GUESTBOOK ARCHIVE 2008 These are the guestbook entries for 2008. Just watched NASHVILLE last night and when I heard the line, "Here's the best! Here's Vassar! I thought I'd see what I could find on the Internet, only to learn this wonderful musician had passed away in 2005. My sympathy to the family, even though this is late. Bruce <> Gillett, WI USA - Wednesday, December 31, 2008 at 09:54:27 (EST) 1985... I was just a kid playing music doing a solo act at a lounge in Valdez Alaska 4 hours and 6 nights a week. One night a young man came in and he asked if he could bring a group of musicians in to jam for that night...He said Vassar was doing a show in town and they wanted to come over and jam. Wow! I said sure as long as I could play along! No problem he said! I was thrilled and as promised Mr Clements came that evening with a large group of followers and soon I was picking guitar right along with him and his friends on a few familiar tunes and he was really a nice man and amazing on his fiddle and allowed me to jam back and forth with my lead guitar licks to his fiddling it was the best experience for me as a guitarest! It was so cool and alot of fun to be a part of..... My father played fiddle for us many years and I had and have been an aspiring fiddler and I even had it with me along with some old time fiddle books I had tried to pick up some things out of. So later on that evening afterwards I found out which room he was stayin in and I knocked on his door and got him to sign one of my books.....well this is many years later and I have lost that book in my travels but I still have a flyer from his show their in Valdez. I still play and have improved over the years....I am sad to know he is no longer with us....now I need to take time to really get to know his music...I wish I could have reminisced my story with him. Samantha Moist <> Lansing, MI USA - Wednesday, December 24, 2008 at 00:55:43 (EST) Thinking of Vassar's family during this Christmas season and hoping you are all well...Terry, Renee, Carroll, Midge and your respective families. Al <> USA - Tuesday, December 23, 2008 at 14:43:19 (EST) Midge it has been a long time since I have seen you. I think the last time was when I was in Nashville back in the late sixty's. I think you were married to Larry then. Vasser was working at the Landing when I got to nashville. Noboby can describe how much I miss Millie and Vasser they were the best friends I ever had. The laughs we had and the stories we shared I will never forget. I'll go for now but will get in touch later. God Bless you. Jim Young jyoung112332@charter.net Rev. James C. Young <> Morristown, Tn. USA - Sunday, December 14, 2008 at 14:52:01 (EST) I first heard Vassar with Old and in the Way. He was an amazing musician who will be sorely missed. God bless him and his family. His music will live forever. Aaron <> Redding, ca USA - Thursday, December 04, 2008 at 16:03:36 (EST) miss the great feel of your live music; thanks for the memories christopher <> seattle, wa USA - Thursday, December 04, 2008 at 06:46:13 (EST) seeing VASSAR live and sam bush was a changing point in my life. I had heard of him before but seeing him and his personality truely showed me he was a musical genius. thank you VASSAR for what you have done for me even though you never knew me ... af Andy Frost <> ohatchee, al USA - Tuesday, November 25, 2008 at 16:27:42 (EST) When I was a student at Western Carolina University I saw and photographed a Richard Betts show, during his (mid 1970's) 'Highway Call' album tour. I was able to be backstage during the show as well because of a dorm mate that was on the school paper. It was during a break that the band took, while Vassar remained backstage, that I had a chance to speak with him awhile. I don't recall anything specific about which we talked. What I do remember is how I felt that he was such a descent, 'down home' man...I was just a 'nobody' to the celebrity of this world, and here he was talking to me as a friend would. I was so struck by this that it has remained with me through my years since...and I have often reflected on this. My great regret is that I never wrote or sent him any photographs, even though he had given me an