A Year-Round Guide to Franklin and Nantahala

The fiddle is an instrument so versatile it takes on a different name when it's used to play classical music. But when it's played as a fiddle, when it's used

Rosemary and Goat Cheese Strata

The fiddle is an instrument so versatile it takes on a different name when it's used to play classical music. But when it's played as a fiddle, when it's used

Carolina Classic: The Fiddle

The fiddle is an instrument so versatile it takes on a different name when it’s used to play classical music. But when it’s played as a fiddle, when it’s used as a fiddle, when it’s used to create the upbeat rhythms of a jig or reel, or the slow, sad measures of a country waltz, its sound is the sound of the South. Read the story of our most famous fiddler, see how a craftsman imagines a different kind of fiddle, and visit a few of our string towns. This is an instrument that carries it infinite possibilities and personalities, and when the fiddler pulls bow across strings, it’s an instrument that sings.


The Man Who Taught a Fiddler to Play Guitar

Russell Palmer and Charlie DanielsBefore he learned to play fiddle, the South’s most famous fiddler learned to play guitar. Charlie Daniels has never forgotten that moment, or the friend who taught him.

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Fiddle Festivals

fiddle festivals feature image Some people have bluegrass and old-time music in their blood; luckily for music-loving North Carolinians, our state is rich in fiddlers’ conventions and other festivals that champion traditional music.

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Fiddle or Violin?

fiddle or violin feature 3 The fiddle is an instrument so versatile it takes on a different name when it’s used to play classical music. Meet Jamie Laval and Cesar Sant, and get to know the difference between the violin and fiddle.

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String Towns

string towns feature 2 There’s great music in every corner of our state. Here are just a few places to hear and play traditional tunes.

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Get your copy of our May 2014 issue to discover even more ways the fiddle is celebrated across the state.

This story was published on May 13, 2014

Erin Reitz

Erin Reitz is a former digital content specialist at Our State.