Maryland Traditions is the folklife program of the Maryland State Arts Council. Since 1974, state-employed folklorists have worked to identify, document, support, and present Maryland folklife through grants, awards, festivals, and other programming. Over the years UMBC faculty and the New Media Studio have worked with Maryland Traditions to produce short films documenting Maryland’s intangible heritage.
“I’ve Endured”: The music and legacy of Ola Belle Reed
A new 45 minute documentary exploring the life and work of nationally recognized bluegrass and old-time musician Ola Belle Campbell Reed.
Phil Wiggins
Phil Wiggins of Montgomery County is a master harmonica player in the tradition of the Piedmont blues, a delicate, lyrical style of blues originating in Black communities in the eastern United States in the 1920s and 1930s.
The Violin Whisperer
David Ludwik Rapkievian is a master instrument maker, musician, and folk dancer, who works in the Russian, Polish and Armenian traditions. As an instrument maker, David crafts violins in his Washington Grove, MD workshop.
Mill Stories: Remembering Sparrows Point
Filmed at the time of the closing of the historic Sparrows Point steel mill in 2012, “Mill Stories” explores the intangible heritage of the mill community in a time of change.
A Century of Fellowship: The Arch Social Club
Generational supporter of African American community and culture, the Arch Social Club of Baltimore City received a Maryland Heritage Award in the category of place in 2019.
“Sauce is Very Peaceful”: Curtis’ Coney Island Famous Weiners
Curtis’ Coney Island Famous Weiners has been a fixture in downtown Cumberland, Maryland for more than a century.
Dario’s Barber Shop
Many Dominican barbers have set up shop in Baltimore, including Dario Corona of Dario’s Barber Shop on Eastern Avenue.
Talk Together: The Baltimore American Indian Center
The BAIC has stood the test of time in Upper Fells Point. Originally founded in 1968 as the American Indian Study Center, the BAIC functions as a cultural magnet that draws this dispersed community back in.