Winter 1997

In this issue

1. Greetings!
   by Murphy Hicks Henry Murphy introduces the issue and thanks Alan O'Bryant for letting her join an on-stage jam at the Station Inn.
   More Nominations for Women by Murphy Hicks Henry A call to action for readers to nominate more women for IBMA awards, accompanied by a long list of women who released albums in 1996.
   Those Girl's Keys by Murphy Hicks Henry A compilation of an internet discussion thread started by Holly Tashian about the challenges women face singing bluegrass songs in keys originally pitched for male voices.
2. Responses to Editorial
   Dan Hayes, Executive Director IBMA by Dan Hays (printed “Dan Hayes” [sic]) A formal response from the IBMA's Executive Director to the previous issue's editorial, acknowledging the underrepresentation of women and suggesting the solution lies in getting more women nominated.
   Orin Friesen, Producer–IBMA Awards Show by Orin Friesen A detailed response from the awards show producer explaining the practical challenges of booking the show and defending specific booking decisions.
   Peter Wernick, President IBMA by Pete Wernick (printed “Peter Wernick” [sic]) A response from the IBMA president discussing the organization's "affirmative action" policy and arguing that talent, not quotas, should drive recognition.
3. “Why Ruin A Good Hobby?” Fiddler Vivian Williams
   by Claire Levine and Vivian Williams A profile of pioneering Seattle fiddler Vivian Williams, who chose a life of local music and community over a professional touring career.
4. Christmas Present
   by Nancy Hicks Pate A personal essay by Nancy Hicks Pate about the joy of playing and sharing Christmas music with her family and church community.
5. Girl's Keys: My Two Cents Worth
   by Murphy Hicks Henry Murphy uses historical evidence from Bill Monroe's career to argue that women should confidently sing in keys that suit their voices and lead jam sessions.
6. Ratifications
   by Casey Henry Casey Henry's story about attending an epic, multi-session picking party at a lavish house in Nashville over New Year's.
7. New Book!
   by Murphy Hicks Henry An advertisement for Murphy's new book, a collection of her past Banjo Newsletter columns.

Photos

• Vivian Williams, page 5. Photographer unknown. On Omeka