Date
Monday
Jun
16

June 16-22

Old Time Fiddlers Week

Tune in for Old Time Fiddlers Week! A rhythm-packed celebration of traditional music that revives the melodies of yesteryears. Let's fiddle away!

Type
Week
Category
Fun

Introduction

Strum your strings and prepare your bow for Old Time Fiddlers Week starting June 16th! This harmonious week originates from the mountain music festivals dating back to the early 20th century, with the intention to keep fiddling traditions alive and buzzing. Grab your fiddles, and let's dive headfirst into this melodious week filled with foot-tapping rhythms and heartfelt harmonies that take us back to the rosy times of well-loved, timeless tunes. Whether you're an experienced fiddler, a curious beginner, or just an appreciator of remarkable music, this week is bound to be filled with numerous soul-stirring performances. Let's tune in and fiddle away!

Old Time Fiddlers Week Timeline

1800s
Origin of Old-Time Music
Old-Time music evolved from the cultural blend of British Isles and African music in Appalachian communities, which prominently featured the fiddle.
1920s
Fiddle Music Popularized
With the onset of radio and recording technologies, Old-Time fiddle tunes gained national popularity in the United States.
1933
First Fiddlers' Convention
The first annual Old Fiddlers' Convention was held in Galax, Virginia, becoming a significant event promoting Old-Time music.
1960s
Old-Time Music Revival
During the folk music revival in the 1960s, interest in traditional fiddle-centric Appalachian music experienced a resurgence.
2007
Inception of Old Time Fiddlers Week
Old Time Fiddlers Week was established to draw attention to and celebrate the longstanding musical tradition of Old-Time fiddling.

How to Celebrate Old Time Fiddlers Week

1

Organize a community fiddle-off

What's better for reviving old-time fiddle music than organizing a community-wide fiddle-off? Reach out to your neighbors, local musicians, and music schools. Invite anyone interested to participate or just enjoy the fun-filled musical competition.

2

Take a fiddle lesson

Never played the fiddle before? This is your chance to learn! Many music schools or local musicians offer individual or group lessons. Don’t worry about owning a fiddle. Many places provide rentals for their students.

3

Listen to some old-time fiddle music

Immerse yourself in the sound of old-time fiddle music. There are many albums and playlists available on music platforms like Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Music. Tune in and you might find yourself toe tapping along.

4

Create a fiddle artwork

Even if you aren't a musician, you can still participate in celebrating Old Time Fiddlers Week. Draw or paint a picture of a fiddle, design a poster for the imagined ultimate fiddle concert, or any other creative project that celebrates this unique instrument.

5

Host a fiddler's cookout

Gather your friends and host a cookout with a special twist — ask each attendee to bring their favorite fiddle tune (recorded versions are perfectly okay for the less musically inclined). Enjoy good food and great music while immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of an old-time social gathering.

Why We Love Old Time Fiddlers Week

A

Celebrates Traditional Music

Old Time Fiddlers Week is a time when we can appreciate the beauty of traditional fiddle music which carries with it the rich history and culture of ages past. The music not only entertains, but also educates and enlightens us about the customs and traditions of the past.

B

Promotes Community Involvement

From organizing a community-wide fiddle competition, taking fiddle lessons, to hosting a fiddler's cookout, Old Time Fiddlers Week offers plentiful opportunities for communities to come together. It's a unique opportunity that encourages communal interaction and involvement through music.

C

It's inclusive and offers something for everyone

Whether you're an experienced fiddler, a beginner, or simply an appreciator of great music, there's something for everyone during Old Time Fiddlers Week. Also, those who aren't musically inclined can participate by creating fiddle-themed artwork or by simply attending the organized events to enjoy the exhilarating performances.