"MASSBASH" SET FOR 5-1-2011

Bill Hankey · Post by **Bill Hankey** » 22 Sep 2010 8:27 am

The 25th "MASSBASH", will be held on May 1st., 2011, from 12:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M., at THE ITAM LODGE, on the PONTOOSUC LAKE FRONT in PITTSFIELD, MA. The 24 shows held in the past since 1981, have provided great entertainment for those who have supported the cultural activities by attending each event over the years. It is hoped that our searches for uniqueness will be realized.

Joe Casey · Post by **Joe Casey** » 22 Sep 2010 2:49 pm

Bill it;s about time for #25-26-and so on..

Eddie Cunningham · Post by **Eddie Cunningham** » 22 Sep 2010 3:38 pm

Hi Bill , Definitely count me in as one of the players if you can squeeze in a non-pedaler with all those pedal pushers !! Looking forward to a great time !! I'm sure some of the RISGA guys will want to join you !! I'm sure guys from all over will want to see "Wild Bill" in action !!! Good Luck !!! the old geezer > Eddie "C"

Bill Hankey · Post by **Bill Hankey** » 23 Sep 2010 1:53 am

Joe,

Thanks for the special notes! I'll be working in your best interests throughout the winter in getting set for the 5-1-11 Steel Guitar Bash! You too, Eddie! It will be great to try to catch a few bar slants while you play your nonpedal steel. It's good to learn that you are very active in promoting the music of the steel guitar. Your representation is that of an honorable musician.

Bill Hankey · Post by **Bill Hankey** » 23 Sep 2010 12:29 pm

Confirmations have been received since announcing the coming event. A compilation of players making plans to attend, have assured me of a reason to do my best to bring the players together. I spoke with Hank Sohl, Frankie Caruso, and Jimmy Roule Jr. today. The results are positive! They will be in attendance. Sam Gibson has always supported my efforts to bring forth a great show for everyone in attendance to enjoy. In a telephone conversation two days ago, Sam assured me that he will attend the show. Sam is dedicated to ambition, as anyone, I'm sure viewing his performances would attest to.

Charles Rodrigues · Post by **Charles Rodrigues** » 23 Sep 2010 1:18 pm

Hi Bill,
It will be a great honor to participate in your great MASSBASH. Eddie, the old geezer said some RISGA members would probably want to attend. Count me in if there is room.

Chuck

Bill Hankey · Post by **Bill Hankey** » 23 Sep 2010 2:06 pm

Charles,

It will be my pleasure to count you in, as well as a good measure of the Rhode Island steel guitar enthusiasts. Thanks for the offer to perform here in The Berkshires. It will be nice to meet some of the players from your area.

Jim Cohen · Post by **Jim Cohen** » 23 Sep 2010 2:23 pm

Bill, I'm thrilled to hear that you want to start this up again. Your shows were always excellent. I'd be very happy to participate if you have a spot available.

Cheers,
Jimbeaux

Bill Hankey · Post by **Bill Hankey** » 23 Sep 2010 2:43 pm

Jim Cohen,

You are a credit to the industry. You will always be regarded as a special guest. I am honored each time you enter into the celebration, where friends meet and renew old acquaintances.

Bill Hankey · Post by **Bill Hankey** » 23 Sep 2010 11:22 pm

"Sounds like a plan", were the words expressed by my longtime buddy, RUSSELL BENNETT in an evening chat last night. He will attend The "MASSBASH". Musical appreciation profoundly demonstrated by "Russ" needs to be experienced. TERRY SUTTON will be on the card as a featured player extraordinaire. Terry is known for smooth and professional performances. I'm looking forward to his renditions as a special treat. Terry will be traveling north to the Berkshires from the state of Connecticut. "Russ" is located in Salem, MA.

