Banjo Rally International 'Relaxed' and Fun

Created in 1975, Eureka Springs' Banjo Rally International is a conference for banjo fans. It is aimed primarily at four-string plectrum and tenor banjos, though the organizers say all acoustic instruments are welcome. Event organizer Kathy Overstreet says the emphasis isn't on bluegrass, which often comes to mind when one hears the word "banjo," but rather on "jazz banjo" and music from the 1920s and 1930s.

This year, the rally will start on Aug. 29 and run through Sept. 1 at the Best Western Inn of the Ozarks.

"It's kind of like a family reunion," says Overstreet, who coordinates the gatherings with her husband, Denny. Though registration is closed for this year's event -- make sure you mark your calendars for next year if you're interested -- the weekend features two concerts, one at 7 p.m. Aug. 31 and one at 7 p.m. on Sept. 1 -- that are open to the public. "We fellowship, we jam, and we have a good time. It's not like a formal concert where you have to be hung up if you made a mistake."

This year's headliner is Matt Tolentino, a musician and band leader whose specialty is the music of the 1920s and 1930s. Other activities during the rally include visits to the Brighton Ridge Nursing Home in Eureka Springs and the Peach Tree Retirement Village at Holiday Island to play music for the residents there. Something Overstreet says is always popular happens at 6 p.m. Aug. 30, an annual evening called a "playout" held at the Kettle Campground.

"Mr and Mrs. Kettle, they're always very welcoming," says Overstreet. "People from the campground will come and listen. We set up a few chairs and play until dark. It's really relaxed."

"Relaxed" is the overarching theme of the event, says Overstreet.

"Not everybody knows everybody before they come, but by the end of the weekend, they do," she says. "We just have a good time."

-- Lara Jo Hightower

[email protected]

NAN What's Up on 08/24/2018