Eddie Bond and the New Ballards Branch Bogtrotters
 In 1986 a group of musicians from the Galax, VA area formed a new band. The New Ballards Branch Bogtrotters took their name, in part from the original Bogtrotters of the 1930’s also because band leader Dennis Hall lives on Ballards Branch. Dennis’ home is very close to the home of Uncle Eck Dunford who played fiddle in the original band. The other members of the original Bogtrotters were Uncle Wade Ward, his brother, Davy Crockett Ward, and nephew Fields Ward, and Doctor Davis. They won the very first fiddlers Convention in Galax setting a precedence for all that follow in their footsteps. The New Ballard’s Branch Bogtrotters continue to play in the traditional Appalachian string-band style often playing for square dances around the region. Rounding out the Bogtrotters lineup are: Eddie Bond on Fiddle,Dennis Hall on Guitar, Phil Jamison will be sitting own for Josh Ellis on Clawhammer Banjo, Bonnie Bond on Bass and Caroline Beverley on Mandolin. Old time music is alive and well, and continues to attract fans of all ages. The New Ballards Branch Bogtrotters remain a driving force in carrying the traditional music of the Virginia/Carolina Blue Ridge into the new millenium. It is our hope to be an inspiration for future generations of mountain musicians! |
Eddie Bond and the New Ballard’s Branch Bogtrotters
Blue Ridge Fiddle Music: Eddie Bond – Eddie will teach from the Blue Ridge repertoire including tunes from the Galax region as well as from West Virginia and Kentucky. You will learn tunes the way they should be learned, by ear, one phrase at a time. Students are encouraged to bring recording devices to the class. We will talk about bowing and other techniques to make these tunes come alive.
Old-time Rhythm Guitar: Dennis Hall – Dennis plays in a style very similar to Gene Meade (who played with Clark Kessinger). The greatest thing about Uncle Dennis’ guitar playing is the fantastic runs. Many of these he learned from watching Gene Meade play at the fiddlers convention in Galax as a young boy. This workshop will feel more like a jam session with intermittent stops to demonstrate what Dennis is doing.
Old-time Mandolin: Caroline Noel Beverley – Students will learn chords and strumming patterns to be able to back-up fiddle tunes and vocal songs as well as learn how to play lead melodies by ear. No playing experience necessary. Students will need their own working mandolins, picks and tuners. Recording devices are welcome.