THE MONTH OF MAY 2010

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PLEASE NOTE THAT TIMES WILL VARY SLIGHTLY FOR WEEKEND PERFORMANCES THROUGHOUT THE SEASON. REFER TO THIS WEB PAGE FOR THE LATEST DETAILS. THIS SEASON THE ORCHARD IS PROVIDING MORE 1 1/2 HOUR SPOTS FOR DANCEABLE BANDS.

ORCHARD OPENS FOR THE SEASON! Open Mon, Wed-Sat: 10-6; Sun: 12-6; Closed Tuesdays.

The Lunch Wagon is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, 12:00-4:30.

During apple harvest mid-Sept through October, The Orchard will be open 7 days/week, 10-6.

Saturday, May 1  

1:00-2:00 Travis Anderegg brings flat-foot dance lessons free to anyone interested in learning this marvelous traditional dance form. It is great fun and will help you enjoy dancing to many of the fine bands performing at The Orchard. "Hands Four" will join the class, an Old Time dance band from the Boone, NC area consisting of fiddler M Mueller accompanied by pianist Georgie Donovan. This highly experienced dance band will get your feet moving to Old Time tunes like Old Joe Clark and Sally Ann. Local old-time flat-foot dancer Perry Clayton will be joining in the fun.

2:30-4:30 Bluegrass Traditions is a collection of musicians who feature our own Herman Coffey, a true throwback to the great days of Bill Monroe and The Stanley Brothers. Bluegrass Traditions is the epitome of our mountain music, the perfect group to start out the 2010 season.

Sunday, May 2

1:00-2:30 Ron and Minnie Powell bring us music that comes from their deep involvement in local experiences. We appreciate the Powells for all their contributions to "Saving the Good Stuff."

3:00-4:30 True Blue - brings his upbeat bluegrass band that keeps toes happily tapping.

Wednesday, May 5

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac, Tom Sparks and friends pick and sing informally to the delight of our visitors.

Thursday, May 6

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and bass player Jerry Ramsey "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song." Terry continues this popular series each Thursday at The Orchard.

Friday, May 7

1:45-3:15 Mike Presnell and Hope Harvey bring us a refreshing music program, including country, 60's-style folk and so much more. Mike and Hope will entertain first and third Friday afternoons May through September. 

Saturday, May 8

1:00-2:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Alan Darveaux, champion dulcimer player for Slight Departure, offers dulcimer lessons for four more sessions: June 12, July 11, August 8, and September 12. Click his name here for more details.

12:30-1:00 Calling all members.  May 8 is the Altapass Foundation Annual Meeting at The Orchard.  Be a part of The Orchard 2010 season.  We need your support and involvement. If you are not a member yet, you may join at the meeting.

1:30-2:30 Lynda Davis helps begin the season with her exciting piano and vocal talents.

3:00-4:30 Doug Gragg and Band offer an upbeat mix of mountain music. Come with your dancing shoes!

Sunday, May 9 (Mother's Day)

1:00-2:30 Bob Lummus brings us his very danceable country songs.

3:00-4:30 Special Happening: Singer Bob Lummus is also a fine knife blade sharpener. Bring any kind of  knives, including serrated, scissors, etc., back to life with Bob's very experienced and reasonably priced skills.  On the pavilion.      

3:00-4:30 Slight Departure brings a smile to your face while you enjoy their traditional acoustic instruments and vocal renditions indigenous to western North Carolina. Bring Mom. She will love their music.

Wednesday, May 12

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks invite music lovers to join an the easy-going jam.

Thursday, May 13

1:45-3:15Terry McKinney "Remembers the Good Stuff with Stories and Song," talking and playing music with steel player Chet Cutshall. Chet played for many major country stars in his earlier days and has stories galore!

Friday, May 14

1:45-3:15 Alan Darveaux and Jon Dana (of Slight Departure) welcome in the 2010 season with a fine selection of old-time mountain tunes and musical instruments.

Saturday, May 15

1:00-2:30 Alan Tinney and Kirk Banner shows us their fine mix of upbeat music.

3:00-4:30 Johnny Ellis sings all the wonderful familiar tunes that are the core of traditional country music.

Sunday, May 16

1:00-2:30 A special treat! Master musical instrument maker Ray Dellinger will play backup (with his handmade guitars, mandolins, etc.) for William Ritter, a very impressive, young musician. They show that the high quality of music in our mountains is endless.

3:00-4:30 Randy Flack brings us guitar, piano, and offers an array of rib-ticklin' family stories with his musical mix. Experiencing Randy is a "must."

