The Paris-Bourbon County Library is honored to
host a free public exhibit,
Made to be Played: Traditional Art of Kentucky Luthiers, featuring handmade instruments, carvings, and
tools made or used by Homer Ledford (1927-2006), a beloved Kentucky
musician and master craftsman, and several other noted Kentucky
luthiers.
The exhibit will be on display at the
library from January 11th through March 4th,
2008. You are invited to stop by at your convenience any time
during the library’s normal hours of operation.
As a luthier – or stringed instrument maker
– Ledford's art was rooted in his innovative nature, his musical talent,
and his woodworking and mechanical skills. He crafted over 6,500
instruments during his lifetime, making him one of the most prolific
luthiers in the southeastern United States. Ledford’s creativity is
highlighted by the unique instruments he created; the dulcitar,
dulcijo, and dulcibro were inventive hybrids that combined the
dulcimer with instruments such as the guitar, banjo and dobro. Along
with crafting instruments, Ledford was also a talented bluegrass
musician. He played nationally and internationally with the Cabin
Creek Band at concerts, festivals, and schools.
Ledford’s instruments are cherished for their
exceptional workmanship and the beautiful music they make; some are
on display the Smithsonian Institution. He was honored for his work
many times, including prestigious awards from the Southern Highland
Craft Guild. He also
published a book of autobiographical stories and poems, entitled
See Ya’ Further Up the Creek, which is available for loan from
the library.
Homer Ledford was a master artist whose life
work resonates harmoniously with his time and place. “Homer
Ledford’s work lives on through the music he recorded, the
instruments he crafted, and the craftsmen he inspired,” says Kent
Whitworth, Executive Director of the Kentucky Historical Society.
“His story… provides all Kentuckians with connections to the past,
perspective on the present, and inspiration for the future.”
This travelling exhibit is sponsored by the
Kentucky Arts Council. The Paris-Bourbon County Library is located at
701 High Street in downtown Paris.
Get a map and driving directions. Normal hours of operation are
9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays; 9:30
a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays; and 9:30 a.m. to 3:00
p.m. on Saturdays. The library will be closed on Monday, January 14th,
and Monday, February 18th.
Here is a clip of Kentucky folk
singer Jean Ritchie
singing the traditional ballad 'Shady Grove' and playing
a dulcimer much like those made by Ledford.
Click on the arrow to start:
