Degree Name
MA (Master of Arts)
Program
Appalachian Studies
Date of Award
8-2022
Committee Chair or Co-Chairs
Roy Andrade
Committee Members
Ron Roach, Jane MacMorran
Abstract
This thesis uses qualitative research methods to elaborate on Ralph Blizard’s legacy in the old-time music community. The aspects of Blizard’s legacy that were examined include his style of fiddling and the actions he took to preserve traditional Appalachian old-time music. This thesis discusses the old-time music revival in the late 20th Century and Blizard’s role in the revival.
This thesis used documentary research, archival research, and personal interviews. Documentary and archival research took place at the Ralph Blizard Museum in Blountville, Tennessee, and the Archives of Appalachia at East Tennessee State University. I conducted personal interviews with Blizard’s musical colleagues and members of his family.
This thesis shows that Blizard’s legacy in old-time music is defined the actions he took to help preserve the sound of traditional Appalachian old-time music just as much as it is defined by his style of fiddling.
Document Type
Thesis - unrestricted
Recommended Citation
Dingler, Emily, "‘The Most Important Thing is the Music:’ Ralph Blizard’s Legacy Preserving Traditional Appalachian Old-Time Music" (2022). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 4083. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/4083
Copyright
Copyright by the authors.