Essay On Bluegrass Music

Close your eyes and try to imagine a melding the history of the Irish and Scottish tunes, of the twang of country music, and the reverence of a gospel message. Enter a touch of the blues and the spirit of generations who played music to express themselves with this unique genre of music. Each of these components brought with it instruments steeped with tradition. Country music built the foundation with the guitar and bass guitar, the Scottish and Irish influences added the mandolin. The Africa American 2/4 beat contributes the banjo and the washboard adds the finishing folk music touch. This church type music combined with the blues is speaks from the soul. The expressive melodies based on simple tunes and intricate harmonies create a

It came about in more modern times and covers a broader range including blues and country. This musical style developed as people experienced the Great Depression and Dust Bowl of the 20th century. As a result of failing agricultural economy, the United States experienced a culture saw a shift from a more rural focused society to one of more urban interests. Those living in cities appreciated the bluegrass symbol of simpler times and a more traditional lifestyle. Much like the cowboy lifestyle was romanticized by country music, those living in the faster paced urban environment revered music that symbolized slower, more peaceful times.

True bluegrass music cannot be truly described without including the Appalachian influence on the genre. The Appalachian Mountains, the oldest mountain chain in North America, is rich with customs that have been passed down from generation to generation. Their music is just one of these traditions that reaches back across the generations. This music was generally about everyday life in on the farm or in the mountains in the new land sang by the immigrants for these reasons Bluegrass was often referred to as “country music” or “mountain