Fans of acoustic music will not want to miss the upcoming Banjo Rally International in Eureka Springs, August 30th through September 2nd, 2017.
You don’t have to be a fan of banjos or bluegrass to enjoy Banjo Rally International … but it sure wouldn’t hurt! Eureka Springs’ annual Banjo Rally celebrates this unique American instrument and the many genre’s it has influenced. Jazz, ragtime, swing, folk, bluegrass, and more owe a lot to this skin-headed, four to six stringed acoustic oddity.
As I say, though – you don’t have to be a banjo fan or player to join in the fun at Banjo Rally International. In fact, this celebration is an opportunity for players of all acoustic instruments and fans of a broad swath of acoustic music. While the festival definitely focuses on 4-string plectrum and tenor banjos, ukelele’s, guitars, pianos, fiddles, horns and more are all welcome.
Banjo Rally International includes both scheduled performances as well as impromptu jam sessions. Best of all, if you play an acoustic instrument, you can (and should) bring it along and join in! Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newbie looking to pick up tips, participation is part of what has kept the rally a popular tradition since 1975!
The headliner for this year’s rally is Scott Whitfield. Even if you’re not familiar with the name, you’ve undoubtedly heard him before. After nearly 40 years in the business, he’s performed and recorded with the The Eagles, The Doobie Brothers, Chicago, Jim Croce, Kenny Rogers, Willie Nelson, and more. He’s also headlined or been a featured artist at numerous banjo festivals.
2017 Banjo Rally International Schedule
Wednesday, Aug 30
6pm to ? – Early Bird Jam
Thursday, Aug 31
10am to 5pm – Registration & “Jamming” in the Convention Center
2:30pm to 3:30pm – Playout: Brighton Ridge Nursing Home
6pm to ? – Playout: Kettle Campground
Friday, Sep 1
9am to 5pm – Registration & “Jamming” in the Convention Center
9:15am to 10:15am – Workshop: TBA
10:30am to 11:30am – Workshop: Scott Whitfield, TBA
11:45am to ? – Ladies Luncheon
1:30pm to 2:30pm – Playout: Peach Tree Retirement Village
5:30pm to 7pm – Grand Banquet: Forest Manor Room
7pm to 10pm – Friday Evening Show: Forrest Manor Room
10pm to ? – “Jamming” at the Convention Center
Saturday, Sep 2
9am to 5pm – Registration & “Jamming” in the Convention Center
9:30am to 10:30am – Off Street Band Practice
11am to 12pm – Workshop, TBA
1:30pm to 2:30pm – Workshop, TBA
5:30pm to 7pm – Banquet: Forrest Manor room
7pm to 10pm – Saturday Evening Show: Forrest Manor Room
10pm to ? – “Jamming” at the Convention Center
2017 Banjo Rally International
August 30- September 1, 2017
Eureka Springs, Arkansas 72632
Visit www.banjorally.org for a full schedule, registration information, and more.
Banjo Rally International Lodging
As of this writing, 5 Ojo Inn Bed and Breakfast still has rooms available for Banjo Rally – but they wont last! If you’re planning on attending the 2017 Eureka Springs Banjo Rally, now is the time to reserve your accommodations at 5 Ojo Inn Bed and Breakfast. Our Eureka Springs B&B offers luxury lodging with historic charm, exemplary Ozark hospitality, and fabulous gourmet breakfasts. See you soon!