Jam Day & Location Update

The jams formerly at Orange Hat and at Hi-Wire Brewing have moved to Printshop Beer Co. at 1532 Island Home Ave. in Knoxville on Wednesdays at 7:00 PM. starting November 4th. OK to bring food in, and also OK to park along the Norco building next door, as long as their gate is not blocked. For more info, contact John Saba at: john.thomas.saba@gmail.com

Name This Tune in < 300 Milliseconds?

 I came across an interesting and fun podcast recently called The Age Old Question podcast with Rich Price and Clint Bierman. On their show, Rich and Clint lightheartedly debate the most pressing musical questions of our time, like: Why do people hate The Eagles?, What is the greatest misheard lyric of all time?, and What is the best use of cowbell in a song?

On one of their recent shows, “What is the most instantly recognizable song of all time?” our favorite banjo playing neurologist Josh Turknett was their guest expert. How does this topic relate to players of Old Time music? Think about how many times have we all had to hear just one note to be able to start a tune at a jam, or have been sitting there waiting for musical clues so we can recognize the tune that’s playing? If you have ever wondered what is going on in your brain as this occurs, Dr. Josh explains why, and just how little information and time the brain and body needs to identify something. (Hint: less than 300 milliseconds!) And in good news for all of us, he talks about how musical ability is much more trainable than we ever thought. 

Laurel Square Dance

There is no Laurel Square Dance in November or December. Look for a return in January.

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Tune History - Belle Of Lexington

“Belle of Lexington” is often heard at festivals and jams, and has a well established Old Time connection through famed Galax area fiddler Emmet Lundy. It may even take its name from a well known Kentucky madam named Belle Brezing. But the same melody is also known as “Smith’s Reel,” and “Kitty’s Wedding.”  There's a whole lot more to learn in this month's Tune History.

Until next month,

Mark