As I walk into Patterson Park this Saturday evening a festive fall feel is in the air. I can smell barbecue and see little kids and some adults dancing to the sound of blues music that’s the epitome of the South.

More than 200 people are gathered to hear some of the 11 local bands take on the blues. The performers include The Jake Leg Stompers, The Boomers, Max Johns, Fredrick “Red” Neal and Miranda Louise.

“All the bands are from Middle Tennessee,” says Cindy Phiffer, the event coordinator. “It was our vision from the beginning to feature local musicians, specifically those from Murfreesboro.

“Jack Pearson and William House, who played last night [Friday], are both blues musicians from the area. Max Johns also played last night and he grew up in the neighborhood behind Patterson Park.”

This two-day event is sponsored by the local police department, the park and recreation service, the Music City Blues Society and the Lead Belly Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides music lessons for young people.

“The Lead Belly foundation was a natural partner for the blues festival,” Phiffer says. “They have a strong education component and that’s what we’ve tried to do with the festival as well.”

Phiffer’s background is in music education and her husband, Jim, is a blues guitarist and international managing director of Ludwig drum company. Both love the blues and educating young people.

“I grew up in Murfreesboro and I am interested in strengthening and developing the cultural arts in the area,” Phiffer explains. “If you want to hear some killer blues, this festival is for you.”