Strings and Things family music program featuring bluegrass musicians Becky Buller, Dick Kimmel, and Jerilyn Kjellberg
Written surveys were distributed to all adults. It is expected that a majority of respondents would learn something about the instruments the musicians played, learn something about the history of bluegrass music, learn a new song and express interest in listening to more music by these musicians or by other bluegrass musicians. Library staff will observe a majority of attendees actively participating by asking questions, clapping, and singing along. Anecdotal responses will confirm their enjoyment of the event.
The surveys reflect that a majority of patrons enjoyed the program and learned something about the history of bluegrass music and the instruments played. Many attendees also learned at least one new song. Those attending the concert were a combination of bluegrass music fans as well as newcomers to bluegrass music and the music of Becky Buller. About half of the concertgoers expressed interest in checking out bluegrass music CDs from the library. From Librarian’s perspective, the “Strings and Things” family program was an overwhelming success. Patrons seemed to thoroughly enjoy the evening’s music and commented on how much they learned about the bluegrass instruments. Following the program, the musicians greeted the concertgoers and were available to answer questions as well as sign and sell CDs. From the comments included on the surveys, it is clear that patrons of all ages enjoyed the program. Here are a few of the comments: "Down home and engaging!" "Wonderful music and very interesting facts presented."
Friends of the New Ulm Public Library