Traditionally a host of Celtic and bluegrass music, the Thomson-McDuffie Chamber of Commerce concert series is bringing the old favorites back with a new twist. The duo of Jamie Laval and Ashley Broder will perform at Thomson's historic Depot at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 8.
Mr. Laval plays the violin and Miss Broder plays the mandolin in what the violinist describes as a "very special style of music based on very, very old material" that is peasant dance music from three or four hundred years ago.
"And we kind of give it a modern spin," Mr. Laval said. "It's been very well received all over the country as we tour. ... It's very lively and it's very expressive at the same time."
In a telephone interview, Mr. Laval said the music is primarily from Ireland, Scotland, Brittany and Whales. Although it is based on a traditional manner of playing, Mr. Laval said he and Miss Broder arrange the music with different harmonies and rhythms.
"We have a lot of interplay between our instruments to do a coy, playful weaving in and out of the material where we change our roles constantly. Even every three notes, we'll change our roles (of playing melody or cords), so it's back and forth, chasing each other around," he said. "So basically, it just gives a really approachable way for new audiences to listen to that kind of material."
The concert is presented by the Thomson-McDuffie Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with the Activities Council of Thomson. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at the Chamber of Commerce in the Depot, or at the door. For more information, call 706-597-1000.
