The Seldom Scene is an appropriate name for the renowned bluegrass band appearing at the Gordon Center for the Performing Arts tonight.
“We’re not like a regular touring band,” said member Dudley Connell. “We only work weekends [and] when we do get together to perform, we generally enjoy the camaraderie found in making music together.”
One of its members, banjo player Ben Eldridge, has been with The Seldom Scene since the band’s formation in 1971. An early member, madolinist John Duffey, proposed some rules for the group that remain intact to this day. The men agreed they would play only one night a week at local clubs, doing only occasional concerts and festivals on weekends. Further, they would record, but they would continue to keep their day jobs.
Though they remain a non-touring band, they have extensive recordings under their belts, producing seven albums in their first five years alone.
Band members include Dudley Connell, guitar player and lead vocalist. Playing dobro for the Scene is Fred Travers. As an accomplished vocalist, he also brings solid lead and harmony to the music.
Ronnie Simpkins, who has perform bluegrass since childhood, is bass player for the group. Lou Reid is the mandolin player and provides tenor vocals, what’s known asthe “high lonesome” tenor that is the signature of bluegrass.
THE SELDOM SCENE
» Venue: Gordon Center for the Performing Arts
» Where: 3506 Gwynbrook Ave., Owings Mills
» When: Tonight at 8 p.m.
» Tickets: $19
» Information: 410-356 SHOW (7469)
