Roots & Rhythm: Catch Southern String Sounds at Murfreesboro Bluegrass Doubleheader Oct. 18 and 25

[EDITOR’S NOTE: Due to the continued closure of the national parks resulting from the government shutdown, organizers have postponed the Oct. 18 program scheduled for Stones River National Battlefield. The people’s elected representatives in Washington D.C. have declined to fund the national parks while they argue about other matters. While pedestrians may still access Stones River National Battlefield, the parking lots remain locked.]

This October, local string band fans have two free community events to put on the calendar as hometown musical acts celebrate tradition and community.

Saturday, Oct. 18, the Home Sweet Home Band returns to the scenic Stones River National Battlefield.

With roots in regional string-band tradition, these talented local musicians share songs that entertained and stirred emotions in soldiers and civilians during the Civil War, along with more contemporary selections. The Home Sweet Home Band kicks off sets at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. as part of the battlefield’s Music in the Parks program, with the historical outdoor setting adding resonance and reverence.

A volunteer cannon crew will present Civil War-style firing demonstrations on Oct. 18 at 10 a.m. and at noon, 1 and 3 p.m. Discover how the work of engaging the enemy with artillery was as much an art as it was a science during this pivotal period in the community’s, and nation’s, history.

An exhibition of artwork produced by artists from the Civil War era, past battlefield artists-in-residence and modern-day local artists will be on display within the park’s visitors center.

The concerts and artillery demonstrations will take place on the patio and lawn just behind the visitors center. Limited concert seating will be available. Those attending may bring a folding chair or blanket.

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Saturday, Oct. 25, Hometown Bluegrass will perform at the annual Harvest Days celebration in Cannonsburgh Village.

This annual festival features crafts, clogging, demonstrations, food trucks, music, outdoor charm and local history, running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Hometown Bluegrass (which shares some common members with the Home Sweet Home Band) will take the Cannonsburgh gazebo stage at the center of the festivities.