Border Mail Editorial

PETER BATSON
20 Aug, 2011 01:00 AM

EVERY winter Beechworth transforms into a vibrant bluegrass and old-time country music hub that attracts finger pickin’ devotees from far and wide.Twelve years after a group of musicians and their families first got together in the historic gold town for an informal weekend of finger pickin’, the Kelly Country Pick has grown into one of Australia’s biggest bluegrass and old-time country music conventions, attracting up to 500 enthusiasts every year..

This weekend’s event is open to everyone — not just pickers — and features a diverse line-up headed by Australia’s top bluegrass act, the double Golden Guitar-winning Davidson Brothers — Hamish and Lachlan — fresh from recording their new album in Nashville, Here to Stay.

The Gippsland-raised siblings will unveil the album this weekend in Beechworth.

The Strzelecki Stringbusters, Kristy Cox Band, Flying Engine String Band, Coolgrass, Barefoot Nellie and Fat Chance are among the 14 other visiting music acts ready to perform.

The Kelly Country Pick offers music workshops and the chance for musicians and fans to enjoy some of Australia’s leading bluegrass and old-time musicians performing in concert and in informal sessions, both at the convention headquarters.

Visit kellycountrypick.org for more information