June 29, 2024
By:
Each year, visitors from far and near come to the Smithville Fiddlers’ Jamboree with certain expectations in mind. For many decades one of those expectations has been the musician with a feather in his hat, named Rob Pearcy of Smyrna. Whether you see him competing or accompanying fellow musicians, there is a small handful of categories where Rob does not appear.
Rob Pearcy, a seasoned musician and staple of the Jamboree, will once again grace the stage this year. With a repertoire spanning seven different instruments, Pearcy’s talent has left an indelible mark on the Smithville Jamboree Festival. His journey began over four decades ago when he first attended the Jamboree, learning from old-timers under the shade trees. For many of those years, Rob has been known as Contestant #1. The music he absorbed there eventually led him to a career as a music teacher, including stints at Metro Schools and Vanderbilt University’s Blair School of Music.
Pearcy’s dedication to preserving traditional Appalachian music resonates with the younger generation. His presence at the Jamboree exemplifies the festival’s commitment to passing down musical traditions.
“They learn everything we do, and they improve on it,” Pearcy remarked, acknowledging the importance of continuity. “We’ve got to keep it going.” The Jamboree Committee is proud to announce Rob as this year’s special recognition in the tabloid.
For more information about the Jamboree, visit smithvillejamboree.com, email smithvillejamboree@gmail.com or call 615-597-8500.