Roanoke Bluegrass F-9 Raffle

[Big Joe]

The mandolin is supposed to be presented in Nov at the show in Roanoke for the Roanoke Bluegrass Weekend. I will be there again this year. Anyone else going? It is a trip worth the taking!

[Flowerpot]

I'm debating about going. It's a matter of whether it's worth the money, as the cheapest flight I've found is $482, plus the enrollment is $400, plus hotel fee. A bit pricey for a weekend jaunt, so my wife tells me anyway.

So Big Joe, since you make the trek, would I be safe to assume there might be some Gibson mandos to taste? Do many instrument dealers/makers come? I know the picking would be great (I have lots of picking friends back in Roanoke, besides the new friends I'd meet). But I missed IBMA, and wondered if there would be a decent opportunity to sample some mandolins there at the RBW.

[batman]

Big Joe, I'll be there. looking forward to meeting you. My son Brian met you when he was trying to get on at Gibson. He did get a job with yall and likes it , but still has his sights on getting over to the showcase one day. Don Batten

[Big Joe]

Gibson will have several mandolins and banjos there, and may even bring some guitars. The weekend is more than just a jam session. There are some great instructional sessions by the best in the business. The food is great! and the fellowship is exceptional. I took my son last year (he is coming again this year) and it really gave him a jump start. He was a pretty good picker before he went, but it just turned some lights on for him. He can't wait to get back there (he is 24). I think it's worth the bucks. I wish there had been something like that when I was a youngun, but I'll be there with bells on...

[JeffS]

What kind of guitars are they considering bringing? I just saw the Gibson L-5 Signature in the latest Musician's Friend catalog and oh my. Doubt they'd bring an electric though.