Bluegrass Music Might Just Be the Cure For Your Winter Blues
Music has always been a passion for me. As a young child, in West Virginia, I had the opportunity to go to a number of bluegrass festivals. I always enjoyed the upbeat tempos and the unique sound that came from the intertwining of all the different instruments being played. That sound comes from mainly stringed instruments including, acoustic guitar, fiddle, the upright bass, the banjo, mandolin, dulcimer, and dobro. Add to those sounds, the amazing vocal harmonies, there is no way you could keep your feet still. It all brings back some fine memories.
About 15 years ago I was so excited to find out that there was a bluegrass festival happening in my PA backyard. The Ice Jam Festival takes place in January at the Butler Days Inn. This year the festivities kick off for their 23rd year on Friday January 10th and continue through the 11th. This is a family friendly event. And is free to the public. Over the course of the two days, 32 bands from the tri-state area will share their talents with a new band every ½ hour. Donations are welcome and contributions go to charity. More information can be found at http://januaryicejam.com/index.html and be sure to check out the event on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/events/451364668727243/
If you are looking for something in the Conneaut area, the Winter Bluegrass Festival will be taking place from January 17, 2020 -January 19, 2020, at the Conneaut Hotel. Details can be found at this link: https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Live-Music-Venue/Winter-Blues-Bluegrass-Festival-111394306951170/
In Oil City the 13th Annual Blugrass Festival will be held at the Oil City Moose Club on February 22, from 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. This is also a free event. For more information follow this link: https://www.facebook.com/events/467396130555609/
Mercer County will be hosting the Bluesgrass Festival for the Rescue of Mahoning Valley on March 27-28 at the Park Inn by Radisson. This is a free show as well and information can be found by following this link: https://www.facebook.com/events/1882350768577717/
Check in to this page – The Western Pennsylvania Bluegrass Committee. There are many bluegrass bands and happenings in our area. https://www.facebook.com/pg/Western-Pennsylvania-Bluegrass-Committee-183931398308661/about/?ref=page_internal will help you fill your year with the toe tapping music and community of bluegrass musicians and fans.
If you want to hear some bluegrass but can’t get out and about to catch any of the live music, not to worry! Pittsburgh public radio station WYEP 91.3 has the bluegrass show every Sunday evening with host Bruce Mountjoy from 8 p.m. – 11 p.m. Too far to pick up the signal? You can always stream it at http://www.wyep.org/
