Jay Ungar

Jay Ungar is an American folk musician known for his mastery of the fiddle and his contributions to traditional and contemporary folk music. Here are some key facts about him:

1. Composer of "Ashokan Farewell": Jay Ungar is best known for composing "Ashokan Farewell", a hauntingly beautiful instrumental piece that gained widespread recognition after being featured in Ken Burns' acclaimed documentary series "The Civil War" (1990). The piece, which Ungar originally composed in 1982 as a lament for the closing of the Ashokan Center in New York, struck a chord with audiences for its poignant melody and evocative portrayal of loss and longing. "Ashokan Farewell" has since become synonymous with the Civil War era and remains one of Ungar's most beloved compositions.

2. Versatile Musician: In addition to his skill as a fiddler, Jay Ungar is a versatile musician proficient in a variety of instruments, including the guitar, mandolin, and banjo. His ability to play multiple instruments allows him to explore different musical styles and collaborate with a diverse range of artists and ensembles. Ungar's versatility as a musician has earned him acclaim in both traditional and contemporary folk music circles, showcasing his adaptability and creativity as an artist.

3. Collaborations with Molly Mason: Jay Ungar frequently collaborates with his wife, Molly Mason, a talented musician and dancer in her own right. Together, they have formed a dynamic musical duo, performing a repertoire that spans traditional folk tunes, original compositions, and contemporary interpretations of classic songs. Their seamless musical partnership and onstage chemistry have made them popular performers at folk festivals, concert halls, and other venues across the United States and beyond.

4. Founders of the Ashokan Center: Inspired by the success of "Ashokan Farewell" and their shared passion for traditional music and dance, Jay Ungar and Molly Mason founded the Ashokan Center in New York in 1980. The center serves as a hub for folk music and dance education, offering workshops, camps, and events that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of American folk traditions. Through their work at the Ashokan Center, Ungar and Mason have played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting folk music for future generations.

5. Grammy Award Winner: Jay Ungar's contributions to folk music have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Folk Album in 1992 for his album "The Civil War - Music from the PBS Series". The album, which features "Ashokan Farewell" and other traditional folk songs, showcases Ungar's talent as a musician and composer and his ability to evoke the spirit of a bygone era through his music. This prestigious award further solidifies Ungar's legacy as a leading figure in the world of folk music.