Virgil Bowlin
Virgil Bowlin’s musical style comes from the traditional songs and tunes he learned around his childhood home in part of the old Peerless Coal Camp in the heart of Appalachia. Many evenings find him and his family and friends picking and singing on the front porch.
Virgil performed from 1979 to 1996 in The Bowlin Family group, and in 1997 Virgil was hired by the legendary bluegrass artist, Larry Sparks. Virgil played bass fiddle and sang harmony full time with Larry Sparks and The Lonesome Ramblers until 2000, performing all over the United States and sometimes internationally. Virgil has a music degree from Cumberland College and is a successful private music instructor.
Virgil’s live shows include Appalachian music performed with the human voice, mandolin, guitar, fiddle, banjo and lap dulcimer. He performs both as a solo artist and with his band, Peerless Mountain. Virgil’s concerts are lively and entertaining with some history, some humor and a lot of music. Virgil also does instrument workshops, children’s presentations and singing schools. His exceptional vocal beauty and instrumental variety express authentic southeastern Kentucky culture at its best.