Leigh Howell · Post by **Leigh Howell** » 24 Sep 2010 1:03 am

Hi Bill. I think it's wonderful that your going to have another Mass Bash!! I would like to be able to be there, but under the circumstances I doubt if I'll be able to make it. I've had the pleasure of working with Sam, and Terry, and Jim Roule Jr, and Sr! and Doug Beaumier. It would be a great reunion!! I'll be there in spirit anyway my friend!! ---Leigh

Bill Hankey · Post by **Bill Hankey** » 24 Sep 2010 3:11 am

Leigh,

It's very rewarding to hear from you on this special occasion. As I retrace the happy times that we've both known in the greater Springfield Area, I'm moved to recall how very kind you were in receiving guests on your show. The Billy T's performances were always a source of great entertainment. Steel Guitarist, Doug Beaumier, could be relied upon to provide the steel as a lead instrument, and knowing when to play. It jolted me when I learned that you had moved away. You will always be missed as we move ahead in time.

Bill

Bill Hankey · Post by **Bill Hankey** » 24 Sep 2010 4:31 pm

Great news! JERRY FESSENDEN will attend the "MASSBASH". Jerry is a wonderful addition to the gatherings. Jerry manufactures the FESSENDEN STEEL GUITAR.

The next report will be in approximately one month to inform those who are concerned with new developments, as they are added to a special list of performers. Thanks..

Chris Caruso · Post by **Chris Caruso** » 24 Sep 2010 6:19 pm

Sounds like a great Mass Bash brewing!!

Bill Hankey · Post by **Bill Hankey** » 25 Sep 2010 8:27 am

Hi Chris,

It's so good to hear from you. I recall the many times that you contributed so much to the successes of steel guitar events. I'm hoping that you will be a part of this 25th celebration of the steel guitar. Thanks Chris, for your professional assistance, and musical performances.

John De Maille · Post by **John De Maille** » 25 Sep 2010 11:33 am

Hi Bill,
I'd be honored to play at your "Mass Bash", if there's room for me.
John

Bill Hankey · Post by **Bill Hankey** » 25 Sep 2010 12:10 pm

John,

I would be honored to include your professionalism on the very special day. Luckily, we have time to make the arrangements, to smooth out all of the approaches that will create an enjoyable experience for attendees, and players.

Joe Casey · Post by **Joe Casey** » 25 Sep 2010 2:25 pm

Bill It's starting to look like a two day affair

Bill Hankey · Post by **Bill Hankey** » 26 Sep 2010 2:30 am

Joe,

Please e-mail me at your convenience. I could use the attachment, as well as a phone number, and convenient time that I may reach you. Nothing replaces a one on one discussion. Thanks...

Joe Casey · Post by **Joe Casey** » 26 Sep 2010 5:02 am

Bill,I e-mailed you all as requested..

Bill Hankey · Post by **Bill Hankey** » 26 Sep 2010 7:46 am

Thanks Joe, for your prompt attention given to my request. I've entered those particulars where they will be readily available by opening my folder.

Eddie Cunningham · Post by **Eddie Cunningham** » 26 Sep 2010 9:03 am

HI BIll , Maybe you should book "Tanglewood" for your "MASS BASH" show ?? Looks like a lot of players will want to be a part of this EVENT !!! This may be the biggest happening since Woodstock !!!! Things are getting exciting !!! They will all be coming to see old "Wild Bill" in person !!! Good Luck !!! the old geezer > Eddie "C"

Bill Hankey · Post by **Bill Hankey** » 27 Sep 2010 2:32 am

Eddie,

As always, thanks for your kindness. I'm currently doing some of the legwork here in Pittsfield, to prepare for the event.

George Adams · Post by **George Adams** » 27 Sep 2010 12:23 pm

It would be a great honor to play at your MASS Bash if you have room for me it's looks like a day of very good Steel music

Bill Hankey · Post by **Bill Hankey** » 1 Oct 2010 6:04 am

Good News! I've taken the first steps in preparation for the upcoming "MASSBASH".

The Steel Guitar Forum

"MASSBASH" SET FOR 5-1-2011

"MASSBASH" SET FOR 5-1-2011

WOW !!! Count Me In on your BASH !!!

25th MASS BASH!

Steel Guitar Woodstock ???