MerleFest 2011 Rolls Into North Carolina

MerleFest 2011 will kick off Thursday, April 28, on the campus of Wilkes Community College in Wilkesboro, N.C.

 

The list of performers fits the “traditional plus” definition that is hoped to be offered by the festival’s host, Doc Watson, as he does every year. The term was coined by Watson to describe the unique mix of music that is found at MerleFest, which ranges from traditional, to roots-oriented Appalachian sounds, as well as Americana, country, bluegrass, and “whatever other styles we were in the mood to play,” Doc said.

 

“MerleFest provides a true value to its customers and an affordable weekend getaway,” said festival director Ted Hagaman. “When you consider that you can see over 90 artists on 14 stages, the admission prices are extremely reasonable. Also, there are no hidden charges. We provide free parking, a free shuttle that will deliver you to the entrance, a free program guide as you enter, and all children 12 and under are admitted free with a paid adult. In addition, our Little Pickers Area for children offers each child the opportunity to make crafts and participate in several interactive exhibits- all free of charge.”

 

Collectively, the award-winning lineup has earned47 Grammy Awards, over 50 International Bluegrass Music Awards, four Americana Music Association Awards, and many, many others. Doc Watson was even awarded the National Heritage Fellowship by the National Endowment for the Arts in 1998, as well as received the National Medal of the Arts from President Bill Clinton in 1997, and the Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences at the 2004 Grammy Awards ceremony.

 

Those in attendance at MerleFest are promised to receive many unexpected and special surprises throughout the festival, as well as spontaneous jam sessions and one-of-a-kind musical collaborations. For the complete lineup and stage schedules, as well as more information about MerleFest, visit merelfest.org.

 

MerleFest 2011 tickets can be purchased at merlefest.org or by calling 1-800-343-7857, or at the gate. The gates open on Thursday at 2:30 p.m. and on Friday-Sunday at 9 a.m.