This week, as part of the Walton Arts and Ideas Series, University of the Ozarks will feature the visit of guitar virtuoso and musical historian John Miller. Miller has dedicated the last 40 years of his life to a meticulous and in depth musical analysis of American musical traditions, in particular to the original and hybrid American art form known as “country blues.” Miller will showcase his knowledge and talents with us on two consecutive nights. On Wednesday, Feb. 20, he will present an informal lecture entitled “The Language of the Blues,” in which he will situate early country blues recordings in their historical and cultural space as well as focus on the harmonic and lyrical components of different country blues styles. On Thursday, Feb. 21, Miller will perform in concert at Rowntree Auditorium to showcase his talents on acoustic guitar, featuring a diverse range of material from his expansive repertoire in many genres.

Both events are free and open to the public.