Chincoteague Island .Net

The Island Bluegrass Alliance was formed in 2001  to bring bluegrass and old-time music to the Eastern Shore. Since then the organization has grown to a membership approaching  fifty from Chincoteague to San Diego California. The IBA is  Non-profit and exist with the help of IBA members and sponsorship from 10 local businesses.

For 2009 the IBA has again compiled a trio of concerts that will surely  prove their ability to bring quality entertainment to the Eastern Shore. The  concerts, held in April, June  and August are more than just another concert. They have Door prizes,home-made ice cream and chili dogs , Jamming before the shows, interaction with the bands and just a down home great time.

On April 28  — Their popular “House Band” ROADSIDE CAFE  will be serving up Traditional/contemporary Bluegrass.  They are a Northern Virginia band that has been together for 7 years and just released a great New CD. They love to play the seemingly forgotten bluegrass sounds of the 70s and 80s mixed  in with some original songs and Gospel. You will be pleased with  Brian, Mike, Davids  and Ken’s Musical talent and great stage presence. Make a point to be at this forth appearance by the  band if you missed them last year. This year they will be joined by a High point, North Carolina  group — “POCKET CHANGE”. This will be their first appearance in Chincoteague. The Leader , Mark Templeton is equal to any great banjo player in bluegrass today and the inspirational lyrics of their music make them a band in demand. Their harmonies and great Gospel arrangements are outstanding. The first stage show will begin at 5pm. (four 45 minute sets with a 15 minute break between}.

June 20 — “Blue Daze”.  This band from the DC area derives its unique sound from a mix of traditional and contemporary bluegrass, including numerous original songs. The band prides itself on uncovering unique songs from talented Maryland songwriters and  arranging obscure songs in it’s own style.
Joining  Blue Daze for another 90 Minute set will be “THE SATYR HILL BAND”. This band is an enjoyable versatile five piece acoustic group which features superb vocal harmonies and fine tuned arrangements. Four lead singers, each with his own style, present a true variety in listening enjoyment. Classic instrumentation of banjo fiddle, guitar, bass and mandolin  gives a fullness of sound that belies the fact that their sound is essentially acoustic. Each member is a dedicated musician highly accomplished on his own instrument. They have worked together many years to give The Satyr Hill Band a smooth, tight and exciting sound that Will please lovers of any musical genre. Although primarily a bluegrass band they play a variety of music and styles which include bluegrass, “newgrass”, progressive, acoustic country and rock & roll as well as innovative originals.

FRIDAY August  14 — To Close out the summer, the IBA is very fortunate to get  The Great “Charlie Sizemore” and his band. Join Acclaimed bluegrass songwriter/vocalist as he showcases his latest album, “Good News”. Released in August on Rounder Records it went to # 3 on The Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine top 15 album chart.
A native of eastern Kentucky, Sizemore was hired at age 17 to take over for departing Keith Whitley in Ralph Stanley’s Clinch Mountain Boys, with whom he stayed for nine years before leaving to start his own band and attend college.H graduated with honors at the University of Kentucky, and now maintains  a successful law practice in addition to his musical endeavors. Over the past 20 years since leaving Stanley, Sizemore has garnered a devoted following among fans and performers alike. He has appeared on two Grammy nominated albums and received a Dove award nomination. His performance will begin at 7:30pm.

The events in April and June will be at the Chincoteague Center on Saturday and begin at 5:pm.  Call 757 336-3030 0r 757 336-0614 for information and/or tickets. Sound by GWC Acoustics.
The price for tickets this year will be $20 for advance reserved table seating and general admission at the door. Advance general admission will be $16.00. IBA members , students 18 and under will be half price and children 6 and under Free.

Hot dogs, pork barbecue,home-made ice cream and snacks will be available at the concession. Door prizes are to be given away at intermissions.