WILTON – Larry Bisbee at the Countryfolk Music Theatre recently presented $300 in Youth Music Scholarship awards at a Musician’s Recognition Day.

Three youth country musicians were awarded scholarships of $100 each and certificates in honor of Ralph Latham and the Pine Ridge Mountain Boys of Jay. They are: Tracy Rich of Livermore, Levi Brogna of Greene and Shawna Edwards of Lewiston. All three have been active participants at the Countryfolk Music Theatre.

Rich has also given of her time to entertain for several years at nursing homes in the western Maine area. The 18-year-old is a vocalist, performs with her father and other musicians throughout the area and has performed at the Countryfolk Music Theatre for the past three years. l

Brogna, 15, is a guitar player who also performs with his father. He plays mandolin and fiddle. As well as being a regular performer at the Country Sundays, he has given of his time at the Norlands Living History Center and accompanying musicians at the Countryfolk Music Theatre the past two years.

Edwards, 13, has been singing at the Countryfolk Music Theatre during 2003 and has received much attention with her vocal abilities. She ecently participated in a talent show at the Maine Academy of Country Music gathering in Weeks Mills.

“All three of these teenagers have diversified musical skills and are most deserving of our financial support,” said Larry Bisbee, director of this western Maine country music project.

Ralph Latham and his troupe used to perform on Sunday afternoons in Jay in the 1950s, performed on WRUM Radio in Rumford and had encouraged many new musicians. Among them was “Bing” Crosby of Jay, who told of his introduction into the music business by Latham. Wilfred Laplante and Doris Wilson of Livermore Falls were other former band members present as were members of the Latham family, including Lloyd and Linda Latham, volunteers at the Countryfolk Music Theatre; and Alice, Sherrie and Sara Judd. Dina Dunham of West Farmington, widow of Harold Dunham, a former band member, also attended the festivities. A potluck meal was enjoyed by 47 musicians who turned out for the event.

Also recognized were volunteers Herb Guppy of Wilton, Wayne Knowles of Temple and Lloyd Latham of Jay for their time and energy in the building the new covered pole barn that now allows the Sunday backyard gatherings to go on rain or shine.

“Many donations from local residents have made the music days possible,” said Linda Latham.” Donated cedar logs, roofing boards from Victor Mercier in Livermore Falls, roofing from Lee Buck and Phil Mclntyre in Weld and Carthage, musical equipment from Kathy and Billy Gingrass in Turner, microphone and stands from Ed Bronish of Weld and many volunteer hours that make Sunday afternoons special for many area residents,” she said.

Countryfolk Music Theatre annually presents these youth music scholarship awards in the name of country musicians and songwriters. Scholarship money is obtained through Sunday donations throughout the summer.

Linda Latham, spokesperson for the Countryfolk Music Theatre, said, “We would like to thank everyone for the scholarship donations as it allows us to support the country music youth of western Maine. Our goal is to provide venues for new and seasoned musicians to showcase their talents,” she said. The Country Sundays are always free.

The Country Sundays continue until Labor Day weekend, with a special day on Aug. 24, with a Fiddler’s Hoedown.

Countryfolk Music Theatre is on Route 2 in Wilton, two miles west of East Dixfield Village. For more information contact Larry Bisbee at 207-645-3705, Linda Latham at 207-645-4752 or at their Web site www.countryfolkmusic.com.