April-June 1995

In this issue

1. Greetings!
   by Murphy Hicks Henry Murphy continues to outline the bulletin's mission to serve all women in bluegrass, from professionals to semi-professionals but not students, while clarifying the scope of its women-only database.
   Database Crosses 900 Mark by Murphy Hicks Henry An update on the growing database of female bluegrass musicians and an explanation of its practical use for networking and job opportunities.
   Letter by Murphy Hicks Henry A selection of reader letters sharing personal experiences of both discouraging sexism and positive musical moments in the bluegrass world.
   Subscriptions by Murphy Hicks Henry A call for readers to subscribe to the bulletin to support its ongoing publication.
2. Women in Bluegrass: A University Perspective
   by Jack Tottle and Amanda Mathis (Thomas) (printed “Amanda Mathis” [sic]) An article by ETSU's bluegrass program director, Jack Tottle, highlighting the institutional support and success of women in his bluegrass program while acknowledging that discrimination persists elsewhere. Current student Amanda Mathis also provides her perspective.
3. Ratifications
   by Casey Henry Casey's article about the new J.D. Crowe and the New South album (Rounder 0044) wherein she describes the technical and inspirational impact it had on her banjo playing.
4. Spotlight on... Lynn Morris
   by Murphy Hicks Henry and Lynn Morris An in-depth interview with Lynn Morris on the unique challenges of being a female bandleader in bluegrass including overcoming ingrained social expectations and earning respect.
5. Bluegrass With A Feminine Touch: The Plight of a Lady Banjo Picker
   by Sandy Crisco Hatley Sandy Crisco Hatley's first-person account of experiences with casual sexism, logistical inconveniences, and outright prejudice as a female banjo player.
6. What She Said...
   by Fran Larkin A letter from a beginning banjo player (and future newsletter contributor) expressing gratitude for the bulletin's validation of her experiences with exclusionary behavior at jam sessions.
7. Book Review, Come And Go, Molly Snow
   by Murphy Hicks Henry A review of a novel about a female bluegrass fiddler wherein Murphy shows her shock and excitment at the authentic depiction of the music and culture.
8. The WIBB Board
   by Nancy Hicks Pate An announcement of a new column (that never really got going) intended to be a reader-driven bulletin board for sharing news and recommendations about bluegrass music and recordings.
9. Change of Life
   by Murphy Hicks Henry Brief updates on members of the bluegrass community dealing with serious health issues and a tragic loss.

Photos

• Beth Stevens, page 2. Photo: ETSU Photo Lab. On Omeka
• Amanda Mathis (Thomas), page 3. Photo: ETSU Photo Lab. On Omeka
• Casey Henry, page 3. Photographer unknown. On Omeka
• Lynn Morris, page 5. Photographer unknown. On Omeka