Woodale Church, 6630 Shady Oak Rd, Eden Prairie, 7pm • The Swamp Poppas, EAG, 8pm

11/3 – Friday

zazamn.weebly.com Europe's premier ukulele instrumentalist January 3rd to 10th, 2018. House Concert, Cedar Cultural Center, Workshops for Beginners to Professionals and more! Visit zazamn.weebly.com or call 651.368.6316 for information or to reserve a ticket and workshop seats • Dick Kimmel & Pamela Longtine, Public Library (Children’s Show - Fiddle Fun; Passing Down the Tradition), Moorhead, 11am • High 48s, St Croix Art Barn, 1040 Oak Ridge Dr, Osceola, WI, 715-2942787, 7pm • Squirrels in the Attic and Sweet Rhubarb, Folk House Concerts, Golden Valley, Call for info and address: 651-274-6604, 7:30pm • Tiller Black, Charlie’s Irish Pub, 101 Water St, Stillwater, 7:30pm

10/29 – Sunday

10/30 Monday

• Roe Family Singers, 331C, 8pm • Jeff Daniels, DAK, 7pm

November 2017

11/4 – Saturday

• Monroe Crossing, Five Flags Center, 405 Main St, Dubuque, IA, 7:30pm • No Mans String Band, 318, 8pm • The Hillbenders play Tommy, a Bluegrass Opry, DAK, 7pm • No Man’s String Band, 318, 8pm • New Riverside Ramblers, Como Dockside, 1360 N. Lexington Ave, St. Paul, 12pm • Art Stevenson & High Water, Expo Center, 10101 Market Street, Rothschild, WI, 715-623-2503, 8:30pm • APHC - Hosted by Chris Thile, Broadcast live from San Diego Civic Theatre • Alternate Route, BSC, 10am

11/5 – Sunday

• Monroe Crossing, Brodbeck Concert Hall, 755 Main St, Platteville, WI, 7:30pm • Bob Bovee, Folksong Society of Greater Boston, FFI: 617-327-1068 or 857-321-2825., 2pm • Swing Brunch with Patty and the Buttons, AST, 11am • Ruth Moody, CED, 7:30pm

11/6 – Monday

• Roe Family Singers, 331C, 8pm

Scrapegoat Skin & Bones seeking experienced, quality upright bassist. Email interest to scrapegoat@ comcast.net

Mandolin and banjo player,

new to the Brainerd, MN area, seeks people to play with. Mitchell Scott, 218-513-8642

Acoustic bass for sale:

Brand-Lewis, plywood, decent shape, good tone, new adjustable bridge. $1000. Doug, 612-306-3490 • Monday Night Square Dance, EAG, 7:30pm

11/7 Tuesday

• The Jugg Sluggers, RIV, 7:30pm • Bob Bovee, Glitter Box Theater, 460 Melwood Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 8pm • Nano Stern (Global Roots), CED, 7:30pm

11/8 – Wednesday

• Ashley & Nolan, 318, 8pm • Lenz and Frenz, 331C, 9:30pm

11/9 – Thursday

• Tom Rush, DAK, 7pm • Ruth Moody, Stoughton Opera House, Stoughton, WI, TBA • SouthSide Aces, EAG, 8pm • Open Mic, New York Mills Cultural Center, 24 Main Ave, New York Mills, 7pm

11/10 – Friday

• Monroe Crossing, Roseville Lutheran Church, 1215 Roselawn Ave W, Roseville, 8pm • Two Girls And A Boyd, 318, 8pm • Dick Kimmel & Pamela Longtine, Gunflint Lodge, Grand Marais,

11/11 – Saturday

• New Riverside Ramblers, EAG, Hugelin Cajun Music Scholarship Fund Raiser with Jesse Lege, 5:3010pm pm • Chris Silver Band, Juniors Bar and Restaurant, 414 So Main St, River Falls WI, 8pm • Monroe Crossing, Mantorville Opera House, Hwy 57 & 5th St, Mantorville, 7pm • Bill Hartong, 318, 8pm • The Lost Forty w/ Norah Rendell, CJ, TBA 27

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

• Roe Family Singers, Fulton Farmers Market, 4901 Chowen Ave S, Mpls, 8am • Monroe Crossing, Huikkos Event Center, 1207 N Hwy 25, Buffalo, 1pm • Bob Bovee, Bound for Glory, Anabel Taylor Hall, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 8pm • Bill Staines, CrH • Curtis & Loretta, Zephyr Theatre, 601 N Main St, Stillwater, 651-373-7026, 2pm

