Learn old-time fiddle from William Ritter. He’ll also open for the Steel Wheels’ Down Home Concert in Fletcher Opera Theater in the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts on Feb. 21.
For nearly 20 years, William has immersed himself in the music of the Toe River Valley, dedicating himself to learning firsthand from local tradition-bearers, particularly Ray Dellinger, Bobby McMillon, and Bruce Greene. In addition to fiddle, William plays banjo, guitar, and “string-ed things.” A passionate heirloom seed saver, he is committed to preserving traditional mountain folkways and foodways to strengthen community resilience. In 2019, William was awarded the inaugural In These Mountains folklife apprenticeship grant from SouthArts and the North Carolina Arts Council to study under renowned ballad singer Bobby McMillon. Since Bobby’s passing, William has continued to perform regularly alongside Sheila Kay Adams and Donna Ray Norton, as well as Asheville-based musician Tim McWilliams.
This workshop is part of a series designed to support traditional artists from the 26 counties in Western North Carolina impacted by Hurricane Helene. As the storm rampaged through Western North Carolina last September, traditional music was among the cultural treasures it threatened. Popular gathering spots for music-making were damaged or destroyed, and in some cases folks lost beloved instruments to the floods. But like so much else in that region, the music found a way to keep going, and PineCone is happy to play a part. Several of our 2025 Down Home Concerts will feature an opening set by Western North Carolina traditional musicians, showcasing both the music and its unstoppable spirit. The visiting musicians will also host workshops like this one to teach their skills to players in the Piedmont, focusing on ballad singing, old-time banjo, old-time fiddle, and bluegrass fiddle.
Learn more about William Ritter here.
