Rhys Jones, an acclaimed old time fiddler from Virginia, will be our guest musician at the May 17, 2025 dance, accompanied by local musicians.

On Sunday May 18, 2025, at Hartung Hall in Ester, Rhys will also be offering workshops for intermediate to advanced players starting at 1 pm, followed by a concert at 7 pm. Admission for each is an economical $15. More info contact Heidi at 907-378-0630 or battlemaid@yahoo.com

Here is some bio on Rhys:

One of the most respected traditional musicians in the United States, Rhys Jones took up fiddle when he was 6
years old, playing with family and friends at house parties and square dances around the Midwest. Having spent much of his childhood in southern West Virginia (where he learned from the older generation of musicians), Rhys is equally at home telling stories of the Appalachian music as he is performing on fiddle, banjo, and
guitar.

Over the last 30 years, Rhys has appeared everywhere from Carnegie Hall to the Kennedy Center, won the prestigious Clifftop fiddle contest twice, recorded five albums, was featured in PBS of documentaries, and has been on staff at every major traditional music festival in the America. His fiddling is known for its drive, clarity, and unmistakable individuality. Rhys’ band Bigfoot has been performing old-time music around the world for the last 15 years and received the Clifftop blue ribbon multiple times. In 2023, Rhys was named a Traditional Master Artist by the Commonwealth of Virginia. He now lives with his partner Meghan in Fauquier County, Virginia where they raise their five sons.

https://www.youtube.com/@RhysJonesMusic

Albums on Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0FrPpLLGDJEqEk07fa7PTl?si=0n9yL7fsT1KoGaAv770rzw

https://open.spotify.com/artist/78q0TywKorv3hjlvTALfwc?si=c5pkZG3ESbGzmCeoqLqQcA

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7AOaJM06LzJhWJEBFHRNPr?si=U1tbGJwtQIq1wCLdoYFgQw