2003 Oklahoma International Bluegrass Festival
20/10/2003Beth, Jessica and I had a great time earlier this month over in Guthrie, Oklahoma. This was our fourth year to OIBF and once again we had a wonderful time. Bill and Carolyn Franke attended the festival as well – it just doesn’t get any better than good friends and good music.
Part of the gestalt of any music festival is the camping. This was the maiden voyage in our 1985 Volkswagen Westfalia camper van. I’ve been working on it for months and couldn’t wait to get to Guthrie to try it out. We still have a few bugs to iron out but the Westy worked great. Bill and Carolyn set up camp next to us and we spent four great days at the festival.
The music was incredible this year, as always. All the artists were excellent but the ones that stick in my mind are Tommy Emmanuel, Druha Trava, Earl Scruggs and of course the Kruger Brothers. The most exciting artist for me wasn’t even on the bill – Rob Ickes was on stage with the Earl Scruggs Review. I’m a big fan of Rob and I was blown away by his playing. Seeing Rob made my trip!