GUESTBOOK ARCHIVE 2006 These are the guestbook entries for 2006. Thank you for such generosity at this time. I wish you and yours an extra measure of peace and happiness in the New Year. Dave <> Wilmington, USA - Sunday, December 31, 2006 at 10:13:05 (EST) Nice site, I really enjoyed it. richsoutherngirl2007@yahoo.com Sara <> Atlanta, GA USA - Tuesday, December 26, 2006 at 01:09:09 (EST) DECEMBER 25, 2006: DEAR RELATIVES, FRIENDS AND FANS: I WOULD LIKE TO EXTEND MY THOUGHTS OF YOUR KINDNESS, THOUGHTFULNESS, APPRECIATION AND PRAYERS. MANY OF YOU HAVE BEEN TO OUR FAMILIES A "DEEP SOURCE OF COMFORT." I KNOW PAPA WOULD WANT ME TO RELAY THE MESSAGE FOR THE UPCOMING "2007" YEAR TO EVERYONE A MESSAGE. SO, WITH HAVING SAID THAT, MAY YOU ALL HAVE OR CONTINUE TO BE BLESSED WITH YOUR HEALTH, HAPPINESS, LOVE AND PEACE. NOT JUST AT THE HOLIDAYS AND CHRISTMAS, BUT THROUGHOUT THE YEAR!!! PAPA WOULD END BY SAYING "GOD'S WILLING." MAY GOD BLESS AND HELP US ALL!!! MIDGE MIDGE CRANOR <> GOODLETTSVILLE, , TN USA - Monday, December 25, 2006 at 09:59:05 (EST) ...Thinking of Terry, Renee, Carroll and your families at Christmas. Vassar loved you all SO much. One of Vassar's Many Friends <> USA - Sunday, December 24, 2006 at 10:06:05 (EST) Thank you for the extra gift with my order. Happy Holidays and may God be with you and your family. Mike from Buffalo Michael Hojna <> Buffalo,, NY USA - Sunday, December 24, 2006 at 09:22:07 (EST) ......To Midge, George and all of Vassar`s Fans around this world, We wish you joy and peace. Most of all we wish you love. We pray 2007 will bring you every blessing imaginable. With Deepest Love, Tony and Pamela Rice TONY AND PAMELA RICE <> TURTLE ISLAND, USA - Sunday, December 24, 2006 at 04:49:31 (EST) I'm sad to hear of Vassar's passing. I have several albums where he's featured, most notably "Will the Circle Be Unbroken" volumes I II and III, and "Old and In The Way." He was a great fiddler. Pat O'Connell <> Albuquerque, NM USA - Friday, December 22, 2006 at 13:51:47 (EST) Midge, The CD, shirt and wonderful gift arrived today. Thanks for the DVDs with memories of Vassar~~it is great to be able to see them, and I really appreciate having them. It is even more special coming from you. Thanks again, and happy holidays! Alan Alan Cohen <> Arlington, VA USA - Friday, December 22, 2006 at 08:12:35 (EST) Midge, I received my package yesterday. Thank you so much for your prompt response. I look forward to listening and watching everything you included. The DVD tributes to your father were certainly a surprise, THANK YOU. I look forward to viewing them and sharing them with my family and some of my music buddies. Your father left a huge impression on so many of people. His memory will live on in his music. Merry Christmas, Brandt Brandt Williams <> Orinda,, CA USA - Thursday, December 21, 2006 at 22:24:20 (EST) Nice site, loved the gallery. gilbert.t.ratchet@gmail.com <> USA - Wednesday, December 20, 2006 at 14:27:56 (EST) Midge, Thanks for filling my order. I received the package from our nice mailman on Saturday. I put the box on the trunk of my car, pulled out my trusty pocket knife, opened the box, and had fun unwrapping all the goodies. My home was filled with Vassar's music all weekend. The memorial CDs are super special to me. Thanks so much. Vassar's spirit lives in sound of music everywhere. The hearts of musicians and fans will continue to be inspired by his gift. Our parents taught us love & purpose. Be loving & purposeful in the years to come. Wishing you a beautiful Christmas this year. Mike Usher Mike Usher <> Asheville,, NC USA - Wednesday, December 20, 2006 at 10:15:16 (EST) Loved the site! ~Liane hyperactivesloth@gmail.com Liane <> Boulder, CO USA - Wednesday, December 20, 2006 at 04:16:18 (EST) Midge, Your shipment arrived Saturday. I am deeply touched that you are sharing your Father's Memorial Service with me. I am just finishing up a work week. I will give it the time it deserves on my upcoming days off. Have a blessed Christmas, Frank Frank Hashek <> Beech Grove,, IN USA - Tuesday, December 19, 2006 at 19:45:24 (EST) Thanks so much for your calls. Vassar is gone, but his music will live forever. He's always been the standard bearer in my book. A true musical hero! Thanks for keeping the flame alive. Thanks Midge, Much Love, Merry Christmas. Mike Usher Mike Usher <> Asheville, NC USA - Tuesday, December 19, 2006 at 19:33:30 (EST) "ATTENTION" ANYONE WANTING TO ORDER THE JOHN HARTFORD- AEREO PLAIN "IS OUT OF LUCK" FOR I AM NOW "OUT OF STOCK." IF I SHOULD RECEIVE ANY MAIL IN ORDERS AFTER TODAY, I WILL RETURN YOUR ORDER FORM AND PAYMENT. THANK YOU, MIDGE MIDGE CRANOR <> GOODLETTSVILLE, TN USA - Tuesday, December 19, 2006 at 14:15:21 (EST) Yes Mam, Joe Bob Woodiel here, pleasure talking with you last night. Here's the $ for the 2 John Hartford Aereo-Plain CDS and the 2XL Fiddle t-shirt you mentioned. Thank you so much, keep the change it's still a great deal! The web site is great! I'll be back with you soon to get a couple of Vassar CDS. Have a great Christmas and a grand New Year! Peace, Joe Bob Woodiel Joe Bob Woodiel <> Fair Grove, MO USA - Tuesday, December 19, 2006 at 09:17:22 (EST) Dear Midge, I really enjoyed talking with you about your father's music. H had a great talent for the fiddle, and he brightened many peoples lives with his playing. But like I said on the phone, every time you hear his music he lives on. I appreciate you getting back to me the way you did. It just shows you are a nice person. I hope you have a great Christmas & New Year down there. Do you get snow there? Anyways, I enclosed a money order for the John Hartford CD. Thanks for all of your help and a great conversation. Jeff Muetz Jeff Muetz <> Anchorage, AL USA - Tuesday, December 19, 2006 at 08:48:27 (EST) Dear Midge, It was great talking to you when I called about the John Hartford Aereo Plain CD. Just remembering all the times I saw him perform and got to talk to him and your personal remembrances, made me feel good. The memorial and the pictures you talked about sound great and I look forward to seeing them. I will follow up on seeing if my friend has any pictures of Vassar with Old And In The Way with (Jerry Garcia). Best Regards, Bob Schwartz Bob Schwartz <> Orlando, FL USA - Tuesday, December 19, 2006 at 08:35:07 (EST) Midge, It was a pleasure to talk with you on Saturday and I am looking forward to getting the music of your Father. There are some other cd's I would like to order but I wanted to get you this check ASAP. Thank you so much for all your time. I hope you and your family have a joyful and blessed Christmas. Best, Robert Johnson Robert Johnson <> Memphis, TN USA - Tuesday, December 19, 2006 at 08:22:11 (EST) LOVELY MUSIC philip_mckracken@yahoo.com P. D. McKRACKEN <> RENO, NV USA - Monday, December 18, 2006 at 20:20:18 (EST) come visit www.myspace.com/dfsmusicproducer JM <> LA, CA USA - Saturday, December 16, 2006 at 20:09:58 (EST) Andre_Beaudet@yahoo.ca Great site, thanks! Andre Beaudet <> USA - Friday, December 15, 2006 at 16:19:06 (EST) Midge...I received the package and I was so happy and appreciative of all the extra items you gave me. I will treasure them. Vassar anda I go back along way and we had many good times. He was always a fun guy. I always called him "Clem" and he would be very kind to me about the music I played I am sending you a copy of the tape of our very late night jam session down at the old time picking parlor. His ability to pick up a tune was always amazing. There will never be another Vassar and I feel very fortunate to have been a friend and admirer. Tut Taylor " The Flat Picking Dobro Man" Tut Taylor <> Wilkesboro, NC USA - Thursday, December 14, 2006 at 13:57:51 (EST) thank you robert_piersol@nerdshack.com robert piersol <> las vegas, nv USA - Wednesday, December 13, 2006 at 02:32:50 (EST) Nive Site Johann Gambolputty <> Germany - Monday, December 11, 2006 at 18:52:46 (EST) Nive Site Johann Gambolputty <> Germany - Monday, December 11, 2006 at 18:52:17 (EST) While I have enjoyed listening to Vassar's music for a long time, I recently went in search of an album of John Hartford's that Vassar played on as well...as did Norman Blake, Tut Taylor & Randy Scruggs. That search led me to Midge at Vassar's Music. My search was over for here I found "Aereo-Plain" along with the added bonus of "Steam Powered Aereo-Takes." [Thanks Midge!] All I can say is how can anyone listening to these masters of their craft not feel joy in their hearts! Just marvelous! Charlotte Farnam <> Pittsford, NY USA - Sunday, December 10, 2006 at 13:52:42 (EST) Midge - Now I remember what had brought tears to my eyes, it was Millie's Song. Now more tears have come after reading your news letters. I just caught up with them since your dad's passing. I'll look through the photos some after finishing this guestbook note but in case I don't find any, please post a photo of you and your dad. I'm sure it would mean a lot to us that have followed Vassar and his music and now we still get to connect with him (besides through his recordings) by reading your wonderfully written news & notes. Please don't stop. John John Hotze <> St.Louis, MO USA - Friday, December 08, 2006 at 16:09:01 (EST) “MERCHANDISE ORDERS” I WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLKS I’VE SPOKEN WITH BY PHONE AND HAVE CORRESPONDED BY EMAIL REGARDING THEIR MERCHANDISE ORDERS. ALOT OF THE ORDERS WERE PUT ASIDE AND SOME WERE EVEN MISPLACED LAST YEAR (2005). DUE TO PAPA’S HEALTH I DEVOTED MY TIME AND ATTENTION TO HIS CARE AND NEEDS DURING HIS ILLNESS AND THEN THE DEVASTATION OF DEALING WITH HIS DEATH WAS OVERWHELMING. I COULD NOT STAY FOCUSED ON PROCESSING ORDERS RIGHT AFTER HIS DEATH. I’M JUST NOW TRYING TO GET BACK ON TRACK TO PROCESSING ORDERS. THOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE PLACED ORDERS EVEN THIS YEAR (2006) AND HAVE NOT GOTTEN THEIR ORDER PROCESSED, KNOW THAT YOUR CHECK, MONEY ORDER OR EVEN CREDIT CARD WAS “VOIDED.” STARTING AROUND THE LAST OF NOVEMBER I’VE JUST STARTED FILLING CD ORDERS AGAIN. VASSAR’S MUSIC DOES HAVE A MESSAGE ON THE OFFICE PHONE INDICATING AS WELL AS THE VASSAR’S MUSIC MERCHANDISE ORDER FORM ON THE WEBSITE WWW.VASSARCLEMENTS.COM IN DETAIL THE REVISION. FOR EXAMPLE, NO CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED AT THIS TIME BY MAIL ORDER OR BY FAX. “ONLY” PAYMENT FOR MERCHANDISE IS TO BE MADE BY CHECK OR MONEY ORDER TO VASSAR’S MUSIC OR VASSAR’S MUSIC CD SALES. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS AS TO WHETHER I HAVE A PARTICULAR MERCHANDISE ITEM IN STOCK OR THE STATUS OF YOUR ORDER, PLEASE EMAIL ME AT vassar@vassarclements.com or midge@vassarclements.com. AGAIN, I THANK THOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE ORDERED AND TAKEN THE TIME TO REORDER YOUR MERCHANDISE. I THANK YOU FOR KEEPING (PAPA), VASSAR’S MEMORY ALIVE. BEST WISHES, MIDGE <> Friday, December 08, 2006 at 22:17:23 (EST) You remain in my thoughts always. You were such a great gift to me and I thank God for what we shared. To think I didn't know who you were when we met! Did I have a lot to learn! Friend <> USA - Thursday, December 07, 2006 at 22:59:02 (EST) I'm a teenage fiddler who was inspired by Vassar's playing. I really hope someday to be as good as him. R.I.P Mike G. <> Belvidere, N.J USA - Wednesday, December 06, 2006 at 19:17:23 (EST) Just got back on your site for the first time in a while - saddened to hear of Vassar's passing last year. His name came up yesterday when my 11-year old daughter's new fiddle teacher mentioned she was ordering s bluegrass tutorial to enable her to add bluegrass to the Irish traditional she's already teaching. The influences stretch far and wide!!! Rest in Peace, Vassar!! Richard Lyons <> Dublin, Ireland - Tuesday, December 05, 2006 at 07:22:13 (EST) What a fiddler - I am speachless John Booth <> USA - Sunday, December 03, 2006 at 11:44:59 (EST) HI j <> Springfield, il USA - Sunday, December 03, 2006 at 09:45:08 (EST) You truly transcended musical generations of the high and lonesome sound. A great musician who loved playing music. Miss you much! Ricky A. Sholter <> Selinsgrove, PA USA - Saturday, December 02, 2006 at 14:48:52 (EST) Dear Family so sorry for your loss. My husband loves Vassar's music. he was very and still is sad about the loss of the great fiddler. We are blessed we will always be able to listento his music and remember. Sincerly Country Laurie Buspicker@aol.com Laurie Harmonson <> Seattle, Wa. USA - Tuesday, November 28, 2006 at 14:27:00 (EST) In this busy world I had no idea that we had lost Vassar and only found out this evening while watching "Orange Blossom Special" on PBS. I'm still stunned and sad. A fiddler of my fathers generation (also a fiddler), kind, generous and modest. We love them and miss them. To Vassar's family, my deepest sympathy. I know it is still painful, each and every day. We all miss him. Thomas D. Althouse <> Aurora, Ont Canada - Thursday, November 23, 2006 at 21:16:24 (EST) Love the site Mark Creed <> Najai, NM USA - Thursday, November 23, 2006 at 11:10:24 (EST) Nice website! Chris Barker <> N/A, N/a UK - Thursday, November 23, 2006 at 02:46:31 (EST) Somehow I missed the news of the genius'passing...I rember listening to Tony Rice's "Cold on the Shoulder Album" and noticing that sweet fiddle sound that made me long for more..it was Vassar! I bet the man was as sweet as his playing sounds...never again to be