A Life-Changing Music Festival Experience: Allison Krauss and Beyond
In 1984, my life was forever changed when I attended my first music festival at a young age. The Walnut Valley Bluegrass festival, held annually in Winfield, Kansas, was the venue for my first live performance of folk music. A young lady won the national fiddle championships that year, and I was there to witness her performance. I was immediately captivated, and to this day, I have loved her more than anyone else, with no one to disprove that statement. The young lady's name was Allison Krauss, and her talents were phenomenal. She later became a headlining act at the same festival, and I've enjoyed her performances multiple times over the years in Winfield.
A Special Workshop and a Once-In-A-Lifetime Opportunity
Five years later, in 1989, I was an aspiring upright bass player taking classical lessons for the first time. I decided to bring my instrument to the festival, where I signed up for a workshop on bluegrass bass. Later that day, while practicing around our campfire, a group of musicians approached to play a few tunes. Among them was none other than young Allison Krauss. Although I was new to the instrument, I did my best to keep up with the group as we played 'Shady Grove' and another tune that I can't recall.
Years of Musical Growth and Playing with Renowned Artists
Over the years, I had the opportunity to meet and play with several well-known artists. Among them were Emmylou Harris, Michael Stipe of REM, members of the band Leftover Salmon, Splitlip Rayfield, and David Grisman. Over the years, I also ran into several notable artists, including Kathy Mattea, and a few members of Nickle Creek, including Chris Thile, Sarah, and her brother Shawn Watkins. Each of these experiences enriched my musical journey and helped me grow in my craft.
The Life-Altering Experience with Mr. Terence R Green
In the most memorable year, I got to share this musical journey with my best friend, Mr. Terence R Green. It was his first time attending the festival in Winfield, filled with underage drinking, safety meetings, and smoking. However, it was Terence's first exposure to bluegrass music, and for him, it was a life-altering experience. He later became an accomplished mandolin player and singer, performing with bands such as Sweet Potato Logic, The Railhounds, and Terence Green the Loose Strings. This festival remains etched in my memory as a defining moment in my life and music career.
My experiences at the Walnut Valley Bluegrass festival have been deeply meaningful, and they continue to inspire me. The talents of Allison Krauss, the unique moments of learning and playing with fellow musicians, and the personal growth that came from sharing these experiences with my friends, make the festival a true highlight of my life. If you're a music lover, visiting such events can be truly life-changing, and I highly recommend it. Experience the magic of music and memories that last a lifetime, just like mine with Allison Krauss and my friends at the Winfield festival.