 sj |
||
|
||
First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award
|
|
|
Subject: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Awar From: katlaughing Date: 23 Jun 07 - 02:52 PM I just received another priceless package of CDs in the mail today from Art Thieme. I say priceless because they are his own recordings of incredible people in the early 60's at house concerts in Chicago and could well be the only such recordings known and they were totally unexpected. This is not the first time I've received such "surprises" from Art and I know he's passed similar on to others. In my mind, that makes us a privileged lot. So it is, I propose to start an Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award and nominate Art Thieme as the first one. But, wait, there's more! For this inaugural year, only, I would nominate three others to share with him: Jean Ritchie/kytrad AND Sandy & Caroline Paton of Folk Legacy. I know there are others who deserve this, too, but for this first time, that's my list. I intend to print up some nifty, suitable-for-framing awards and send them out post haste. It's a small thing and I would I could send oodles of cash, too, but it feels good to recognise them and say:
|
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Severn Date: 23 Jun 07 - 02:56 PM Good choices, all! |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: GUEST,Texas Guest Date: 23 Jun 07 - 04:25 PM I don't know why I never came across Art back when I was working with Michael Smith - my loss, I would say. It seems, from the threads that I have read that Art would be a wonderful person to know and if I lived in Chicago I would surely look him up. Katlaughing, I think you have a wonderful idea; but, I would hesitate to give the award to three folk(s) in one year. Not that any one of the three doesn't deserve it, on the contrary; however, I do think that you will find down the road, that if your award persists - you will run out of receipients quicker than you think. On the other hand, priming the pump with three, four, or even five for the first year and then going to an annual single award could work out just fine, too. At any rate, it's a good idea and I certainly support your efforts. Cheers. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: McGrath of Harlow Date: 23 Jun 07 - 04:32 PM Good choice - and I'd add Jerry Rasmussen to that. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: emjay Date: 23 Jun 07 - 04:37 PM I see noting at all wrong with naming those three for the first awards. They all are very deserving. There are others on the Cat who should receive future awards but this is a very good start. One additional thing I would add: |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: emjay Date: 23 Jun 07 - 04:44 PM wooops -- that disappeared before I finished. And don't forget Frank Hamilton of the Weavers! Treasures, all, and not all living. Frank posts on the Mudcat from time to time and should, I think, be recognized. What I wanted to say was there must never be a requirement that there has to be an award given every year, and if two or more are deemed to be deserving in a year, they may all be given an award in that year. Dates? Say nominations are accepted from Jan 1 to March 30 of a year, names posted for voting with biographical sketches, accomplishments, etc., and votes submitted (somehow), with winners to be announced by July 1? Or any other procedure, but procedure could and maybe should be established in advance. I like the idea very much. There can never be too many Living Treasures. And what if we all delay and we lose one of these treasures before he or she has been recognized? Perhaps provisions for posthumous awards? |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 23 Jun 07 - 04:46 PM Well, thanks folks. I have been here almost ten years and I don't think I'd ever run outta folks to nominate. Jerry is a good one, too, but I am going to keep it to the initial ones I mentioned for this first year. I was thinking of where folks are along in years of living, too.:-) (No offense, Art, Jean, Sandy & Caroline!) emjay...cat got yer tongue?*bg* Thanks, again, folks. Next year's nominations will not be open until next Spring. I am working on a certificate. When I get it done and maile doff to them, I will put up a picture of it. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 23 Jun 07 - 04:47 PM Well, thanks folks. I have been here almost ten years and I don't think I'd ever run outta folks to nominate. Jerry is a good one, too, but I am going to keep it to the initial ones I mentioned for this first year. I was thinking of where folks are along in years of living, too.:-) (No offense, Art, Jean, Sandy & Caroline!) emjay...cat got yer tongue?*bg* Thanks, again, folks. Next year's nominations will not be open until next Spring. I am working on a certificate. When I get it done and maile doff to them, I will put up a picture of it. