Music Takes Center Stage at MerleFest, ResoGat Gatherings
Music, Moments and Memories – a part of the logo for MerleFest – sums up the mission of the annual music festival at Wilkes Community College. But it all boils down to a group of pickers doing what they love best – jamming for appreciative listeners who come from all over the world.
The Americana music festival began in 1988 when acoustic guitar legend Doc Watson was approached about doing a concert at WCC to honor his late son, Eddy Merle Watson, and raise funds for a memorial garden on campus. Doc and Merle Watson toured together for two decades, making 20 albums and winning four Grammys before Merle’s tragic death in a farm accident in 1985.
Since then, MerleFest has drawn scores of musicians each year to the delight of festival-goers and volunteers, reaching a total attendance of 76,921 in 2008. Over the course of the festival, approximately $8 million has benefited WCC, says Ted Hagaman, festival director.
“The thing I think is unique about the festival is that it offers something for everyone,” Hagaman says. In addition to the excellent music, the festival is noted for its family atmosphere.
“What we do here is very unique in this day and time. We are very focused on maintaining the alcohol-free, drug-free atmosphere – a safe environment for our people to enjoy and have a good time. That’s something that’s been near and dear to Doc Watson’s heart.”
Another popular local jamfest is the Annual Gathering of Resonateurs, or dobro players, that takes place in Wilkesboro. George “Speedy” Krise, the first dobro player recorded on a bluegrass album, was guest of honor in July 2008 at the group’s eighth gathering, also known as ResoGat.
