So you have a 16-bar version of Beaumont Rag here, but I’ve heard 12-bar versions, and I’ve also heard 12 and 16 bar versions mixed together. Is there an accepted standard? Is it regional? Do rhythm players follow the fiddler?
The guitars should definitely follow the fiddle…and it must be a regional convention in terms of 12 bar vs 16 bar. The 16 bar arrangement is fairly standard in the Texas Style/contest fiddle world.
Did you have a link you can share to a 12 bar arrangement? I’d be interested in hearing that.
I can’t find a recording on YouTube of a 12-bar Beaumont. I heard one version from Andrew Wilson that is 12-bars and I have a recording of a house concert Daniel Carwile played of a mixed 12 and 16 bar version. I will email the recording if you’re interested.
.
.
