Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation Events

The old-time duo Tui (pronounced too-wee) is comprised of Jake Blount and Libby Weitnauer. They draw inspiration from rare archival recordings, the music of their peers, and extensive experiences with other genres of music. They released their debut album, Pretty Little Mister, in 2019.

Chatham Rabbits exemplify North Carolina’s tradition of producing artists who embrace the state’s many cultural resources and diverse musical traditions. In their marriage and in their music, Chatham Rabbits’ Austin and Sarah McCombie also blend their own histories into a shared musical experience. Sarah first took the stage as part of a trio known as the South Carolina Broadcasters, a band that harkened back to the old days of the Grand Ole Opry and AM radio country classics. Meanwhile, Austin played keyboards and guitar for an electronic band called DASH.

The Southern Appalachian region is a world-renowned hot spot of biodiversity, including its birdlife. The Blue Ridge Parkway is an ideal corridor to explore that richness. From sweeping vistas and dark and cool coves to high-elevation forests and balds, the Parkway gives birders a chance to get acquainted with the myriad species that call it home. This presentation will provide highlights, tips, and resources to get you out and exploring birds along the Parkway.

Formed in 2009, Tuba Skinny has steadily evolved from a loose collection of street musicians into a solid ensemble dedicated to bringing the traditional New Orleans sound to audiences around the world. Drawing on a wide range of musical influences—from spirituals to Depression-era blues, from ragtime to traditional jazz—their sound evokes the rich musical heritage of their New Orleans home.  The band has gained a loyal following through their distinctive sound, their commitment to reviving long-lost songs, and their barnstorming live performances.

With few exceptions, the piano does not play a prominent role in Appalachian or Americana music, and is rarely the lead instrument. The work of Jeff Little is an exception. Little and his trio stay busy traveling the country, having performed at The Smithsonian Institution, The National Folk Festival, and American Piano Masters. In 2014, Little was inducted into the Blue Ridge Music Hall of Fame.