National Heritage Fellows

Bob Stone · From: Gainesville, FL, USA

Last Wednesday through Friday my wife and I attended the series of events held for the 2004 National Heritage Fellows in Washington, DC. Jerry Douglas and Chuck Campbell were among the 12 recipients of our nation's highest award to traditional artists. You can read more here: http://www.nea.gov/honors/heritage/Heritage04/NHFIntro.html

The Wednesday night banquet, held in the breathtakingly beautiful Great Hall of the Library of Congress (kind of an American Sistine Chapel) was a highlight. Chuck and Jerry had made friends a few weeks ago when they shared a workshop at thew Nat'l Folk Fest in Bangor. Both Jerry and Chuck brought their families and we all sat at the same table. Each artist got a chance to speak and tell a little of their personal story. Many were moved to tears.

At the awards ceremony Thurs AM many legislators stopped in. Both Jerry and Chuck's congressmen knew them personally and praised their contributions.

The Friday concert was really special for the steelers. Jerry opened unaccompanied, then joined Chuck and his band for a gospel tune. Chuck and the band were joined by Jerry when they closed the show with their rousing "Jump for Joy" for a standing (and jumping) ovation. Chuck says he and Jerry are plotting recordings and/or gigs together--they really hit it off.

Congratulations to Jerry Douglas and Chuck Campbell! And thanks for all the great music.

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