Jam On

Jam On

Jammin’ on the Porch brings country and bluegrass to life

BY JEN CALHOUN

When people come to Kentucky, chances are they’re hoping to hear a little bluegrass. After all, that’s one of the many things the state is known for, says Sandra Wilson, director of tourism for Horse Cave and Hart County.

“That’s just what’s in people’s minds when they think of this state,” she says. “But they can’t just go knock on somebody’s door and say, ‘Play for me.’”

That’s why Wilson helped start Jammin’ on the Porch, a weekly music event that gives people a chance to hear real Kentucky music by real Kentucky artists. The event, which takes place from 6-9 p.m. every Thursday, also lets musicians show off their talents and play with anyone who might be there.

“It’s really neat,” Wilson says. “It’s a cool, fun mixture of musicians. Some may be booking more professional gigs than others, and some may be simply trying their hand at it. We have people at different levels, so people can mentor or support or teach others. But they always just get together and have some fun.”

Stan Blanton, left, and Albert Williamson chose a classic cover to play.

Jimmy Sturgeon of Horse Cave.

Stan Blanton of Cave City.

A LOCAL TRADITION

The event got its start more than 10 years ago as part of a way to help Horse Cave gain a cultural district certification with the Kentucky Arts Council, Wilson says. But it soon became a tradition popular with musicians, residents and tourists.

“It’s free, and it’s real,” she says. “These are authentic people playing traditional bluegrass and country music. It’s not necessarily Nashville style. These are downto-earth

people, so visitors and tourists can talk to them and experience an authentic part of our culture.”

Two locations have their turn at hosting the jams. Most Thursdays it’s at The Book Store on Water Street, where a space is cleared for musicians to sit in a circle. Each musician gets a chance to pick out a song to play, and the others join in. On the second Thursday of each month, the event takes place at Signature Health Care Center on Dixie Street, just south of the hospital.

“Some of the participants may vary from week to week,” says Wilson, who adds that they may include professional musicians. “But some are old faithfuls.”

JAMMIN’ ON THE PORCH

Interested in catching some live, authentic Kentucky bluegrass and country musicians do their thing for free? Or do you want to try your hand at picking some tunes? Come to Jammin’ on the Porch every Thursday from 6-9 p.m. Most sessions take place at The Book Store at 111 Water St. in Horse Cave. But on the second Thursday of the month, the event is at Signature Health Care Center at 1505 S. Dixie St. in Horse Cave. All Jammin’ sessions are free to the public. If you’re interested in playing, bring your acoustic instrument. For more information, call 270-218-0386.