address (that I have since misplaced)...it was in Hermitage, Tenn. as I recall. Paul F. Price Paul F. Price <> Weaverville, NC USA - Friday, November 21, 2008 at 21:43:09 (EST) I had the privilege of seeing Vassar twice up close in a small club in Denver in 1976. I didn't know who he was at the time but came away those two nights absolutly stunned. His music and style are difficult for me to put into words they just took me to someplace i had never been. Thank you for enriching my life as you did. Robert LaFleur <> Atlanta, Mi USA - Thursday, November 13, 2008 at 17:43:11 (EST) I had the extreme pleasure of seeing Vassar Clements perform live at a small club in Maryville, Tennessee about 1983. I arrived at the club about two hours before they opened to make sure I had a seat. My wife, who was working at a Loudon County newspaper at the time, and I got to go backstage with this remarkable man and visit with him for about a half hour. It was truly one of the highlights of my live and I will never forget the time I spent with the most gifted fiddle player of all time. What struck me most about Mr. Clements was that although he was a celebrity, he spoke to my wife and me as though he was just a regular person. He spoke as a humble man and seemed genuinely grateful for his fans. Vassar Clements will always be missed by us and I feel my life has been influenced in a very positive way by him. Thank you for this website and the opportunity to comment on a very important man in my life, Mr. Vassar Clements. One side note. I went to a convention in Atlanta this past August and the actor, Brad Dourif, was asked if he could play any roll who would it be. He paused for a moment and replied, "Vassar Clements." I spoke up from the crowd and said I had met him. I have emailed several people involved in the convention to see if I could have some photos my wife took backstage sent to Mr. Dourif, but have been unsuccessful in getting any results. I just thought you would like to know how far reaching Mr. Clements' influence has been. Mike Flores <> Chattanooga, TN USA - Monday, November 03, 2008 at 10:10:44 (EST) Thanks for having this site. I remember seeing Mr. Vassar when he played with Jim and Jesse. What a musician. Rev. Neal Carter Neal Carter <> Enigma, Ga USA - Thursday, October 30, 2008 at 13:16:19 (EDT) Today we are absolutely heartbroken at the passing Sunday of our dear beloved friend Michael Powel - who introduced us to Vassar back in 1994 or so which then led to the creation of this website. Michael, AKA Dawgbite, played electric guitar like Jerry Garcia and mandolin like David Grisman in many musical incarnations in the Tampa / St. Pete area of Florida during the 80's and 90's. He was very loved and will be missed much more than words can tell. We love you Michael, our best friend in the whole world. www.michaelpowel.com Christian and Laura <> Asheville, NC USA - Monday, October 27, 2008 at 20:44:49 (EDT) Just got back from Magfest at Suwannee. Sunday was Vassar Day. The amphitheater was like a big bowl swirling with amazement, joy, and pride. Thank-you, Vassar!!! Christopher Cush <> Naples, FL USA - Monday, October 27, 2008 at 11:32:30 (EDT) Hello Midge. I hope you are feeling better. Vassar was always so concerned about your health. God Bless. Al <> USA - Thursday, October 23, 2008 at 09:26:39 (EDT) i just wanted to say i'm a huge fan of vassar's there was only one, and there will forever be only one. his music could touch your soul as no other could. i will always pay honor to vassar when i play, though i will never be able to duplicate his sound, many try, but none do. long live vassar's music Aaron Lanning <> fletcher, nc USA - Tuesday, October 21, 2008 at 21:20:24 (EDT) My mother in law is Katherine Godwin Koger. Her husband, now deceased was Gene Koger from Kissimmee/St. Cloud Florida. She said that Vassar and Gene were good friends and they used to come over to her house together. She was about 14 then and her father was not too happy that the boys were over there! She said Vasser would play his fiddle on their front porch and her Daddy really enjoyed it in spite of himself. I thought that was a cute memory and thought I would share it with you. Melanie Koger