Birch Monroe

Birch Monroe
Monroe at Bill Monroe's Second Annual Kentucky Bluegrass Festival, Jackson, Kentucky, August 1972
Background information
Birth nameBirch Monroe
BornMay 16, 1901 (1901-05-16)
Rosine, Kentucky, U.S.
DiedMay 15, 1982 (1982-05-16) (aged 80)
GenresOld time, bluegrass
Occupation(s)Musician, dancer
Instrument(s)Fiddle, bass, vocals
Years active1929–1982
LabelsCounty records, Atteiram

Birch Monroe (May 16, 1901 – May 15, 1982) was an American old time and early bluegrass fiddler, bassist, dancer, founding member of the Monroe brothers, and older brother to Charlie and Bill Monroe. He grew up on a farm with five brothers and sisters before leaving it in the late twenties. Unlike brothers Charlie and Bill he chose to not pursue a career in music.