Ted Lehmann's Film, Books, Music & Commentary: HoustonFest 2013: May 3

Thursday, April 18, 2013

HoustonFest 2013: May 3 - 4 in Galax, VA

HoustonFest, a memorial festival dedicated to the memory of the late Houston Caldwell, will have its third star-studded run on May 3 - 4 at Felts Park in Galax, VA. The superb lineup features bluegrass headliners and also features local bluegrass and old time musicians from the region. It's a two day musical feast designed to celebrate the life of the young soldier, fireman, and award winning musician. Houston was tragically killed on his motorcycle in April of 2010 while on leave from the Army after completing basic training. He was well known in the area as a volunteer fireman and more widely as a promising young banjo player. Shortly after his tragic death and in response to a comment he had made to his father, a benefit bluegrass festival was established. Recipients include the Galax Fire Department and other civic agencies, scholarships to worthy young musicians to attend workshops, take private lessons, and attend camps. Featuring two performance stages and a young musicians area, HoustonFest represents a major effort to remember Houston Caldwell and his interests through music to support organizations and individuals.

Houston Caldwell

2012 HoustonFest Scholarship Winners

Headliners

Gene Watson

Rhonda Vincent & the Rage

Blue Highway - Gospel Quartet

Lonesome River Band - Sammy Shelor

The Boxcars - Adam Steffey

Sierra Hull

Ron Block

Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out

Wayne Henderson & the Virginia Luthiers

The Jeff Little Trio

Other bands include: Snyder Family Band, White Top Mountain Band, Stacy Grubb Band, Smith Family Bluegrass, VW Boys,The Church Sisters, Stillhouse, Mtn Park Oldtime Band, Loose Strings, The Wolfe Brothers ,Marshall Bros. & High Road, OldGrass, Houston Caldwell Scholarship Band, Blackberries, Houston Drive, Albert Hash Memorial String Band, Dogwood and Holly, Jonny & The Jambusters, Zephyr Lightning Bolts!

Main Stage

For a more precise schedule of events, click here. For further information about other aspects of HoustonFest 2013, always check the festival website.

Audience & Auction Tent

This is an unusual and diverse concentration of high powered national and local talent held in a music and tradition rich corner of southwestern Virginia. There are a number of motels in Galax, home of the famous fiddler's convention in August, as well as several campgrounds nearby and rough camping at the site. Look here for further information about tickets and accommodations.

For tickets and more information on HoustonFest: