American Roots Music, a living tradition

The well-known American Roots Styles (Country and Bluegrass) are relatively new: they began in the late 1920s and the 1940s respectively. Rooted in Southern (Old-Time) String Band Music, Blues, Ballads, and Gospel Traditions, something new emerged from the traditional music. Today, there are also many young American musicians who focus on the older Old-Time and Ballad repertoire but continue to create new melodies and stories that are relevant today. In this two-hour workshop, Eli West will showcase his roots in Old-time String Band, Bluegrass, Country and Gospel. He will teach songs, and explain his approach to these traditions for today. All instruments and all levels are welcome, but it's helpful if you can already play something by ear.