duplicated... Laura Gonzalez <> Greensboro, NC USA - Monday, November 20, 2006 at 13:58:46 (EST) Very Good Rud <> London, UK - Sunday, November 19, 2006 at 05:50:46 (EST) I'm sitting here listening to Old and In the way. Man ... always reminds me Vasser smokes! At the same time beautiful and on fire! I also have heard him on other cd's - I have the last "Blues" cd. Lucky guy played nice until the end ... fiddle can be hard on shoulders, etc. and it sucks not to be able to do "what you do". I wish I could have known him in person. No one can play music like that without that being them all the way (actually, nobody else can play like Vasssr, though there are an amazing number of great fiddle/violinests for how difficult an instrument it is.) Thanks for the love/music. Hope to see you somewhere down that sawdust road in heaven someday. Benjamin Herbst Benjamin Herbst <> McCall, ID USA - Thursday, November 16, 2006 at 18:34:44 (EST) Thanks, great site Andy McPocket <> Portsmouth, UK - Wednesday, November 15, 2006 at 18:40:20 (EST) Great site, I love Jazz! Luis Vargo <> Las Vegas, NV USA - Wednesday, November 15, 2006 at 12:05:59 (EST) need input from foreign friends to help orphanages and child services...or can call at 702 261-0131 john brazzell <> las vegas, nv USA - Friday, November 10, 2006 at 17:51:46 (EST) Sadly I've only just got into his music, gutted that I won't be hearing any more, as Vassar was very talented. His family must be proud. Paul <> UK - Friday, November 10, 2006 at 09:56:39 (EST) Are you aware that there have been no authenticated Duiffoprugcar violins? In the 1800's Villuame, the greatest of the French makers, "discovered" several lost Duiffoprugcar's, which he sold for large sums to various nobility. It was later discovered that Villuame had made the instruments himself. Nevertheless, Villuame's instruments are superb and sell in the $60,000 to $100,000 range. Your instrument is, indeed, stunning, whoever made it. Lance L Barclay <> Erie, PA USA - Tuesday, November 07, 2006 at 19:02:06 (EST) Hello WebMasters...time to Vassar's site of this icky spam again isn't it? Thank you. SPAM PATROL <> USA - Tuesday, November 07, 2006 at 07:56:19 (EST) Saw Vassar back in about 1974/75 at Juicy John Pink's in DeKalb, IL. One of the great musical moments for me. A great touch with all kinds of music. Rich DM <> Rochester, MN USA - Monday, November 06, 2006 at 22:33:53 (EST) Nice site! h.lanting@postmaster.co.uk Herman Lanting <> UK - Sunday, November 05, 2006 at 12:33:04 (EST) Such a sad loss. But Glory be to God that we can help those worse off than ourselves. Karri Bigstik <> New York, NY USA - Saturday, November 04, 2006 at 09:52:22 (EST) I love the site. I have been a fan for a long time. J Skinner Organic Buckwheat Pillows Danny Ferguson <> Midwest City, O USA - Friday, November 03, 2006 at 18:35:54 (EST) I love the site. I have been a fan for a long time. J Skinner Organics Buckwheat Pillows Danny Ferguson <> Midwest City, OK USA - Friday, November 03, 2006 at 18:21:02 (EST) Great site! Keep up the good work! jacknhoff71@yahoo.com Jack N. Hoff <> Kansas City, MO USA - Thursday, November 02, 2006 at 20:15:46 (EST) xerces_church@saintly.com Excellent site. Bernard <> USA - Thursday, November 02, 2006 at 14:29:49 (EST) Great site! artyhornforth@gmail.com Arty Hornforth <> USA - Friday, October 27, 2006 at 19:55:09 (EDT) Sorely missed. Fred Dibnah <> London, UK - Wednesday, October 25, 2006 at 08:25:05 (EDT) Love his work on John Hartford's AEREO-PLAIN album. Totally awesome. Jim Dodson <> Beaufort, SC USA - Monday, October 23, 2006 at 14:57:03 (EDT) Every day I thank God for the gift of our friendship and I thank you for bringing me to the Lord. Rest well Vassar. Friend <> USA - Friday, October 20, 2006 at 09:34:43 (EDT) I am sorry this feller has passed on I am sure you miss him jklogften@hotmail.com jason loften <> rising sun, in USA - Wednesday, October 18, 2006 at 02:54:49 (EDT) randy.hart@yahoo.com Randolph Hart <> Northfield, MN USA - Wednesday, October 18, 2006 at 00:16:09 (EDT) Nice Web. http://www.thesisspecialist.com Charles Andrew <> New York, NY USA - Tuesday, October 17, 2006 at 18:36:22 (EDT) Nice site! Roger Slicker <> USA - Tuesday, October 17, 2006 at 11:28:38 (EDT) NICE SITE,KEEP IT UP DR MUGU DR MUGU AGU <> LOME, USA - Wednesday, October 11, 2006 at 01:59:42 (EDT) I HAD THE PLEASURE TO PLAY ON STAGE WITH VASSAR SOME YEARS AGO AND WAS THRILLED BY THE EXPERIENCE. VASSAR WAS A GRACIOUS MUSICIAN AND MY FAVORITE FIDDLE PLAYER. TOM JAYNES <> NAPERVILLE, ILL USA - Tuesday, October 03, 2006 at 16:28:03 (EDT) IN MEMORY OF "JOSH GRAVES"- 1926-2006. JOSH DIED ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30TH, 2006. HIS FUNERAL IS TUESDAY, OCTOBER 3RD, 2006. PLEASE KEEP HIS FAMILY IN YOUR PRAYER'S. THANK YOU! MIDGE MIDGE CRANOR <> GOODLETTSVILLE, TN USA - Tuesday, October 03, 2006 at 11:32:59 (EDT) love hillbilly jazz! weaponsforart@gmail.com Erik <> chicago, IL USA - Monday, October 02, 2006 at 12:45:14 (EDT) love hillbilly jazz! Erik <> chicago, IL USA - Monday, October 02, 2006 at 12:44:12 (EDT) great site!!! Louie Louie Nowell <> London, England - Monday, October 02, 2006 at 03:29:59 (EDT) i HAD THE GREAT FORTUNE OF SEEING/HEARING VASSAR AND HIS BAND ONE TIME ONLY IN JACKSON HOLE WYOMING I BELIEVE IT WAS ABOUT THE SUMMER OF 1978. FANTASTIC SHOW, VASSAR SWINGING AND ROCKIN AND GETTIN FUNKY TOO. IN A CLASS BY HIMSELF ONE OF A KIND, THE BAND WAS UNFORTUNATELY NOT ON HIS LEVEL BUT THEY HUNG IN THERE. I HAD AN OLD VASSAR RECORD WITH A SONG SWINGIN IN THE BARN YARD, THEY WERE TOURING TO SUPPORT THAT EFFORT AND OTHER PAST RECORDINGS. VASSAR WAS AMAZING, SMALL ROOM IN SOME HOTEL IN JACKSON HOLE WY. THANKS VASSAR AND MILLIE FOR TRAVELING AND MAKING IT COOL TO HEAR YOU LIVE. JIMMY 562-884-3360 JIMMY HEWITT <> LONG BEACH, CA USA - Saturday, September 30, 2006 at 03:18:45 (EDT) Vassar, I just want you to know your music gave me great joy. Your talent was extraordinary and your gentleness of spirit came through the music. I hope you're jammin' with Jerry G. in heaven, and having a grand old time. You will always be remembered... anthony pearson <> houston, tx USA - Thursday, September 28, 2006 at 23:27:38 (EDT) Thanking you for the great gift of your friendship and our many conversations of life and love. Friend <> USA - Thursday, September 28, 2006 at 11:00:17 (EDT) John McEuen was at our Old Theater last night (Sept. 21) and he talked about you with such fondness and played the fiddle in a kind of tribute, it made me realize how much you contributed to the music I have enjoyed for 40-plus years. So I just wanted to take a moment to include you and your family in my meditations. You have been and still are