Wednesday, May 19

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks are the perfect combo for informal music fun.

Thursday, May 20

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney welcomes drummer Roscoe Crowder to "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song."

Friday, May 21

1:45-3:15 Mike Presnell and Hope Harvey bring us a refreshing music program, including country, 60's-style folk and so much more. Mike and Hope will entertain first and third Friday afternoons May through September. 

Saturday, May 22

1:00-2:00 Tom Sparks and Roberta Whiteside blend their incredible voices (deep bass, crystal soprano) to make music that will render their audience speechless!  We are so fortunate to welcome these talents at The Orchard.

2:30-4:30 Terry McKinney hosts his mountain "Opry" show with heaps of musical talent.

6:30-10:00 A special benefit is planned at The Orchard to raise funds for establishing the Children's Advocacy Center of Yancey County. Several very gracious musicians from our area are assisting with this effort. For more information, please click on Children's Advocacy Center.

Sunday, May 23

1:00-2:00 Glenn Nance and Lenny Ski offer a variety of vocals, violin and guitar music. 

2:30-4:30 Brian Gurl and Guests delight our audiences with their sterling performances from country to classical.

Wednesday, May 26

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac brighten up a Wednesday afternoon with songs and some good-natured foolishness!

Thursday, May 27

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guest singer, bass player from Marion, Roscoe Crowder, "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song."

Friday, May 28

1:45-3:15 Bonnie Schmink and Work In Progress Band entertain with familiar, happy music.

Saturday, May 29

1:00-2:30 The Orchard welcomes 'Jest  Country Band, playing country, bluegrass and gospel. In their repertoire are old mountain favorites such as Rough and Rocky, Foggy Mountain Breakdown, Cripple Creek and Old Joe Clark!  It sounds like fun!
3:00-4:30 Clearwater Connection returns with music for smooth dancing and fine listening.

Sunday, May 30

1:30-2:30 We welcome Rhonda Gouge, fine traditional Appalachian balladeer, who taught music to most of our favorite local musicians.

3:00-4:30 Amantha Mill  returns with its delightful down home music - everything from country classics to traditional mountain ballads.  We welcome 'Becca Eggers-Gryder, Billy Helms, Randy Pasley and John Cockman!

Monday, May 31 Memorial Day

11:00-5:00 BARBECUE & COVERED DISH PICNIC Live music free to the public. Admission for the meal is a dish to share, large enough for your party with some extra for the musicians who will be entertaining all day. In place of the covered dish, guests may pay $12 per meal. The Orchard provides fresh barbecue, water, iced tea, and paper goods.

THE MONTH OF JUNE 2010

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The Orchard at Altapass is pleased to welcome the Interpretive Rangers from The Blue Ridge Parkway as guests every weekend through September. Once a month a Ranger will tell a story about our mountains from the stage. Also, a table will be provided where the public is always welcome to visit with the Rangers and ask questions.

Wednesday, June 2

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac are the perfect combination for informal music fun.

Thursday, June 3

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song."

Friday, June 4

1:45-3:15 Mike Presnell, Hope Harvey and Luke Clark blend their voices in blues, country and light pop choices.  Enjoy an hour and a half of of fine listening (and dancing).

Saturday, June 5

12:30-1:30 SPECIAL HAPPENING Alan Darveaux, champion dulcimer player for Slight Departure, offers dulcimer lessons today and for three more sessions: July 11, August 8, and September 12. Click his name here for more details.

1:30-3:30 SPECIAL HAPPENING Author Janie DeVos, author of delightful books for young children, is available to read her works to your children. Her books are colorfully illustrated and teaches children to recognize and appreciate their own special gifts, as well as those of others.

1:00-2:30 Billy Constable, Family and Friends are exceptional bluegrass musicians and most hail from the musical Wiseman family.

3:00-4:30 Jim Huskins brings Ten Broeck, his fine bluegrass group from McDowell County. Jim's quick wit is a delightful part of the group's close-knit harmonies.

Sunday, June 6

1:00-2:30 Slight Departure is a country group, leaning toward folk and familiar, danceable American traditional music.

2:00-3:30 SPECIAL HAPPENING Author, historian, graphic designer John McKinney will be at The Orchard to show his recently revised and spectacular book, "A Common Thread, a Photographic History of the Burnette, McKinney, Biddix, Hollifield, Brown and Mace Families." Members of these families and anyone interested in the history of the Toe River Valley will want to see this masterpiece with John McKinney.

3:00-4:30 True Blue good time bluegrass keeps the dancers in the audience on their feet.