Melanie Koger <> Prescott, AR USA - Sunday, October 12, 2008 at 00:10:24 (EDT) good luck midge this is his neice alyssa Alyssa <> Jax, FL USA - Wednesday, October 08, 2008 at 17:42:20 (EDT) I am his neice alyssa i miss him so much god bless Alyssa Storniolo <> Jacksonville, FL USA - Wednesday, October 08, 2008 at 17:37:31 (EDT) AWSOME! Doez Jerry Garcia have a son by the same name who lives in Colorado? CAM <> STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, CO USA - Wednesday, October 08, 2008 at 05:59:49 (EDT) I once interviewed Vassar on WDST in Woodstock the afternoon of his concert at the Bearsville Theater. He was wonderful to talk with. The concert was memorable because he thanked me during the show. Dave Doud <> Woodstock, NY USA - Thursday, September 25, 2008 at 16:33:26 (EDT) HI, I WAS JUST WONDERING IF WE ARE RELATED? MOST OF MY FAMILY (VASSAR'S) LIVED IN TEXAS. MY GRANDFATHER WAS ALBERT VASSAR AND GRANDMOTHER MAMMIE VASSAR. MY FATHER WAS ARCH ALBERT, HIS BROTHERS, ELVIS ADEL, CLEO MACK, GLYNN WYLON. THERE IS JUST ONE SISTER LEFT, LANETTE VASSAR SWANCE, LIVING IN WEATHERFORD, TX. YOU CAN EMAIL ME AT: DIETSUNKIST2@AOL.COM JUDY VASSAR OLIVER <> GRANBURY, TX USA - Tuesday, September 23, 2008 at 08:37:12 (EDT) Best Wishes to Midge in your recovery. I hope that you're feeling better and better all the time and thanks for keeping Vassar's legacy alive. He was a true genius and his music will live forever. One of my all time favorite albums is Will the Circle Be Unbroken. One of my favorite songs is Down Yonder and one of the greatest intros is Doc Watson saying "How does it go, Vassar?" and then hearing Vassar's great fiddle fire it up. Thanks for the phenominal gift and pleasure of Vassar's music! Joe <> Greensboro, NC USA - Monday, September 22, 2008 at 00:01:37 (EDT) THE ORANGE BLOSSOM SPECIAL. FROM THE GRAND OLDE OPRY WAS FANTASTIC. THE MAN WAS FANTASTIC. DON VELLA <> tampa, FL USA - Saturday, September 13, 2008 at 22:12:15 (EDT) Midge, Very glad to hear your doing well,I hope George has the time to help through your recovery time. i hope to see and hear from you both soon. Love you both Dennis Baker Vassar Forever ! Dennis Baker <> Elida, Ohio USA - Friday, September 12, 2008 at 12:59:46 (EDT) Thanks for the posting on your site as to the delay in order processing. My thoughts and prayers are with Midge. I am happy to hear of the success of the surgeries and wish her a swift recovery. I have ordered the first recording on your line up with Norman Blake and Tut Taylor and am so excited to have found it. It was always one of my favorite LP's. I have looked for it for years on CD and was so happy to find your official VC site. I can wait a little while longer now that I know it will really be on the way here sometime. Thanks for keeping the music alive. Sincerely, -Michael Hofheimer Michael Hofheimer <> South Portland, ME USA - Friday, September 12, 2008 at 00:15:42 (EDT) I saw Vassar in the El Mocambo club Toronto in I think 1982 along with my late wife Ivy. We met him backstage after the showwhich by the way was superb and we talked for a while. He was fascinated to learn that Clements was a well known name in Co. Tyrone Northern Ireland where my wife was from. He was a true gentleman. Regards Robert Kelly Robert Kelly <> Coleraine, N.I. UK - Tuesday, September 09, 2008 at 03:44:34 (EDT) Our prayers are with Midge's surgery,,,I am in the Medical field, respiratory, and take care of these people. God Bless the Family. Love, Dick and Sheryl Dick and Sheryl Schultz <> Lake Mary, Fla USA - Saturday, August 23, 2008 at 17:42:38 (EDT) Hello Midge, What a wonderful tribute to your Dad ,Vassar. I was looking through all the kind words everyone has to say about him. I know he was a very special man and he was blessed to have you to be there with him. I hope you are doing well today and you continue to get better every day. you are in my prayers. Debbie Williams <> Hendersonville, TN USA - Friday, August 22, 2008 at 14:55:42 (EDT) Thank you Vassar for your music and that glint in you eyes and your jazzy harmonies that light up the soul. As August 16, 1960 is my birthday and August 16, 2005 you left and years before Elvis August 16, 1977, I hope that