an inspiration to so many of us passing through this life. Thank you. Bless your family. I trust they have found peace and understanding. ZUTTY A Zutty Alan <> Oriental, NC USA - Friday, September 22, 2006 at 07:55:15 (EDT) I DOM MUGU OFFFFFFFFFFF MUGU BOBBYMUGU <> California, CA USA - Thursday, September 21, 2006 at 19:12:33 (EDT) ¡Order Vicodin from US Pharmacies Chronic pain patients can order Vicodin, Oxycontin and buy Lortab or Lorcet Online and the docor will provide prescriptions over the phone! Buy today receive tomorow FedEx or UPS.Order Vicodin From Pharmacies Online At Discount Prices: FindRxOnline! Legally Buy Vicodin <> California, CA USA - Monday, September 18, 2006 at 17:34:27 (EDT) pnorseks@gmail.com P Norseks <> Sacramento, cali USA - Sunday, September 17, 2006 at 12:28:24 (EDT) Miss you Vassar, every moment of every day. Friend <> USA - Thursday, September 14, 2006 at 08:09:29 (EDT) Great Site. Vending locators [url="http://www.businessbeanstalk.com/vending"]Vending locators[/url] Vending locators <> London, W UK - Tuesday, September 12, 2006 at 21:17:28 (EDT) You could be standing in the middle of a steel mill at high noon and, if Vassar was playing, that would be what you'd hear. Your ears reached for the sound of that violin. I can't begin to tell you how much I miss that sound. Thank God for all those magnificent recordings and Thank God for you, Vassar. RIP, friend. Steve Body <> Woodinville, WA USA - Tuesday, September 12, 2006 at 16:46:10 (EDT) My condolences on the passing of Mr. Clements. He was truly one of a kind. I remember the first time I saw him (and heard him) play. The intricate, beautiful lines coming from his instrument literally stopped me in my tracks. It was much more like jazz than conventional major-scale country or bluegrass music. He has been described as "the Miles Davis of the fiddle", and that description is appropriate, but he was also in a class by himself that needed no comparison. He was born with a magic ear, and heard and could play the "notes between the notes" that make the finest, most original music. God rest him. John McKinna <> Key Largo, FL USA - Monday, September 11, 2006 at 08:54:59 (EDT) My condolences on the passing of Mr. Clements. He was truly one of a kind. I remember the first time I saw him (and heard him) play. The intricate, beautiful lines coming from his instrument literally stopped me in my tracks. It was much more like jazz that conventional major-scale country or bluegrass music. He has been described as "the Miles Davis of the fiddle", and that description is appropriate, but he was also in a class by himself that needed no comparison. He was born with a magic ear, and heard and could play the "notes between the notes" that make the finest, most original music. God rest him. John McKinna <> Key Largo, FL USA - Monday, September 11, 2006 at 08:53:03 (EDT) esmu_pimpis@fastmail.net Pimpis <> UK - Wednesday, September 06, 2006 at 19:50:32 (EDT) Great Site Jack Hines <> LA, CA USA - Thursday, August 31, 2006 at 20:36:34 (EDT) I cannot tell you how much we miss Vassar. I hope the angel band knows how lucky they are to have him with them. RIP Vassar, Steve Steve Butler <> Seattle, WA USA - Thursday, August 31, 2006 at 18:43:22 (EDT) That is right Vassar, you are remembered and will NEVER be forgotten. I am just getting back to the computer but you and your family were in my thoughts and prayers on the one year anniversary of your trip home. Proudly I too treasure my photographs with you, and my little boy too. God Bless you Vassar, and you will always be remembered. You were one of a kind, now who can forget that? :-D Denise <> Poolesville, MD USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 at 15:19:40 (EDT) He was truely a great musician and man. My prayers go out to the family. His legend will live on. Frank Ohannesian <> Oxford, MI USA - Monday, August 21, 2006 at 05:32:27 (EDT) Great website, I like your work! Benjamin Benjamin97036@yahoo.com Benjamin Smith <> Sacramento, USA - Sunday, August 20, 2006 at 13:18:34 (EDT) I'm ever thankful for Vassars smiles and energies! Here's to ya Vassar! Many thanks and cheers to you! Billy <> Vilas, NC USA - Friday, August 18, 2006 at 02:20:35 (EDT) You were amazing. Thanks for all the notes. Bert Hawkins <> Kansas City, MO USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 at 17:10:29 (EDT) We have a row of framed pictures on the wall of our hallway, one of which is of the three of us with Vassar (I was pregnant with our son at the time). It was taken at the Florida Symphony not long after we started working on Vassar's website. The picture is always slightly tilted, even though one of us straightens it almost daily. None of the other pictures are ever tilted, only that one. Thanks Vassar for watching over us, it was an honor to be able to call you a friend. We miss you and we will never forget you and Millie and all that you taught us about life and love as newlyweds. You were and are a treasure to so many of us!!! Laura and Christian <> Asheville, NC USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 at 14:47:30 (EDT) One year ago we lost one of the nicest people ever to walk this earth. We think of Vassar often and relive happy times at gigs with Northern Lights, especially when they all played Zoo Music in Albuquerque in '03. We never dreamed we would not see Vassar again when we said goodbye at the airport. We will always miss his wonderful smile, gracious manner, and amazing humbleness, and of course the beautiful music he made on his fiddle. Rest in peace, Vassar, knowing you brought joy to a lot of people! Linda & Kerney Linda & Kerney Bolton <> Albuquerque, NM USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 at 14:31:52 (EDT) August 16, 2006. It's been a year today since he left us. But somehow it still don't seem right that he ain't here. May Vassar's memory live on and on and on. And may he and his fiddle take their rightful place in the Country Music Hall of Fame. Judge Ira Uhrig <> Bellingham, WA USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 at 12:25:41 (EDT) The year has passed by so quickly but memories are life long. Vassar & Millie taught me many lessons that I have used in all aspects of my life, not only as a musician but as a person. I loved Vassar and Millie like second parents & they treated me like a son. You just don't forget those things. Thanks Midge & George for all you did for him. God bless you all. p.s. I bet he still won't eat cheese!!!!!! Love ya, Jackie Jackie Garrett <> Athens, Ga. USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 at 11:29:29 (EDT) One year ago today the call came to tell us of the passing of the great Vassar Clements. Hardly