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Nothing says summer quite like a community gathering that involves music, sweets, and local artists. West Virginia is known for its festivals and gatherings throughout the state but now Jackson County will feature its own "Jammin' on the Square". Not as large as many of the gatherings in the state, Jammin' on the Square will feature some of West Virginia's best talent in a small town atmosphere. And, unlike many other events, this one will not only be a treat to attend, but will also leave time for community involvement.
Jammin' on the Square will be presented by Arts at the Alpine Inc., a volunteer group made up of Jackson County residents that are dedicated to bringing a variety of arts and entertainment to the citizens of Jackson County. In the past the group has provided some of the best performances of music, arts, children's performances, and even comedy that Jackson County has seen.
Jammin' on the Square will begin at 11 a.m. on August 26th around the Gazebo on the lawn of the Ripley Courthouse. The day's events will include an open concert of traditional music by well known performers. Going right along with the official name of the production, "Jammin'" will also host a homemade jam contest open to anyone attending the event. Following the concerts and the jam contest the lawn will be open to anyone attending who plays music to find a shady spot and "jam" with other players who attend. So whether you are a musician or a professional listener, the day's events are planned for you.
Opening the day's event at 11 a.m. will be the "Potluck Pickers". Potluck is made up of local musicians Steve Bradley, Cindy Barnett, and Jim Moorhead. Potluck will provide their own mix of bluegrass favorites. Following at 11:30 will be Jackson County icon Jim Bush who has played and sang for years and is a well known artists as well as a Jackson County journalist. The featured performers of the day will be West Virginia artists Bobby Taylor, Kim Johnson, and Andrew Dunlap at 12-noon.
Bobby Taylor is a fourth-generation West Virginia fiddler and one of the best known players in the old-time tradition in West Virginia. He has been a primary influence and mentor to many of the states most prominent fiddle players. While he looks and sounds forever young, Bobby has played fiddle for more than 30 years. Over the years, Bobby Taylor has performed with the Morris Brothers Band, The Kanawha Tradition, and many other groups. Taylor is the contest coordinator for the Vandalia Gathering and the Appalachian String Band Festival, and has served as a judge for the Galax Old-Time Fiddler's Convention. Among his many awards is the WV State Open Championship.
Kim Johnson is a leading figure in West Virginia Old-Time music and has performed with many of the state's most prominent musical figures including fiddle players Wilson Douglas and Lest McCumbers. Johnson is well known for her claw-hammer banjo style and is respected by musicians for her dedication to old-time music.
Andrew Dunlap has played with many of the state's best known musicians. Playing guitar alongside Taylor and Johnson he rounds out a band that is the very best in their tradition. An accomplished banjo player himself, Andrew has taught master classes and workshops throughout the state and has performed widely for concerts and dances. Taylor, Johnson, and Dunlap are definitely a treat to hear and will not disappoint. The very top of their field, each player is impressive but together they provide an incredible performance of the music that finds its roots in the hills of West Virginia.
While listening to the sounds of the day you may want to wonder over and taste the local flavors of the jam contest. Bring your best homemade jam, jelly, preserves, or fruit butter to enter into the events jam contest. The contest begins at 11:00 and judging will wind up around 1:00 pm. If you plan to enter the "fruits of your labor" into the contest, call "Linda" to let her know at 372-4454.
If you're not one to sit for a concert, you can listen to the sounds of the musicians and wander through the various artists that will be present. Everything from basket makers, wood carvers, potters, luthiers (instrument makers), photographers, and more will show their goods at the event. Some will be selling their good and some will simply display them.
Following the concert series and the Jam contest is an open jam on the courthouse lawn. If you play an instrument, ring it with you and find other folks to play along with. Music is a way for people of all walks to come together. Whether you play an instrument or simply enjoy listening, music is something that everyone can share. Find yourself a tree to stand under, meet a new friend and play some tunes. Whatever instrument you play, bring it along and find a group to play with. There might even be a group for a "slow jam" for those of you that just learning. The jam continues throughout the afternoon. There is nothing more enjoyable than listening to real people play music. All musicians are welcomeâ¦you'll find someone to play with and learn from.
Jammin' on the Square is FREE to the public. Provided by Arts at the Alpine Inc., it's an opportunity to spend a day with your community, experience some of the best talent that West Virginia can provide, and to take a moment to jam with or just listen to some of the other talent that lives right here in your community. The event begins at 11 a.m. so bring your own chair and show up early to get a good seat.
This is an event you won't want to miss. For information about the event, call Andrea Parkins at 372-6430 or Sally Rowe at 372-8819. By supporting local and state artists you are preserving the heritage of our state. We have a rich history steeped in the hills and valleys of our state. Take advantage of this opportunity to spend the day experiencing our heritage with your family and friends.
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