Roots Music - Newgrass and Mountain Music 7/26

It's back to basic bluegrass, newgrass and mountain music at the next Roots Music concert at the Pioneer Museum on Saturday, July 26 in Fredericksburg.

Double Eagle String Band brings back the old time sound of Appalachia, featuring pure vocal ballads and hot string picking on breakdowns.

South Austin Jug Band is the hottest newgrass, acoustic folk Texas roots group around. They bring together the best of bluegrass, string, and swing to create a fun, high-energy sound. The group was named best bluegrass band at both the Telluride Bluegrass Festival and the Austin Music Awards.

The new local bluegrass group Cross Mountain, pictured, will start off the evening. Formed this year, the acoustic band features Comfort singer Sally Cowan, along with veteran musicians Lee Line, David Wilson, Jon Whitley, and David Goodnight. They call their style of music "bluegrass gospel," highlighting tight vocal harmonies and hot instrumental breaks.

Local musicians David Wilson and Britt Pounds will host a free informal jam session from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. under the trees on the museum grounds. Musicians of all ability levels are welcome to bring their acoustic instruments and join in.

Gates for the concert open at 5 p.m., with the concert from 6 to 10 p.m. Admission is $10, with tickets sold at the gate. Visitors can receive a $2 discount by printing out the web page at www.pioneermuseum.com. Students age 17 and younger are free.

Guests can also enjoy a catered meal served beginning at 5:30 p.m., along with beer, wine, soft drinks, and water.

The Pioneer Museum is located at 309 West Main Street in Fredericksburg. Guests can bring lawn chairs or use folding chairs that are provided.

This is the 7th season of the successful Roots Music series, a set of live, open-air concerts featuring emerging and established artists in an informal, family setting. Remaining 2008 concerts are August 16, Western Swing featuring Billy Mata and the Quebe Sisters; and September 27, Celtic & New World with the Blaggards.

Proceeds support the mission of the Gillespie County Historical Society. More information is available by calling 830-997-2835.