• Richard Shindell, Gink, 7:30pm • Kirk & Low, RIV, 8pm • Erik Brandt & The Urban Hillbilly Quartet, UMC, 7pm • Bob Bovee, House Concert, Harwinton, CT, 828-318-5373, 7:30pm • Claudia Schmidt, BoDD, 7:30pm • Bernie King and the Guilty Pleasures, Wiese Auditorium/KBEK Radio, 208 Broadway Ave S, Braham, 844-2005235, 8pm

Classified Ads

• Carrie Newcomer, Gink, Hamline Church, 1514 Englewood Ave, St Paul, 7pm • Lehto & Wright, GKb, 7:30pm • Missy Raines, Leo and Leona’s, W1436 WI-33, Bangor, WI, 7:30pm • High 48’s, OAK, 8pm • Ruth Moody, Shepherds Hill Farm, 10790 Cody Lake Trail, Montgomery, TBA • Alternate Route, BSC, 10am • Dick Kimmel & Pamela Longtine, Gunflint Lodge, Grand Marais, • Georgia Rae Family Band, Just Listening Room, Rockford, IL • The Northerly Gales, Merlin’s Rest, 3601 E Lake St, Mpls, 8:30pm • Johnnyswim, State Theatre, 805 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, 800982-2787, 8pm • Issam Rafea (solo Oud), Sundin Hall, Hamline University, St. Paul, www. mnguitar.org, 8pm • Double Down Daredevils, HOB, 7pm

11/17 – Friday MBOTMA Harvest Jam

• Michael Monroe, 318, 8pm • Jeff Dayton Duo, Excelsior Brewing Co, 412 3rd St, Excelsior, 6pm • High 48’s, Landmark Center, 75 5th St W, St Paul, 8pm • Riders in The Sky, Riverside Concerts, Mayo Park 30 Civic Center Dr, Rochester, 7:30pm • The Pines, Park Theater, Hayward, WI, TBA • New Riverside Ramblers, Vieux Carré, 408 St. Peter St., St. Paul, MN 55102, 9pm • Actual Wolf, Grassroots Concerts,

Journey Church, 5459 Cty Rd 18, Nisswa, grassrootsconcerts.org, 7:30pm • High 48s, Landmark Center, 75 5th St W, St Paul, 651-292-3225, 8pm

11/18 – Saturday

• Monroe Crossing, Alliance Church of The Valley, 1259 State Rd 35, St Croix Falls WI, 7:30pm • Bad Liquor Management, GKb, 7:30pm • Chuck Suchy, OAK, 8pm • Broken Heartland String Band, Amery Ale Works, 588 115th St, Amery, WI • (715) 268-5226, 7pm • Alternate Route, BSC, 10am

11/12 – Sunday

• 20th Anniversary String Theory Show, DAK,, 4pm • Monroe Crossing, Mantorville Opera House, Hwy 57 & 5th St, Mantorville, WI, 2pm • The Lost Forty w/ Norah Rendell, CJ, TBA • Swing Brunch with Patty and the Buttons, AST, 11am • Gaelynn Lea’s Holiday Show with Rachael Kilgour and Batterboy, CED, 7:30pm

11/13 – Monday

• Roe Family Singers, 331C, 8pm • New Riverside Ramblers, EAG, 7:30pm

11/14 – Tuesday

• Dick Kimmel, Public Library, Madelia, 6:30pm

11/15 – Wednesday

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

• Charlei Parr, 331C, 7pm • Sharon Shannon, CED, 7:30pm • The Langer’s Ball, Dubliner Pub, 2162 W University Ave, St Paul, 9pm

11/16 – Thursday

• Willy Porter & Carmen Nickerson, DAK, 7pm • The Pines, Reif Performing Arts Center, 720 NW Conifer, Grand Rapids, 7:30pm • The Fish Heads, Emily’s Eatery, 218 Scenic Drive, Knife River, 218-5762003, 6pm • DL Cajun Band, EAG, 8pm

November 2017

• John Gorka, CED, 8pm • Lehto & Wright, Roots Cellar Concerts, University Baptist Church, 1219 University Ave SE, Mpls, 612331-1768, 7pm

11/19 – Sunday

• Swing Brunch with Patty and the Buttons, AST, 11am • Laura Cortese & The Dance Cards, AST, 8pm • Chad Elliott, BoDD, 7:30pm • Jim Lauderdale, CED, 7:30pm

