Sam Gleaves

Center for Cultural Preservation

 

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00:00:02 - Sam Gleaves introduces himself and gives some background

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Partial Transcript: My name is Sam Gleaves, and I was born and raised in Wytheville, Virginia. It’s a small town in southwest Virginia, and since I was about twelve years old, I’ve played old-time music.

00:02:07 - Sam explains what attracted him to Old Time music.

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Partial Transcript: Sam explains his attraction to old-time music, citing the friendly and welcoming nature of the community and the deep interpersonal connections formed through shared musical experiences.

00:03:14 - Sam talks about the family connection to his music.

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Partial Transcript: Sam discusses his family’s musical background, noting that while his immediate family didn’t play old-time music, they had a deep appreciation for it. He also highlights his grandmother’s role in encouraging him.

00:04:57 - Sam describes his family history in Virginia.

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Partial Transcript: Sam shares details about his family’s long history in Wythe County, Virginia, and emphasizes the storytelling tradition that influenced him.

00:06:06 - Sam talks about community traditions and historical elements in his community.

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Partial Transcript: Sam delves into specific traditions and historical elements of his community, including songs like “The Ballad of Frankie Dupree” learned from family members.

00:09:40 - Sam discusses the dark side of ballads.

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Partial Transcript: The discussion focuses on why traditional ballads often feature dark themes, with insights into their emotional and cathartic roles.

00:11:09 - Sam explains his connection to the music he plays.

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Partial Transcript: Sam reflects on the personal and cultural value of old-time music, emphasizing how it connects him to his heritage and counters negative stereotypes about Appalachia.

00:13:17 - What is the relevance of Old-time Music today?

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Partial Transcript: The relevance and appeal of old-time music in a modern digital context are discussed, highlighting its role as an authentic, tangible experience.

00:15:17 - Sam expresses his hope for the future of Old Time music.

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Partial Transcript: Sam expresses optimism about the preservation of old-time music but stresses the importance of direct, person-to-person learning and community interactions.

00:18:10 - Sam talks about people who have been his mentors.

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Partial Transcript: Sam discusses the influence of mentors like Sheila Kay Adams and Bobby McMillon, who have deeply impacted his understanding and practice of old-time music.

00:19:54 - Sam shares his emtional connection to his music.

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Partial Transcript: The discussion highlights how songs serve as emotional anchors for Sam, enriched by their associations with people and personal experiences.

00:26:31 - Sam expresses his gratitude for his muisc and the people in his life.

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Partial Transcript: Sam expresses gratitude for the people who have shared their musical heritage with him and reflects on his role in continuing this tradition.