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Did you ever wonder what people did to entertain themselves before the advent of radio, television and movies??

If your answer is YES then read on and explore parts of the history of this country and the development of a musical style that has survived through the ages.  Learn more about the history of traditional music styles dating back to the Civil War and beyond. 

BeaRcade Music is a collective effort to provide access to and information about the traditional music styles found in the Appalachian Mountains and in particular the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.   The old-time musical tradition is preserved by the many practitioners and fans who get together in each other homes and play the music "just for the fun of it".  See link to old-time music

The old-time and new old-time tunes are learned by listening to others play the tune and picking out the chords and melody line as you go along.   Tunes are learned at the many festivals that occur throughout the Appalachian Mountains and other parts of the country during the warmer months of the year.   Festival Links

Much of the old-time music of the Shenandoah Valley can only be heard by "being there".  One of the goals of BeaRcade Music is to preserve the tunes and the personalities that play those tunes through both live and studio recordings of the living musical heritage.  Beararcade Music facilities

The revival of Contra Dancing and other folk styles provides public venues for local bands to play fiddle tunes, jigs, waltzes and other lively tunes.  The dances link the skills of the musicians, the caller and the dancers together in a collective search for fun, excitement and lots of good old-fashioned entertainment.  Contra Dance info