Synopsis

The premiere of Black Fiddlers, a documentary by Eduardo Montes-Bradley, uncovers the forgotten legacy of African American musicians who shaped the soundscape of early America. Long before the rise of bluegrass and country, Black fiddlers carried melodies across plantations, churches, and battlefields, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s musical identity.

Through archival research, historical performance, and the voices of contemporary scholars and musicians, the film traces how African traditions intertwined with European forms, giving birth to a uniquely American music. In bringing this story forward, Black Fiddlers restores visibility to artists whose names were often erased, yet whose influence resonates in nearly every genre of American folk and popular music.

Filmed on location in Virginia and across the South, and produced in collaboration with the Documentary Film Fund, Black Fiddlers is both a work of cultural recovery and a celebration of resilience. It highlights not only the hidden history of these musicians but also the living legacy of their descendants who continue to keep the tradition alive.