NASHVILLE, TN. (Top40 Charts/ McCoury Music) - Bluegrass master Del McCoury offered up a holiday gift to music fans today with the announcement that he'll be hosting a world-class music festival over Memorial Day weekend in 2008. Produced in association with High
Sierra Music, Delfest will build on McCoury's record in presenting a popular New Year's Eve concert at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium, his success with his own McCoury
Music label-and, of course, his reputation as a legendary artist whose appeal crosses generations and genres-to offer a festival experience stamped with the unique McCoury touch.
Though the inaugural lineup is still being built, it's clear that the bluegrass patriarch's wide-ranging appeal and cross-genre friendships are shaping the 3-day program. Besides appearances by the Del McCoury Band throughout the weekend, Vince Gill, Dierks Bentley, Keller Williams and The Keels, Sam Bush, David Grisman Bluegrass Experience, Abigail Washburn & The Sparrow Quartet featuring Bela Fleck, the Punch Brothers featuring Chris Thile, and Railroad Earth are among those already confirmed, many for multiple performances.
In addition to traditional stage sets by these world-class artists, attendees can expect to see one-of-a-kind collaborations, special guest sit-ins, and various tributes to Del McCoury and his musical legacy. Each day's schedule will also feature more intimate appearances, both at unique "playshops" - informal workshops where the emphasis will be on performance rather than instruction-and in late night indoor performances and picking sessions. Whether they're "parking lot pickers" or just plain music fans, festival-goers will have plenty of opportunities to interact with their favorite artists. Rounding out the program, Delfest will include a band competition, with the winners invited to return for a regular set at the following year's gathering.
Yet while music will be central to Delfest, every aspect of the festival experience will be shaped by its host's concern for and appreciation of the fans. The festival will offer interactive children's programs, a craft fair featuring regional and international artisans, and an eclectic food court along with the chance to simply relax and camp with good friends in gorgeous weather. Personally chosen by Del, Allegany County Fairgrounds in Cumberland, MD is a perfect location, nestled along the Potomac River in the scenic Appalachian Mountains yet convenient to four major airports and easily reached by rail or road, with ample tent and RV camping on site as well as plentiful lodging nearby. Those who venture into the surrounding area will find a range of recreational options, including swimming, fishing, hiking, and biking. Finally, VIP packages will be available for those who want to take their Delfest experience to the ultimate level.
"I've had opportunities to host a festival before," says McCoury, "but I always thought that if I was going to do it, I'd want to make sure that it was done right." And between the easygoing yet uncompromising commitment to quality that's characterized every one of his activities and the experience of High Sierra Music, whose 18th annual High Sierra Music Festival will follow the new event by a matter of weeks, it's certain that Delfest will be just that - a world-class event with a down-home feeling.
Tickets and Information
The 1st Annual DelFest takes place Friday, May 23rd through Sunday May 25th, 2008 at the Allegany Fairgrounds in Cumberland, MD. Gates open at 8:00am on May 23rd. Tickets are on sale now at delfest.com. Three-day adult passes are $99 through February 4th or while supplies last. Three-day pass for kids aged 6 to 12 are $30; 5 & under admitted free. On-site camping is included with all multi-day passes. On-site RV passes with hookups are $100. Premium VIP Packages include three-day festival passes, separate entry and camping areas, access to a VIP lounge near the Grandstand Stage featuring a special viewing area, private port-o-johns, chair massage, a lounge area with beverages and snacks, admission to all Late Night performances, festival t-shirts, festival posters and drink tickets. These packages are designed for both individuals and groups of two. Package No 3 includes an RV pass with guaranteed, reserved hook-up. Prices range from $375 to $800.
May 23-25, 2008
Allegany County Fairgrounds, Cumberland, MD (2.5 hours west of Washington DC)
Delfest 2008 Initial Line-Up
Del McCoury Band • Vince Gill • Dierks Bentley • Keller Williams and The Keels
David Grisman Bluegrass Experience • Abigail Washburn & The Sparrow Quartet feat. Bela Fleck
Sam Bush • Punch Brothers feat. Chris Thile • Railroad Earth plus many more to be announced!
