Speedy Tolliver Fiddler and Banjo Fest
Noon – 4 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 14
Lubber Run Amphitheatre, N. 2nd and N. Columbus St, Arlington, VA
(2 blocks off Rte 50 @ N. Columbus, behind Arl. Forrest Shopping Ctr.)
FREE
703-228-1899
www.arlingtonarts.org
WAMU’s Bluegrass Country host Katy Daley will emcee the annual event honoring old time music master Speedy Tolliver. The fest has become a tradition in Arlington, a tribute to Speedy’s lifelong achievements and dedication to traditional music, and, this year, the celebration of Speedy’s 90th birthday. A respected presence at any American roots music gathering, Speedy Tolliver is known for his versatility, having mastered various fiddle and banjo styles including old time, bluegrass, Dixieland and swing. In Speedy’s book, anyone who plays music—be they master or novice– is “all right,” so, in the spirit of the man, the Fest isn’t really a contest at all—even though ribbons and prizes will be in abundance—- but rather a non-competition that invites fiddlers and banjo players of any traditional style to perform in celebration of their love for traditional music. Speedy himself will play several tunes, and then will personally present ribbons to all participants.
