Songs of the Western Pioneers

Bob Bovee is a Nebraska native whose family sang and played the old-time songs. Many of the western and railroad songs he does were learned from his grandmother and uncle. He plays banjo and autoharp, sings and yodels, and can drive a dance band with his guitar and harmonica. 

The westward movement and the settling of the frontier produced a wealth of traditional music reflecting the history and life of the period. This program will take us back to those days with songs and stories of migration, cowboys, farmers, railroads, outlaws, as well as dance music and the popular songs of the day. Guitar, harmonica, autoharp and banjo provide the accompaniment for numbers that will set toes tapping, bring a smile to your lips or a tear to your eye. “Songs of the Frontier” is designed for the whole family and is entertaining while bringing a sense of our musical heritage to the listener. 

Since 1971 Bob has traveled the country taking old time music to audiences of all ages at festivals, fairs, concerts, dances, schools, libraries, music camps, radio and TV programs. He has published numerous articles and reviews for The Old-Time Herald and Inside Bluegrass and been an instructor for a course called "The History of Country Music" for the Honors Division at the University of Minnesota. Bob is also the Artistic Director for the Bluff Country Gathering and the organizing force for the Lanesboro Barn Dance.