Steve Martin to join Steep Canyon Rangers at Brevard’s Mountain Song Festival

Press release here. I really want to check out this event.

Steve Martin, the renowned actor, author, comedian and musician, will perform at the 4th Annual Mountain Song Festival, September 11-12 in Brevard, North Carolina. Martin gave a surprise performance at last year’s festival when he joined the Steep Canyon Rangers, host band for the festival, for their second set.

“I was thrilled to be on stage again performing for such an enthusiastic crowd,” says Martin. “And I’m very excited to be returning.” From that initial collaboration, Martin fostered a deep musical connection with the band. Steep Canyon Rangers joined Martin on the road and recently appeared together on the syndicated radio show “Prairie Home Companion.” Martin’s IBMA-nominated album “The Crow” and recent tour represent his most dedicated foray into music in thirty years. Of the IBMA Emerging Artist Award recipients, he says, “I
need them. They don’t need me.” Steve Martin is not the only recognizable name associated with the Mountain Song Festival.

The Brevard-based music festival has previously featured such legendary performers as Doc Watson, Tim
O’Brien, Del McCoury, Sam Bush and Tony Rice. At this year’s festival, Martin will share the bill with celebrated Steve Martin gets serious about bluegrass at the 2009 Mountain Song Festival. Photo by Tom Lehmann.

Held at the Brevard Music Center, the Mountain Song Festival highlights the rich arts and cultural heritage of
the Southern Appalachians. The festival has garnered significant praise for its exceptional roster of performers,
superb venue and extensive recycling program. A benefit for the Boys and Girls Club of Transylvania County,
Mountain Song has raised nearly $100,000 in its first three years. Festival co-promoter and producer John
Felty anticipates 2009 as Mountain Song’s biggest year yet. “We are very proud that we are the first festival
to have Steve Martin on the bill,” he says. “It’s great for the community and for the Boys and Girls Club. We’re very fortunate.”

The remarkable music and energy surrounding Mountain Song Festival adds yet another dimension to the
rich tapestry of culture and natural splendor that is Brevard and Transylvania County. Nestled in the heart of
the Blue Ridge Mountains, Transylvania County offers unparalleled outdoor adventure and an exceptional
local arts culture. It enjoys a long-standing reputation as a home to fabulous music, whether virtuosos at the
Brevard Music Festival or haunting ballads performed by old-time musicians on the streets of Brevard’s quaint
downtown.

The 2009 Mountain Song Festival kicks off Friday September 11 with a Pre-Party program featuring local
favorites, Moon Shine Babies, Town Mountain and Steep Canyon Rangers. Shannon Whitworth and the
Refugees, The Seldom Scene, Steep Canyon Rangers, Steve Martin and the David Grisman Quintet play
Saturday September 12. Two day festival passes are $65. Saturday-only tickets are $40. For ticketing,
schedules, seating charts and other information please visit www.mountainsongfestival.com.