Blues 101 - A History of the Blues

Past event
Jan 16, 2024, 6 PM

"What a great event! Through a multi-media presentation and his live performance, Ramblin' Dan took the audience through the fascinating history of blues music. He's very engaging and a pleasure to work with – I'm highly recommending this program!"
Mary Coe, Fairfield

What is Blues 101 ?
Blues 101 is an entertaining and educational program encompassing the history of blues music in America from its origins in the African American tradition of the deep south to the present.

Tell me about the program…
The program is a multi-media presentation of classic blues pieces played on authentic vintage instruments interspersed with historical images, video and educational material. The music is traced chronologically through its development in different regions of the south and follows the great African American migration to important centers like Memphis, Chicago and beyond. The roots of rock and roll, jazz and even hip hop can be traced to this important form. Of special interest are pieces performed on Dan's homemade, three stringed "Cigar Box Guitar" and one stringed "Diddley Bow", both primitive instruments used by early bluesmen and played with a "bottleneck" slide.

What will I learn?
A participant will come away from the program with an understanding of the evolution of the music, awareness of the differences in varied styles, exposure to influential artists and fuller appreciation of African American culture related to the genesis of this important and uniquely American genre.

Who is Ramblin' Dan Stevens?
Presenter "Ramblin" Dan Stevens is a veteran touring bluesman and teacher who has entertained audiences throughout the US, Germany, UK, Canada and Virgin Islands. As a finalist in the International Blues Challenge on Beale St. in Memphis TN and protégé of the legendary folk/blues icon, Dave Van Ronk, Dan has been lauded for his ability as a raconteur and for the authenticity of his approach gained by many years on the road as a traveling blues musician. Info: www.danstevens.net

When is it?
Tuesday, January 16th at 6 PM in the SAL Room of the Waterbury Public Library.
SEE YOU THERE!

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