Wednesday, June 9

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks  pick and sing informally. Dancing encouraged.

Thursday, June 10

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney  "Remembers the Good Stuff" visiting with Linda Radcliff, a musician who succeeded in taking up music as her avocation late in life. 

Friday, June 11

1:45-3:15 The Orchard welcomes Alan Darveaux and Jon Dana of Slight Departure treat us to handmade mountain instruments music and lively traditional tunes.

Saturday, June 12

1:00-2:00 Enjoy the high-stepping footwork of the Carolina Heartland Cloggers honoring this long-time Appalachian tradition.  

2:30-4:00 Eual Owens and Band offers ol' time bluegrass and country for our Appalachian music fans and dancers.

Sunday, June 13

1:00-3:00 Well-known popular author Peggy Poe Stern will visit with readers and sign books.

1:00-2:00 Bob Tatum and Patty Kunze (very soon to be Mr. & Mrs. Tatum), now called Sound Traveler, offer a huge variety of music, using many musical instruments. Stay in touch with them at: www.soundtravelerband.com

2:30-4:30 Old Hats Band, led by Jerry Bowman, is an exciting, very upbeat group with music ranging from bluegrass to 60's rock.  Dancing is most welcomed! 

Wednesday, June 16

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac treat visitors to an old fashion musical jam 'round "Old Huldy," a 1/4 replica of the first train to reach Altapass.

Thursday, June 17

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney's guest for "Remembering the Good Stuff" is David Wiseman, who plays traditional country music on a dulcimer.

Friday, June 18

1:45-3:15 Mike Presnell, Hope Harvey and Luke Clark provided such a delightful program last season, we've given them two weekday spots/month.

Saturday, June 19

1:00-2:30 Lynda Davis makes the piano dance!  Come, enjoy, and dance along! 

2:30-4:30 Johnny Ellis and Band light up the room with Johnny's mellow vocals and unending good humor. Sue Houvious will join Johnny with solos and duets. They sang together this winter in Florida at the Orange Blossom Opry and at Chet's Gator Barn.

Sunday, June 20

1:00-2:00 The marvelous talents of Juniper with Jasmine Hart and Frances Pisacane will entertain with guitar, fiddle and vocals. Their interpretations of traditional celtic melodies are the roots of Appalachian music.

2:30-4:00 Randy Flack returns with his stories and songs straight from the shadows of the Smoky Mountains.

Wednesday, June 23

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks both have long histories in local music. Drop in and soak up their talents and fun.

Thursday, June 24

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney welcomes violinists Juniper (see music on June 20) to "Remember the Good Stuff."

Friday, June 25

1:45-3:15 Work In Progress Band loves to entertain for folks who love to dance.

Saturday, June 26

1:00-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Rick Murray demonstrates his fine lathe work on wooden bowls and lamps.

1:00-2:30 Cross Ties starts the afternoon with upbeat good-time bluegrass.

3:00-5:00 Terry McKinney is host for his traditional Appalachian 'opry. Terry proves that the North Carolina Mountains are the original source for that other show in Nashville.

Sunday, June 27

1:00-2:00 A special treat! Master musical instrument maker Ray Dellinger will play backup (with his handmade guitars, mandolins, etc.) for William Ritter, a very impressive, young musician. They show that the high quality of music in our mountains is endless.

2:00-2:30 A Parkway Ranger tells stories of our local mountains.

3:00-5:00 We welcome Brian Gurl, the maestro of the piano. He brings along a fine selection of his musical friends, including songbird Judy Alexander.  They pack our house time after time!

Wednesday, June 30

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac are the perfect combo for informal music fun.

THE MONTH OF JULY 2010

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Thursday, July 1

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney welcomes Ms. Sr. South Carolina, Betty Garren.  Betty has a very interesting story and plays piano to help us "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song."

Friday, July 2

1:45-3:15 Mike Presnell, Hope Harvey and Luke Clark bring us a refreshing music program, including country, 60's-style folk and so much more.

Saturday, July 3

1:30-3:30 SPECIAL HAPPENING Kevin and Donna Clark display and offer for sale a fine collection of turned wood items, including beautifully crafted bird houses, bowls, and ornaments for your home.

1:00-2:30 The High Country Ramblers with David Wiseman and friends help us celebrate the holiday weekend with high-stepping bluegrass.

3:00-4:30 Bluegrass Mix offers foot-tapping old time bluegrass. They are very popular with the dancers.