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 23 Jun 07 - 04:48 PM Oops, we cross-posted, emjay. Good points, all! We do have a memorialpage, but certainly there could be something else, too. I really want to focus on honouring the Living, though, while they are here to enjoy it. What I wanted to say was there must never be a requirement that there has to be an award given every year, and if two or more are deemed to be deserving in a year, they may all be given an award in that year. Dates? Say nominations are accepted from Jan 1 to March 30 of a year, names posted for voting with biographical sketches, accomplishments, etc., and votes submitted (somehow), with winners to be announced by July 1? I completely agree with you on those points. Thanks! |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: emjay Date: 23 Jun 07 - 04:56 PM Kat, you have done a good thing and perhaps will receive your own Living Treasure award one of these days. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Bill D Date: 23 Jun 07 - 05:40 PM well...I was gonna nominate Chongo Chimp, but I think those are better choices. Chongo can wait a few years. (I have received a treasured package from Art, myself...) |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Charley Noble Date: 23 Jun 07 - 08:15 PM Excellent idea, Kat, and fine choices. Could we also provide them a million dollars each, not that they would accept it but wouldn't it be a nice gesture? Cheerily, Charley Noble |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Sorcha Date: 23 Jun 07 - 08:53 PM THAT'S who Frank Hamilton is????? Hail, I didn't know that!!!! Agree with your choices 100% kat. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 24 Jun 07 - 09:55 AM Thanks, folks. Sorry I was kind of arbitrary with the choices and setting this up, this year. I promise everyone gets a vote next year! In the meantime, please feel free to post biographical sketches, accomplishments, etc. of the recipients of this year's award!:-) |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Sandra in Sydney Date: 24 Jun 07 - 10:02 AM Art is definitely a Mudcat Living Treasure. sandra |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: wysiwyg Date: 24 Jun 07 - 10:22 AM Are they getting a yo-ho-ho treasure chest for display on the mantel? :~) Great choices, and well done. ~S~ |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Dan Schatz Date: 24 Jun 07 - 10:54 AM Thing is, there are so many living treasures on the Mudcat. I'd include Kendall in that list, at the very least - or at least I would have until you mentioned it had to be someone getting along in years. I know better than to nominate ANYONE by that criterion. It seems to me characteristic of our particular art form (traditional music) and this kind of forum that we are able to benefit directly from the wisdom and experiences of people like these, who have not only been making good music all of their lives, but who have been helping other people make music as well. Add to that the people on this list who are enormously talented, but not so well known, who enliven and lift our gatherings whenever we're together, whose music we look forward to, even if we only know them as "that nice couple who sing Australian songs" or "you know, the big bearded guy with the guitar - no, the other one" and you have an impressive list indeed. And what about the people who may not be the world's best singers or instrumentalists, but who know more and different kinds of songs then most of the rest of us put together? And.... and... well you get the idea. It's a good idea, Kat. You're right - we'd never run out. Dan Schatz |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: catspaw49 Date: 24 Jun 07 - 11:13 AM Sweet Jesus.....And you call ME the "Evil Twin?" What kind of dubious award is this? A "Mudcat" Living Treasure? damn....that's kinda' like being chosen as National poster boy for the clap or something............... But since you're doing it......***sigh***.........I can't think of any better candidates. A fine group deserving of whatever honors come their way. I hope they forgive us for this one.............. Spaw |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: RoyH (Burl) Date: 24 Jun 07 - 02:44 PM Yep,I agree. Those three will do for me. Burl |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Lin in Kansas Date: 24 Jun 07 - 02:55 PM And besides being Living Treasures, they're all just damned nice folks! Thanks, all of you. Great idea, Kat! Lin |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Mooh Date: 24 Jun 07 - 03:04 PM Fantastic! Good idea, great work! Peace, Mooh. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 24 Jun 07 - 03:08 PM Ah, geez...I can already see next year's line up!! Thanks, folks!! |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: George Seto - af221@chebucto.ns.ca Date: 24 Jun 07 - 04:26 PM Kat!!! Wonderful idea! Thanks. I concur for this year. And to add to speculation for next year or future awards: Max Joe Dick Susan Malcolm Douglas Masato Jeri Charley Noble |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Charley Noble Date: 24 Jun 07 - 05:15 PM George- Thanks, but I'm much too immature to accept an award as a LIVING TREASURE. However, I might just accept a nomination for an Ignoble Award if one were offered. But what splendid company! Cheerily, Charley Noble |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Big Jim from Jackson Date: 24 Jun 07 - 08:27 PM What mechanism is going to be set up to cast our vote? I sure have full support for the four you've proposed. