Josh Goforth has been performing and teaching music for 11 years. He is in constant demand as a solo performer, teacher, and lecturer at various venues across the nation and around the world. Offering programs for elementary, middle, high school, and college students, his musical message has encouraged young people to find their own purpose in life. He has also inspired people of all ages to love and respect the beauty of traditional, bluegrass and acoustic music. Having taught hundreds of private lessons and workshops and having performed on countless stages for thousands of people, his musical programs offer something for everyone.
He is currently taking bookings for solo performances, group performances (Josh Goforth and the New Direction and Appalachian Trail) and guest lectures. Each of these different performance and teaching areas are described in detail below.
Solo Performances
Josh’s solo performances are a mix of traditional, bluegrass, swing, original and acoustic music. Josh will play numerous instruments including: guitar, fiddle, banjo, mandolin, bass, piano, and even some surprising rhythm instruments. Josh is also an excellent storyteller and will delight audiences with tales about his ancestors and heritage living in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. It is not uncommon to hear a traditional ballad and a swing tune like “Sweet Georgia Brown” in the same concert. These performances are altered somewhat depending on the environment. For instance, Josh’s school visits will be age appropriate and be geared toward educating and inspiring youth. If you want to offer a program at your festival or event that will be educational, unique and just plain fun, then Josh’s solo performances are a sure fire hit.
Group Performance
Josh Goforth and the New Direction: Josh Goforth and the New Direction are on the verge of defining a new sound in bluegrass. Using original songs, pop tunes, gospel, and traditional music, they are creating a driving sound with new life. Every generation, from the most devoted traditional bluegrass fan to a young, new bluegrass fan, will enjoy and appreciate the shows presented by JG and TND. Josh has devoted his time to creating a well-polished sound with energy and feeling. The live shows presented by the group are exciting and full of youthful vigor. Josh believes in playing every song from the heart and putting all you have into the sound. The band’s goal is to draw new people into the magical sound of bluegrass and give its regular listeners a brand new, exciting experience.
Appalachian Trail: Over the last 20 years, Appalachian Trail has gained worldwide fame for its original and innovative form of bluegrass centered on tight vocal harmony and fine instrumental work. From Lincoln Center to the UK, audiences have been mesmerized by the group’s unique blend of sounds. Josh joined the group in 2001, playing fiddle and guitar and singing lead and harmony. If you enjoy solid bluegrass with an edge, then you’ll love Appalachian Trail.
Lecture Series
Madison County, NC is filled with rural communities with strong musical heritages. Josh’s family was some of the first settlers in the region. In the spirit of family tradition, Josh has researched all the tunes and tales from the older generation. He has also studied many aspects of revivalism in modern Appalachia. Armed with this knowledge, Josh will delight your classroom with his sense of humor and pride for his heritage. He has lectured every age level from elementary school through college. His lectures have taken him to both Universities abroad and at home.
For pricing information or questions about bookings for solo/group performance or lecture series, please contact Josh by email: fiddlergoforth@yahoo.com.
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