a day goes by that he isn't in my thoughts somehow. His words of wisdom & advice still resonate with me, his generous, open spirit fills my heart still, his gentle presence endures, and most of all his impassioned, unmatched fiddling rings in my head and has influenced me in ways I will probably never completely be able to communicate. Today especially and everyday, he is missed. I don't believe he will never die for me though. As long as the memories I have of him live on in my heart, so will he, at least in spirit. Bless you Clem and thank you for being you. By the way, for those who are so inclined, go to youtube.com and type in Vassar's name in the search to see some great footage of Vassar & friends from one of his performances at MagnoliaFest. Enjoy the sounds and never forget the world's greatest fiddler!!! Randy Judy <> Jax Beach, FL USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 at 09:06:43 (EDT) AUGUST 16TH, 2006 “ONE YEAR AGO TODAY” PAPA, I KNOW YOU KNOW HOW MUCH I LOVE AND ADORE YOU. I ALSO KNOW THAT AS THE WEEKS AND EVEN THE DAY’S CAME CLOSER AND CLOSER TO YOUR PASSING AWAY FROM THIS EARTH, YOU KNEW SOME OF WHAT I WAS FEELING INSIDE MY HEART. FOR WE BOTH TOGETHER HAD ALREADY EXPERIENCED SOME OF THOSE FEELINGS WHEN MOM DIED. AS I HAVE IN THE PAST MONTHS AND EVEN TODAY HAVE REFLECTED ON SO MANY OF THE HAPPY AND SAD TIMES WITH YOU THROUGHOUT THE YEARS OF MY CHILDHOOD UP TO THIS POINT AND TIME, I WILL “ALWAYS AND FOREVER” BE GRATEFUL. I TRY HARD TO FOCUS ON MORE OF THE GENTLE PAPA, THE HUMOROUS PAPA, THE KIND PAPA AND OF COURSE BEING SURROUNDED BY THE PAPA WHO WAS AND STILL IS THE “MOST” TALENTED FIDDLE PLAYER THAT EVER WALKED THIS EARTH. WHEN I LISTEN TO YOUR MUSIC AND THE WAY YOU PLAYED “THROCKMORTON” YOUR FIDDLE, ALWAYS BRINGS ME CHILLS. YOUR MUSIC AND TECHNIQUE CAN QUICKLY BRING A SMILE OR ON THE OTHER HAND BRING SUCH GRIEF AND UNHAPPINESS. YOUR WAY OF PLAYING WHETHER IT BE JUST JAMMING OR PERFORMING ON STAGE WAS IN A CATEGORY OF ITS OWN. GOD GAVE YOU A TREMENDOUS MUSICAL TALENT THAT SHALL LIVE ON FOREVER! WE KNOW I’M NOT A PERSON OF FEW WORDS, ALTHOUGH AT TIMES YOU COULD BE. PAPA, YOU SAID “CLOSE TOGETHER” AS YOU HELD MY HAND AND YOUR SISTER JANICE’S HAND WHILE YOU WERE SICK. LOOKING OVER US TO THIS DAY, YOU KNOW WE ARE CLOSE TOGETHER. I COME TO YOU, MOM AND GOD THAT YOU HELP ME WITH A QUESTION YOU ASKED ME IN THE HOSPITAL. JANICE WAS SITTING BESIDE YOU AS I WAS IN A CHAIR ACROSS THE ROOM. YOU WERE SITTING UP IN THE RECLINER CHAIR, LOOKED AT ME AND ASKED ME THE MOST DIFFICULT QUESTION I’VE EVER HAD TO ANSWER. YOU ASKED “AM I DYING?” I TOOK A DEEP SWALLOW AND ANSWERED YOU. GOD KEPT ME CALM AND GAVE ME THE WORDS AND VOICE TO ANSWER YOUR DIFFICULT QUESTION. EVEN THOUGH, DR. RAEFSKY AND DR. FELTS WOULD HAVE ANSWERED YOUR QUESTION AS THEY HAD ANSWERED MANY OF YOUR QUESTIONS IN THE PREVIOUS MONTHS. I DIDN’T AT THE TIME UNDERSTAND WHY YOU WOULD ASK ME SUCH A QUESTION. I SOON REALIZED QUICKLY, THAT MY ONE AND ONLY PAPA KNEW THAT I WOULD BE TRUTHFUL EVEN THOUGH MY HEART WAS ABSOLUTELY BREAKING INTO PIECES AS I ANSWERED. I CAN STILL HEAR YOUR VOICE AND QUESTION. AGAIN, WHEN THROUGH THE YEARS OF ASKING HOW YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE REMEMBERED? YOUR ANSWER WAS “JUST REMEMBERED.” PAPA, YOU’RE MORE THAN JUST REMEMBERED!!! WITH MUCH LOVE AND DEVOTION, MIDGE I still can't believe he's gone vikki099-hunny@yahoo.co.uk <> UK - Saturday, August 12, 2006 at 13:16:38 (EDT) buckcanton@lycos.com Nice website and a great tribute to a great bluegrass fiddler. Buck Canton <> Baltimore, MD USA - Saturday, August 12, 2006 at 06:47:54 (EDT) Wonderful website. I love the music. Feel free to contact me at g.zakreweski@gmail.com. You guys are great. George Z. <> Dallas, TX USA - Wednesday, August 09, 2006 at 21:06:08 (EDT) I am a young DeadHead who has recently found great happiness in Bluegrass. I first started hearing Vassar's fiddle ring out when I became more exposed to Old & In The Way. What a fine group of musicians expressing themselves in the earliest roots of American Folk Music. It is without doubt that Jerry and Vassar have struck up a band amongst the heavens, and that High Lonesome Sound will ring out across the stars for all the time left to come. Jeremy Buda <> Fulton, NY USA - Sunday, August 06, 2006 at 19:38:57 (EDT) We LOVE and miss you dearly Vassar. May your music live forever. C+L <> USA - Tuesday, August 01, 2006 at 22:14:31 (EDT) One of the greastest musican's of our time. i loved vassar's playing Tim Slone <> prestonsburg, ky USA - Tuesday, August 01, 2006 at 05:08:31 (EDT) THE SONGS WILL LIVE FOREVER.!!! MICHAEL WILKER <> NASHVILLE, TN USA - Thursday, July 27, 2006 at 17:41:00 (EDT) Thatnk you for the years of enjoyment! Peace! Mark J Ness <> Chicago, IL USA - Tuesday, July 18, 2006 at 15:24:54 (EDT) My sincere condolences. I share your loss. He was truely great. Michael Sisemore <> Lincoln, CA USA - Sunday, July 02, 2006 at 15:42:59 (EDT) In Memory of the Greatest Fiddle Player of all Time. I will never forget when you said "come on in" at your dressing room at the El Mocambo in Toronto and that you actually let me hold your fiddle. You're sweet style will remain in my heart for ever. Honey Roy Ellis <> Largo, FL USA - Sunday, June 25, 2006 at 15:05:08 (EDT) I saw Vassar in concert twice: once in Raleigh, NC and once in Hickory, NC. In Raleigh he was presented a guitar built by a Mr. Sturgis at a concert in Reynolds Coliseum. In Hickory I saw Vassar in concert in a small club called Fast Company. His musicianship and graciousness were apparent in both venues. Rest in peace, Vassar. Joe Biggerstaff <> Vale, NC USA - Monday, June 19, 2006 at 13:33:20 (EDT) FATHER'S DAY "PRECIOUS MEMORIES" JUNE 18, 2006 MY ONE AND ONLY PAPA. THIS BEING THE FIRST FATHER'S DAY SINCE YOUR DEATH ON AUGUST 16, 2005, IT DIDN'T SEEM QUITE RIGHT TO ME NOT TO STILL GIVE YOU A CARD. SINCE YOU ARE NOT HERE IN THE PHYSICAL SENSE, BUT "EVERYDAY" IN MY THOUGHTS I WANTED TO STILL SHARE SOME OF MY PRECIOUS MEMORIES. PAPA, YOU KNOW AFTER MOM'S DEATH I CONSIDERED YOU TO BE MY LIFE LINE THROUGH MOM AS YOU SAID I WAS TO YOU. EVEN THOUGH THERE ARE THOSE SAD AND DARK DAYS, YOU BOTH ARE EVER SO CLOSE TO ME EACH DAY. EARLIER TODAY AS I WENT TO THE CEMETERY TO PLACE YOUR FATHER'S DAY FLOWERS ON YOUR HEADSTONE ALL SORTS OF THOUGHTS AND PRECIOUS MEMORIES KEPT GOING THROUGH MY HEAD. THERE ARE SO MANY. I THOUGHT OF THE CHARLES CHIP FRANCHISE ROUTE YOU AND MOM HAD IN TALLAHASSEE, FLA AND HOW AT THAT TIME WHEN COMING HOME FROM SCHOOL IT WAS MY RESPONSIBILITY TO CALL CUSTOMERS TO SEE IF THEY WANTED TO PLACE AN ORDER FOR YOUR DELIVERY. MY REWARD AT THE END OF THE WEEK WAS IF THERE WAS A SCHOOL DANCE, I COULD BE SURE THAT