The Birthplace of Country Music Kicks Off A Summer of Performances, Camps, and Workshops

(Press Release) On the heels of the highly anticipated Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion lineup announcement, The Birthplace of Country Music (BCM) events are heating up in June with performances by Lillie Mae and The Royal Hounds, a children’s camp, and a workshop exploring the birth and influence of ballads. These events spotlight a landmark calendar year for the Birthplace of Country Music, the parent organization of the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion music festival, and Radio Bristol, as BCM celebrates the 90th anniversary of the 1927 Bristol Sessions recordings.

"This June we are excited to host a variety of programs for all ages so anyone can find an offering that would interest them," says Leah Ross, Executive Director of BCM. "Between the classic  Farm and Fun Time  live radio show, the ballads workshop, and Pick Along Summer Camp, we encourage locals and tourists to stop in for a visit this month."

On June 8, Radio Bristol presents  Farm and Fun Time,   a revival of WCYB’s radio show from the 1940s to 1950s, airing live at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum before a studio audience with guest performances by  Lillie Mae and The Royal Hounds. Radio Bristol breathes new life into the classic program with a fun, energetic show. Hosted by Radio Bristol producer and house band-leader Kris Truelsen,  Farm and Fun Time   is an event the whole family can enjoy in-studio or when gathered around their radios.

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On June 11, as part of The Crooked Road’s Mountains of Music Homecoming, the Birthplace of Country Music Museum will host a ballads workshop, moderated by Museum Director Dr. Jessica Turner. The workshop will explore English-language balladry, an influential music tradition dating back hundreds of years. Featuring prominent balladeers Scottish Traditional Hall of Fame inductee Archie Fisher, NEA National Heritage Fellow Sheila Kay Adams, and old-time musician Elizabeth LaPrelle, the workshop will explore the interpretations of traditional and contemporary ballads.

In June and July, The Birthplace of Country Music Museum will offer several sessions of Pick Along Summer Camp. Children ages 8-14 will learn about Bristol’s important role in country music history and its lasting influence, and receive instruction on stringed instruments. No previous musical experience is required for Pick Along Summer Camps, only an interest in music and a desire to learn and have fun! This camp is designed for beginners and anyone interested in our musical heritage.

BCM recently announced the lineup for the 17th annual Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion music festival, slated for September 15-17, 2017. The eclectic list includes headliners such as Dwight Yoakam, Judah and The Lion, and Jerry Douglas Presents Earls of Leicester. To view the entire 2017 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion artist lineup click here. To purchase weekend wristbands at $75 visit www.BristolRhythm.com

More information on these events and the Birthplace of Country Music can be found below.

Event Details Links
June 8 – Radio Bristol Presents: Farm and Fun Time ft. Royal Hounds, Lillie Mae
June 11 – Mountains of Music Homecoming Ballads Workshop
June 19 – July 21 – 2017 Pick Along Summer Camps