There is no band in bluegrass or country who captures the soul of American music better than the Fire Squad. And they will be back in New Carlisle on Sunday, June 12 on the Amphitheater stage to kick-off the Chautauqua Council’s 24th Annual Summer in the Park series.
Whether creeping up the damp hill s of festival grounds, singing in a concert hall, an amphitheater stage in the park, or echoing from an LP, CD, or whatever latest tune spewing digital device one prefers, the clamor of the Dry Branch Fire Squad is instantly recognizable.
Under the superb leadership of founder, singer, mandolin player and comedian Ron Thomason, former teacher, administrator in the Tecumseh School District, and hometown favorite, bluegrass tradition remains very much alive! Dry Branch is known for its exceptional live performances and the self-deprecating humor and intelligences that Ron Thomason brings to the stage.
Ron began his career as a member of Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys, a first generation bluegrass band. He was born in Russell County, West Virginia in the core of Stanley country. Ron has brought to the band a repertoire unique among bluegrass bands today and has created and developed an entertaining and intellectually provocative onstage presence.
The band is currently composed of former member Adam McIntosh on guitar and mandolin, Tom Boyd, banjo and resophonic guitar, Jeff Byrd, bass and Ron on mandolin, guitar, banjo, and occasionally he will play the spoons for his audiences. In nearly forty years of music making, Rounder recording artist’s Dry Branch has become an institution in American acoustic music. Anyone who has had the pleasure of witnessing a live festival performance of the Fire Squad has been alternately moved to laughter, tears, and joy all within about 1 and ½ hours of a pleasant and relaxing evening in the park.
Chautauqua wishes to thank our event sponsor, The Springfield Foundation, and all our local sponsors for their continued financial support making this and all the other activities presented by Chautauqua possible.
The Chautauqua Council is extremely pleased to welcome Ron Thomason and Dry Branch Fire Squad back home once again. We enthusiastically invite the community to bring a lawn chair, blanket and refreshments and join us at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, June 12 and enjoy and evening of good music and entertainment at Smith Park Amphitheater located on West Jefferson Street, New Carlisle. In case of inclement weather, the program will be moved to New Carlisle Elementary School located at 1203 Kennison Street. Admission is free but a free-will offering is taken during intermission.