this concurrence means that I get to one day have a good jam on "Ya'll Come" and many others. Sam Klingensmith, Jr. <> Pittsburgh, Pa USA - Saturday, August 16, 2008 at 17:28:17 (EDT) Really great site! Jeremy Fisher <> United Kingdom - Friday, August 15, 2008 at 20:01:49 (EDT) I just ran across the video of Vassar, John Hartford and Tony Rice doing "Steam-Powered Aeroplane" on TNN and have played it over and over. It is so sad to have lost both John and Vassar to cancer. I have a brother who is losing that battle right now, and my heart goes out to Vassar's family. Take comfort in knowing how many of us love his music and that it will continue to provide joy to so many people for so many years to come. All my love. Jim Wills <> Farmville, VA USA - Friday, August 15, 2008 at 17:08:36 (EDT) Not a day goes by that I don't think of this very wonderful man I thank God that I was able to know him. Here's to you, Vassar. You are amongst all the angels in heaven. Dianne St. Louis, Missouri DIANNE <> ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI USA - Friday, August 15, 2008 at 17:07:06 (EDT) IN THE BEGINNING THE ANGELS PLAYED FOR VASSAR, THEN FOR MANY YEARS VASSAR PLAYED FOR THE ANGELS; FOR 3 YEARS HE'S BEEN PLAYING WITH THE ANGELS, NOW FOR 3 WEEKS HE'S BEEN LEADING THE ANGELS PLAYING FOR MIDGE! DAVID L. WHITE <> ENCINITAS, CA USA - Friday, August 15, 2008 at 15:58:29 (EDT) Thinking of Vassar's loved ones at this time... Terry, Renee, Janice, Carroll, Midge and their families. God Bless, I hope his loss is becoming a little easier for you. I still miss him so very much... Friend <> USA - Friday, August 15, 2008 at 09:59:14 (EDT) Best wishes for continued healing. I'm rooting for you. Sarah B. <> Long Beach, NY USA - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 at 10:14:01 (EDT) Vassar was the best fiddler I have ever heard. But not for nothin' he was a Great man, I have talked to him after Gigs and I would try and catch him whenever he played the NY area. His kindness and humble way always made seeing him a special event. God bless Vassar Clements. Farrel Bove <> Middletown, NY USA - Wednesday, August 06, 2008 at 10:25:00 (EDT) Loved him! Gus Wood <> Auburn, AL USA - Tuesday, August 05, 2008 at 20:33:56 (EDT) saw Vassar at the Great Northern Bluegrass Festival in 1979 and at the Peanut Gallery in Tampa Florida in 1983. Great shows. Have a few albums and one I would like to see on CD is Westport Drive. Doug Ritter <> Loveland, CO USA - Sunday, July 27, 2008 at 21:21:51 (EDT) As many of you may know, Vassar's daughter Midge (who runs vassarclements.com) has had two heart surgeries this past week to replace an aortic valve. We're so happy to report that both of the surgeries were successful and Midge is resting well! Please join us in our prayers for a speedy recovery. Your kind thoughts are very much appreciated. Please sign the guestbook to leave your message for Midge. During this time, we cannot accept any new orders. Any existing orders that were not filled prior to Midge's surgery will remain unfilled until she has recovered. We have been advised that if you have not received your order, your check or money order has not been cashed. Please email us if you have any questions about your order. Note: some titles are going or have already gone out of print, so you may not wish to cancel the order. We THANK YOU for your continued patience. Your friends at VassarClements.com Laura and Christian <> Asheville, NC USA - Thursday, July 24, 2008 at 12:25:37 (EDT) I was fortunate enough to have seen Vassar play at a small club in Bradenton, FL in the 1970s. I had discovered his music from the original Old and In the Way CD and when I found out he was going to be in Bradenton, I gathered up a big group of my friends who said Vassar who??? Well within the first few minutes they were all up and dancing. Everyone had a fantastic time and I became a lifelong fan. I never did get to see him live again, but I consider myself lucky to have been there that night and enjoy a true master at work. He will be missed. Bill R <> USA - Wednesday, July 23, 2008 at 22:43:57 (EDT) You changed my life Vassar by being my friend not to mention introducing me to bluegrass...and what