BROOKS HILL – Bluegrass is defined as a style of country music influenced by jazz and blues. And, this Saturday, banjos and guitars will be echoin’ throughout the small town of Brooks Hill from the sounds of the annual Pickin’ on the Hill Bluegrass Festival.

Several years ago, the small Upshur County community hosted the festival consecutively; however, once attendance became too low, the festival came to a halt for a few years.

Fortunately, for the past three years, James and Bonnie Crouse have taken on the task of organizing the all-day music festival for Brooks Hill Community Building.

The main purpose behind the festival is to raise funds for the Brooks Hill Community Building, which serves as a hub for community members to host family reunions, weddings, birthday parties and special occasions.

“We’re doing it to keep the facility open and keep maintenance on it,” James said.

Aside from raising funds for the community center, James said the festival helps the county’s economy, too.

“It draws in a lot of people from out of town and brings a lot of money to our community,” he said.
“People stay in Buckhannon and surrounding areas when they come in for it.”

With Saturday’s weather looking sunny and high in the 70s, Brooks Hill might be spot to hit.

“It’s looking like it’s going to be a pretty big deal this year,” said James, adding folks from all over come out for the event.

Ultimately, James says the festival’s turnout really depends on Mother Nature.

Nonetheless, this year’s festival is scheduled to play host to the most performers in the event’s history.

The lineup will consist of five touring bands and several local musicians. Some of the featured performers, include Valley Bluegrass, Rachel and Jim Smarr, The Country Ramblers, Praying for Change and several others.

The festival begins bright and early at 9 a.m. and ends at 10 p.m.

Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for kids 6-12 years old. Food will be sold throughout the day.

Signs with directions will be posted from the West Virginia Wildlife Center, which is located 12 miles south of Buckhannon on Route 20.