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Jerry Rasmussen Date: 24 Jun 07 - 08:39 PM Sheesh, Kat! That's like asking which of your kids you love the most! How could I ever choose between Art (who has been a close friend for over 30 years,) Sandy & Caroline Paton who have meant everything to me for closer to 40 years, and Kytrad, who I had the great, great honor of booking for a concert further back than it would be fair to say. They are all wonderful people, first. They've done an enormous amount for folk music (second) and are wonderful singers and musicians (third.) I'll give you switching the last two around in order but when it comes to fine human beings, you could throw all three names in the basket (Sandy'nCaroline being one) and you couldn't go wrong, whichever name you drew. You know, when they started the Baseball Hall Of Fame, they had a whole group of people who went in on the first ballot, just because there was no way to pick between so many stars. And besides, to my knowledge, none of these three candidates got where they are because they used steroids. American Heros, all!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Jerry |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: SINSULL Date: 24 Jun 07 - 08:45 PM Shatner? Surely he's had the most threads. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Charley Noble Date: 24 Jun 07 - 08:52 PM Another fine researcher at Mudcat that should be nominated would be "Q." Charley Noble |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: The Fooles Troupe Date: 24 Jun 07 - 10:26 PM Good Idea - I only have ONE negative thing to say... What's taken so long to get this idea started? :-) |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Bert Date: 24 Jun 07 - 10:33 PM Good choices kat. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: pdq Date: 24 Jun 07 - 10:46 PM For a prize, maybe we can get Art Thieme a good used computer so he can log-in as a member. I am willing to contribute a modest amount of money to see that happen. Art is a true wit and the most entertaining Mudcatter we have. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: GUEST,Art Thieme Date: 24 Jun 07 - 11:39 PM Kat, and all you good folks--- Living, being a great treasure in itself, is something I've had for 66 years (on July 9) -- but this kind of award is the type of thing I have a rather hard time getting my mind around and feeling worthy of. (Jerry can vouch for that!) But it's good to know that some of the folks I've respected and loved through the years feel I did some things O.K. Kat, my recent memory is a very iffy thing now, as maybe I've told you. Send me an e-mail and tell me what I sent you. I recall sending it, but that's all... Art |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 25 Jun 07 - 12:59 AM I'll do so tomorrow morning, Art. I understand. Now, I am pleased you are gracious enough to accept and not protest too much. Just repeat after me, "I AM worthy, I AM worthy, I AM worthy!!!!" And, we love you!! Jerrydarlin'...sorry, I should have used clearer language. I know I said I nominated them each, but what I meant was they are ALL getting the First Annual, etc. 'cause that's what I decided!**bg** pdq...we might be able to do something about that. I'll send you a PM. Fools, I hear there was some muttering about it a couple of yeas ago...maybe the timing just had to kick in? Spawdarlin'....bite me....your turn to clean the litter box! luvya'llkat |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Waddon Pete Date: 25 Jun 07 - 05:42 AM This is a great idea Kat....all power to your elbow! I whole heartedly agree with the choices and also agree that you'll never be short of people to nominate in the years to come! Best wishes, Peter |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Stringsinger Date: 25 Jun 07 - 11:48 AM emjay, I wanted to thank you for your kind words. It's a privilege to be in the company of Jean, Art, Mike Smith and so many others of the wonderful Mudcat crew. I have to express my appreciation to this fine Mudcat site. I've learned so much from it. Sometimes we all get cantankerous from time to time and in my case I sometimes regret the negative posts that I sent. But I think we are all passionate about the music we love....folk music. I still love it after all these years playing and singing it and know that on Mudcat we all share the same passion. When I think I'm getting tired of folk music, I hear Buell Kazee or Vera Hall or Texas Gladden and I'm reminded of why I got into this in the first place. Also Jean Ritchie who is an inspiration to me. So it's back to pickin' the banjo and singin' my favorite songs. Frank Hamilton |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 25 Jun 07 - 02:33 PM You are right up there with the rest of them Frank. It has been a pleasure having you around here. Watch this space next year! |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 25 Jun 07 - 04:23 PM In addition to the handy-dandy certificate I am making up for each recipient, there is a "surprise" which will be sent to each of them, too. Because it is a surprise, anyone who is interested in helping with the cost (about $50 each), should PM Rapaire or me for the details. You will have to promise not to say anything until they have all received them...then all shall be revealed!