The "Yadkinville Bluegrass Contest & Fiddlers' Convention" was first held in 1985. The project was conceived after then president of the Yadkinville Jaycees Garry Hoots, an avid bluegrass fan and bassist, recruited Robert Steelman by suggesting that the organization could use him to help get a fiddlers' convention started in Yadkinville.
After joining, Robert took on the project as a long term goal and within three years the Jaycees held their first convention. Since the club was already involved in so much community service and fund-raising, it was decided that the prizes would be paid for out of the admissions to the event rather than seeking sponsors. The convention has grown steadily and has become a favorite among bluegrass fans and musicians alike.
In 2003 the Yadkinville Jaycees, being at an all time low in active membership, invited the Yadkin Arts Council to come on board as a co-sponsor of the event. In 2004 the Arts Council became the sole producer of the event and began looking at new ideas to promote and to make the convention better than ever, including more than doubling the prize offering.
The convention is held annually on the third Saturday in April. Beginning in 2008 the convention is being relocated to the Ted C. Williams Amphitheatre located in the Yadkin County Park, just off of US Highway 421. (Note: The amphitheatre is named in memory of Ted Williams, a member of the Yadkinville Jaycees who was instrumental in presenting the fiddlers' convention throughout the 1990's. Ted succumbed to complications from a bone marrow transplant to treat leukemia and has been sorely missed.)
Gates will open at 12 Noon. Registration for bands and individuals opens at 2:00 p.m. and competition begins at 4:00 p.m. The contest features some of the best in local and regional talent. Winners are determined by a panel of judges who are knowledgeable in the area of bluegrass music.
Bands are judged on items such as timing, choice of material, accuracy, and appearance. Electric instruments are not allowed in competition.
Each year the convention grows in popularity attracting folks from all across North Carolina, Virginia, and other nearby states. Prizes are awarded to the top five bands as well as to the top three finishers in each of the following categories: fiddle, banjo, mandolin, lead guitar, rhythm guitar, bass, dobro, solo vocalist, vocal group, and promising young talent. In addition a "Judges' Special Award" is given. Over $2500.00 in cash prizes will be presented along with ribbons in each category.
Harold Mitchell of Galax, Virginia serves as Master-of-Ceremonies. Harold has many years of experience in the broadcasting field and is well known among bluegrass musicians as a Master-of-Ceremonies for the "Galax Old-Time Fiddlers' Convention". He has worked shows and festivals with many legendary bluegrass performers including Bill Monroe and Lester Flatt.
Admission to the event is $10.00 for adults; children under the age of 10 are admitted free. Concessions are available throughout the evening. The Yadkin Arts Council invites the public to please come out and support this fund-raiser.
For additional information call convention organizer, Robert Steelman at (336) 463-5624 or send an E-mail.
