Fiddlers on the Ranch

Musicians came from near and far to gather at Paramount Ranch for the annual Topanga Banjo and Fiddle Contest and Folk Festival on Saturday. Accompanied by fiddles, banjos, mandolins, guitars, harmonicas and anything acoustic, talented musicians  transformed the rural setting into a musical city.

This toe-tapping event has been welcoming faithful players and pilgrims of fine music for 21 years to the former movie production ranch. Three stages, a dance barn, and the Eucalyptus Grove hosted bluegrass and other genres of American music.

Referring to the early morning rain that had just dissipated, Main Stage manager Chuck Tipton announced, “Nature brought us a little surprise. But it's now a beautiful morning in Agoura Hills!” Tipton, a flat pick guitarist from Redondo Beach, has been coming to the festival for the past 12 years.

Wanting to be a part of the action just for grins, this writer hooked up with guitarist Sean Callero, 16, of Thousand Oaks, who has been playing intermediate finger-style guitar for seven years. The teenager was also doing double duty as back-up for sister Bronwyn, 14, who was in the singing preliminary competition on the Railroad Stage.

Pulling out my pocket harmonica, I played a few notes as Sean strummed along with his flat pick guitar. Not being judged for my musical contribution (and just as well), it was a real treat to play and hear good, old-fashioned American music being performed in the great outdoors.

The audience sat on the grass, under trees, and paid rapt attention, while competing musicians tuned their instruments nearby in the rural setting. The melodious sounds of strings and such could be heard everywhere.

Dennis Witcher, a mandolin player and master of ceremonies, introduced first-up contestant Chris Lauer, from Lompoc, on the banjo, who was accompanied by fiddler Jack Phillips.

“We jam and play with our friends,” said Lauer. “I play banjo, fiddle, a little mandolin, not much guitar.” Then he added a little Shakespeare with the quote, “A little Latin, less Greek.”

 Here’s looking ahead to next year’s festival. You never know, I just might take out my old guitar or borrow a banjo.