How The Music Barn Came to Be
You are listening to: Dueling Banjo's by The Spinney Brothers
THIS OLD BARN:
For over 150 years a barn in Middle Sackville has continued to decay over time, turning into a shadow of its once useful state. Recently Brian Doncaster decided to attempt to reverse the effect time has had on the barn and renovate the structure, hoping to host the first of what he intends to be many country bluegrass concerts in Sackville.
Doncaster had grown fond of the property and last fall he decided to purchase the land after knowing the previous owners. "It was attractive to me." he said of the property, which includes the massive barn. Doncaster admits he didn't initially intend to use the barn as a concert venue, but rather had the idea come to him after following his daughter to various bluegrass concerts. "My daughter is a very good fiddle player, and has played all over the Maritimes," he explained. "We followed our daughter to music events where they play all the time and I thought there's nothing in Sackville that really holds this country bluegrass music".
Doncaster says he realized after purchasing the property that the barn might be put to better use than storage space. After seeing how many of those concerts were held in outdoor venues Doncaster saw his barn in a whole new light. It's a nice big barn," he had said to himself, "why don't we just clean it up a bit, and change it into a spot to play music." Doncaster relayed his idea to local friends and acquaintances, and as the idea spread support began to grow from the town. Renovations to the old barn began in February as Doncaster and local volunteers started laying down new flooring and repairing walls, as well as, constructing a big enough stage to support bands. The barn will also feature indoor seating, plumbing, and eventually a canteen will be built inside.
"The interest that I've gotten and the people calling is just phenomenal", he said. "There's a great following to this music."
This year (2010) The Music Barn will start off the provinces bluegrass season by hosting its 1st Annual Bluegrass Weekend on June 4-6. There will be ample room for those who wish to bring their RV's, campers, tents and trailers. With seating for 300, the line-up will consist of award winning talent that will help to ensure a successful weekend. Being in the Maritimes, one knows that the weather does not always cooperate, not a problem for this event as we've got you "covered" inside the barn.
Welcome to The Music Barn, we hope you enjoy this seasons performers.
