Our STORY
PRESERVATION OF AN ART FORM
The Ozarks has been a hotbed for some of the best Blues in the country. Legendary greats such as Norman Jackson, Don Shipps, Vic Vaughn, the Bluesberries, the Bel Airs begat generations of Ozarks Blues originals like Papa Green Shoes, Nathan Bryce, Sister Lucille, and a host of others to continue the tradition of Blues music in the Ozarks.
Since 1991 we have endeavored to educate and encourage appreciation of blues music, through education, collaboration, live events and through media, as Blues is the basis of most music genres. We strive to not only preserve our flavor of America’s original musical art-form, but live music of all kinds!
Ways in which we collaborate with other organizations include D.R.Y.M.S., BITS, IBC, Pinetop Perkins, Blues Foundation and memberships/support/fundraisers. See corresponding pages for more information.
In addition, George Hunt, board member and past president, teaches Harmonica Therapy for COPD, asthma and respiratory patients at Cox South Hospital. Classes are held in the Wheeler Building, 3rd floor on the first 3 Tuesdays of the month from 1:30-2:30. Classes are free, including harmonicas provided through Cox South Auxiliary. Songs are played, with tablature and therapeutic breathing exercises.
UPCOMING EVENTS IN THE OZARKS
The BSO sponsors live Jam opportunities on the second Thursday, 6:00 to 9:00 pm, of each month, at the Where House Bar, 2463 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, MO. And, on the fourth Sunday, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, of each month at Carrie’s Bar, 1906 E Meadowmere St., Springfield, MO 65804. Make plans to come out and participate!