YOU WOULD TAKE AND PICK ME UP FROM THE DANCE SINCE I WAS IN THE 7TH OR 8TH GRADE. THERE WAS ALSO ALL THE MOTOWN MUSIC I LISTENED AND DANCED TO. YOU WOULD MAKE SOME HUMORUS COMMENTS OF MY CHOICE OF MUSIC AT THAT TIME, THEN MAKE FUN OF MY DANCING AS WELL. ESPECIALLY THE "PONY." I WOULD REMIND YOU THAT IF IT WAS GOOD ENOUGH FOR CHUBBY CHECKER ON AMERICAN BANDSTAND TO TEACH ME, THEN IT WAS GOOD ENOUGH FOR ME. WHEN WE MOVED TO NASHVILLE, TN I WAS THEN A FRESHMAN IN HIGH SCHOOL. WE FIRST LIVED ON BELL GRIMES LANE MY FIRST SEMESTER AND I WENT TO MAPLEWOOD HIGH SCHOOL. THEN, LATER WE MOVED TO HERMITAGE HILLS ON BONNALYNN DRIVE IN HERMITAGE, TN WHERE I WENT TO DUPONT HIGH SCHOOL. WHEN THE HIGH SCHOOL BURNED DOWN I REMEMBER HOW YOU WOULD WATCH "ALL MY CHILDREN" SOAP OPERA AND BRING ME UP TO DATE ON WHAT WAS HAPPENING AT THE SUPPER TABLE THAT NIGHT. OF COURSE THAT WAS WHEN YOU WERE HOME AND NOT OUT ON THE ROAD TRAVELING. THE WORDS ENDEARING, STRENGTH, WEAKNESS, COURAGE, RESPECT AND LOVE COME TO MIND WHEN I THINK OF YOU. ALSO, I VISUALIZE THAT KODAK SMILE, HUMOR, SLUDGE COFFEE, CHEESE, LATE NIGHTS, NOT AN EARLY RISER. I ALWAYS ENJOYED KIDDING YOU THAT I DIDN'T LIKE YOUR SINGING UNLESS YOU WERE HARMONIZING WITH SOMEONE. YOUR HUMOROUS COMEBACK WOULD BE THAT'S ALRIGHT, I DON'T LIKE YOUR SINGING EITHER. I'VE THOUGHT MANY TIMES OF THE CD YOU DID WITH STEPHANE GRAPPELLI "TOGETHER AT LAST." IT MADE ME THINK OF THE IMPACT YOU'VE HAD "IN MY LIFE" AND ALSO BEING "YOUNG AT HEART," BOTH YOU AND MOM. YOU WERE THERE WHEN LARRY AND I MARRIED IN 1969. YOU WERE THERE WHEN I GRADUATED HIGH SCHOOL IN 1970. ON DECEMBER 24TH, 1973 YOU WERE THERE WHEN CHRIS WAS BORN. WHEN GEORGE AND I MARRIED IN 1982 WE HAD YOUR BLESSING, FOR WE WENT TO THE JUSTICE OF THE PEACE. YOU AND MOM WERE THERE WHEN CHRIS GRADUATED HIGH SCHOOL IN 1992, ALSO THERE AT JAIME'S GRADUATION IN 1995 AND THEN AT JACKIE'S GRADUATION IN 1996. I WAS AND AM SO BLESSED THAT I CAN REFLECT ON THOSE MEMORIES AND MUCH MORE. PAPA, YESTERDAY, TODAY AND ALL OF THE TOMORROW'S YOU'RE REMEMBERED. I ADORE AND LOVE YOU TO THE END OF THE EARTH. IT'S SAD BUT ALSO A HAPPY CELEBRATION AND A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO YOU ON "FATHER'S DAY." GOD LET YOU BE ON THIS EARTH FOR 77 YEARS AND YOU "IN MY LIFE" SINCE I WAS 11 YEARS OLD. THANK YOU! I QUOTE YOUR FAVORITE SAYING "DAD-BIME-IT." WITH MUCH LOVE AND DEVOTION, MIDGE Nashville, TN USA - Sunday, June 18, 2006 at 18:01:32 (EDT) May Vassar's soul be at peace and the music play on forever. He was my inspiration now and always. Kevin Haddenham <> Silverlake, WA USA - Saturday, June 17, 2006 at 18:01:32 (EDT) Fantastic!! nick summers <> USA - Friday, June 16, 2006 at 14:52:36 (EDT) What an interesting blend of music. Jazz with a fiddle. Sounds great Jeffreyfox@mail.com <> Birmingham, UK - Thursday, June 08, 2006 at 19:11:43 (EDT) Sad loss and the world will never be the same again. Dr_Marlboro@gawab.com Dr Marlboro <> UK - Wednesday, June 07, 2006 at 11:19:30 (EDT) Thanks for all the music you shared with us over the years Vassar!!!!! It was truly an honor to say thanks to you personally on a couple of occasions. Sure wish we could buy some merchandise directly from you Midge. Bill Adams <> USA - Tuesday, June 06, 2006 at 09:59:55 (EDT) Respect for the music of Vasser Clements Britt Townsend <> Palmetto , Fl USA - Monday, June 05, 2006 at 21:22:17 (EDT) Great site! Long live bluegrass! Noel Anderson <> Madison, WI USA - Tuesday, May 30, 2006 at 10:59:39 (EDT) A note about SPAM. Hi everyone, We have done away with 99.5% of SPAM on this guestbook. It is impossible to stop the hand submitted SPAM (most spam is a robot that posts and pollutes guestbooks)that might slip through. Next to making everyone become members in order to post, we cannot stop it all. We have been asked to keep it public so anyone can post. Again we apologize for an occaisional spam that might slip through. We agree Vassar is the man, and not deserved of any SPAM. Christian <> USA - Monday, May 22, 2006 at 10:57:23 (EDT) I had the honor of meeting vassar on a number of occassions here in Texas and he was always the warmest most lovely of men. A true gentleman in every sense of the word. I was lucky enough to video his concert here in 2003. It was a special night to honor him with Peter Rowan and Del McCoury in the band... here's a taste http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHyK_QUVpSY Jim O'Brien <> Austin, TX USA - Thursday, May 18, 2006 at 13:10:52 (EDT) As a successful businessman, I find this site informative and fun. Thank you for your kind advice. Tony Auro tony.auro@gmail.com Tony Auro <> USA - Wednesday, May 17, 2006 at 08:16:41 (EDT) Hello again. I just thought I'd pipe up again and tell everyone how much Vassar ment to me. I thought of you like a grandpa, and everybody 'round here loves and misses you. Vassar, know that you meant a whole lot to me, and life just isn't the same without you. Micah Snow <> Creston, B.C. Canada - Saturday, April 29, 2006 at 03:00:07 (EDT) happy b-day big boy....we think about you everyday....fiddlin' in the sky. What a band they must have now!!! Sooooo many great memories, so many tears! we love you brother- -Big A and the fam kindfolkfamily....adam <> dayton, oh USA - Thursday, April 27, 2006 at 17:50:03 (EDT) A friend of mine knew Vassar from his dad's recording studio in Minn. and got us tickets to the Great American Music Hall in S.F. This was about '78. We sat front and center, enthralled by the performance as they went through their repertoire and then started playing requests from the audience (and they knew them all, I can still hear "Devil's Dream"...) Vassar recognized my friend Andy and invited us backstage where we visited for a while. I was given permission to touch his fiddle and just laying my fingertips on it I could feel the energy/vibrations. Will never forget it, and it got me started playing bluegrass. As long as Vassar's music is remembered (how could it not?) he will live forever. BTW, I just saw the video "Down from the Mountain". I noticed that the fiddle that John Hartford was playing had runes around the body, and I seem to remember that Vassar's did too. I read that John gave Vassar his fiddle, and I was wondering if there's a story/connection about the runes? P.S. Excellent website!!! skipmurdog@hotmail.com Skip Murdog <> Fallon, NV USA - Thursday, April 27, 2006 at 12:33:21 (EDT) I am thinking of you on this very special date and remembering the wonderful moments we had. I am so thankful I was able to meet you and to know you. The good Lord was willing, Vassar!!! I will never forget you. . . . . . . . dianne nichols <> st. louis, mo USA - Tuesday, April 25, 2006 at 12:10:51 (EDT) HAPPY