The Mainstay, the Eastern Shore Bluegrass Association, the Kent County Arts Council and the relatives of the late Karl Gottesman are again producing an afternoon of bluegrass, folk and Americana in Karl’s memory at the Mainstay in Rock Hall, MD on Saturday August 24 12:30 to 6:00pm. Admission is free but donations will be collected on behalf of the Eastern Shore Bluegrass Association and the Mainstay.
Performing during the afternoon will be Banjo Man Tom McHugh, The Lions of Bluegrass, Colonel Leonard’s Irregulars, The Eastern Shore Foggy Memory Boys, and one of Karl’s favorite bluegrass bands, Patuxent Partners with Tom Mindte.
Mama Pia’s will set up outside the Mainstay with hot dogs, steak sandwiches, and more available and the Mainstay (cash) bar will be open all afternoon.
In 1969, Karl Gottesman took a position in the office of continuing education at Trenton State College (later renamed The College of New Jersey). He eventually rose to assistant to the vice president for academic affairs and served in that position till 1994, when he retired and moved to Chestertown. During his working years, he played guitar regularly at the Ground Round and Perimeter Coffeehouses in Camden and Trenton, N.J.
When he moved to Kent County, he became a regular participant in the bluegrass jams at the Crumpton Auction and played guitar in numerous groups including Col. Leonard’s Irregulars and with a bluegrass jam group – recently re-named “The Foggy Memory Boys.” At the time of his death, he had eight acoustic guitars – plus two banjos and a mandolin and was expert on all of them. Bluegrass was his favorite style, but he also played blues, jazz, folk and popular music of many eras. When not performing, he could often be found in the audience at the Mainstay in Rock Hall.
The Karl’s Music afternoon will end with a set by Patuxent Partners with Tom Mindte. Since 1975, their high lonesome bluegrass sound has been delivered with power and authenticity at festivals, dances, concerts, and special events throughout the mid-Atlantic region.
Bandleader Tom Mindte sings and plays mandolin. His remarkable voice ranges from deep bass to soaring tenor, and he brings a wealth of traditional songs to the band’s repertoire. His mandolin virtuosity, inspired by bluegrass greats Bill Monroe and Buzz Busby, is the driving force behind the band’s sound.
Lead singer and rhythm guitarist Bryan Deere hails from southern Maryland. Whether the song is a country tear-jerker or a bluegrass classic, his expressive and powerful singing is pure and true to the roots of the music.
John Brunschwyler adds excitement and drive to the bluegrass sound on banjo and his inventive approach to traditional banjo playing has made him a favorite of bluegrass audiences throughout the region. He also sings the baritone harmonies in the group’s trios.
Fiddler Jack Leiderman brings years of experience and a bluesy, soulful fiddle style that complements the band’s vocals.
Pulling it all together is the strong, dynamic rhythm generated by bassist Victoria McMullen. Originally from south Georgia, she is equally at home in a bluegrass, swing or classical setting, and contributes an unwavering sense of musicality to the band.
The Mainstay (Home of Musical Magic) is the friendly informal storefront performing arts center on Rock Hall’s old time Main Street. It is a 501(c)(3), non profit dedicated to the arts, serving Rock Hall, MD and the surrounding region. For information you can call 410-639-9133. Information is also available at the Mainstay’s website https://www.mainstayrockhall.org.
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