HoustonFest
There's definitely no shortage of incredible bluegrass
and old-time mountain music at Felts Park, Galax,
Virginia, the first weekend in May and you can bet that
would be music to Houston Caldwell's ears. Artists in
Galax and surrounding communities are often referred to
as a “family” of musicians, and they are always ready
and willing to gather in support when one of their own is
in need. You see it all the time, when performers
volunteer their time to play for benefits for those in poor
health or who have lost their homes. When 18 year old
banjo star Houston Caldwell died in 2010 that “family”
of musicians lost a promising member of its next
generation. The family has come together again this
year to honor Houston in a manner fitting both his
musical skill and his community spirit.
HoustonFest has brought local, regional and national
performers together to celebrate the music of the region
and to raise funds for the Galax Volunteer Fire
Department, an organization Houston dearly loved and
was committed to serving, in his words, “till the day I
die”. Funds have also been designated to the Houston
Caldwell Youth Music Scholarship Program.
Houston's banjo playing and his vocal and active
promotion of traditional music earned him a bit of fame,
but his true legacy is his example of giving your all in the
service of others-as a firefighter, a soldier, a community
volunteer, a teacher and a future police officer.
The festival has involved young people in its planning
with the hope of mentoring them and teaching the
importance of helping their neighbors and engaging in
community service. It is our hope that eventually these
youngsters will take over Houston Fest and continue it
for many years to come.
Houston Caldwell's life is an inspiration, and it's fitting
that the goal of HoustonFest is to inspire and encourage
our future leaders.
We want to extend our sincere appreciation to all the
musicians who have performed at HoustonFest, as well
as the army of volunteers
who work to present an
incredible festival.
A spectacular lineup of
25+ bands is scheduled
to participate on 3 stages
during this third
“Celebration of Song &
Service”.
For more information visit
www.HoustonFestGalax.com
HoustonFest 2014
“A Celebration of Song & Service”
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