**bg** This is so much fun!! Thanks, Rapaire for a wonderful idea!! It is going to be so kewl when they all get their surprises!! |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: wysiwyg Date: 25 Jun 07 - 05:08 PM And just in case people don't feel they can stutter out "I AM worthy," it's OK to practice first with "I AM stuck with this." :~) You can work up to "worthy," but it won't actually change how we see ya's anyhow. :~) Art, you sent ME a treasured recording of Fred Campeau and, I believe, Jim and Vivian to replace a tape I'd caught at No Exit of them and wore plumb out. (How's THAT for a poorly-constructed sentence.) And I believe a certain saw-wielding gentleman was on there as well, so that my husband (a Chicagoan who had been too busy for the Folk Scare and lived southside anyway) could get a taste of what I'd cut MY teeth on. ~Susan |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Jerry Rasmussen Date: 26 Jun 07 - 07:31 AM Tell me who I send a check to, Kat. I'd be real happy to support this. Jerry |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 26 Jun 07 - 04:39 PM Jerry, I will send you a PM. Thanks! |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Big Mick Date: 26 Jun 07 - 04:49 PM PM me as well, kat. I am in for a chunk. And Frank, having you on the Mudcat (in addition to Art, the Patons, Jerry Rasmussen, and Jean) just shows that the old joint has stature. You add immensely to it, and I am grateful to you for what you share with us. And I brag to friends that I get to argue with you ******chuckle******. I wish Rick were around so he could be one too!! Great idea, kat. All the best, Mick |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 26 Jun 07 - 06:36 PM Just sent a PM, Mick. Thanks! I wish Rick was here for this, too. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: GUEST,wordy Date: 26 Jun 07 - 07:01 PM Rick's always around on Mudcat, and he's a living treasure...in our hearts. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 27 Jun 07 - 03:19 AM That's the Truth, no doubt about it, wordy! |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 27 Jun 07 - 01:56 PM After some behind-the-scenes consultations, we are going to offer these every six months for the first 2-3 years, then see about going to annually. There's a feeling that there are quite a few who ought to be recognised...so it's going to be kind of a "retroactive" thingie.*smile* So, watch this space in six months, folks, and keep those cards and letters comin'! Thanks! |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: GUEST,TJ in San Diego Date: 27 Jun 07 - 06:00 PM I'd throw in Travis Edmonson, of "Bud & Travis." He is still living in Arizona and, though illness prevents him from playing now, he is still very passionate about the music. Theodore Bikel is another, albeit "different" category of folk performer, who is still active at around 83. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: John MacKenzie Date: 27 Jun 07 - 06:12 PM If you ever awarded it posthumously one year, you could call it the Mudcat Buried Treasure Award. G. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 27 Jun 07 - 07:55 PM Giok, LOL...Rick would appreciate that humour. TJinSD...are either of them members of Mudcat? That's a prerequisite. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 28 Jun 07 - 12:02 PM Anyone else interested in contributing a few dollars/pound/etc. to the surprise pot, please PM Rapaire or me. Thanks! |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Sandy Paton Date: 28 Jun 07 - 04:44 PM Caroline and I are deeply honored and proud to be included in such wonderful company. Jean and Art are two of our favorite people and are both artists we have admired for decades. In fact, Jean's very early 10-inch LP (was it on Elektra, Jean?) was one of the recordings that first drew Caroline to this music called "folk." That may well have been in 1953. I met Art while he was still working at Rose Records in Chicago, about 1960. I was at Kroch's and Brentano's. He was just a kid, really, and when he asked about learning more about the "folk" of America, I suggested to him that he might hitch-hike around the country, meeting folks and talking/singing with them. He took me seriously and when next I heard him sing (at a festival here in Connecticut) he was an accomplished spokesperson for the American people and their music. That was when I invited him to record for Folk-Legacy, which he did. I cherish both of these long-lasting friendships, and always will. I do wish I had more free time to visit the 'Cat forum, but I do drop in when I can. Sandy |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: greg stephens Date: 29 Jun 07 - 09:28 AM Strange there has been no mention of JOhn from Hull so far. Now, that man really is a treasure. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 29 Jun 07 - 02:52 PM :-) SandyGramps, thanks for stopping by and for the story! I am still working on the certificate, but watch your mail around mid-July...luvyakat |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: GUEST,Art Thieme Date: 29 Jun 07 - 05:41 PM Thanks for the kind reminiscence Sandy. I think it was 1959, when I was 19 and still in high school, that you were the featured performer at a Sunday afternoon hootenanny at Chicago's GATE OF HORN. Your songs and music, recently acquired by you on a collecting trip to the British Isles, was truly inspiring and vividly transporting for me. I graduated that June and headed to Evansville, Indiana to work in my uncle's factory for the summer. In Evansville I ordered your first LP---still a favorite of mine no matter