BIRTHDAY BUDDY VASSAR! I'LL NEVER FORGET HAVING A SLICE OF YOUR BIRTHDAY CAKE ON YOUR 75TH BIRTHDAY AT THE MERLEFEST. IT WAS MY 45TH!! JIM MURPHY <> ST. LOUIS, MO USA - Tuesday, April 25, 2006 at 08:55:05 (EDT) "APRIL 24, 2006" (JUST REMEMBERING.) PAPA'S BIRTHDAY APRIL 25, 2006 WOULD HAVE BEEN YOUR "78TH". I KNOW THAT WHEN SOMEONE WE LOVE DIES, WE SHOULD REMEMBER THE GOOD MEMORIES AND THANK GOD I HAVE SO MANY. SINCE PAPA'S DEATH AUGUST 16, 2005, I'VE HAD GOOD DAYS AND BAD ONES THAT NOW HAVE TURNED INTO MONTHS. HOW QUICKLY THE TIME HAS PASSED. THE GRIEF FOR PAPA AND MOM HAVE BEEN MUCH FOR ME TO HANDLE AT TIMES. THERE'S "NEVER" A DAY THAT PASSES I DON'T THINK OF THEM. MY FAITH IS STRONGER THAN EVER BEFORE BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY THERE'S NO SUFFERING FOR PAPA NOR MOM WITH THEIR CANCER AND THAT'S WHAT COUNTS. THIS TIME LAST YEAR, THE MONTH OF APRIL WAS A DIFFICULT TIME FOR PAPA TO GO THROUGH. FOR MUCH OF THE MONTH HE WAS IN THE HOSPITAL. FOR HE HAD TO ENDURE BLOOD TRANSFUSIONS, PLATELETS AND EVEN A CT SCAN OF HIS CHEST AND ABDOMEN. NOT TOO MENTION WHAT WAS TO COME IN THE 4 MONTHS AHEAD BEFORE HIS DEATH. TODAY, I WENT TO THE CEMETERY TO PLACE NEW FLOWERS FOR PAPA'S BIRTHDAY AND SHINE THE HEAD STONE. NORMALLY, I WOULD HAVE WAITED UNTIL TOMORROW BEING HIS BIRTHDAY, BUT THE WEATHER IS SUPPOSE TO BE RAINY. PAPA, YOU CAN BE SURE MANY OF YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS WILL BE THINKING OF YOU ON APRIL 25TH, 2006. I WILL SPEND MUCH OF THE DAY REMEMBERING THE GOOD TIMES AND HOW MUCH FUN WE HAD, I'LL PLAY MANY OF YOUR CD'S, LOOK AT VARIOUS PHOTOS AND EACH DAY I VISUALIZE THAT "KODAK SMILE" YOU HAD. PAPA, HAPPY BIRTHDAY! YOU'RE ADMIRED, PRECIOUS AND CAN NEVER BE REPLACED. I LOVE YOU TO THE END OF THE EARTH. YOUR LOVING DAUGHTER, MIDGE MIDGE CRANOR <> GOODLETTSVILLE, TN USA - Monday, April 24, 2006 at 22:50:50 (EDT) HAPPY BIRTHDAY VASSAR, WE MISS YOU MORE THAN EVER, WE LOVE YOU STILL! FD & TJ <> GA USA - Monday, April 24, 2006 at 21:43:42 (EDT) Wonderful music - from a UK fan Helmut Scheisshausen <> Coventry, UK - Tuesday, April 18, 2006 at 10:27:51 (EDT) I just pulled out my LP of the Nitty Grittie's "Stars and Stripes Forever" yesterday. I enjoyed Vassar's fiddle playing once again. I saw him play at Mr. Nibs in the Twin Cities about 1976... it was fun to see a legend live. RIP, Vassar. Bill <> Mt. Vernon, IA USA - Monday, April 17, 2006 at 11:44:16 (EDT) I love music, but mostly jazz. I also love this site! Irving Tricyu <> Schenectady, NY USA - Monday, April 10, 2006 at 19:47:32 (EDT) 4.10.6 i look toward merlefest with a bittersweet smile, remembering the first time i saw your father play and remembering why music exists... to heal and save lives, to inspire and spark... sometimes to light a fire. i will arrive in wilkesboro to begin work on monday before and will be thrilled to share the new record "white trash goddess". the song i wrote called "missionary man" was inspired by your dad and his fine playing one night in asheville, nc. his whole cd which i bought at the grey eagle show and listened to all night. "face in the crowd" was my favorite song and i loved that he was singing. i still spend time with the jacket, wondering what your parents lives might've been like all those years before i was born. i would love to send you some copies of my record when it's packaged and ready to go this summer. i hope when you hear "missionary man" you'll feel the love and innocence and hope he and your mama inspired in so many, and will for generations to come... my grandparents david and grace rock are mentioned in the song too. they lived in lewisville, nc and raised two girls. i hope i will be blessed to visit mt. juliet and look forward to crossing paths again some day. love and light, christina songbird@whitetrashgoddess.com christina aurea <> asheville, nc United States - Monday, April 10, 2006 at 12:56:07 (EDT) I was lucky enough to see Vassar with his "fusion" band around 1980 and with a bebop type group a few years later. Loved his albums (not sure the title), yellow cover, and another one with "Mixed Melody" on it. Wasn't paying attention recently what with having a family and work pressure, sorry to hear he passed on but of course glad to have had the chance to hear him play and be able to still listen to his recordings. He was truly one of a kind! Gary Worsham <> Los Gatos, CA USA - Monday, April 10, 2006 at 02:17:30 (EDT) Midge & George; Reading weather reports from last night and today - we hope you're safe and sound! Farley & Tommy <> GA USA - Saturday, April 08, 2006 at 11:29:42 (EDT) man i dun no crap bout dis musik but it pretty jamin man PEACE i hope u got fun in heavan with jerry man! Clay "Anastasio" "Garcia" Long <> Richmond, VA USA - Friday, March 31, 2006 at 11:08:25 (EST) Man, Vass..you have been such an inspiration man. I <3 You! Sam Carpenter <> Richmond, VA USA - Friday, March 31, 2006 at 11:06:35 (EST) In the spring of 31 C.E., Jesus Christ boldly promised: "Just as the Father raises the dead up and makes them alive, so the Son also makes those alive whom he wants to. Do not marvel at this, because the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his [Jesus'] voice and come out." I can only hope that all of us that Love Vassar and his music can be on earth to see this grand day when he has a chance to live again. We all miss you Vassar. David <> Winchester, VA USA - Thursday, March 30, 2006 at 23:58:05 (EST) Great site Vassar. I really love the layout. --randy.sunovabich@gmail.com Randy <> Danvers, MA USA - Saturday, March 25, 2006 at 14:00:19 (EST) Thanks for great music, and a great site! Dr. Robert Causey <> Newport Beach, CA USA - Saturday, March 18, 2006 at 22:08:52 (EST) One of the most approachable "stars" we've ever had on this earth. The world needs more like him. Lawrence Bowen <> Lake City, FL USA - Monday, March 13, 2006 at 20:05:44 (EST) My condolances to Mr. Clements' family and friends. I am a relation (by in-laws). I am honored, as a musician and songwriter, to be associated through family, with this great musician and man. It is sad to see him go. God bless, Alex Ben-Kori Alex Ben-Kori <> Colorado Springs, CO USA - Wednesday, March 01, 2006 at 22:59:39 (EST) I just learned of Vassar's passing. I first saw him(and many times thereafter) at the Old Time Pickin Parlor, across from the Ryman. He and many others would come over after the Saturday night Opry. I've never experienced anyone who could play the fiddle better. Tim Eckles <> Roswell, GA USA - Thursday, February 16, 2006 at 11:34:35 (EST) was very saddened last night upon hearing of vassar's passing during the grammy show. have been a huge fan since i first heard kissimee kid on the