If you are from Appalachia , and love the music here, then you most certainly know the origin of the banjo . The banjo originated in Africa and was brought to our region during the arrival of slaves . This music naturally was shared and became a part of our local 'old time ' music , just as the fiddle made its way from Europe and the guitar from Spain. Our music is a true melting pot of different cultures resulting in what we now see as our very own mountain music.
Of course I wanted to ensure that my book acknowledged where our banjo music came from and so I began my search for black musicians , willing to become a part of this project. I soon found 18 year old Tray Wellington, who plays 3 finger style banjo , and recently won first place at the Galax Fiddler Convention this Summer ! He also plays for the band, Cane Mill Road. (Whom I recently did promo pix and a CD cover for their first album !) I wish them the best!
Tampa Enoch Reese, pictured above, I found quite by a pleasant accident while looking at Instagram ! I was so delighted with her humble kind spirit and her true old time claw hammer style , that I asked her to please be in my book ! She was hesitant because of her modesty , but I was so happy she decided to take part! We really connected during her interview at Reed Creek and have continued to stay in touch ! One of my favorite benefits of working on this project , is not only the join of meeting such amazing musicians , but the blessing of new friendships that are priceless !
Thank you Tampa and Tray for agreeing to take part ! I am truly grateful for your contribution to my project and to our local music! Keeping the music alive !!
Of course I wanted to ensure that my book acknowledged where our banjo music came from and so I began my search for black musicians , willing to become a part of this project. I soon found 18 year old Tray Wellington, who plays 3 finger style banjo , and recently won first place at the Galax Fiddler Convention this Summer ! He also plays for the band, Cane Mill Road. (Whom I recently did promo pix and a CD cover for their first album !) I wish them the best!
Tampa Enoch Reese, pictured above, I found quite by a pleasant accident while looking at Instagram ! I was so delighted with her humble kind spirit and her true old time claw hammer style , that I asked her to please be in my book ! She was hesitant because of her modesty , but I was so happy she decided to take part! We really connected during her interview at Reed Creek and have continued to stay in touch ! One of my favorite benefits of working on this project , is not only the join of meeting such amazing musicians , but the blessing of new friendships that are priceless !
Thank you Tampa and Tray for agreeing to take part ! I am truly grateful for your contribution to my project and to our local music! Keeping the music alive !!
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