Saturday, September 28, 2024
Ridge Roberts, a 21-year-old fiddler from Granbury, secured his second victory at the prestigious Grandmasters Fiddle Contest held in Franklin, Tennessee, this past weekend.
The competition, which attracts top fiddlers from coast to coast, is one of the most renowned events in the fiddling community.
Roberts, who began playing the fiddle at age 7, first claimed the Grandmasters title in 2019. His recent victory solidifies his reputation as one of the top young fiddlers in the country. “This was my second time winning, so I was really excited about that,” said Roberts. “The competition here is different because a lot of players from Tennessee, Kentucky and other parts of the east come to compete.”
The Grandmasters Fiddle Contest, formerly held in Nashville, took place in Franklin this year. Along with the title, Roberts earned $1,200, a plaque commemorating his achievement and the opportunity to judge next year’s event.
He will also be returning to play on the famed stage of the Grand Ole Opry in 2025, marking his second performance there after a previous appearance in 2021.
“This is the best part,” Roberts told the Signal American regarding the chance to perform again at the Opry. “It’s an awesome experience, I just love coming here. It’s a gift from God that I get to play, so I’m just really grateful.”
Roberts’ fiddling career has been marked by a long list of accolades. He first entered the competitive scene in 2013, winning his first contest at age 10. His impressive resume includes championships at the Oklahoma State Championship, Grand Lakes National Championship and the World Championship in Crockett, all won in 2018. He added the Colorado State Champion title to his name in 2019.
The Grandmasters contest, now in its 53rd year, featured fierce competition. Sixteen fiddlers competed over two days, and Roberts emerged victorious after a third round that left no room for error. As reported by the Signal American, Roberts’ performance has not only earned him accolades but also inspired younger fiddlers across the country.
As Roberts prepares for his next performance at the Grand Ole Opry, his hometown of Granbury continues to celebrate his achievements. From his early days performing at local civic meetings to becoming a two-time Grandmasters champion, Roberts’ passion for the fiddle shows no signs of slowing down.
