[Harp-L] Madcat's Report from Buckeye

[conruth@xxxxxxxxx]

I had the great good fortune to attend and participate in the Buckeye
Harmonica Festival which was held last weekend in Columbus, Ohio.  I was
primarily there to take part in Joe Filisko's teaching extravaganza which
was big fun.  And since I did not have any main stage performances to
prepare for, I was able to hang out more and join in on various jam
sessions which took place all day and into the wee hours of the morning.

The overall level of harmonica playing at this convention was extremely
high and very inspiring.

The Friday late night blues jam led by Buzz Krantz was a special highlight
for me.  The harp playing at that particular jam session was stellar!
Everyone involved was playing beyond the beyond...  But special hats off to
George Brooks, Rosco, Jimmy Gordon, Joe Filisko, Buzz Krantz, PT Gazell,
and several others who's names I do not remember, but who's harp playing I
won't soon forget.

When I go to harmonica gatherings I always make it a point to hang out with
and jam with the non-diatonic crowd as well.  I especially enjoyed hearing
Bud Boblink, Bob Herndon, Sandy German, Frank Warner, Joe Leone, Shelly
Lulov, Tom Scerbo, Phil Caltabellotta, Al Smith, Judy Smith...  (I'm sure
I'm forgetting some names that should be included here in this list...)

Phil Caltabellotta's version of TAKE FIVE and Sandy German's version of
SUMMERTIME were especially delightful.

Jack Ely did a wonderful job of making this convention possible.
Unfortunately he was recovering from surgery and unable to attend
himself...  Thanks Jack!  What an outstanding weekend!  We all wish you a
speedy recovery!