The Library of Virginia is pleased to announce that musician and writer
Bob Carlin will present a program based on his new book, The Birth of
the Banjo: Joel Walker Sweeney and Early Minstrelsy, at 5:30 pm,
Thursday, July 11, 2007. The book looks at the early development of
banjo music, the influences of minstrelsy, and the life and
contributions of Virginian Joel Walker Sweeney. In addition to hearing
more about the development of this music, the audience will enjoy a
banjo performance by Carlin. A book signing and reception will follow
the event. The Library of Virginia is located at 800 East Broad Street,
and parking is available under the building.  Please RSVP to
804-692-3813.  The event is free to the public.

 

Bob Carlin is one of the best old-time banjo players in the world,
playing in the old clawhammer style with a few personalized twists. He
studied under two Appalachian masters, Tommy Jarrell and Fred Cockerham,
and has performed with many traditional artists such as Joe Thompson.
He has recorded extensively, both as a solo artist and accomplished
sideman, and has appeared with John Hartford and Dolly Parton, among
others. 

 

Carlin is also a noted folk-music expert who has coordinated numerous
field recordings. He wrote and produced respected documentary albums and
radio programs on numerous subjects related to American roots music for
PBS, Smithsonian Folkways, and the Library of Congress. Carlin has also
published widely on traditional music, including his previous books
String Bands in the North Carolina Piedmont and Southern Exposure: The
Story of Southern Music in Pictures and Words.  Carlin's appearance at
the Library will combine his prodigious skills as a performer,
documentarian, and writer.
 
Mark your calendars before your busy holiday and please RSVP to
804-692-3813.
 
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Sara B. Bearss
[log in to unmask]  (please note new e-mail)
Senior Editor, Dictionary of Virginia Biography
The Library of Virginia
800 E. Broad Street
Richmond, VA 23221-8000
 
Friends don't let friends split infinitives.
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