This annual country music festival features entertainment for the whole family and instrumental workshops for musicians of all levels.
This year, in recognition of the 100th anniversary of the birth of Don Messer, the famous fiddler will be honoured on opening night with a special tribute headlined by one of Canada’s top fiddlers, Ivan Hicks of New Brunswick. “We hope the tribute to Don Messer can be the start of a new tradition to honour deserving Canadian country music performers who have passed on.” These two icons in Canadian music were both born on May 9, Hank Snow in 1914 and Don Messer in 1909. The late fiddler’s eldest daughter, Dawn Messer Attis, said she is pleased that her father is being honoured in this manner. “Hank and Dad were friends over the years and I know he would be very happy with this tribute to him. I applaud and congratulate the society for keeping alive the music and traditions of Canadian music pioneers like my father.” From now until the end of the year there will be a special exhibit featuring Don Messer and his music at the Hank Snow Country Music Centre. Members of the public are invited and encouraged to visit the centre to see the special display, which includes photos and other memorabilia.
In addition to the special night in honour of Don Messer, the 2009 Hank Snow Tribute will feature a wide variety of performances, workshops and events.