Steven Hill
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Brackendale will be alive with the sound of bluegrass music May 6, as the fourth annual Brackendale Bluegrass Festival hits the Brackendale Art Gallery (BAG).
The popular festival will feature workshops in various instruments and vocals, along with an evening bluegrass concert.
"We will have a banjo workshop at 3 p.m., mandolin workshop at 4 p.m., guitar at 5 p.m. and vocal/harmonies workshop at 6 p.m.," said Cam Salay, co-organizer of the event with BAG's Thor Froslev. "Workshops cost $10 each and you pay your instructor."
Workshops are beginner to intermediate skill level, and you must bring your own instrument.
Salay said anyone was welcome to drop in during the day to "jam" with the many people who will be there just to practise their bluegrass chops.
At 8 p.m. the Courageous Mountain Rangers take the stage, followed by headliners The Mountain Bluebirds.
"I'll be playing with the Bluebirds," said Salay. "Their banjo player took my spot with the Paperboys and is in Europe touring with them, so I am subbing for him." Members of both bands are also doing double duty as the instructors for the workshops, he added.
Tickets for the evening concert can be purchased at Mostly Books and the BAG. For workshop information call Salay at 898-2338.