an intro it was! Friend <> USA - Wednesday, July 16, 2008 at 16:37:35 (EDT) Hi Midge - you are in our thoughts and prayers much lately, but especially today. God Bless Millie and Vassar, they remain in our hearts and minds and will forever be an influence on our lives. Laura and Christian <> Asheville, NC USA - Saturday, July 12, 2008 at 12:42:33 (EDT) I had the very special pleasure of having played with this man in Fort Lauderdale, FL at a friend's backyard and it was easily the best musical experience of my life. You can hear a small clip of that performance (catfish john) on myspace. www.myspace.com/kv466 Anyway, it was amazing and I will cherish the moments we shared jaming forever in my heart. Enjoy~ Michael Camacho <> Hialeah, FL USA - Tuesday, July 08, 2008 at 16:22:05 (EDT) I'll never forget the night that i met you. You were so down to earth. Thank you for showing me your bus and introducing me to your band. i remember Blinky the most. See you someday again. Bill Brunner <> Hamburg, NY USA - Sunday, June 15, 2008 at 14:32:59 (EDT) you have a great gift Phil Makraken <> RI USA - Thursday, June 05, 2008 at 11:20:47 (EDT) Cool site!... Really like the pics! Mjölner Skjerner <> Skvellerup, Norway - Sunday, May 25, 2008 at 14:40:05 (EDT) Loved his music. It's hard to believe he's gone. Tim Lund <> Colordo Springs, Co USA - Friday, May 23, 2008 at 12:25:41 (EDT) Vassar was an incredible musician and also human. I had the pleasure of working with him in the early 70s. What a giant. Dianne Davidson <> USA - Wednesday, May 21, 2008 at 15:29:32 (EDT) One of the greatest fiddle players of all time. I wish more of his earlier works were on compact disc. Dave Pucket <> Independence, KY USA - Friday, May 16, 2008 at 13:54:58 (EDT) I remember seeing a performance in Arcata, CA in 1976 (I think). Even now, when I think of that great evening, Vassar Clements brings a little happiness to my heart. My condolences and regards to his family and friends. Cyrus <> Tucson, AZ USA - Thursday, May 08, 2008 at 12:11:03 (EDT) thanks! john fry <> Dallas, Tx USA - Thursday, May 08, 2008 at 04:14:21 (EDT) Thanks for a woderful website. Your music is a joy to behold Regards Larry Lewis email: lazza.lewis@gmail.com Larry Lewis <> New york, NY USA - Wednesday, April 30, 2008 at 04:44:55 (EDT) I stumbled across this web site while searching for anything banjo. I was sad to have learned of Vassar's passing in 2005. My childhood memories include listening to Vassar's recordings with the NGDB and to this day, when I play those CD's I still have a magical response to his music. May God bless and keep you. David <> Seattle, WA USA - Tuesday, April 29, 2008 at 06:00:41 (EDT) APRIL 25TH, 2008: IN REMEMBRANCE AND CELEBRATION ON WHAT WOULD HAVE BEEN YOUR "80TH" BIRTHDAY. PAPA, YOU ARE MISSED, CHERISHED AND LOVED ON A DAILY BASIS. "HAPPY 80TH BIRTHDAY." WITH MUCH LOVE AND DEVOTION, MIDGE MIDGE CRANOR <> GOODLETTSVILLE,, TN USA - Friday, April 25, 2008 at 17:13:31 (EDT) I love you guys man! Nancy (Gratefully Deadicated) <> Peoria, IL USA - Friday, April 25, 2008 at 06:29:46 (EDT) Keep on truckin! bertramleake@gmail.com Bertram Leake <> Dyer, IN USA - Friday, April 25, 2008 at 06:07:25 (EDT) Hi my name is Justin lott and i am vassar clements grandson i am the son of terry clements and im giving my respect to my grandfarther. justin lott <> tallahassee, florida USA - Tuesday, April 22, 2008 at 13:49:30 (EDT) I have always loved Vassar's music, but when I actually became his "student" via his DVD instructional video I came to realize what a genuine, unassuming guy he was. Obviously, here was a guy who was still humble and approachable even though he was probably the most talented musician ever to pick up a bluegrass fiddle. He will be missed. His loved ones, friends and others who knew him personally were indeed very lucky to have had the honor of his presence. Larry Hawthorne <> Hemet, CA USA - Tuesday, April 22, 2008 at 10:47:35 (EDT) thank you so much for your music which I shared with my own Millie (my sister) and our beloved brother can't describe but know you felt the love can still remember the first time I watched you play and the feelings of awe and amazement, and sharing that experience