It's All Front Row

I haven't really taken the time to download my 2007 IBMA experience. I still have a folder full of materials I need to read (I think there is a Martin 15 series guitar in our future). Meanwhile I thought I'd just share a few moments.

This is the door to the original Bluegrass Express sponsored by Martha White, a company now owned by Orrville, OH Smuckers. The Bluegrass Express served as the wheels for Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs, who made an appearance Friday night. I didn't go on the bus, which was open as a museum. I was kind of afraid it might drive off and I'd never see my children again.

Friday night was a first for me. I was thrilled to hear Emmylou Harris. She is quite a presence, and she had in tow some pretty venerable players, including one of my favorite mandolin players, Jimmy Gaudreau. He was a Country Gentleman back in the day. I think his Rhode Island accent is just peachy if a little un-bluegrass. Actually, that bass player was also an Original Country Gentleman but his name escapes me at the moment....

One of my favorite experiences this time around was a show on the Roots and Branches Stage on Saturday afternoon. It was fashioned after the Opry style Barn Dances, and featured IBMA folks from all over the world. Just every day bluegrass teachers, producers, presenters, advocates. It was a well done ton of cantankerous fun.

This was the first opportunity I've had to see Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver changed out with an all new lineup. Jamie Dailey and Terry Baucom are onto solo projects, and he's got a new fiddle and bass player too. All are shockingly talented and very young.

There's more to share, but it's gettin' late. It was a wonderful trip, punctuated throughout by real memorable times with my sister and her family, who are very special to me indeed.