Sunday, July 4 4th of July ANNUAL PICNIC The public is welcome! Free music from 11:00-4:30.  Admission for the meal is a dish to share, large enough for your party with some extra for the musicians who will be entertaining all day. In place of the covered dish, guests may pay $12 per meal. The Orchard provides fresh barbecue, water, iced tea, and paper goods.

Wednesday, July 7

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks are at it again offering informal down home music with lots of interaction with the audience.

Thursday, July 8

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song." More details later.

Friday, July 9

1:45-3:15 Alan Darveaux and Jon Dana of Slight Departure give us lively mountain traditional songs and some stories behind their music.

Saturday, July 10

12:30-1:30 SPECIAL HAPPENING Alan Darveaux, champion dulcimer player for Slight Departure, offers dulcimer lessons today and for two more sessions: August 14, and September 11. Click his name here for more details.

1:00-2:00 The Cole Mountain Cloggers are fine examples of young people keeping mountain dance traditions.

1:00-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Anne Mitchell Whisnant and David Whisnant will be signing their very well-known books: Super-Scenic Motorway: A Blue Ridge Parkway History, by Anne Whisnant; When the Parkway Came, by Anne and David Whisnant (the first Parkway book for children); and All That Is Native and Fine: The Politics of Culture in an American Region, by David Whisnant. This book focuses heavily on the music of the southern Appalachians and is just out from UNC Press in a 25th anniversary edition.

1:30-3:30 SPECIAL HAPPENING Author Michael Joslin will be at The Orchard to share his books with our visitors. Michael’s books are masterpieces about the hardworking, talented and versatile people of this area.

1:30-3:30 SPECIAL HAPPENING Nancy Leggett shows her exquisite but reasonably priced handmade jewelry.

2:30-4:00 True Blue is a good-time bluegrass group featuring true upbeat mountain music that keeps the cloggers on the floor all afternoon.

Sunday, July 11

1:00-2:30 Dana and Susan Robinson are a new experience for our audience. Their rich voices and instrumentals gift their listeners with the wonder of the places their songs visit.
3:00-4:30 Slight Departure plays music that no one can pigeonhole. Is it Old Time? Is it Bluegrass? Folk?

C & W? Western Swing? We assure you it will be a treat.

Wednesday, July 14

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac are pleasant surprises. Tom's deep, smooth voice and Bob's incredible guitar pickin' welcome all.

Thursday, July 15

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song." 

Friday, July 16

1:45-3:15 Mike Presnell, Hope Harvey and Luke Clark are delightful, and very talented musicians. Enjoy their blues, country and light pop choices.

6:00-10:30 The Altapass Foundation, a non-profit 501-C-3, presents Bids for Baskets, the Annual Fundraising Dinner, Dance and Silent Auction, supporting the preservation missions of Orchard at Altapass. The party is at 31 Cross Street, Spruce Pine. Enjoy a fine catered meal, sterling entertainment by  Brian Gurl and Lenny Ski with Bruce Lang and Joel Pulver, and a silent auction for baskets filled with everything from fine music performances to delightful vacations, handmade finery, and other imaginative treats.  Tickets are $75 each. Join in the fun and help The Orchard continue its quest to "Save the Good Stuff."    

Saturday, July 17

1:00-2:30 Eual Owens and Band enjoy playing music as much as their audiences enjoy listening and dancing.

1:30-3:30 SPECIAL HAPPENING Jewelry artist Dana Reynolds shows her delightful, colorful and reasonably priced handmade jewelry.  She will have the perfect gift for a special person, or for yourself!

3:00-5:00 NOTE CHANGE IN USUAL SCHEDULE: Brian Gurl, Lenny Ski and Band will not be available for the usual 4th Sunday this month, so they are at The Orchard on this date. Come and enjoy!

Sunday, July 18

1:00-2:00 Glenn Nance and Lenny Ski enjoy offering great versatility in a wide swath of music selections.

1:30-4:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Kim Elliot will be here Sunday also to show her exquisite jewelry made from fine stones. Again, she will be creating special activities for children working with stones in a sandbox.

2:30-4:30 Randy Flack plays music and jokes with any willing sole - and even accommodates Bill Carson's request for dance music for space scientists.

Wednesday, July 21

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks are at it again offering informal down home music with lots of interaction with the audience.

Thursday, July 22

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song." More details later.

Friday, July 23

1:45-3:15 Enjoy easy listening, and dance with the Work In Progress Band

Saturday, July 24

1:00-5:00

1:00-2:00 Sound Traveler with Bob & Patty Tatum, show their great versatility with delightful vocals and unusual instrumentation. Keep in touch with this talented duo at www.soundtravelerband.com.

2:30-4:30 Terry McKinney and Friends honor many of the musical talents of the area in a Mountain Opry.

