The Bluegrass Brothers Plan "Homecoming" Festival in Salem, Va

For many in Appalachia country, Bluegrass isn’t just a genre of music; it is a way of life. According to John Klainer, a bluegrass enthusiast, of Roanoke, Va.,“Bluegrass music is the true form of American music and the deep tradition and history behind it make it an even greater experience. “

From June 3-5, Roanoke Moose Lodge 248 will host the first annual “Bluegrass Brother’s Homecoming Festival” in Salem, Va.

The three-day event will be held at the Roanoke Moose Lodge at 3233 Catawba Valley Drive, and is set to be loaded with some of the best names in today’s bluegrass music.

Brenda Lawson, a bluegrass radio DJ from Amelia and two-time Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music in America “DJ of the year” award winner in 2009 and 2010 will be the emcee for this event.

“I’ve been involved with bluegrass for my whole life” says Lawson, who hosts a radio show in Blackstone and works many bluegrass festivals throughout the year including the Grottoes Family Bluegrass Festival in Grottoes, Va.

“The Bluegrass Brother’s First Annual Homecoming Festival” will feature bluegrass legends Rhonda Vincent and The Rage as well as The Bluegrass Brothers, Nothin’ Fancy along with 11 other national and regional acts.

“Some local acts will also be appearing including Country Fried Grass of Lynchburg and Virginia Blue of the Shenandoah Valley.” Said Lawson.

But, this event isn’t just for the music. Camping is permitted and the festival will also feature barbeque cookouts, potluck dinners, breakfast buffets, raffle prizes, vendors and designated “open mic” hours. “There’s going to be lots of jamming and the money made goes directly to the Roanoke Moose Lodge, so it’s for a good cause…it’s going to be a great event!” Lawson explained.

“From what I hear, this sounds like it will be a really enjoyable experience for both college-aged kids as well as younger and older folks. It seems very family oriented. I’m looking forward to hearing Rhonda Vincent the most.”, Virginia Tech student Ryan Wheelbarger explained.

Tickets are on sale now and are available as single day passes from $20-25 or three-day festival passes for $45 if purchased before May 15. For more information on “The Bluegrass Brother’s Homecoming Festival” please visit www.thebluegrassbrothers.com. For information on vending opportunities contact Greg Reed at (540) 280-9228.