dickey betts highway call album.hands down best fiddle/violin performer that i have ever heard. Peter Crocitto <> Lindenhurst, NY USA - Thursday, February 09, 2006 at 10:10:13 (EST) we are very sorry to hear about Vassars Passing.we loved him very much.we will be praying for all of his Loved ones.God bless all of you I know with in my heart that he is in heaven today.and he Joins the Grate Jimmy Martin and more.we love you Vassar your friends Gene & Kim Ainsworth. Gene & Kim <> Pawhuska, OKLAHOMA USA - Wednesday, February 08, 2006 at 14:49:17 (EST) I was first made aware of this great individual watching "Grateful Dawg", a Biopic of Garcia/Grisman. "Old and in the Way" inspired me to open my eyes broader to music. Though I'm only 26, the music he and "Old" was new to me. Club Tribeca (NYC) Has a great painting of him in their lounge that I saw when I went to see ZEN. RIP. Mike Shannon <> Salem, NJ USA - Tuesday, February 07, 2006 at 17:44:43 (EST) A most interesting website for lovers of Vassar! philpott.j@gmail.com Joseph Philpott <> Auckland, NZ - Monday, February 06, 2006 at 06:22:54 (EST) I just heard the news today, and feel very priveledged to have met this man, and to have heard him play. The last time I saw Vassar, he was on stage at Harvest Fest, alongside Caroline Pond. He was a musician in the truest sense of the word. Vassar changed my life forever by being the first bluegrass fiddler I actually heard and LISTENED to. He will always have a place in my heart, and in my music collection. Love and light to all of you, may we all hear him play again someday. Rabbit <> Greenville, SC USA - Saturday, February 04, 2006 at 14:44:36 (EST) TO ONE OF THE GREATEST FIDDLE PALYERS EVER, HE WILL, BE MISSED. BRIAN CROSSEN <> MT. VERNON, IN USA - Thursday, February 02, 2006 at 11:46:39 (EST) You are greatly missed Vassar! I was thinking the other day, what will become of Vassar's unique fiddle? Did he leave it to another musician? If that's too nosy, I apoligize. There is a great deal of history in that instrument, not the least of which is because Vassar played it. I bet Vassar and John Hartford are making some good music in Heaven. Dave Dave Webster <> Herndon, VA USA - Tuesday, January 31, 2006 at 17:14:13 (EST) I had the complete pleasure of getting a couple of 'turns' when my friend introduced me to this wonderful man, musician! I wanted to dump gobs of sympathy on her when she told me the other night Mr. 'C' had passed, but she said 'he was loved and he knew it, just good people who liked people and let them know, and a jolt of black coffee often enough, plain and simple and a nicely ironed shirt' and she smiled and said 'he hasn't gone anywhere, he's where he should be, we just can't call him on the cellphone'!! Well drop my socks, I feel better now! Ellen J <> GA USA - Tuesday, January 31, 2006 at 01:37:20 (EST) I have been a fan of Vassar's since the day I first heard him play. I don't think there will ever be anyone who can communicate the way he did through his music. God bless him. Don Couchie <> Fonthill, Ont. Canada - Tuesday, January 31, 2006 at 00:34:09 (EST) Rip. I'm a huge fan. feel free to contact me, alansimmovalet@hotmail.com alan simmovalet <> London, UK - Sunday, January 22, 2006 at 15:40:18 (EST) I had a chance to share the stge with Vassar in 2003 at the Elkhenge Music Festival in Elkins, WV. What a truly amazing musician and person. I learned a ton from Vassar before he even said a word. His smile and fiddle playing said it all. Thank you Vassar for the music and legacy you left behind. Jesse Cravens Jesse Cravens <> Boerne, TX USA - Sunday, January 22, 2006 at 09:50:26 (EST) do not know what made me think of Vassar while at worktoday but I decided to check up on him when I got home and am very saddened to hear of his death. Have many fond memories of him, In the 70s I worked in a little bar in Kearny ,New Jersey for a friend of mine Ralph who had befriended Vassar at the Lone Star in New York. That was their first performance with that band and they needed a little more rehearsal time and what do you know the next here come Vassar and the gang pulling up out front in the bus with Miss Millie running the show, We provided them with a space tp peactice and they stayed for 3 days. Every time they came back to the area they would come back and do it again. I will never forget that. Those times were so special. And what an honor it was to meet him and get to know him a little, He was so down to earth and approachable when you spoke to him he made you feel like you have known him forever. He was a wonderful person and musician. I will miss him and cherish those memories forever. He was a true gentleman and i will miss him . God rest your soul brother Clements robert myer <> salisbury, nc USA - Saturday, January 21, 2006 at 15:41:15 (EST) I woke up this morning thinking about Vassar for some reason. Maybe the result of a dream I couldn't remember. I saw his face and heard the thing in his fiddle that separated him from any other fiddle player. It was almost definable but drifted out there like an apparition standing in morning pond fog. I wanted to revisit the dream, jump into the fog, because it knew and was keeping it to itself. Not being a fiddle player I wondered why it mattered but other fiddlers tried to figure it out, some got close, some scratched their heads and the rest resigned to inspiration. It's because the dream wouldn't let them back in either. I don't think Vassar intended for us to not figure this thing out. He'd probably say something all humble like It ain't that hard and I ain't that good but I recon it just takes strong coffee, a good pipe, and seeing those notes with your eyes closed. I think it must boil down to the secret of magic, that certain knowledge is protected by dreams that whatever Vassar had still exists as clear as a bell but not in the dictionary. Dale Benz (sheldon concert hall) <> st. louis, MO USA - Friday, January 20, 2006 at 12:16:22 (EST) I am so sorry to hear this. I just found out today. Vassar was the real deal, a real treasure in every way. I still listen to his many albums and am still to this day stunned by his work with John Hartford. The memories do indeed live on. Kingharvest <> Toronto, ON Canada - Friday, January 06, 2006 at 11:33:32 (EST) Good decision, I wondered how long it would take to have this site back to the old way with fans of Vasser making the comments.. Thank you! An old fan <> Bangor, ME USA - Wednesday, January 04, 2006 at 13:09:23 (EST) Happy New Year to Midge and George, to Vassar's large and loving family, and to all the fans who miss him so much. Laura and Christian <> Asheville, NC USA - Wednesday, January 04, 2006 at 13:02:21 (EST)