Missing Live Music? We’ve Got You Covered, Part 3

Welcome back to our Live Music series! We certainly hope you’re hanging in there during these especially strange times. Certainly, one of the best ways to get through a difficult period is through music, and that’s why we’ve been writing this series.

The next film in our lineup is one that has a true community spirit to it, and perhaps that’s just what we need right now. The film is Fiddlin’, a 2019 documentary from a pair of sisters who decided to revisit their Appalachian home and explore the legendary Old Fiddler’s Convention in Galax, Virginia. It’s available streaming via Kanopy.

What’s explored in Fiddlin’ is not quite bluegrass, nor is it folk. Instead, it’s what the die-hard fans call “old-time,” characterized by mostly-instrumental ballads involving the furious plucking and strumming of acoustic instruments. Often these songs are accompanied by foot-stomping dances atop wooden slats on the ground. Think this form of music might not be your jam? Perhaps not, but you might be smitten by its charm.

At its heart, Fiddlin’ is about a community of folks who are dedicated to celebrating and preserving their roots. From the old-timers to the pre-teens, there are many stories here about how this seemingly arcane music has shaped, and sometimes even saved, their lives. And, if nothing else, the doc doesn’t take its setting for granted: viewers will be swept away by the long, lingering shots of the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. We could all use a little escapism right now, right?

If you do find yourself tapping along to that fiddle and banjo, you might want to consider checking out some other old-time artists, new and old, that are available on streaming platforms Freegal and Hoopla. Some suggestions: