Limited Edition Commemorative Magazine!
We are excited to announce that An Appalachian Era – a limited edition commemorative magazine celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Stecoah Valley Center’s An Appalachian Evening summer concert series is now available. The magazine is available with the purchase of the latest edition of The Graham Star. If you missed it you may purchase a copy either at Stecoah’s Artisan Gallery or at the Graham County Welcome Center. A limited number of commemorative posters available for purchase at both locations.
Celebrating 25 Years of Appalachian Music
For twenty-five years, through its An Appalachian Evening concert series, the Stecoah Valley Center has provided audiences with the opportunity to learn about and explore the roots and culture of traditional Appalachian music. Every Saturday evening from the last week of June through the last week of August, this series curates a broad representation of bluegrass, old-time, and folk music that is an outgrowth of our Southern Appalachian heritage. Stecoah not only presents each of these styles in their traditional format but also presents artists who bring their own voice and expression to these traditions.
This publication attempts to tell that story, and its broader roots in Southern Appalachian culture, through the voices of Stecoah – including former staff, volunteers, and industry performers. Since resident emcee Sonny Reighard kicks off almost every evening concert, it is only fitting that he be the first voice of this publication.
Photo Credit: Jeff Smith Photography
Sonny Reighard
For decades Sonny Reighard has joined directors and sponsors on stage, telling jokes, introducing performers, and making the audience feel welcome. Sonny shares what this
experience has been like for him.
“It fits me just perfect – I enjoy what I’ve done. I just get up there and tell a little joke, introduce the band, and sit back and listen to the good music. I’ve always enjoyed sharing our mountain culture – my mother and dad, they both had a lot of humor. When I tell a joke, I try to tell it on us. That’s what mother always did; if she heard a little joke where we were picking, she’d want to turn it around on herself. Stecoah’s family oriented so we try to do good, clean jokes.
The other thing I’ve enjoyed is getting to go backstage and finding out a little bit about the group. My, my, where [else] would I ever got to went back and meet Doyle Lawson or IIIrd Tyme Out? I try to let the crowd know just how great these musicians are too. Some people come in and they didn’t know who’s playing. I say, man, these are some of the best groups in the country – and they are!
I interact with people too, as they come in. I’ve found out a lot of people just like to have somebody to speak to. Everybody ain’t turned like I am, but what I hope I’m doing is making people feel like they’re at home, you know. Stecoah’s kind of like a family – you see people you know time after time after time. When you come to Stecoah, you’re among people that just want to enjoy the music and have a good time.”
Learn More About Sonny
For a taste of Sonny’s voice, humor, and story we recommend this video, Interview with Appalachian Man – Sonny Reighard published by Tipper Pressley on her YouTube channel Celebrating Appalachia.
