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See Native American and Celtic Musician Arvel Bird at Newland Concert Friday

By Adrienne Fouts

Celebrate the seventh week of Newland’s free summer concert series Friday, July 29 with Native American and Celtic musician Arvel Bird.

Arvel Bird at Roasting Ears of Corn Festival
Arvel Bird at Roasting Ears of Corn Festival

Arvel Bird’s mixed American Indian and Celtic heritages contribute to his unique and diverse musical performances. Originally from the American Southwest, Bird was classically trained on the violin and explored different styles of music as he found passion in them, eventually leading to bluegrass, folk and Celtic music in addition to traditional Native American music. He is now based in Nashville and has toured with the likes of Glen Campbell, Loretta Lynn and Tom T. Hall. Over his career, Bird has also released 25 albums, launched his own recording studio and independent record label and earned several international music awards.

The 10-week concert series is organized and sponsored by the Greater Newland Association, along with additional sponsors Avery Tire Pros and Blue Ridge Propane of Newland. The free concerts take place from 6 to 9 p.m. each Friday at Newland Riverwalk Park, with alternate rain locations announced by 4 p.m. Friday.

The Greater Newland Association, formerly known as the Newland Business Association, exists to enhance the community of Newland as well as promote smaller, surrounding communities such as Mineola, Elk Park and Linville Falls. The summer concert series began as a way to draw people to Newland, to celebrate the area and to simply be a fun event for locals and visitors alike.

In addition to the free live music, the concert series hosts a 50/50 cash drawing, food vendors, dancing and more. Jason “J-Man” DeWitt will be the MC for the concert Friday, and visitors can be sure to have a good time.

“Music is one thing that unites people from all walks of life,” said Steve York, member of the Greater Newland Association. “These concerts are free, so people can just come out, pull out their chairs and enjoy.”

For more information, visit greaternewland.org.

2016 Newland Summer Concert Series:

  • June 17: Soul Benefactor
  • June 24: Mama’s Remedy
  • July 1: The Johnson Brothers
  • July 8: The TAMS
  • July 15: Swing Set
  • July 22: Maybe, Maybe Not
  • July 29: Arvel Byrd
  • Aug. 5: Dave Calvert Collective
  • Aug. 12: The Lucky Strikes
  • Aug. 19: Road Tripp Band