When a lengthy illness caused instrumentalist Hal Casey’s fiddle to fall silent forever on Jan. 17, local musicians had to carry on without the revered bow master. Those inspired by Casey’s phenomenal talent and showmanship will pay tribute to the Sammy Hall of Famer on Sunday, July 22, 2 p.m., at the Mattydale American Legion, 2718 Lemoyne Ave., a venue the late violinist played many times, often for fundraisers. The event, organized by Southern Comfort bandleader Eric Will and Casey sideman George Harrington, features a core of pickers that recreates his career band, North Country. Steel guitarist Freddy Veitch, bassist Mac Claflin, vocalist Dave Birch and drummer Jimmy Thompson will join Will and Harrington, leaving vacant, at least temporarily, the position of fiddler. Renowned fiddler George Harrigar, another Casey cohort, will saw a few tunes, and many of Central New York’s best players including Colin Aberdeen and Los Blancos will also perform. The $10 donations collected at the door will be forwarded to Casey’s family to offset medical expenses incurred during his illness. For more information, call 668-8600.
