In a vibrant celebration of tradition and innovation, the inaugural Say Sister! Festival has taken over Baltimore's Highlandtown Creative Alliance. Over one weekend, this event honors the enduring influence of women on old-time and Americana music. Curated by Grammy-winning artists Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer, the festival features live performances, workshops, and an exclusive exhibit from the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. From January 10-11, music enthusiasts experienced a rich tapestry of sounds and stories that highlight the contributions of female musicians who have shaped the genre.
Highlighting Unsung Heroes: A Weekend of Music and Discovery
The festival kicked off with an energetic square dance led by Appalachian-style caller Becky Hill and Fink and Marxer’s Old Time Coalition. Participants of all ages swung their partners to the lively banjo tunes filling the theater. The centerpiece of the festival is the exhibition I’ve Endured: Women in Old-Time Music, which opened officially last weekend and will run through March 1. This exhibit, borrowed from the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, shines a spotlight on the often-overlooked roles of women as performers, cultural memory keepers, and innovators in folk music.
Attendee Joyleen John-Sowah expressed her enthusiasm for the dancing, saying, "I can dance to anything, and if you’re going to make me listen to old-time music—I better be able to dance." The festival’s inclusive ethos was also praised by Kristina Gaddy, author of Well of Souls: Uncovering the Banjo’s Hidden History, who noted the curators' commitment to supporting diverse artists.
The festival’s lineup included Grammy-nominated Amythyst Kiah, three-time National Fiddle Champion Kimber Ludiker, and champion-winning dulcimer player Sarah Kate Morgan. Workshops on Appalachian dulcimers, clawhammer banjo, and flatfoot dancing were held throughout Saturday. Additionally, Dr. Dena Ross Jennings crafted a traditional gourd banjo to be auctioned off during the evening.
A Legacy Reimagined: Reflections on the Festival
As a journalist, what struck me most about Say Sister! was its ability to bridge past and present. By celebrating the unsung heroes of old-time music, the festival not only honors history but also paves the way for future generations. The inclusion of workshops and discussions ensures that these traditions are passed down in a participatory and engaging manner. In a time when the origins of Americana music are being re-examined, events like Say Sister! remind us of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the diverse voices that have shaped this beloved genre. It leaves attendees not only entertained but also inspired to explore deeper connections with the roots of American music.
