Music historian, author, master of the blues -- Scott Ainslie is deeply grounded in the many traditions of the blues. His performances reflect both his knowledge of and passion for the blues. Blues Revue Magazine notes, “His guitar playing is well-rounded—it's always as strong rhythmically as it is melodically, and it's always inventive. Even better, Ainslie can really sing.” Scott Ainslie performs at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 19, at Burke Recital Hall (240 West Broadway). The performance is free and open to the public.

A guitar player since 1967, inspired by blues musician John Jackson, Ainslie has delved into the heart of his chosen profession. “John Jackson was the first blues musician I ever met. He was a gravedigger in northern Virginia back in '67 … I was floored. He set the hook pretty deep. I played on borrowed guitars all summer.” Ainslie has toured nationally and internationally, worked on Broadway productions, and performed teaching concerts on the African roots of American music. He will perform both singly and with Denison professors Andy Carlson and Tom Carroll. In addition to his performances, Ainslie will talk about the history of the blues, in particular the cultural backgrounds that were it’s birthplace and how various cultures were sustained and linked by the blues.

The Lilly Artist Series is sponsoring Ainslie’s performance. The Lilly Series is a collaboration of Denison University’s department of music and the Lilly Committee, whose purpose is to invite artists with careers reflecting a passionate commitment to their musical art and the culture out of which that music grows.

Calendar Listing:

CALENDAR LISTING: Denison University, Granville— Blues artist Scott Ainslie performs 8 p.m., Sat., Jan. 19, at Burke Recital Hall (240 West Broadway). Free and open to the public. For further information contact Tricia Ruess 740-587-5727.

About Denison:

Denison University, founded in 1831, is an independent, residential liberal arts institution located in Granville, Ohio. A highly selective college enrolling 2,100 full-time undergraduate students from all 50 states and dozens of foreign countries, Denison is a place where innovative faculty and motivated students collaborate in rigorous scholarship, civic engagement and the cultivation of independent thinking.

For press inquiries:

Name

Barbara Stambaugh

Position Title

Director, Media Relations

Primary Email

stambaughb@denison.edu

Business Phone

(740) 587-8575