Steel Guitar Convention Brings Tasty Riffs To Lexington
Legend Instrument Takes Center Stage This Weekend
Lexington will take center stage this weekend as country music aficionados from all over the nation assemble to celebrate the sound of pedal steel guitar at the South Carolina Steel Guitar Convention. The convention is scheduled to occur on the 18th and 19th of May at Meeting Street’s esteemed center of country music, Bill’s Music Shop & Pickin’ Parlor.
An Instrument with a Legacy
The pedal steel guitar, an instrument essential to the country music genre, is often associated with tales of melancholy, love, and loss. Its distinct sound featured in various classic tracks such as George Strait’s “When Did You Stop Loving Me,” Alan Jackson’s “Midnight In Montgomery,” and Sara Evans’s “Suds In The Bucket”, among others, set a melodious tone to narratives of broken hearts and vivacious spirits. The steel guitar, although ubiquitous in country music now, surprisingly originated in Hawaii in the 19th century and was electrified in LA by musician George Beauchamp in the 1920s.
Convention Schedule
The convention spans over two days, offering workshops, equipment exhibits, and jam sessions directed by the best in the pedal steel business. On Saturday, attendees will have the opportunity to hone their pedal steel skills under the guidance of top-notch player, Mike Sweeney. Reserved for instruction and amusement, the schedule for Saturday includes a workshop running from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m followed by a free jam session till 4 p.m. Buddy hopefuls can also experience playing with Bill’s Friday night bluegrass band, The McKoy Family Band.
Excitement Continues into Sunday
Sunday, the second day of the convention, is reserved purely for playing and performance. The day commences with the Sunday Steel Show running from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Attendees will witness some of the most acclaimed pedal steel guitar players, including the likes of Roger Crawford, Gary Hart, Brett Crisp, Ron & Ronnie Kyne, and Bill Nicholson. With a snack bar to grab a quick bite and an open hardwood dance floor, the event guarantees continuous entertainment.
A Treat for Country Music Lovers
This event is a golden opportunity for steel guitar players seeking to expand their skills and mingle with fellow musicians, or for just anyone eager to know more about this key instrument of country music. Lexington welcomes all music lovers this weekend to Bill’s Music Shop & Pickin’ Parlor for a chance to experience the magic of pedal steel guitar firsthand.