Sunday, July 25

1:00-2:00 Work in Progress Band  brings a variety of upbeat music.

2:00-3:00 Parkway Ranger shares stories of the Blue Ridge.

3:30-5:00 ANOTHER SCHEDULE CHANGE: Bob Lominac and Band usually appear the 3rd Saturday. Bob graciously agreed to trade dates with Brian Gurl and Lenny Ski this month. Enjoy Bob and Friends' delightful show that keeps the dancers swinging and swaying.

Wednesday, July 28

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac are appreciated Orchard friends and musicians. Tom's deep, smooth voice and Bob's incredible guitar pickin' welcome all visitors.

Thursday, July 29

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song." 

Friday, July 30

1:45-3:15 Terry Hammond learned about traditional country music in his basement. He shares his immense knowledge with our audience.

Saturday, July 31

1:00-2:30 Herman Coffey and Bluegrass Traditions are special Orchard treasures.  Herman is a living music legend, and Bluegrass Traditions are an upbeat, truly traditional bluegrass bunch. What a perfect combination!

3:00-4:30 Doug Gragg's Band add bluegrass to their repertoire of danceable music. 

THE MONTH OF AUGUST 2010

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Sunday, August 1

1:00-2:30 The music of Ron and Minnie Powell goes deeply into the traditions of the mountains.  We appreciate the Powells for their fine musical contributions to "Saving the Good Stuff."

3:00-4:30 True Blue is a favorite group for cloggers and two-steppers, and for happy listeners.

Wednesday, August 4

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks are at it again offering informal down home music with lots of interaction with the audience.

Thursday, August 5  

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song." More details later.

Friday, August 6

1:45-3:15 Mike Presnell, Hope Harvey and Luke Clark have a sound you do not want to miss.  Come enjoy this really special group.

Saturday, August 7

1:00-4:30 The nationally known Cockman Family will bring the whole crew from the preschoolers to Grandpa to treat us to an afternoon of their wonderful music - from bluegrass to gospel! 

Sunday, August 8

1:00-2:00 Ray Dellinger and William Ritter use many of Ray's handmade instruments to delight the audience with fine Appalachian-based music.

2:30-4:00 Slight Departure brings smiles to your face while you enjoy their slight departure with acoustic instruments and vocal renditions indigenous to western North Carolina.

Wednesday, August 11

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac pick and sing informally to the delight of our visitors.

Thursday, August 12

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney takes a look at the marvelous musical career of Judy Alexander with special guests Brian & Joey Gurl and Eddie Graham.

Friday, August 13

1:45-3:15 Alan Darveaux and Jon Dana (of Slight Departure) tune up their fine old mountain instruments to play and sing wonderful old-time mountain tunes.

7:30 PM  Eddie Graham brings his annual New Orleans-style Jazz Festival to The Orchard Friday evening. Watch here for more exciting details!! Tickets $15 at The Orchard.

Saturday, August 14

12:30-1:30 SPECIAL HAPPENING Alan Darveaux, champion dulcimer player for Slight Departure, offers dulcimer lessons for this and one more session: September 11. Click his name here for more details.

1:00-2:00 Barbara VanEycken presents a Tribute Show to the Queen of Country Music Patsy Cline.  The show documents the singer's early years from obscure honky tonk to her country western super stardom to her untimely death at age 30.  A show full of incredible vocals, humor, and interaction with the audience.

2:30-4:00 Jim Huskins' dry wit is a delightful accompaniment to his fine high-stepping bluegrass group, Ten Broeck.

7:30 PM  Eddie Graham is bringing his New Orleans Jazz Show to The Orchard for Saturday evening too! His shows are well worth seeing over and over!  Bring your friends. Tickets $15 at The Orchard.

Sunday, August 15

1:00-2:30  Billy Constable, Family and Friends are ready to go with heel-kickin' bluegrass.

3:00-4:30 Randy Flack involves the audience in his music and his dry wit.

Wednesday, August 18

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks treat visitors to an old fashion musical jam 'round "Old Huldy," a 1/4 replica of the first train to reach Altapass.

Thursday, August 19

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney hosts a series each Thursday at The Orchard named "Remembering the Good Stuff with Stories and Song." Terry and his guest this week will pick songs from the guest's family jam sessions.

Friday, August 20

1:45-3:15 Mike Presnell, Hope Harvey and Luke Clark bring a delightful music program, including country, 60's-style folk and so much more. Some very talented friends join in.

