From the 18th century to World War I, the fiddle was the chief musical instrument in this mountain region, according to the Encyclopedia of Appalachia. It came to the area with early settlers and — from barn raisings to house parties — was a part of every celebration. The traditional tunes of Western North Carolina are being preserved by contemporary song catchers as well as talented musicians. A multigenerational group of local female fiddlers shares the stage for the showcase, Winter’s Tune: Music to Warm an Appalachian Night. The lineup includes Dona Cavanagh, Natalya Weinstein of Zoe and Cloyd, Danielle Bishop of Whitewater Bluegrass Company, Kathryn Brickey, Emma Best of the Midnight Plowboys, Rhiannon and the Relics, Lillian Chase, Bailee Brandon and Carly Mae Buckner. The performance takes place at Broyhill Chapel on the Mars Hill University campus, Friday, Dec. 4, at 7 p.m. $15 advance/$18 at the door. lunsfordfestival.com. Photo of Rhiannon Ramsey by Hannah Furgiuele
Smart bets: Winter’s Tune
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