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John Jacob Niles: A Musical Journey Through the Appalachian Mountains

Darren Blair

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Published in I Wonder As I Wander: The Life Of John Jacob Niles

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John Jacob Niles was a legendary folk singer and composer who played a pivotal role in bringing Appalachian music to the world stage. His unique style, which blended traditional Appalachian melodies with classical techniques, captivated audiences around the globe.

Niles was born in Covington, Kentucky, in 1892. He grew up in a musical family, and began singing and playing the fiddle at an early age. As a young man, he traveled throughout the Appalachian Mountains, collecting folk songs and learning about the region's rich musical heritage.

I Wonder as I Wander: The Life of John Jacob Niles

by Luke Casey

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5824 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	408 pages

In the 1920s, Niles began performing his own arrangements of Appalachian folk songs in concert halls and on the radio. His music was an instant success, and he soon gained a reputation as one of the leading folk singers of his time. Niles also composed original songs, many of which became standards of the folk music repertoire.

Niles's music was praised for its authenticity and beauty. He had a deep understanding of Appalachian folk music, and his arrangements were both faithful to the traditional melodies and innovative in their use of classical techniques.

In addition to his music, Niles was also a prolific writer and lecturer. He wrote several books about Appalachian folk music, and he gave lectures at colleges and universities around the country.

Niles's work had a profound impact on American folk music. He helped to popularize Appalachian music, and he inspired a generation of musicians to explore the traditional music of their own regions.

Niles died in 1980, but his music continues to be enjoyed by people around the world. He is considered one of the most important figures in the history of American folk music, and his legacy continues to inspire musicians and music lovers alike.

The Life of John Jacob Niles

The Life of John Jacob Niles is a comprehensive biography of the legendary folk singer and composer. The book, which was written by Niles's daughter, Joan Niles MacCracken, provides a detailed account of Niles's life and career.

The book is divided into three parts. The first part covers Niles's childhood and early musical influences. The second part describes Niles's career as a folk singer and composer. The third part discusses Niles's later years, including his work as a writer and lecturer.

The Life of John Jacob Niles is a must-read for anyone interested in Appalachian folk music. The book provides a fascinating account of one of the most important figures in the history of American folk music.

Book Details

Title: The Life of John Jacob Niles
Author: Joan Niles MacCracken
Publisher: The University of North Carolina Press
Publication date: 1990
: 978-0807818908
Pages: 336

Where to Buy

The Life of John Jacob Niles is available for Free Download from a variety of online and offline retailers. Some of the most popular places to buy the book include: