Gilley's Honky Tonk

Last night's SOLD OUT anniversary event celebrating Mickey Gilley, Johnny Lee and Urban Cowboy was a hugely successful throwback to the world-famous nightclub, Gilley's..."and all that implies."  

The Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce transformed the Island Convention Center and San Luis Resort into the popular hot spot from the 1970's/80's, with live music from the singing legends themselves, cast members from Urban Cowboy, mechanical bull, country dancing, and...even had some people "Looking for Love."  

Chamber President, Gina Spagnola, invited Ella to be a part of this once-in-a-lifetime event.  She played Cajun Fiddle, alongside Gilley's very own Robert Herridge (The Little Fiddler), Jordan Applebe (Big Jordan Band), and Jason James (Memphis-based pianist).  

Ella B and Gina Spagnola

Big Jordan Applebe, Ella B, Robert Herridge

Ella B and Jordan Applebe

Two of our favorites:  Megan and Hans

My dear friend, Raymond

Post show interview with i45now

"We Doze but We Never Close"

Apprentice

Exciting news this week from The Texas Folklife Apprenticeship Program, Austin, Tx: 

Ella and Mr. Robert Herridge ("the little fiddler" of Gilley's, "Urban Cowboy" fame) were selected into the Master/Apprentice "Folk and Traditional Arts Program."  They were selected "from a pool of highly qualified applications by a panel of esteemed professionals and Folk Life staff."  This organization specializes in the accordion-based traditions found in the state of Texas and special consideration was given to Polka and Zydeco applicants--a reason we were pleasantly surprised. 

What this means for Ella, is she will have the awesome opportunity to train under Master Robert from March - September 2017.  The program will provide support to offset the costs of his time and training, travel and supplies.  The goal of this program is for master artists ("finest practitioners of their craft") to help the apprentice improve his/her skills and work with the community to help carry on the cultural tradition.  

Special thanks to Gary McKee, Editor of Polka Beat Magazine, for telling us about the program and encouraging us to apply.  

Oh happy day! 

P.S.  I read the email from Texas Folklife to Ella when I picked her up from school Wednesday.  She was so excited, and the first words out of her mouth were, "Thank you God for putting it on their hearts to choose me."  

https://www.texasfolklife.org/article/2017-apprenticeship-program-awards-announced