Friday, September 22nd – MUSIC MAKERS OF THE BLUE RIDGE (BLUEGRASS ROOTS) DOCUMENTARY SCREENING, Q&A, AND RECEPTION, 6:30 PM
Rare Bird Farm is thrilled to announce a special reunion of events featuring acclaimed filmmaker David Hoffman. The event will revisit Hoffman’s groundbreaking documentary film “Music Makers of the Blue Ridge” made in 1965, which captured some of the Appalachian Music taking place in the rural mountains in and around Madison County, NC. The occasion will be a celebration of cultural heritage, music, dance, memory, and community.
The focal point of Mr. Hoffman’s 1965 film is Bascom Lamar Lunsford, a key figure in preserving the musical and dance traditions of Southern Appalachia. Lunsford’s dedication led to the creation of extensive collections of songs, tunes, and games for Columbia University (1935) and the Library of Congress (1949). Additionally, he founded the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival in 1928, played pivotal roles in other music festivals, and nurtured and encouraged numerous musicians. His legacy is enshrined in the Southern Appalachian Archives at Mars Hill University, which houses a treasure trove of his collections, letters, newspaper clippings, and ephemera.
Now, almost 60 years later, at the age of 81, David Hoffman returns to Madison County to screen his iconic film. The screening will take place on Friday, September 22nd at the equally iconic, Chestnut Hall in the quaint town of Hot Springs. Following the screening, there will be an engaging Q&A session with Mr. Hoffman, offering attendees a chance to gain insight into the making of this historic documentary. A reception will follow the screening, providing an opportunity for Mr. Hoffman to connect with the community and relatives of family members and participants who were featured in the film.
Join us for this unforgettable weekend of film, history, music, dance, memory, celebration, and place in Madison County.
ALL EVENTS DURING THE WEEKEND WILL BE FREE TO THE PUBLIC, THANKS TO THE GENEROUS SUPPORT OF THE MADISON TOURISM ASSOCIATION WHO IS A PROUD PARTNER.
