Director’s Statement 

The legacy of Byard Ray is a testament to the enduring power of music and tradition in Western North Carolina. As a renowned fiddler whose melodies once filled the hills of Madison County, Byard Ray's contributions to Appalachian music are undeniable. This film will touch on the story of the man and dive deep into the surrounding musical culture and community that persists today. The theme of family, heritage, loss and love will be captured through the eyes of his granddaughter, 8th generation ballad singer, Donna Ray Norton.

Within this project, we will embark on a journey to uncover the life and music of Byard Ray through Donna’s deeply personal perspective. Living in Madison County, Donna is not just the guardian of her family's story but a living link to the rich musical traditions within this region. Donna has expressed a new commitment to sharing the songs and stories that have been passed down to her after experiencing the recent loss of her mother. This passion to honor and share her family’s legacy provides a unique and heartfelt lens through which we explore the broader understanding of traditional music in this region.

This film will weave together Donna’s intimate story with the compelling landscape of Western North Carolina, creating a stunning audio/visual experience. Through interviews, archival footage, and contemporary scenes of fiddling and community gatherings, we aim to paint a vivid portrait of a musical tradition passed down through generations. Central to this journey is Donna’s effort to revitalize the Byard Ray Festival, a celebrated event from the 1970s and 1980s that showcased the region’s rich musical talent. The film will follow Donna as she brings this iconic festival back to life, honoring her grandfather’s legacy while uniting the community through music once again.

The project is more than a film about a fiddler; it is a celebration of heritage, a testament to family, a story of love and loss, and a call to preserve and highlight the musical traditions of Western North Carolina. 

Thank you for considering our project. We are excited to share this compelling story and bring this musical legacy to audiences far and wide.

- Aaron Stone | Director