Jack Beck and Wendy Welch (Special Event)

Traditional songs and stories from Scotland and Appalachia.ANOTHER EVENING of 'both sides of the pond.' Jack Beck and Wendy Welch live in Scotland, but are spending the summer in America teaching at many music camps, and we've snagged them in between teaching assignments.SINGING THE SONGS AND BALLADS of his native Scotland has beenJack Beck's passion for more than 25 years. Over this time he has developed a style deeply rooted in the tradition of unaccompanied singing. His guitar accompaniments are used by a number of other respected performers. Jack served his 'apprenticeship' in the 1960s singing with Barbara Dickson and went on to found the critically acclaimed traditional group 'Heritage'. With them and as a solo artist he has performed throughout Europe and North America.Jack performs regularly with other musical luminaries. He often works with singer and banjo player Sara Grey, and singer-songwriter John Watt. His monthly interviews with folk musicians are syndicated on Scottish public radio and in Appalachia. An honorary life member of Scotland's Traditional Music and Song Association, Jack co-ordinates tutor training schemes throughout the country to ensure that future generations are prepared to carry the Scottish music traditions forward. TELLING STORIES is second nature to Wendy Welch. She writes a newspaper column on folklore and storytelling; is founder of the American Folklore Society's Storytelling Section; has written numerous articles on the art and study of storytelling; and teaches college classes on folklore and telling techniques. Cultural understanding is the hallmark of a repertoire gathered fromher native Appalachia and her studies in Newfoundland. Earning a Ph.D. in Folklore infuses her tales with depth and meaning; an energetic approach to life makes them come alive.