Recording Studio

Ella B joined Robert Herridge in the studio for the second time. This time, she recorded the fiddle part to a song he wrote called, “The Broussard Cajun Bounce." Who better to record that part than the Broussard teenager he spent the last ten years teaching to fiddle;). 

"Hope Floats"

Love historic dancehalls and how they serve as the heart of communities.  Many movie fans might remember one treasured dancehall (Watterson Hall in Red Rock) from the 1998 film, Hope Floats, staring Harry Conic Jr. and Sandra Bullock.

Last weekend, we followed long, windy roads and discovered this sweet hall nestled far back in the woods. Lights illuminated the dance floor like a blanket of stars, and sweet sights of folks--young and old--shared the same love of live music and dance.  It was a joy to watch, participate, and see our girl fiddlin' and singin' on this historic dancehall stage.  

If you've never seen the movie, I will leave you with this mother/daughter interaction:

• Bernice Pruitt: My dad says that childhood is the happiest time of my life. But, I think he's wrong. I think my mom's right. She says that...
• [Bernice's voice fades as Birdee takes over]
• Birdee Pruitt: [laughing] Childhood is what you spend the rest of your life trying to overcome. That's what momma always says. She says that beginnings are scary, endings are usually sad, but it's the middle that counts the most. Try to remember that when you find yourself at a new beginning. 
• 
  
• Ella B, don't ever forget what it means to shine and remember to always "give hope a chance to float."

• 
  

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"

Who's that? Beats me...

...the Little Fiddler drumming up a surprise for Ella's new music room!

Think she was a little excited!  

She always wanted drums, but my ears never did. 🙉😂

If I didn't know better, I'd think he was her grandfather bearing such noise-making gifts before going back to his beautifully quiet home;). Much love Mr. Robert...so thankful for you and the music you've brought into our home over the years!

She always did beat to her own drum!  Now, go make some noise Ella B.

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