An Evening of Appalachian Music

Mary-Hollis Hundley, soprano
Robert Bosworth, piano
Julia Cash, violin

 

Please join us for the second performance of two new works by Kentucky composers Sarah Hutchings ("Bluegrass") and Corey Crider ("The Loom of Life"). Admission is free and open to the public. We hope to see you there!

 

“Bluegrass” is a captivating musical journey that takes you deep into the heart of Kentucky’s fiddle traditions, blending original lyrics by the composer, Sarah Hutchings, with timeless themes from the lexicons of Kentucky fiddle folklore. Through the enchanting melodies and soul-stirring harmonies, the performance unveils a tapestry of rural life, bringing to life stories that resonate with authenticity. These narratives include a poignant portrayal of the hardships and dreams of a coal miner’s daughter, the adventurous allure of a romantic voyage across the sea, and the unyielding determination of those working to cultivate ‘taters in the unforgiving soil. But it’s not all serious reflection; “Bluegrass” also brings to life the carefree and humorous spirit of a rambling gambler, celebrating the highs…and lows of his profession.

 

"The Loom of Life" has been gathered and woven from a book of poetry by the same name by Kentucky’s first Poet Laureate James Thomas “Cotton” Noe. We encounter a poet at the end of his days. His young son and beloved wife, Rowena, have passed before him, and from the outset, the veil between this life and the next is being slowly lifted. Before he joins them, however, we are transported with him back to myriad memories — both exquisite and devastating, — of his life on the Cumberland. We meet a cast of characters, visit his childhood church (where his family is later buried), witness the first time he met his wife when they were children, and ultimately hear the saints of his childhood, and his beloved bride and boy, usher him into "a land that is fairer than day.” With influences ranging from Gregorian Chant to Bill Monroe, from Schubert to Willie Nelson, we hope you enjoy the Loom of Life.