Kendra Ward Claims Fourth Dulcimer Title at 90th Galax Old Fiddlers’ Convention

• August 09, 2026
• Kendra Ward & Bob Bence

Kendra Ward of Bidwell, Ohio, took first place in the dulcimer competition at the 90th Annual Old Fiddlers’ Convention in Galax, Virginia. The win marks her fourth championship in the category, following consecutive victories in 2022, 2023, and 2024. She did not compete in 2025. The dulcimer contest was held Wednesday evening, August 5, as part of the week-long event that ran August 3–8 at Felts Park. Fifty-one players registered for the category, and more than 30 competed. Ward continues to perform in the traditional noter-and-drone (Galax) style that has long been associated with the region. The Galax Old Fiddlers’ Convention is widely regarded as the oldest continuous event of its kind in the United States. It began in 1935 as a fundraiser for Galax Moose Lodge #733 and has been held nearly every year since, with only rare interruptions. What started as a local gathering has grown into a major celebration of old-time and bluegrass music that draws musicians and listeners from roughly 40 states and several countries. Competitions take place nightly throughout the week. Individual instrument contests are spread across several evenings, with band contests on Friday and Saturday nights. Informal jam sessions continue late into the night in the campground and around the park, often lasting until 2 or 3 a.m. The 90th anniversary edition featured increased prize money totaling $22,000 across all categories. Ward and Bob Bence, who perform together as a dulcimer duo, have long ties to traditional Appalachian music. Ward’s consistent success at Galax underscores both her skill in the traditional style and the continuing vitality of the mountain dulcimer at one of the nation’s premier old-time music events. Congratulations to Kendra on another well-earned win.

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