This Couple’s Rendition Of Greensleeves Using Guitar And Dulcimer Will Fill You With Nostalgia
In the tranquil setting of Western North Carolina, just outside the charming town of Boone, the loving duo Steve and Ruth Smith have shared a heartfelt performance of the traditional folk song “Greensleeves.” They turned their warm and inviting living room into a music studio, and their rendition of the folk song has the power to whisk listeners away to a place of peaceful musical bliss.
Having enriched the folk music landscape for nearly half a century, Steve and Ruth Smith have touched hearts far and wide with their acoustic Americana, deeply infused with the essence of Celtic and Appalachian heritage. Steve’s ability to craft songs with compelling narratives and melodic beauty pairs wonderfully with Ruth’s enchanting hammered dulcimer skills, a talent once described as “absolutely magical” by accolades such as Dirty Linen Folk and World Music Magazine.
Their interpretation of “Greensleeves” appears on their album “An Appalachian Winter,” a compilation that blends traditional tunes with original compositions, perfect for the holiday season. The album, with its harmonious blend of hammered dulcimer, guitar, flute, and Celtic harp, is celebrated for its serene and uplifting qualities, appealing to listeners throughout the year.
In the video, Ruth’s expertise on the hammered dulcimer is front and center, drawing out the intricate beauty of “Greensleeves” with each note. Alongside Steve’s guitar, the duo crafts a sound that is both grounded and celestial. Their version introduces a distinctive Appalachian flair to the classic melody, offering a fresh take on a beloved piece.
In this performance, Steve and Ruth Smith share more than just their music; they share a piece of their hearts. The synergy between them, their instruments, and the rich Appalachian tradition they adore transforms their rendition of “Greensleeves” into a deeply personal narrative, not merely a performance but an ode to their life together and the culture they cherish so much.
This particular rendition of “Greensleeves” serves as a powerful reminder that traditional music still has a place in today’s fast-paced society. It underscores music’s timeless capacity to bridge divides, connecting people across different ages and backgrounds with its soothing, universal language.
Witnessing Steve and Ruth Smith’s rendition of “Greensleeves” is an immersive experience, inviting you into their world where music transcends the constraints of time and space. Their melodies, rooted in Appalachian legacy, touch the essence of one’s being, offering solace and a chance for introspection amidst the chaos of everyday life.
The couple is still making renditions of traditional songs to this day, mixing their cultural heritage into our beloved melodies. You can check out Steve and Ruth’s works in their YouTube channel here.