Origins: 1940s, Appalachian Mountains
Key Characteristics:
- Acoustic string instruments only
- High, tight vocal harmonies
- Fast tempos and virtuosic playing
- Traditional song structures
- Celtic and folk music influences
Historical Context: Bluegrass was codified by Bill Monroe and his Blue Grass Boys, drawing from Appalachian folk traditions, Celtic music, and African American blues influences.
Influential Artists:
- Bill Monroe (Father of Bluegrass)
- Flatt and Scruggs (Commercial popularization)
- Alison Krauss (Contemporary bluegrass)
- The Stanley Brothers (Traditional style)
- Nickel Creek (Progressive bluegrass)
Cultural Impact: Bluegrass preserves Appalachian musical traditions while continuing to evolve and influence contemporary acoustic music.