The program’s mission is to support research and the dissemination of knowledge that promotes the legacy of country music pioneer Uncle Dave Macon (1870–1952). As an early star of the Grand Ole Opry, a prolific recording artist, and a prominent performer in the early decades of commercial country music, Macon’s influence was lasting and profound. The Macon- Doubler Fellowship, representing Uncle Dave’s descendants here in Middle Tennessee, have generously donated research materials along with the funding to make this travel grant possible. These research collections complement well other materials in the Center’s archive, such as the Charles Wolfe Collections, the David C. Morton Collection, and the Center’s extensive holdings in sheet music, gospel songbooks, minstrel materials, photographs, performance documents, sound recordings, etc.

Eligibility:

Scholars, students, musicians, and other researchers engaged in projects that relate in a substantive way to the legacy of Uncle Dave Macon and related areas of inquiry are encouraged to apply. Related research topics might include early string band music, banjo styles, the Grand Ole Opry, the early country recording industry, the country Vaudeville circuit, popular gospel hymnody, among many other possibilities.

The award is intended to support travel to MTSU, so applicants must reside outside of Middle Tennessee. All applicants, including U.S. residents and foreign nationals, must be eligible to receive payments in the U.S. and will be required to submit a W9 or other appropriate documentation.

Application Guidelines:

In addition to providing contact information, applicants will be asked to indicate their proposed visit dates, to upload a current resumé or C.V., and to provide a brief description (600 word max) of the proposed project and how it relates to the legacy of Uncle Dave Macon and the Center for Popular Music’s research holdings.