Saturday, August 21

1:00-2:00 The Moore Brothers and their family will be back with us. The boys have recorded their first CD, which will be available during their show. We love to see young people put their hearts into traditional country music

1:30-3:30 SPECIAL HAPPENING Dana Reynolds offers her magnificent handmade and hand-painted jewelry. John Tipton shows his very special display of arrowheads.

2:30-4:30 Bob Lominac shows his delightful guitar talents along with capably hosting his music variety show.

Sunday, August 22

12:30-1:30 Lonnie and Marsha Hardesty and Jeff Mayer return to The Orchard with a delightful music show.

1:30-2:00 Parkway Ranger tells stories of our mountains.

2:30-4:30 Look forward to  Brian Gurl, Lenny Ski and Friends, with Judy Alexander and many favorite folks! Be assured it will be a great performance!

Wednesday, August 25

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac blend music and banter and include audience members in the fun.

Thursday, August 26

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney creates more chances to  "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song," talking and performing with musicians who offer musical memories of their yesteryears.

Friday, August 27

1:45-3:15 Bonnie Schmink and Work In Progress Band invite the audience to dance and/or to sing along. Come enjoy.

Saturday, August 28

1:00-2:30 Lynda Davis rocks a piano with excitement. She is joined by Chet, Mike, Peewee and Chuck Wagner.

3:00-4:30 Terry McKinney keeps the audience delighted with a fine array of local musical celebrities.  Come for a good time.

Sunday, August 29

1:00-2:00 Travis Anderegg brings flat-foot dance lessons free to anyone interested in learning this marvelous traditional dance form. "Hands Four" will join the class. They are an Old Time dance band from the Boone, NC area consisting of fiddler M Mueller accompanied by pianist Georgie Donovan. It is fun, and gets you ready to dance to the upbeat music of Amantha Mill. Paul also has instructional DVDs available for sale at The Orchard.

2:30-4:30 Amantha Mill  highlights Billy Helms, lead guitar, 'Becca' Eggers Gryder, stand-up bass, John Cockman, violin, Kevin Eller, banjo & guitar; Tony Reece, dobro.

THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER 2010

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Apple harvest time at The Orchard begins around the middle of September and continues through October.  We offer pick-your-own or bags already picked for you by our staff.  We always offer you tastes of the apples before you buy!

Wednesday, September 1

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac informally entertain Orchard guests with music and stories.

Thursday, September 2

1:45-3:15 Appalachian historian and musician Terry McKinney "Remembers the Good Stuff with Stories and Song" with special guest Linda Radcliff, dobro player.

Friday, September 3

1:45-3:15 Mike Presnell, Hope Harvey and Luke Clark bring us an easy-listening music program.  Do feel free to dance.

7:30 PM The Altapass Foundation presents "Two Charlies" featuring Jo Carson and Al Bentz. This outstanding play by Jo Carson is a drama of family legends, with the mission to preserve our local history, heritage and culture. Tickets are $10 each, available now at The Orchard.  

Saturday, September 4

1:30-3:30 SPECIAL HAPPENING Kevin and Donna Clark display and offer for sale their finely made wooden items, including beautifully crafted bird houses, bowls, and ornaments for your home.

1:00-2:30 Doug Gragg and Band show their versatile styles including bluegrass, country and some 60's pop.

3:00-4:30 Jim Huskins' group Ten Broeck includes Tyler Biddix.  They are the perfect example of energetic mountain bluegrass.

Sunday, September 5

1:00-2:30 True Blue, led by Bernie Burleson, takes the stage with upbeat, danceable bluegrass.

3:00-4:30 Old Hats Band continues the bluegrass theme with its own twists.   

Monday, September 6

11:00-5:00 LABOR DAY BARBECUE & COVERED DISH PICNIC Open to the public. Live music is free. The stage area fills up quickly, so you might want to bring lawn chairs. Admission for the meal is a dish to share, large enough for your party with some extra for the musicians who will be entertaining all day. In place of the covered dish, guests may pay $12 per meal. The Orchard provides fresh barbecue, water, iced tea, and paper goods.

Wednesday, September 8

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks are at it again offering informal down home music with lots of interaction with the audience.

Thursday, September 9

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney and guests "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song." Guest TBA.

Friday, September 10

1:45-3:15 Alan Darveaux and Jon Dana sing and play traditional mountain tunes accompanying themselves with some treasured old instruments. Alan, of the Slight Departure Band, is a long-time champion dulcimer performer.

Saturday, September 11

12:30-1:30 SPECIAL HAPPENING Alan Darveaux, champion dulcimer player for Slight Departure, offers his final dulcimer lesson for this session. Click his name here for more details.

