Holt plays musical tribute to folk legend Doc Watson

Four-time Grammy award winner David Holt traces the life and legacy of folk legend Doc Watson who passed away on May 29, 2012 after a remarkable musical career that established him forever as a national treasure of worldwide importance. In this lively and entertaining special matinee performance, Holt pays tribute to his mentor with stories, songs and historic photographs at the Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place in downtown Asheville, Sunday, August 12, 2012 at 3:00 p.m. Joining Holt on bass and harmony vocals is Jeff Hersk. Proceeds from the performance will benefit longstanding Asheville tradition, Shindig on the Green.

David Holt is a musician, storyteller, historian, television host and entertainer, dedicated to performing and preserving traditional American music and stories. Holt began performing with Doc Watson in 1998 and one of the duo’s first appearances was on an hour-long UNC-TV (North Carolina PBS) program. Immediately following that program, sponsors began calling to book the duo’s new and exciting show, titled Hills of Home. Doc and David toured together for fourteen years, performing several shows per month. “Having been inspired by his music as a young man, I first met Doc in 1972,” says Holt. “If I had to choose one mentor that I have learned the most from it would be Doc Watson. I consider him my ‘musical father.’”

Doc Watson was an American folk legend who left an amazing legacy of music and stories. Hailed as one the country's greatest folk musicians, Doc carved an indelible mark into American music and culture. To be recognized as a national treasure by President Jimmy Carter, honored with the National Medal of the Arts by President Bill Clinton, and given an honorary doctorate degree from the University of North Carolina calls for being more than a fine musician and entertainer. Doc Watson received these accolades not only for his talent but also for the honor, integrity, humility, grace, and dignity that he displayed throughout his long and distinguished career. While there are many, many great guitar players and singers, there is only one Doc Watson.

For its role in the preservation and continuation of the traditional music, dance and storytelling heritage of the Southern Appalachian Mountains, David Holt has named Asheville’s Shindig on the Green as the beneficiary for the proceeds from the August 12 tribute performance. Shindig on the Green, and its sister event the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival, are produced annually by the Folk Heritage Committee.

To obtain more information on A Tribute to Doc Watson with David Holt’s August 12, 2012 at Diana Wortham Theatre or to purchase tickets ($20.00), call the theatre’s box office at (828) 257-4530 or visit www.dwtheatre.com.