Oct. 2-3 Old Time Fiddlers Swing Into Athens

ATHENS--The 43rd annual Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention arrives on the campus of Athens State University October 2-3, 2009, bringing with it a musical competition, jam sessions, and arts and crafts. Known as the "Granddaddy of Midsouth Fiddlers Conventions" for its role in reviving the tradition of competition in old time music, the Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention attracts approximately 200 contestants competing for top prize money.

There are 18 different categories, including several fiddle and guitar categories, harmonica, mandolin, bluegrass banjo, dulcimer, old time singing, banjo, and buck dancing. The Convention culminates in a "fiddle-off," between the top two fiddlers. The winning fiddler is declared "Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddle Champion," and takes home a trophy and $1000. A total of $11,870 will be awarded to contestants. Approximately 15,000 people are expected to attend the convention this year from more than 30 states.

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy the numerous jam sessions conducted across the Athens State campus during the weekend. The convention also includes 150 traditional arts and crafts booths featuring many handmade and traditional items whose products are in keeping with the theme of traditional old time music.

Bobby Osborne and the Rocky Top X-Press is scheduled to perform on October 2 at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. with competition beginning at 7 p.m. Competition resumes on Saturday at 8:30 a.m. Ace fiddler Buddy Spicher will offer a free fiddle workshop on Saturday, 2 to 3 p.m. with a performance following at 5 p.m.

Admission is $8 on October 2 and $10 on October 3 or $15 for both days. Children under 12 years old are admitted free with parents. The competition is held on the steps of Founders Hall located on Beaty Street on the grounds of Athens State University. In event of rain, it will be held in the gymnasium with limited capacity. Convention proceeds support student scholarships and University projects. To date, more than $500,000 has been contributed to the University.

For more information on the Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention, visit www.athens.edu/fiddlers or call Rick Mould at 256.233.8215.