Folk Music on PBS: A Guide

Folk music has been a part of the PBS lineup since the early days of the network. This guide will help you navigate the wide variety of folk music programming available on PBS.

Introduction

The following is a guide to Folk Music on PBS. PBS has an extensive collection of folk music programming, both archived and current. This guide will help you navigate the wealth of material available and find the programs that are right for you.

Folk music is a genre of music that is traditionally associated with the people of a particular country or region. It often reflects the culture and history of the people who created it. Folk music can be divided into several subgenres, each with its own distinct characteristics.

Traditional folk music is passed down from generation to generation and is typically based on familiar melodies and chord progressions. This type of folk music often includes elements of other genres, such as blues or jazz.

Contemporary folk music is typically created by singer-songwriters and is often more personal in nature than traditional folk music. It can be either acoustic or electric, and may incorporate elements of other genres such as rock or pop.

PBS has an extensive collection of folk music programming, both archived and current. This guide will help you navigate the wealth of material available and find the programs that are right for you.

What is Folk Music?

Folk music is a genre of music that is typically passed down from generation to generation and often tells the story of a people or a culture. It is usually based around acoustic instruments and often has a very simple structure. Folk music can be found all over the world, and each culture has its own unique style of folk music.

In the United States, folk music often includes elements of country, bluegrass, and blues. PBS has a long history of showcasing folk music on its various programs. Some of the most popular folk music programs on PBS include “Austin City Limits,” “Prairie Home Companion,” and “The Bluegrass Sessions.”

Folk Music on PBS

Folk music has been a part of the public television network PBS since its inception. The PBS pledge drives of the 1970s featured folk musicians such as Joan Baez, Pete Seeger, and Arlo Guthrie. In more recent years, PBS has continued to feature folk music programming with a variety of shows and specials.

Folk Music Programming on PBS

PBS has a long-standing commitment to folk and traditional music. For over 40 years, PBS has been home to some of the most iconic folk music programs on television, including The Newport Folk Festival, Austin City Limits, and Celtic Thunder.

Today, PBS continues to showcase the best in folk music with a wide array of programming that includes concerts, documentaries, and educational resources. Recent programs have featured artists such as Alison Krauss, Emmylou Harris, John Prine, and Rhiannon Giddens.

If you’re a fan of folk music, PBS is the perfect place to explore the genre. Check out our guide to some of the best folk music programming on PBS.

PBS Folk Music Resources

PBS offers a variety of resources for those interested in learning about and enjoying folk music. Whether you’re a fan of the old-time sounds of the banjo and fiddle or the contemporary stylings of modern singer-songwriters, PBS has something for you.

The PBS website features an extensive collection of articles, videos, and audio recordings on folk music and its history. You can also find a list of upcoming folk music events and festivals around the country. And be sure to check out the Folk Music on PBS podcast, which features interviews with some of the genre’s most beloved performers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, PBS offers a wide variety of folk music programming that is sure to appeal to a wide range of viewers. Whether you are a fan of traditional folk music or contemporary folk music, PBS has something to offer. Be sure to check out the programming schedule and take advantage of the wealth of musical knowledge and entertainment that PBS has to offer.