11/20 – Monday

• Roe Family Singers, 331C, 8pm • Monday Night Square Dance, EAG, 7:30pm

11/21 – Tuesday

• The Jugg Sluggers, RIV, 7:30pm • 11/22 – Wednesday • Pigtown Fling, Leo and Leona’s, W1436 WI-33, Bangor, WI, 7:30pm • Bruce Cockburn, CED, 8pm

11/24 – Friday

• The Fish Heads, Sir Benedict’s Tavern, 805 E. Superior St., Duluth, 218-7281192, 6pm • Tony Rook Band, Annual Thanksgiving Weekend Bluegrass

LaPlant Instruments maker of fine mandolins & guitars

Buy - Trade Sell - Repair (stringed instruments)

31751 LaPlant Road Grand Rapids, MN 55744 218-326-4456 Festival, Marshalltown, IA

11/25 – Saturday

• Mary Jane Alm, 318, 8pm • JohnSmith, ZUM, 7:30pm • Erik Koskinen, OAK, 8pm • Alternate Route, BSC, 10am

11/26 – Sunday

• The She Shells, UMC, 11am • The Fish Heads, The Breeze Inn, 5168 Jean Duluth Road, Duluth, 218-5252883, 1pm • Swing Brunch with Patty and the Buttons, AST, 11am

11/27 – Monday

• Roe Family Singers, 331C, 8pm • Lenz and Frenz, 331C, 9:30pm • Leo Kottke, Guthrie Theatre, Mpls, 7:30pm • John Gorka, Lips Atrium Charlton Bldg, 201 W Center St Rochester, 12pm • Zydeco Dance with JJ’s Zydeco Paydirt, EAG, 7:30pm

11/28 – Tuesday

• The Langer’s Ball, Haye’s Public House, 112 1st St S, Buffalo, 7pm

11/29 - Wednesday

• Dustbowl Revival, DAK, 7pm

11/30 – Thursday

• Greenwood Tree, UMC, 7pm • Big Trees, Viking Bar, Mpls, 8pm • Ari Hest, AST, 8pm • The Rockin’ Pinecones, EAG, 7:30pm

12/1 – Friday

• Claudia Schmidt w/ Dean Magraw, Gink, 7:30pm • Curtis & Loretta, Two Way Street Coffee House, Chicago, IL • Jake Manders, Wiese Auditorium/ KBEK Radio, 208 Broadway Ave S, Braham, MN, 844-200-5235, 8pm

“Learning how to express who you are on your chosen instrument is a life-long challenge and ultimately the most satisfying thing you could do for yourself and for those around you. I truly believe this with all my heart. I can think of nothing better than to share my musical knowledge and experience with others who are struggling with their own journeys of self -expression through music.

November 2017

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

Nothing tickles me more than to see that light bulb go on above my student’s head.”

Two thousand shows... And going strong!

Thursday, November 2

7:00 p.m.

Story Theater Grand Opera House , 512 Broad Street

Story City, IA

515-733-4551

Saturday, November 4

7:30 p.m.

The World Beloved: A Bluegrass Mass with The Dubuque Chorale; Bob Demaree Five Flags Center, 405 Main Street

Dubuque, IA

563-580-4371

Sunday, November 5

7:30 p.m.

The World Beloved: A Bluegrass Mass with The Dubuque Chorale; Bob Demaree UW-Platteville Center for the Arts, 755 W Main St

Platteville, WI

563-580-4371

Friday, November 10

7:30 p.m.

Mortals and Angels: A Bluegrass Te Deum with VocalEssence; Philip Brunelle Roseville Lutheran Church, 1215 Roselawn Avenue West

Roseville, MN

612-371-5656

Saturday, November 11

7:00 p.m.

15th Annual Monroe Crossing-Cabin Fever Bluegrass Show Mantorville Opera House, Highway 57 & Fifth Street

Mantorville, MN

507-635-5625

Sunday, November 12

2:00 p.m.

6th Annual Monroe Crossing-Cabin Fever Gospel Show Mantorville Opera House, Highway 57 & Fifth Street

Mantorville, MN

507-635-5625

Saturday, November 18

7:30 p.m.

Alliance Church of the Valley, 1259 State Road 35

St. Croix Falls, WI

715-483-3387

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

A Bluegrass Christmas with Monroe Crossing Friday, December 1

7:30 p.m

Marion Ross Performing Arts Center, 147 North Broadway

Albert Lea, MN

507-377-4371

Saturday, December 2

7:30 p.m.