what you say about it. I waited all summer for that LP to arrive at the store, and on the last day before I was to head for college, it came in. ---- I still have it. I don't know if Mudcatters know that your recording of "Wild Mountain Thyme" on "THE MANY SIDES OF SANDY PATON" was the first time that great song had ever been recorded in the U.S.A. I can't believe how good it feels to know some of the people I respect most in this folk world----Sandy, Frank, Jean, and others don't mind my being a part of this. Love to you all, Art |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 29 Jun 07 - 11:11 PM It's exactly those kinds of "origins" stories we need more of in this thread! Let's hear more on all of the recipients! |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: GUEST,Art Thieme Date: 29 Jun 07 - 11:39 PM Never was real good at math. In 1959 I was not 19. I was 18. Art |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Rapparee Date: 30 Jun 07 - 04:55 PM Daggone, Art. In 1959 I was...oh my...a whole lot younger than I am now.... |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Jerry Rasmussen Date: 30 Jun 07 - 05:16 PM Here's a story about Art. It must have been in the mid 70's, not that many years after I first met Sandy & Caroline Paton. In those days, The Sounding Board in Hartford, Ct.,in conjunction with Sandy & Caroline, did a Folk Legacy Festival. I was a new recording artist in their stable (and a wonderful stable it was, with Bok, Trickett and Muir, Bill Staines, Kendall and many other fine musicians in adjacent stalls.) Art hadn't recorded for Folk-Legacy yet, but Sandy & Caroline invited him to the festival in anticipation. It was my first festival as a performer and I was trying to be as invisble as possible, feeling very overshadowed by other musicians whose records I loved. Almost everyone there was a stranger to me, including Art. Art says that we talked in the hall somwehre along the line, but much to my embarassment, I don't remember it. Hopefully, I can be excused as the nervous novice (anybody remember Nervous Norvus?) I was. Maybe I'd better make this a two-parter before Joe Offer Offs me for being too wordy.. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Ebbie Date: 30 Jun 07 - 05:18 PM Kat, PM me with your address too. I want in on this! |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Jerry Rasmussen Date: 30 Jun 07 - 05:24 PM as I was saying.. A few months later, I received a package in the mail from some guy named Art Thieme. When I opened it, it was a wonderful book of Folk Songs Of Wisconsin, with a one-sentence note saying that we'd met at the Folk-Legacy Festival. That's the kind of guy Art is. Someone who would see a book that he thought someone would enjoy, buying it and shipping it off. I was taken aback by his generosity. I wrote back one of my typical, endlessly wordy letters. A couple of weeks later, I got a response from Art. Two or three sentences long, saying that he didn't write letters. Not being easily intimidated, I immediately dashed off a three-pager and told him that I'd write to him as often and as long as I felt like it, whether he responded with three sentence letters or not. Thirty years and close to a thousand letters later (with Art's as wordy as mine,) Art and I knew each other about as much as two people can. We went through the highest of highs and the lowest of lows together. We didn't feel the same way about some things, but we respected each other. No, more than that. We loved each other. There is no finer man than Art. Jerry |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Ferrara Date: 30 Jun 07 - 06:20 PM Ohhhh.... Thanks Art, Jerry and Sandy, for the stories. And thanks Kat, for the whole idea. This is a good thing. Rita |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 30 Jun 07 - 11:27 PM Thank you, Ferrara and Jerry and Ebbie, etc. Jerry and Art, those are just the kind of stories we want! I'd love to hear more about Jean and the Patons, too. I am thinking when Jeff or Max or whomever has the time, a section about this award with a bio of each recipient would be neat and the stories posted to this thread and subsequent threads might be great material for a sort of Mudcat Hall of Fame part of that page. Just thinking out loud here, folks. BTW, Max has give this his seal of approval and will be signing the certificates I've designed as soon as I get them to him! (Gotta go get new printer cartridges tomorrow...the refilled ones just don't do true colour from what I've seen.) Thanks, everyone!! Can't wait for the reaction to the Surprises!! It's gonna be neat! |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Sandy Paton Date: 01 Jul 07 - 04:12 PM Art mentioned that early Elektra recording of mine. I was more nervous than Jerry at his first Folk-Legacy festival. Tight as a tick (however tight that might be), sitting in a fancy recording studio with Freddy Hellerman preparing to add his fancy guitar licks to my minimal efforts. Lord! How his presence intimidated me! My hands were shaking so fiercely that my fingers could hardly find the few strings I knew how to pluck. After all, he was a WEAVER! But what I wanted to remind you of, Art, is that the photographer who did the three-image cover shot for that album was none other than George Pickow, Jean Ritchie's extremely talented husband. His studio was called "Three Lions" (as I remember) and they did quite a few record jacket photos. That must have been back in 1959 (when you were only 18, Art!) I was a bit older than that. The note on the back of the album makes that painfully clear. Sandy |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: dick greenhaus Date: 01 Jul 07 - 04:59 PM WHile I agree that all the folks being honored are certainly deserving of honors, I'm a bit disturbed by the thought of Mudcat giving any awards. Mudcat has been, and remains a fairly anarchic disorganization of individuals; who has been annointed as the voice of the Mudcat? Is a vote of some sort under consideration? |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: GUEST,Art Thieme Date: 01 Jul 07 - 06:42 PM Dick, I do understand. As I said, it's hard for me to get my head around awards, and to take 'em seriously. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Ebbie Date: 01 Jul 07 - 07:03 PM I'm not thinking of the project as giving awards but expressing appreciation for the pleasure they have given. Fifty years from now Mudcat may well be expressing appreciation to today's most unlikely candidate! |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Jerry Rasmussen Date: 01 Jul 07 - 07:12 PM I'm with you, ebbie: Expressing appreciation never hurt anyone. Every recognition is subjective. If we need a vote on Jean, Art and Sandy & Caroline, you got mine. Jerry |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 01 Jul 07 - 07:38 PM I've thought of it as expressing appreciation, too and I know there are even more folks who deserve to be recognised, too. Maybe I should rename it to "Mudcat Living Treasure Certificate of Appreciation?" Let me know what you think, folks, please. I guess it was me, Dick, at least this first time; it was spontaneously born of the gift of CDs I received from Art last week. I think of him and others, including yourself, as living treasures and wanted to show how much it meant to me. Max has given it his okay. Yes, there will probably be a voting period for the next round, BUT I think it may be by PM so folks won't feel badly if they choose one person over another when they really care about both. This is all up for change as it is just starting, obviously. So, if people think the title should be changed, say so, please. I can easily change the thing I designed, but I need to do it soon so I can get them out. Thanks, kat |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Jerry Rasmussen Date: 01 Jul 07 - 08:45 PM Nahhhh... leave it the way it is, Kat. If you change it to an appreciation award, then if someone doesn't get it, they might say to themselves, "Huh! I guess they don't appreciate me!" The appeal of you starting it out of the goodness of your own heart Kat is that at least initially it doesn't have to get bogged down in endless discussions. I don't think that anyone could disagree with your first three choices. From that point on, if there even IS a "From that point on," there'll be time to formulate a way to review other recommended candidates in a way that is not offensive to anyone. Give Art, Jean and Sandy and Caroline the roses while they live. If it never goes further than that, it will still have been a wonderful thing. Jerry |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 01 Jul 07 - 09:15 PM Jerry, I appreciate what you just posted. Thanks, very much!:-) |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: dick greenhaus Date: 02 Jul 07 - 05:39 PM I won't belabor my point after this, but I still that it's a mistake for any individual or group to speak for Mudcat. My taste, or your taste, or Max's taste (for that matter) doesn't necessarily reflect the taste of Mudcat, if such a thing exists. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: GUEST, Ebbie Date: 02 Jul 07 - 05:55 PM I hear what you're saying, Dick, but I think that sometimes we do belabor a point to the point of inertia. This is a great spontaneous idea with a wonderful surprise and I hope we just leap at it. As Jerry said, if Mudcat as a whole -is there such a thing? -decides later on not to go on with it, fine. The people who might have been chosen for the honor will be present for that discussion to take place thus avoiding any possible hurt feelings. Frankly, I'm of the opinion that any persons considered for such an honor are of such type that their feelings wouldn't be hurt in any case. We have some special people here. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 02 Jul 07 - 11:17 PM Well, I guess we could change the name, take off "Mudcat" and each person who contributes a "yea" vote and/or money for the "surprises" could sign the thing. Might take a while to get all of those signatures, but what the hell, I'm open for it. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 02 Jul 07 - 11:20 PM New name: Katlaughing's Spontaneous Executive Decision Appreciation Award with backing from the following sponsors: Rapaire, Jerry, Ebbie, etc., etc. (I'll look up all of the names if we do this this way!)*smile sort of* |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: BK Lick Date: 02 Jul 07 - 11:54 PM Nullum beneficium impunitum. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 12 Jul 07 - 10:33 PM Jean is back on line!! Welcome back kytrad!! |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: kytrad (Jean Ritchie) Date: 14 Jul 07 - 06:36 PM Hey Everybody! We've been a month in Kentucky and our laptap refused to function there (stunned reaction to all the mountaintop removal going on, I think, so I got far behind with Mudcat. Lovely surprise to learn that my name was included for a Mudcat Award. I always have the feeling that our old family songs are so ancient and bland, compared with the entertainment-conscious music, or with. the exciting and different music from all round the world, which is the popular Folk Music of today- that it is being given a rest by most folks as they discover and enjoy the newer sounds. SO- I'm used to being left off lists, and not invited onstage at places where quiet stuff is lost in the presentation. That's all right with me; but just want to say that this is why I'm surprised at getting Awards And this is the year for them-* I'm agog. And Kat- I DO think it's because I'm still living- just! I'm to be 85 in December and I can hear award givers saying to each other, "Geez- this may be her last year- we'd better hurry!" It's a giggle for me to think of this, and I certainly don't resent it. You young'uns, your time will come... Katlaughing- my humble thanks for thinking of me, and taking this interesting action for Mudcat. Art, Sandy and Caroline are all good old friends- to be Awarded anything in their company is a joy for me. And thanks to all of you for the above letter of congratulations and good wishes. The same to all of you! Jean Ritchie *Will tell of the others if anyone wishes to hear- I don't like to brag!!! J. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 14 Jul 07 - 08:25 PM Yes, yes, PLEASE, Jean! Would love to hear more! As to your music..NOT boring and if the usual gangs don't like its quietness...more fools they...I would they come to know the beauty and peace of it, even the sad songs of it. Thanks so much for posting, Jean. luvyakat |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Sorcha Date: 14 Jul 07 - 09:20 PM YEA Jean!!!! And Art, Sandy, Caroline, all the others too! AND Kat for thinking of this and DOING IT! |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Jerry Rasmussen Date: 14 Jul 07 - 10:27 PM Many years ago, I had the great honor of booking Jean for a concert series that I ran at the Stamford Museum, in Connecticut. I can tell you, no one was bored! It was a magical night... one of a handful that I'll always remember. Also, many years ago, Hall Leonard publications came out with a songbook titled New Folk Favorites. I was greatly honored to have one of my songs included, as did Jean, and because of the blessed alphabet, we shared facing pages. Gotta love the alphabet.. Jerry |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Alice Date: 15 Jul 07 - 12:37 PM I love and appreciate all you great ones who have given us this enduring treasure - folk music. Love, Alice Flynn in Montana |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: wysiwyg Date: 15 Jul 07 - 12:42 PM Proposed: Katlaughing's Spontaneous Executive Decision Appreciation Award Honoring Living Mudcat Treasures. I think the "Mudcat" in the award name may have been meant to honor the recipient Catters, not the awarder thereof. (Cantcha just call it the Big Kahuna?) ~S~ |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Rapparee Date: 15 Jul 07 - 01:45 PM Katlaughing's Big Mudcat Kahuna, perhaps? |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 15 Jul 07 - 02:03 PM How about Kat's Tribute to the Alive and Kicking Folks with the Mostest Gentility, Generosity, Stories, Music, and All Around Good Things to Share at the Mudcat Cafe?! In Other words: KTAKFMGGSMAAGTSMC!! Too long? Naw!! |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Rapparee Date: 28 Jul 07 - 11:24 PM I know a secret I won't tell, I won't tell, I won't tell, I know a secret I won't tell, La de da de da da. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 28 Jul 07 - 11:26 PM LOL...I know a Secret, too! Can't wait for the Surprises to get there! Heeheeheehee! |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: kytrad (Jean Ritchie) Date: 02 Aug 07 - 08:11 PM And what surprises! Who owns the stars anyway, that they can be named by an earthly corporation? For a fee? Well I do wonder about it, but nevertheless I'm laughing and dancing (inside) that you thought of such a lovely outlandish thing, Kat! Say;, is this a thread? And just for your personal page? I think all should take part in the Mudcat Celebration of Stars....but perhaps you're planning another approach, so I'll hush and just say a private thanks to you and all who thought this up, dear. I'm so tickled! As a Kentuckian you'll know that expression. Speaking of KY, I just got home-again- from KY Music Weekend in Louisville and thence to The Woodsong Oldtime Radio Hour, in Lexington. A flying trip and a long weekend, to land home with this package arriving the next day. One reason I'm so tickled: In 2007, three things happened, in succession: My uphill driveway going to our cabin in Viper suddenly sported a green roadsign, put up by the county, reading. "Jean Ritchie Lane..... Number two, soon after- the KY governor announced to the crowd at the groundbreaking for the little two-mile road between Vipr and Jeff (just rebuilding, but also it's moved higher on the mountain so is really a new piece of # 7) that it was going to be named for Jean Ritchie, local