Armuchee Bluegrass crowd ‘like a family’
Regulars at the Memorial Day Bluegrass talk about why they keep coming back.
Bluegrass music has a strong moral component along with the history and tradition that comes with it.
At least, that’s the contention of Jeff MacLeod, who was playing a guitar during a Friday jam session at the 33rd annual Armuchee Memorial Day Bluegrass Festival.
The festival is continuing today and Sunday at the Armuchee Music Park, 899 Turkey Mountain Road. Tickets can be purchased at the gate today for $12.
MacLeod, strumming outside one of the campers, said that bluegrass players are a family. He doesn’t worry about his belongings being stolen when he’s at a bluegrass festival. “(The music) has a strong moral component to it,” he said, adding that each band plays at least one gospel song.
Paul Rogers, also taking part in the jam session with his banjo, said bluegrass takes people back to their roots, when musicians just played their instruments on the porch.
Banjo player Chuck Headden, who’s been coming to the festival for 20 years, said the best thing about bluegrass is the people. “They’re just down to earth,” Headden said.
That about sums up the draw for Brenda Patterson, who traveled from Marietta for the festival.
“It’s like a family reunion when you come to Armuchee,” she said.
Today’s music will feature New Willow Creek, Jerusalem Ridge, Rambling Grass, East Dixie Boys, Vincon Mountain and the Honey Creek Boys. The fiddles will begin playing at 10:45 a.m. On Sunday, a worship service will begin at 9:30 a.m., with Gary Clardy leading the service.
Some campground sites are also available.
RVs and campers can still drive in and park in the grass, but there are no water hookups left. Those who want to spend the night in a tent can also join for just $5 per night.
The Armuchee Labor Day Bluegrass Festival is scheduled for Sept. 1 through Sept. 4.