1:30-4:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Alex Camp, photographer, artist and rail enthusiast, displays his photography and drawings of the CSX (ex-Clinchfield Railroad) "Blue Ridge Loop" tunnels.

1:00-2:00 Lenny Ski and Glenn Nance with guitar, fiddle and vocals, play to appreciative audiences.

2:30-4:00 Cross Ties are a very appreciated bluegrass group of musicians.

Sunday, September 12

1:00-2:30 Clearwater Connection offers both sweet listening and smooth dancing.

3:00-4:30 Slight Departure will bring a smile to your face while you enjoy their traditional acoustic instruments and vocal renditions indigenous to western North Carolina. Dancing encouraged.

Wednesday, September 15

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac are the perfect combo for informal music fun.

Thursday, September 16

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney "Remembers the Good Stuff with Stories and Song" with Bonnie Schmink who will share her experiences leading a band.

Friday, September 17

1:45-3:15  Mike Presnell, Hope Harvey and Luke Clark finish up their refreshing music programs for this season, including country, 60's-style folk and very talented guests.

6:00 PM The 8th Annual Altapass Foundation Chili Cookoff! Tickets $15/guest; $5/chili cooks. Purchase tickets at The Orchard. Champion Cook wins $100, a trophy and a Chili Cook Apron; Runner-up, $50 and a Chili Cook Apron; and People's Choice winner wins bragging rights and a Chili Cook Apron.  Be a chef or be an eater!  Pick up Rules and Regulations for Chili Entries at The Orchard. Either way, enjoy a delightful evening while you help a great cause. Also, kick up your heels to good-time music!     

Saturday, September 18

1:00-4:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Author Janie deVos brings local authors and illustrators to visit with our guests.  They include Janie deVos with 3 children's books; Barbara Kahn, her organic cookbook; Kiesa Kay, a children's book, and educational books;  Dr. Christopher Blake, Images of America book: The Linville Gorge; Terry McKinney, Images of America book: Altapass; Allen Hyde, outdoor travel/hiking guide; Suzan McCoury, 2 children's books; and Dr. Kitty Oliver, oral histories on race and change, and her autobiography; Multi-colored Memories of a Black Southern Girl.  Have a great time becoming personally acquainted with local literary talents at this special gathering.

1:00-2:00  The Cole Mountain Cloggers are fine examples of young people keeping the mountain dance traditions.

2:30-4:00 Johnny Ellis always brings exceptional musicians to backup his incredibly smooth vocals.

Sunday, September 19

12:00-3:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Authors Jack Pyle and Taylor Reese bring their well-loved books ranging from novels ("Sound of Distant Thunder") to humor ("Humor and A Little Bit More") to their very well-known guide to planting ("Raising with the Moon") and much more.

1:00-2:00 We welcome Common Ground Band from Marion is fine bluegrass group led by Gerald Lavender.  With the traditional banjo, flat top guitar, rhythm guitar, dobro and upright bass, Common Ground will keep the dancers on their feet. 

2:30-4:00 Randy Flack is back for his final show of the 2010 season.

Wednesday, September 22

1:45-3:15 Tom Sparks and Bob Lominac blend music and banter and include audience members in the fun.

Thursday, September 23

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney provides another opportunity to  "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song," with special guest piano player Betty Garron and her accordion-player friend.

Friday, September 24

1:45-3:15 Bonnie Schmink and Work and Progress Band joins us for and entertaining afternoon performance.

Saturday, September 25

1:00-2:00 Four-time International Whistling Champ Phyllis Heil takes the stage with delightful whistling tunes that will absolutely charm you!  Phyllis welcomes dancers to join in!

2:30-4:00 Terry McKinney brings together a remarkable collection of delightful music makers with Terry's Mountain Opry.

Sunday, September 26

1:00-2:30 SPECIAL HAPPENING Elizabeth Hunter offers The Orchard's fall workshop/program on the rearing of the Monarch butterfly and its fall journey to the mountains of Mexico for the winter.  Children in the audience will be invited to help tag the monarchs, and release them for their migratory trip.

1:00-2:00 Alan Tinney and Kirk Banner bring an hour of upbeat music treats.

2:00-2:30 Blue Ridge Parkway Ranger tells stories of our mountains.

3:00-5:00 Amantha Mill's well-loved music mixes old mountain ballads, upbeat bluegrass, country and ballads. Dancers and listeners alike love this magnificent group. Come join the fun.

Wednesday, September 29

1:45-3:15 Bob Lominac and Tom Sparks finish out their indoor weekday music programs for 2010. 

