The Arkansas State Archives will hold its annual fall symposium on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center. This year’s event, titled “Tales and Tunes: A Celebration of Arkansas Music,” will explore the state’s rich musical heritage, from Ozark folk music traditions to African American gospel.
Speakers include Brooks Blevins, history professor at Missouri State University; Jeff Gover, co-host of Ozarks Highland Radio; and Thomas Jacques, interim director of the Delta Cultural Center. Topics will cover the Grand Ole Opry, archival recordings of folk musicians, and the influence of King Biscuit Time on Delta Blues.
Performances will include The Creek Rocks, who will share field recordings and interpretations of Ozark folk music, Stephen Koch, host of the radio show Arkansongs, performing songs by Louis Jordan, and St. Mark’s Baptist Church Choir, demonstrating the gospel influence of Sister Rosetta Tharpe.
The symposium is free, but registration is required. Lunch is provided, parking is available at the museum, and teachers may earn up to three hours of continuing education credit. To register, visit Eventbrite.com and search for the Arkansas State Archives Fall Symposium.
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