Alison Brown, a Grammy-winning banjoist and renowned musician, is set to perform two shows at the Crowninshield Community House on November 21, 2023. Known for her distinctive five-string banjo style and collaborations with notable artists such as Steve Martin and the Indigo Girls, Brown combines bluegrass traditions with diverse global influences.
Exploring Double C Tuning
In a recent conversation, Brown explained her unique approach to music, including the details of her “double C” tuning technique. This specific tuning involves adjusting the second and fourth strings of the banjo to a C note, creating a harmonious sound reminiscent of a C9 chord. “It’s really common in old-time music and clawhammer banjo styles,” she noted, making it accessible for those new to the instrument.
Brown’s performances typically include a mix of songs and instrumentals, with a highlight being her rendition of “Here Comes the Sun,” which she describes as a delightful mashup with “The Waters of March,” aptly titled “Sun and Water.” “I love intimate venues,” she shared. “We always go out to the CD table at the end of the show, and I love talking to people.”
The Evolution of Bluegrass in Boston
While Brown has called Nashville home for the last three decades, she maintains a profound connection to Boston, where she was influenced by the vibrant coffeehouse scene during her time at Harvard University. “I still think Boston is the best market for folk music in the country,” she asserted, reflecting on her roots in bluegrass and its connections to traditional Scottish and Irish music.
Brown emphasized the relatively recent emergence of bluegrass music, tracing its origins back to 1945 when Bill Monroe helped to define the genre. “Most people think bluegrass is an old music, but it’s actually quite new,” she clarified. This blend of old and new influences continues to shape her music and the broader bluegrass scene.
As the founder of Compass Records, Brown has dedicated herself to promoting emerging artists. The label, established 30 years ago, aimed to create an artist-friendly platform that supports the discovery of new music. “We didn’t know what it would become,” she admitted, “but we felt there was room for an artist-run label in the roots music space.”
Today, as the music industry has evolved with the rise of digital platforms, Brown recognizes the importance of maintaining quality and artist integrity. “There’s so much music out there that it’s hard for things to be noticed,” she remarked, highlighting the challenge artists face in a saturated market where over 100,000 tracks are uploaded daily to platforms like Spotify.
Brown believes that a record label can serve as a crucial filter for consumers, ensuring that quality music reaches the audience. “You can’t listen to 100,000 tracks a day,” she pointed out, reinforcing the value of partnerships between artists and record labels.
With a dedication to high production values, Brown aims to capture the authentic sound of bluegrass music, noting advancements in technology that enhance the listening experience. “Instruments sound better, and we really concentrate on that at Compass,” she explained, emphasizing their commitment to producing quality recordings.
As she prepares for her upcoming performances, Brown remains excited about the journey ahead. “I never thought I’d get to play banjo on ‘The Tonight Show,’” she said, acknowledging the opportunities that have come her way through her collaborations. “Steve is such a fantastic ambassador for the banjo and bluegrass music.”
Brown’s performances promise to deliver not just music, but a genuine connection with her audience, fostering a sense of community and shared passion for bluegrass. For more information about her show and future performances, visit friendsofbocagrande.org.
