Grammy-nominated musician Arvel Bird will share both his Native American heritage and music in an appearance sponsored by Walters State Community College.
Bird will perform at 9 a.m. Oct. 28 on the Morristown campus. The concert is part of his nationwide “On Wings” tour.
Bird is one of the most awarded Native American musicians with over 25 recordings and being honored as Native American Artist of the Year. He also spent many years in Nashville as a popular studio musician known for his skills on the fiddle. He began experimenting first with country music, with the fiddle playing lead instead of the guitar. He toured with Glen Campbell during much of the 1980s. His tours have also included stints with country legends including Loretta Lynn, Ray Price and Tom T. Hall. In 1991, he opened a recording studio and emerged as a popular recording engineer and producer.
Bird’s music has been recognized with three Grammy nominations.
He was born to a Mormon mixed race family where, under the social laws of the time, his Native American heritage was never discussed. Later in life, he researched and returned to his Paiute heritage. On stage, he weaves a unique musical blanket of sounds and stories.
“Arvel’s shows last year were just amazing and we wanted to share his talents with more of our students and with the communities we serve,” said Ann Bowen, assistant vice president for student affairs and special assistant to the president for diversity.
“His musical talent is really top-notch, but he shares the history and the culture of Native Americans in a way that captures the complete attention of the audience. Last year, students were captivated by his presentation,” Bowen said.
Bowen noted this year’s performance was scheduled for October as part of the college’s observance of Native American History Month as declared by Governor Phil Bredesen.
“Many people in this area do have Native American ancestry and I would like to encourage everyone to come, share and celebrate with this wonderful performance,” Bowen added.

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