Rick-

Someone once told me bluegrass was 'hopped up' folk music. Personally, I think there's too much emphasis on playing fast. But you need fast too. So you think speed is not a characteristic of bluegrass.

I asked one of my students what bluegrass music was. He said, "I don't what it is but I know it if I hear it."

Barbara thinks clawhammer banjo is bluegrass. That would mean we could take the date for the origin of bluegrass back a ways maybe to Boggs, Tanner, Poole, Macon or Carson. Or are they too folk?

When did bluegrass start- with Monroe/Scruggs or before?

I'm beginning to think coming up with a workable definition and origin might be too difficult. But I still think if could be useful.

Anyone want to have a go at it?

Richie