Masters

Hall of Honor Inductees

Bill Vernon, Born July 4, 1937

Bill Vernon’s work in the broadcast and print media and in other endeavors introduced thousands to bluegrass music. At age 14 he first heard bluegrass over the radio in New York, his city of birth. Captivated by the music, he dreamed of and went on to achieve a distinguished, lifelong career as a radio personality, festival master of ceremonies, free-lance writer, and nationally known authority on the origins and history of the music and its people.

Beginning his music career as a part-time broadcaster in New York City, Vernon took a full-time job at WDHA in Dover, N.J., in 1970. The remainder of his radio work was at stations in Virginia, principally 21 years at WYTI in Rocky Mount. He was a significant early contributor of album liner notes, reviews and articles, primarily for Muleskinner News, Pickin’, and Bluegrass Unlimited magazines.

Bill Vernon is most often remembered for his knowledge of historical details of the music, which he eagerly shared, along with topical witticisms and good natured barbs directed at whomever he felt deserved them. He died November 20, 1996.

Back to Hall of Honor Inductees

Video Oral History


Jimmy Martin

FAQ Tours Current Exhibits Calendar Day Trips Rent Facility

Bluegrass in the Schools KY Bluegrass AllStars ROMP Video Oral History Mandolin Camps Banks of the Ohio

The Collection Current Exhibits The Archives Recent Acquisitions Curator's Corner

First Generation Hall of Honor 2006 Inductees All Inductees History of Bluegrass

Become A Member Volunteer Band / Business Members Corporate Sponsors Lifetime Members