Quarantunes: Andy Brooks

Join McKissick Museum for Quarantunes with special guest Andy Brooks. We’re very excited to bring this old-time music to Facebook Live. Our long-time McKissick fans might even remember his music from our Contra-dancing program during FOLKfabulous 2019.

Andy Brooks’ musical journey is inspired by multiple traditions, yielding a collection of hundreds of tunes that he knows and plays by heart. Brooks discovered the music of Pete and Mike Seeger, and by 17 was fascinated by the flashy performances of bluegrass pioneers Earl Scruggs and Lester Flatt. Brooks’ love of the fiddle led him far and wide, seeking out albums, festivals, and fiddlers to expand his repertoire and learn a variety of styles.

Brooks’ dedication and talent have earned him recognition, including winning the 2016 South Carolina State Fiddle Championship at Hagood Mill in Pickens, where he also placed second in banjo. Andy received the Jean Laney Harris Folk Heritage Award in 2019.

An avid educator, Brooks has taught in the Young Appalachian Musicians After School Program and the Oconee Heritage Center in Walhalla. When he plays for dances, he encourages students to join him onstage, and is always eager to talk about their musical ambitions. Brooks and his students often play at nursing homes, churches, and charity events. Passionate about sharing his knowledge of the history, songs, and spirit of old-time music, Brooks is keeping the tradition alive.