Today on Positively West Virginia, we sit down with John Bright, owner and founder of The Purple Fiddle in Thomas, West Virginia. Since opening its doors in 2002, The Purple Fiddle has become a beloved live music venue and community gathering place, attracting musicians and music lovers from across the country while helping showcase the culture, creativity and character of the Mountain State.
A West Virginia native and former press photographer, John built The Purple Fiddle around a vision of bringing people together through live Appalachian music, great food and a welcoming atmosphere. Today, the venue features a diverse lineup of performers and has become an important part of Thomas’s local arts scene, helping bring visitors to the area and support the surrounding community.
In this conversation, we explore John’s entrepreneurial journey, the story behind The Purple Fiddle, and the role music, art and small businesses play in strengthening West Virginia communities. John shares his perspective on building a unique destination in rural West Virginia and creating a space where local culture and live music can thrive.
Website: https://purplefiddle.com/