with my family who were sharing you with me if somehow I had a magic wand and could touch your family in the way you' ve touched me and mine - and if I could, I would - thank you very much my own millie's sister <> - Tuesday, April 15, 2008 at 08:45:29 (EDT) The other day I was sitting around & reminiscing about musicians that have brought a smile to my face. Vassar was definitely one of them. Now my oldest son is learning about all my favorites when I was his age. While listening to Vassar on Jamie Hartford's "Part of Your History" a flash of images of concerts reeled across my mind. Once again I was smiling. I don't think there can be any greater legacy. Thanks for your music Vassar! :-) E. Valdoer <> St. Maries, ID USA - Tuesday, April 08, 2008 at 10:22:01 (EDT) Vassar, I saw you play with David Bromberg in an old hangar at Nassau Community College in 1975. THANK YOU!!! Joe <> Melbourne, Fl USA - Sunday, April 06, 2008 at 19:22:40 (EDT) Vassar was as good as they come. Orange Blossom Special is one of my favorites. Wayne Thompson <> USA - Sunday, April 06, 2008 at 00:06:46 (EDT) Still remember the words you spoke to me,and the sweet sounds you gave to us. They will always Live in our Hearts. Now you are playing in "God's Angel's Band", Where there is no tears to weep, While we still here abide our time, Till again that we shall meet. Love Ya, Tell My Folks I Love Them, (And Please!) put a kind word or two to Jesus for all our families and friends. Thanks AntonStag <> Olean, N.Y. USA - Saturday, March 22, 2008 at 04:33:09 (EDT) Hey love your music been a fan for 3 years now! jb.mond@gmail.com Jabes <> UK - Friday, March 21, 2008 at 05:13:32 (EDT) I am so sorry to read of Vassars passing. Always told my children of his live performances, was always hoping they could see him now that theyre grown. God bless you Vassar...there was none better. Southside Tom <> Steger, Il.. USA - Monday, March 17, 2008 at 16:23:34 (EDT) Thankyou Vassar, truly an inspiration. Andrew Mitchener <> WORTHING, UK - Wednesday, March 05, 2008 at 10:48:28 (EST) Midge, best of luck with your condition. I am just a casual fan who has enjoyed your PAPA's work immensely but I am also recently recovering from open heart surgery to repair a defect. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you begin the road to getting your "ticker" fixed. It can be a long and painful journey but I know you'll make it through fine. Good luck and God Bless. Tim Tim Griffiths <> Oswego, NY USA - Monday, March 03, 2008 at 23:08:30 (EST) Thinking of you, every day... One of Vassar's Many Friends <> USA - Thursday, February 28, 2008 at 17:53:42 (EST) I just turned 15 and I love the way you played. I have been coyping your style and tone. Only wish I could have jamed with you. Jessica Jessica Zelinsky <> Williamsburg, Va USA - Tuesday, February 12, 2008 at 15:34:55 (EST) My respects to his family. I had the good fortune of seeing Vassar in 1973 at a Blue Grass festival in Calloway, Md. I will forget the quality of his music - It was just astonishing. With highest respect, John Anderson London UK John Anderson <> London England , UK - Tuesday, February 12, 2008 at 08:02:42 (EST) Great web site. Vassar is my favorite all-time fiddler. Mark Hanzlik <> Sacramento, CA USA - Saturday, February 09, 2008 at 13:58:32 (EST) The finest guitar player I have ever had the pleasure to listen to and watch(mostly with my mouth wide open), STUNNED! Now let me clear this up real quick. In my humble opinion, Duane Allman was the greatest. Slide, lead he was the cream of the crop. Thanks Mike Bondio Michael Bondio <> Slidell, La. USA - Friday, February 08, 2008 at 23:59:20 (EST) Here I am listening to a recording of Vassar's doing Running Blue and Land of the Navajo from 1976 on Wolfgang's Vault website. What a great, great mix of music. I'm sad that I missed him while he is alive, but I tell you what, that man could play. I'm looking forward to picking up some vinyl by him...what a great sound! Andrew Johnson, Howlin Mercy. www.hmblues.com Howlin Mercy <> Grosse Ile, MI USA - Thursday, February 07, 2008 at 13:00:10 (EST) There aren't many sounds that can ease my soul as Vassar's fiddle does. Not that he doesn't get me