Lakeville Area Arts Center, 20965 Holyoke Avenue

Lakeville, MN

952-985-4640

Wednesday, December 6

2:00 & 7:30 p.m.

Le Musique Room, 4300 Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Day Avenue

St. Michael, MN

612-314-9199

Saturday, December 9

7:30 p.m.

Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church, 800 Waconia Parkway North

Waconia, MN

952-442-2101

Thursday, December 14

7:00 p.m.

Chisholm Baptist Church, 901 6th Street SW

Chisholm, MN

Friday, December 15

7:00 p.m.

Backus Auditorium, 900 Fifth Street

International Falls, MN

218-285-7225

Saturday, December 16

7:00 p.m.

Grace Covenant Church, 3030 North Broadway

Fargo, ND

701-235-4622

Sunday, December 17

7:30 p.m.

Pioneer Place on Fifth, 22 Fifth Avenue South

St Cloud, MN

320-203-0331

Wednesday, December 20

7:30 p.m.

Bloomington Center for the Arts, 1800 West Old Shakopee Road

Bloomington, MN

952-563-8575

Go to www.MonroeCrossing.com for the latest information on all of our concerts. Booking: Derek Johnson, 612-720-3746 or derek@monroecrossing.com

November 2017

Tab: Snowflake Breakdown By Bob Douglas

The Snowflake Breakdown (AKA as Snowflake Reel) First, an old fogey confession: I still possess quite a large collection of cassette tapes and I have also kept my working cassette player so I can still listen to them. Several decades ago while on a car trip to some obscure location, I stopped at a truck stop. As I was wont to do at that time, I cruised through their cheap-on-sale cassettes and struck gold finding a Jimmy Campbell tape of fiddle tunes, Top of the Mornin’, for only a buck! I popped it into the car’s cassette player and listened to the tape the rest of the trip and on several other trips as well. And the tune that really stood out for me was listed as the Snowflake Reel. For those interested in bluegrass minutiae, Jimmy Campbell started playing fiddle early thanks to his Tennessee old-time fiddling grandfather. Campbell was greatly attracted by Kenny Baker’s playing, a style he mastered. He soon started getting noticed as one of “the” young-blood bluegrass fiddlers. In the first decade of his career, Campbell spent three years as one of Monroe’s Bluegrass Boys, toured with Jim and Jesse, and he also played with the Osborne Brothers. He became a Nashville cat playing with various combinations of top Nashville sidemen. Tragically in 2003, Jimmy Campbell’s career was cut short when he and Rosey Carter, daughter of June Carter Cash, died of carbon monoxide poisoning due to faulty heaters in the motor home bus that they were planning to tour in together. Now back to the Snowflake Reel or the Snowflake Breakdown as it was originally named. The tune’s composer was not “traditional” or “Tommy Jackson” as sometimes attributed. It belongs to Canadian Fiddler, Wally Traugott (1934–2010). His playing of the tune from an old 45 may be heard on You Tube. It’s really a great tune! At one time Traugott was said to be the highest paid fiddler in Canada as the featured fiddler on The Tommy Hunter Show. He also played with Tommy at the Ryman Auditorium on The Grand Ole Opry. However, fiddler Traugott became better known as a mastering engineer at Capitol Studios. He mastered some of the biggest LP albums of the 20th Century: Boston, Pink Floyd (Dark Side of the Moon), George Harrison’s Capitol release of All Things Must Pass, The Plastic Ono Band, Band On the Run, The Beatles at Hollywood Bowl, Julio Iglesias, Streisand, Manilow, Willie Nelson, etc. The Snowflake Breakdown is a D tune of intermediate ability with the B part holding the tune’s fun surprise. It changes from the key of D to the key of Bb in the third and fourth measure and then switches right back in the fifth measure to the key of D. The chromatic is a good one to practice and certainly a good skill to have so you can begin incorporating chromatic runs into your playing. And you also get to watch your guitar back-up player make all kinds of faces trying to figure out what happened in that two measure interlude. It’s worth learning the tune just for the reaction from your back-up when you holler “B flat”!. Try getting a good handle on this one. You’ll be glad you did. Bob Douglas, 651-778-1395

Snowflake Breakdown Wally Traugott

MinnesotaBluegrass.org

November 2017

Non-Proﬁt Org. U.S. Postage PAID Twin Cities, MN Permit 343

MINNESOTA BLUEGRASS & OLD-TIME MUSIC ASSOCIATION P.O. BOX 16408 Mpls, MN 55416

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2016 MN Bluegrass Festival - Photo by Kelly O’Donnell