Follow the Mississippi Blues Trail from Ragtime to Swing at the antebellum home Elms Court, 542 John R. Junkin Drive, when the music of the late Bud Scott, nationally-known Natchez musician and band leader, makes a reappearance from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Monday, March 9.

Popular Natchez musicians David Troutman and Burnley Cook will interpret Scott’s music.

Experience Natchez’s hospitality as did guests during early pilgrimages.

In the 1930s, David McKittrick, grandfather of the current Elms Court owners, opened the home for evening parties at which the Bud Scott orchestra probably played.

Stroll through the house and chat with owners accompanied by toe-tapping music spanning the eras from Ragtime to Swing. Dancing is encouraged. Light refreshments served in the dining room will be reminiscent of Mr. McKittrick’s parties.

Continue your evenings at the Natchez Little Theater’s performance of the classic Little Women — curtain at 7:30 p.m. — or enjoy dinner at one of our fine restaurants.

Clarence “Bud” Scott Sr. (1876-1938) was a versatile musician who adapted his style as musical tastes changes. He was a composer, singer and band leader. He played the mandolin. The Mississippi Blues Trail marker describes him as the most famous African American musician in Mississippi during the early decades of the 20th century.

Scott was popular with all citizens of the time. He played for society parties, on river boats, in clubs, hotels and halls.

Scott’s repertoire included both instrumental and vocal blues, cakewalks, Broadway hits and ballads.

In 1916, his music turned a Meridian, Miss., party into a near riot when dancers broke with tradition and began dancing the shimmy.

Tickets, $25 each, are on sale at Natchez Pilgrimage Tours in the Natchez Visitor Reception Center, 640 S. Canal St. or at the door. Call Natchez Pilgrimage tours 601-446-6631 or visit NatchezPilgrimage.com for additional information.

 

Anne MacNeil is a Natchez resident and a member of the Natchez Garden Club.