hoppin' though. The man plays on thru us all... Sean Willison <> Fairbanks, AK USA - Tuesday, February 05, 2008 at 20:15:06 (EST) RIP graham phipps <> birmingham, england - Monday, February 04, 2008 at 15:21:40 (EST) Love that fiddle !! Mike Shirer <> Green Bay, WI USA - Monday, February 04, 2008 at 13:22:11 (EST) I enjoyed Vassar's music for more than three decades. He was an important contributor to America's musical culture, and his influence lives on in countless fiddle players around the world. Tom Staudter <> Ossining, NY USA - Friday, February 01, 2008 at 18:38:57 (EST) I had the pleasure of hearing Vassar play in a little bar in NY 35 years ago. David Bromberg jusmped up and played with Vassar. Just a few years ago I heard Vassar again in a small church in Chapel Hill, NC. He was kind enough to do a small gig with family. He was the BEST! Rest in peace and play your fiddle for the angels. mike cowal <> Old Fort, NC USA - Tuesday, January 29, 2008 at 18:03:44 (EST) i saw vassar at the mighty 8th air force museum in pooler, GA. randy wood was hosting the show. vassar was the headliner, but played with every act. incredible playing and a real gentleman.i asked him about "old and in the way", and he told me a great story about riding with jerry garcia and the band in LA, and seeing a grateful dead billboard. he said to jerry garcia,"jerry that guy on the billboard sure looks a lot like you, and jerry told vassar that he was the guy on the billboard. to that vassar said to jerry, "i didn't know you were famous and in the grateful dead. i just thought you were a pretty fair banjo picker." billy the kid <> USA - Saturday, January 12, 2008 at 20:45:17 (EST) Hi Midge, I am sitting here listening to "Old And In The Way" and thinking of your papa and you. I just want you to know that I pray for you everyday and hope that soon you can have your surgery and get your life back on track. I wore the fiddle t-shirt for the first time today (it has been too cold for a t-shirt until now) and several people asked me where I got it, and they wrote down the e-mail address. My wife Laury just came into the room, and since I am in her chair, I guess I had better go. Hope to hear from you soon. Tom Thomas Oliver <> Gainesville,, FL USA - Saturday, January 12, 2008 at 15:12:30 (EST) There is a mellowness like the wind, dude. chris_thearsol@weirdness.com Chris Thearsol <> sydney, nsw AUS - Friday, January 04, 2008 at 21:26:24 (EST) Hello Midge, You are something special!!!! I just received my package with the additional CD/DVD. I haven't had a chance to view the pictures from the services or listen to the memorial services yet. I did listen to the new CD and I can't pull it out of my CD player. Vassar's music has always lifted me up because you can hear he loved what he did. It is great toe-tappin' music as all of his releases are. I'm sure the memorial service is ver special. You're going to make me tear-up. My mother passed away about two years ago and we put together a similar DVD. It really helps to remember the special people in your life. I hope you are feeling better. God bless you for your kindness. Sincerely, Vassar's biggest fan Steve Rice Steve Rice <> Castle Rock,, CO USA - Friday, January 04, 2008 at 20:31:14 (EST) Hello Midge, The CD's and wonderful bonuses you included arrived a few days ago. Thank you so much for including such a significant piece of music history. Talents such as Vassar's come along about once a millineum, so I'm afraid it's going to be a long time before the world has anything even vaguely close to a replacement. Thanks again, and may 2008 prove to be a better year. Henry Henry Hartman <> Naples,, FL USA - Thursday, January 03, 2008 at 09:42:46 (EST) Dear Midge, I had a chance to listen to and watch the tribute of your father. Very moving and lovely. So interesting to see the photos and the span of a well lived rich life. I was very moved by what you and Misty had to say. Thank you again for the gifts. Happy 2008. I hope it brings you good health! I've been 50 for a few days now and it's been pretty good. Almost exactly like 49! Except for the number. Most Sincerely, Nancy Nancy Green <> Hoboken,, NJ USA - Wednesday, January 02, 2008 at 19:43:13 (EST)