3/24/2012 Congratulations Benjamin!

Ben Cockman is the newest South Carolina State Guitar Champion! On Saturday Ben traveled to Hartsville, SC, to compete at this prestigious contest, held annually at Renofest. His first-round tune was "Blackberry Blossom," backed up by cousin Michael Gabriel. His second-round tunes were "Danny Boy" and "Lady be Good," backed up by friend and student Shane Edwards. The prize was a brand new Anderson Guitar made by Gerald Anderson of Anderson-Strickland String Instruments in Troutdale, VA. Ben performed later that night with Anderson and Strickland, along with Anderson's long-time mentor Wayne Henderson, on stage at Renofest. Congratulations Ben!

Ben with Gerald Henderson (right) and contest organizers

Ben playing "Blackberry Blossom" in the first round with cousin Michael Gabriel

 

The Four Luthiers & Ben Cockman sing Albert Brumley's "I'll Fly Away" at RenoFest in Hartsville, SC on March 24, 2012. Ben is playing the Gerald Anderson guitar he was awarded as winner of the RenoFest guitar contest.

The Band:

Jimmy Edomonds - Fiddle

Wayne Henderson - Guitar

Gerald Anderson - Bass

Ben Cockman - Guitar, Lead Vocal

Spencer Strickland - Mandolin