NEW GLOUCESTER – Bluegrass music buffs took to the hills of New Gloucester over the weekend to attend the Thompson’s second annual Family Bluegrass Musical Festival.
Though temperatures on Saturday soared, the bands and fans remained faithful to the music while seeking shade relief under a giant tent. The apple orchard hillside, complete with a gazebo stage on Gloucester Hill Road, was transformed as hundreds flocked to the three-day event that ended Sunday with traditional gospel bluegrass.
Eight bands from Florida, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Maine and Connecticut serenaded fans for the event that began Friday.
Blistered Fingers, a band from Sidney, provided the sound, and singer-guitarist Sandy Cormier from that band served as master of ceremonies. Gilbert Hancock of Polk City, Fla., and his Friends came together from around the country to play for the first time in Maine. Their rendition of “Alligator Milk” brought a chuckle as the group played and humored the fans.
Deb and Doug Smith of New Gloucester found a quiet spot on the grass to spread their blanket and settled down for Saturday night’s performance.
“This is the way life should be,” said Deb Smith.
Sharon Vandermay of New Gloucester said she got the evening shift to attend the festival while her husband had attended during the afternoon.
Michael Thompson, whose family sponsors the event, said plans already are in the works for the third annual festival next year.
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