1981

MELVIN WINE

Fiddler Melvin Wine was born in Braxton County in 1909. His extensive repertoire and rustic fiddling style represent a long tradition of music from within his family and community. Melvin was acknowledged for his powerful live performances and his willingness to teach his music and share it with others. Recipient of the first Vandalia Award, Melvin was also awarded the National Endowment for the Arts' prestigious National Heritage Fellowship in 1991. Melvin Wine passed away in 2003. Photograph by Michael Keller.