A Life in Harmony: The Story of Molly Mason-Ungar

Molly Mason-Ungar, a name synonymous with the vibrant heart of American folk music, embodies a journey woven from diverse musical threads and a deep passion for preserving tradition. Born in Washington State in 1955, her story isn’t one of solitary artistic pursuit but rather a remarkable collaboration that has resonated across generations. From early explorations of traditional fiddle tunes to becoming half of the celebrated duo Jay & Molly with her husband, Jay Ungar, Mason's life is a testament to the power of shared creativity and unwavering dedication.

Growing up in Washington State, Mason developed an affinity for the music of earlier eras—the lively spirit of ’30s and ’40s popular tunes alongside the rich heritage of traditional American fiddle. This early exposure laid the foundation for her distinctive style, a blend of technical skill and heartfelt expression. While honing her craft on the West Coast club circuit, she found herself drawn to the infectious energy of the Swing Era, further broadening her musical palette. It was during this period that fate intervened, leading her to cross paths with Jay Ungar in the late 1970s at the Towne Crier club in New York.

The Formation of a Musical Partnership

The initial encounter between Mason and Ungar sparked an immediate musical connection. Their shared love for American roots music quickly blossomed into a collaborative spirit, with impromptu performances giving way to more structured arrangements. However, their path wasn’t linear. A temporary divergence saw Mason join Garrison Keillor's *A Prairie Home Companion* in Minnesota, while Ungar formed the band Fiddle Fever. This period of individual exploration proved crucial, as it ultimately led to Mason rejoining forces with Ungar and becoming a cornerstone of Fiddle Fever. The group’s two albums, later compiled as *The Best of Fiddle Fever*, showcased their burgeoning talent and established them within the folk music community.

But the true turning point arrived with the creation of Jay's Ashokan Music & Dance Camps in the early 1980s. These camps weren’t merely instructional gatherings; they were immersive experiences dedicated to celebrating American music and dance traditions. Mason quickly became an integral part of this endeavor, not only performing but also co-designing and running the programs—a commitment that continues to this day. This dedication to education and preservation underscores her deep respect for the cultural heritage she champions.

Ashokan Farewell and National Recognition

The collaboration between Mason and Ungar took on a new dimension in 1984 when Fiddle Fever bandmates shared their music with Ken Burns, the acclaimed documentary filmmaker. Burns was captivated by Jay’s composition, “Ashokan Farewell,” included on the album *Waltz of the Wind*. The tune's haunting melody and evocative power resonated deeply with the themes of his upcoming project, *The Civil War*. Selected as the main theme for the landmark PBS series, “Ashokan Farewell” catapulted Mason and Ungar to national prominence.

The impact was profound. The soundtrack album earned a Grammy Award, while "Ashokan Farewell" received an Emmy nomination. More importantly, the tune transcended its origins, becoming an enduring symbol of American history and emotion. It has been performed by orchestras worldwide, recorded by artists spanning genres—from Mark O’Connor to Jerry Garcia—and even adopted by Her Majesty’s Royal Marines in Britain, where it topped classical charts for years. This widespread recognition solidified Mason and Ungar's place as pivotal figures in the American musical landscape.

A Legacy of Collaboration and Preservation

Following their success with *The Civil War*, Mason and Ungar continued to explore new avenues, collaborating with baritone Thomas Hampson and pianist David Alpher on albums like *American Dreamer*, a tribute to Stephen Foster. They released *Waltzing with You*, an expansion of their score for the Sundance Film Festival prizewinner *Brother’s Keeper*. Throughout their career, they have graced stages from the White House—performing for two sitting presidents—to renowned venues like Great Performances and A Prairie Home Companion.

Beyond their performances and recordings, Mason and Ungar remain committed to fostering a vibrant community of musicians. Their live-performance radio show, “Dancing on the Air,” continues to captivate audiences, while the Ashokan Music & Dance Camps stand as a testament to their enduring dedication to preserving American musical traditions. Molly Mason-Ungar’s story is not simply about individual talent; it's a celebration of collaboration, a commitment to heritage, and a lifelong pursuit of harmony—a legacy that continues to inspire musicians and audiences alike.