LAUNCHPAD - Mountain Laurel in Concert
About this event
HTMA is proud to present Mountain Laurel as part of the Launchpad weekend sponsored by the Huntsville Music Office. There is no admission fee for this special event!
Mountain Laurel is a bluegrass band dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of traditional mountain music. Every performance celebrates the values of faith, family, fellowship, and the timeless spirit of Appalachian music.
Rick Rorex
Mandolin/Vocals
Rick is an award-winning mandolinist and vocalist. Beginning his mandolin journey at age 11, Rick cites influences ranging from the Emmy Lou Harris Band to jazz greats like Tiny Moore, Jethro Burns, and Charlie Parker. Inspired by David Grisman and Darol Anger recordings, Rick evolved his playing style and pursued diverse genres. He has collaborated with prominent bluegrass musicians, recording a solo mandolin album with highly regarded artists, and won first place at the National Mandolin Contest in Winfield, Kansas in 1994. Rick is currently active as an educator, offering in-person and online mandolin lessons.
Jesse Smith
Vocals and Bass
Jesse Lindsey Smith is a singer-songwriter from Eva, Alabama, whose passion for music began at an early age. At age 16, she learned bass so she could join her high school's FFA String Band before expanding to guitar and piano. Jesse is a former Alabama State Champion in Old Time Singing and participated regularly in songwriter rounds at the Bluebird Cafe.
In addition, she is dedicated to animal welfare as an active foster with A New Leash on Life rescue organization in Huntsville.
Daniel Simpson
Rhythm Guitar/ Mandolin/ Vocals
Daniel is a rhythm guitarist, mandolin player, and vocalist from Athens, Alabama, with over 50 years experience in bluegrass and traditional mountain music. Raised in the hills of West Virginia, Daniel was inspired by his father, whose love of traditional music helped shape his lifelong passion for authentic bluegrass.
He has performed with Rual Yarbrough and the Bluegrass Disciples, and founded the group Sunday Tradition. A former Alabama State Champion in old-time singing, he remains dedicated to preserving the rich traditions of Appalachian music.
Roger Jones
Banjo/Vocals
Roger began playing banjo at age 12 after being inspired by Sonny Osborne's innovative style. At the same time, he developed a love for close harmony singing.
He has won several local, state, and regional championships.
Throughout his career, Roger has performed with Charlie Cline and the Lonesome Pine Fiddlers, the Warrior River Boys, Kenny Baker, and Josh Graves
Registration Info
Registration is not Required
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