Gary Blanchard

Gary Blanchard began performing in the coffeehouses of Baltimore in the late 1960's. Influenced by Donovan, Pete Seeger, CSN, Bob Dylan, and The Band, Gary soon began writing his own music. His music has often expressed his concern for social justice and peace. Gary plays guitar, 5-string banjo, harmonica, mandolin, and ukulele. He recently released two CDs. "Hope Will Grow" features original tunes with one traditional song; "Wade In The Water" is a collection of civil rights, labor and peace songs with three original tunes.

I enjoy playing live, prefering coffeehouses to night clubs. I have had many great experiences, but the highlight was the night that I played an open sing at a gathering of topical musicians. As I was on the stage singing "The Peace Song," I looked out and saw Pete Seeger in the audience singing along. I doubt that he remembers that, but it is a special memory for me.

I play a Luna Muse acoustic guitar and a Deering Goodtime 5-string banjo/