Thursday, September 30

1:45-3:15 Terry McKinney presents the final indoor weekday program "Remember the Good Stuff with Stories and Song" for 2010. Guest TBA.

THE MONTH OF OCTOBER 2010

In October, music will be on the Pavilion until the last weekend of the season, October 30 & 31. The Orchard building will be filled with the apple crop and apple activities and goodies.  Come and enjoy the fun and taste all of our apple varieties and specialties. You can pick fresh from the trees, or we will supply you with bags of the crop picked by our staff.

Take me back to the calendar

Saturday, October 2

2:00-4:00  Herman Coffey and Bluegrass Traditions are special Orchard treasures.  Herman is a living music legend, and Bluegrass Traditions are an upbeat, truly traditional bluegrass bunch.

Sunday, October 3

2:30-4:30 True Blue will help the dancers warm up the pavilion with hot bluegrass.

Thursday, October 7

DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES FOR THE 3rd ANNUAL ORCHARD PHOTO CONTEST

Saturday, October 9

1:00-2:00 Travis Anderegg brings flat-foot dance lessons free to anyone interested in learning this marvelous traditional dance form. It is great fun and will help you enjoy dancing to many of the fine bands performing at The Orchard. "Hands Four" will join the class, an Old Time dance band from the Boone, NC area consisting of fiddler M Mueller accompanied by pianist Georgie Donovan. This highly experienced dance band will get your feet moving to Old Time tunes like Old Joe Clark and Sally Ann.

2:00 WINNERS ANNOUNCED ON THE PAVILION FOR THE 3rd ANNUAL ORCHARD PHOTO CONTEST

2:30-4:00 Johnny Ellis treats us to a delightful afternoon with his marvelous singing voice and his lively sense of humor.

Sunday, October 10

1:00-3:30 SPECIAL HAPPENING Vicki Lane, celebrated local author, is introducing her just-released book, published by Bantam Dell (Random House).  She will also feature her four earlier published books (again, by Bantam Dell of Random House). She will have all of her works available at The Orchard this day and Vicki will sign the copies you purchase. Vicki is a very fine lady. You will enjoy visiting with her. See this link: http://thedayofsmallthingsvickilane.blogspot.com/2010/04/coming-september-28-2010.html

1:00-2:30 The English Family, with Alan and Gregg English are joined by their mama, Barbara, an original performer on the old Carolina Barn Dance.

3:00-4:30 Bob Lummus sets the scene for lots of belt-polishing dancing with his clear, deep voice and familiar country songs.

Saturday, October 16

1:00-2:30 Old Hats Band play exciting, very danceable bluegrass.  They are regular performers at Smoky Creek BBQ in Burke/Colwell County.  We are pleased to have them at The Orchard.

3:00-4:30 Bob Lominac and Friends present a mix of country, bluegrass, and memories. Bob was just 14 when he performed on the Carolina Barn Dance in downtown Spruce Pine. His mother taught him his extra-fine guitar pickin' licks!

Sunday, October 17

1:00-2:30 High Country Band with David Wiseman keeps the dancing hot with heel-raising bluegrass.

3:00-4:30 Randy Flack keeps us totally entertained with his fine music, family stories and always tongue-in-cheek humor.  He especially likes to pick on Wild Bill Carson.

Saturday, October 23

2:00-4:00 Billy Constable and his bluegrass friends make the pavilion hop, even in October!

2:00-4:00 SPECIAL HAPPENING Super-seamstress Lois Wiseman gets us in the mood for Halloween by making festive costumes for our canine friends.  Bring your pup to be a model!

Sunday, October 24

2:00-4:00 Eual Owen and Band keep fans plenty warm with hot country and bluegrass.

Saturday, October 30 This closing music weekend is on the stage inside the Apple House.

1:00-2:30 Bluegrass Mix ends the Orchard music season with toe-tapping bluegrass that keeps true traditional bluegrass alive and hopping.

3:00-5:00 Terry McKinney invites many of the area's finest country musicians for the final Saturday show for the 2010 season. 

Sunday, October 31

1:00-2:00 Work in Progress Band play upbeat familiar tunes and welcome dancers.

2:30-4:30 Brian Gurl, Lenny Ski and friends are also inside the Orchard Red Barn for the 2010 season closing show. Brian, Lenny and guests always leave the season on high notes. Be a part of the fun.

THANKS GOES TO ALL OF THE WONDERFUL PEOPLE WHO SUPPORTED THE ORCHARD

AND ITS SPECIAL EVENTS THOUGH OUT THE 2010 SEASON.