Timmy Abell has presented middle-school programs throughout his 40-year touring career. His concert is richly varied, introducing students to a number of rare musical instruments including hammered dulcimer, bowed psaltery, English concertina, penny whistle, and limberjack, as well as the traditional claw-hammer banjo and guitar. The concerts combine various musical styles, original songs and interactive storytelling, all tied to the cultural component across the Essential Standards for middle school. Themes can be adjusted for various topics including a focus on North Carolina history and folk traditions, international musical influences on American music, or the art and practice of storytelling. Timmy’s concerts are highly engaging and uplifting, involving the students in almost every piece. Throughout the concert, middle school students are consistently and invariably drawn in to a deep appreciation of their natural connection to storytelling and traditional roots music.

Artist Background

Timmy Abell is one of the Southeast’s most sought after entertainers for families and young people. With a unique collection of musical instruments and wealth of original and traditional songs and stories, Timmy has toured for 40 years in more than 20 states, educating and entertaining thousands of audiences with an energetic spirit and a truly captivating performance style. Timmy has released 6 national award-winning CDs, has been a featured artist on UNC-TV and is a winner of the prestigious NC Arts Council’s Fellowship for Songwriting. Timmy’s concerts have been presented by The Kennedy Center, The National Theater, Savannah Music Festival, NC Museum of Art, at Merlefest and in countless schools throughout the eastern United States.

Search Criteria

• Program Type: Performance
• Discipline: Music
• Grade Level: Middle
• Cultural Context: African, African-American, European, Latinx
• Accepts bookings in Johnston County