If you like old time music, the Dear Old Illinois - Traditional Music of Downstate Illinois book and CD set by Garry Harrison and Jo Burgess is a must. This collection of over 750 songs gives notes, chords and lyrics to many of Midwestern fiddle tunes that define the unique sound of old time music found in our region. Granted, we’re not in Illinois, but you get the idea.

Garry Harrison is a spectacular Midwestern fiddler who played with the Indian Creek Delta Boys in the 1970’s. He will be leading the Illinois Fiddle Tune Repertoire Workshop in Chicago on October 20th and 21st. Even if you can’t make it down to the workshop, the Dear Old Illinois book and CD’s are highly recommended. They are a wonderful collection of music that offer insight into the vast musical heritage of old time music in the Midwest.