The Blue Ridge Music Center in Galax, Virginia, is set to open its 25th concert season, inviting music enthusiasts to enjoy performances in its scenic outdoor amphitheater. This year’s lineup promises a blend of tradition and innovation, reflecting the Center’s dedication to preserving the roots of American music.
Conceived by the late folklorist Joe Wilson, the Blue Ridge Music Center serves as a tribute to the origins of bluegrass, country, and folk music. Since its inception, it has drawn approximately 40,000 visitors annually, each eager to explore the rich musical heritage it celebrates.
Richard Emmett, Chief Operations Officer of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, recalls several standout performances that have graced the amphitheater. Among these is a memorable concert by Doc Watson and David Holt in 2011. Emmett vividly describes the moment: “It was one of Doc’s last performances outside of Merle Fest. David leading Doc out onto the stage — it’s an iconic image for me, and it’s indelible and imprinted in my memory.”
Another significant performance celebrated by Emmett is that of Greensboro native Rhiannen Giddens. Known for her dedication to highlighting overlooked contributions to American music, Giddens’ work resonates deeply with Emmett. He reflects, “That authenticity and her willingness to go back and find that history to show people that it was a multiplicity of diverse traditions and peoples that kind of made traditional roots and folk music. And it’s a good story that we need to hear, especially in these times.”
The upcoming concert features Grammy Award-winning songwriter Shawn Camp and his band, renowned for their Nashville session work. Emmett notes their extensive experience, saying, “These are notable Nashville session players — play with everybody — they’re called on to be on records all the time.”
Also performing will be Wayne Henderson & Friends. Emmett describes Henderson as “our Blue Ridge Mountain treasure — finger-picking guitarist, world-renowned — but also a great luthier who’s approaching guitar number 989.”
The concert series kicks off Saturday night, regardless of weather conditions, at the Blue Ridge Music Center located at Milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. For more details, visit the Blue Ridge Music Center’s concert calendar.