folksong legend. And now, number three, the idea has left Earth and sailed up to the stars..... I hear you're laughing too- it IS funny, isn't it? Much love to all, Jean |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: kytrad (Jean Ritchie) Date: 02 Aug 07 - 08:17 PM Kat- I printed this without re-reading and you'd better fix the first word in the 2nd paragraph should be One- instead of Pme! I guess that's how excited I am- gettin jittery! JR |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Celtaddict Date: 02 Aug 07 - 10:26 PM Jean/kytrad, you and Art are among the 'Catters I most hope to meet one day! I have been privileged to meet a good number of my online favorites. A Patons story: I had met Sandy & Caroline a couple of times at festivals, and had been told (by K.C. King I think) that they had some new, good Folk-Legacy releases (OK, so good and F-L is redundant). I was under the impression from what a couple of other musician friends had told me that they had, not exactly a store, but a place one could just browse over their stuff. I was visiting a friend (and one not even much familiar with music but interested in learning a bit more) in northwest Connecticut, and on a whim decided to call Folk-Legacy. Caroline answered the phone, and said, "I just drew a bath, give me an hour, then here are directions to the house." (Come to think of it, every time I call Folk-Legacy to order something, she has just drawn a bath.) We drove up, and Sandy met us at the door. I was not even sure they thought I looked familiar, but they invited us in, made tea, brought out boxes of CDs, and entertained us for a good deal of an afternoon with tales of their early days in music, some of the causes they have been involved in, many of the musicians they know (and luckily I knew enough musicians to maintain some participation in the conversation). Their young grandson Kaelan (for whom Larry Kaplan named his "Kaelan's Ceilildhe") had his trains set up in the room making tracks to race downhill, punctuating the tales. What gracious and fascinating people! No one sang a song any more than the line or two needed to identify a song or a variant in conversation, but that afternoon lives on as one of my favorite 'music events' ever. Thank you! |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Celtaddict Date: 02 Aug 07 - 10:44 PM 'Ceilidhe' is the way he spells it on his CD, and I am not getting into that other thread; sorry about the typo. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 03 Aug 07 - 12:07 AM Thanks for the story, celtaddict! My grandson and I just got the nicest package from the Patons. TWO limberjacks for us and oh boy are we having fun with them! Jean! SO glad it got there to you. I cannot take credit for the star idea, though. That was Rapaire's doing. He coordinated all of it while he and I hashed out the text (they don't give a lot of space for the things we'd like have said about you all!) The other certificate I designed and printed will be on its way to you soon, commemorating you as a recipient of a First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award. It won't be as fancy as a star named after you, but it's "Mudcat good" a phrase my husband made up when something strikes him as fittin' for the Mudcat. Anyway, I am GLAD you had another surprise that made you so giddy.*smile* Congrats on the "Jean Ritchie" roads, too! And, you deserve much more, imo! Thanks, luvyakat |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 03 Aug 07 - 04:34 PM refresh |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Alba Date: 03 Aug 07 - 09:50 PM Long may you be tickled by Starlight Jean. You shine among us and now above us. As a song I sing says.. "It is the same Moon rising everywhere". I suppose that would apply to the stars in the sky too? So as it is always nightime somewhere on this Planet seems all we need to do, where ever we may be, is simply look up into the night sky and see our paths being lit by Friends! (Of course when coming to see you, face to face Jean in KY I take it we will just follow the Road Signs? ...(smile) Love and Light Jean, Love and Light. Jude |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: katlaughing Date: 09 Aug 07 - 12:24 AM Okay! Everyone, all four of them, have now received their Star-Named-After-Them certificates and all VERY well received. The Patons were surprised and tickled, as Jean put it. There's still just a simple little thing I made up to get to each of them, after Max signs them and sends them on. A BUNCH of Thanks to Rapaire for the great idea about the stars AND for taking care of the whole enchilada, with special THANKS to those who sent in donations to help pay for the star-namings. Jean Ritchie, Sandy & Caroline Paton and Art Thieme - Official Recipients of teh First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure awards!! Congrats. folks and THANKS, again for being here, for sharing, and for teaching. luvyakat |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: olddude Date: 02 Mar 09 - 11:35 AM refresh |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: open mike Date: 27 Jul 09 - 02:46 PM Sad news..Sandy Paton passed away July, 2009. His star still shines. |
|
Subject: RE: First Annual Mudcat Living Treasure Award From: Amos Date: 27 Jul 09 - 03:31 PM I am grateful he got his star while he walked. A |
| Share Thread: |