On the Porch: Life and Music in Terlingua, Texas

In the remote town of Terlingua, Texas, located ten miles from Mexico, there is a thriving music community where songwriters make a living from their craft despite being thousands of miles from New York or Nashville. This is due to the town's daily open jam sessions and the unique musical ecosystem that has developed there. On the Porch, a new documentary by Chase Peeler, explores this community and its impact on the lives of its residents.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 14 September 2021
Publisher: University of Texas Press

In the sun-kissed town of Terlingua, Texas (population: a few hundred), a playful jest circulates among the residents: it seems that there is a musician hiding under every rock. Nestled ten miles from the Mexican border, in one of the most remote corners of the United States, this town boasts a remarkable history. Before it had a school, a well-stocked grocery store, or even a water utility, it had a recording studio—a testament to its unwavering commitment to music. Open jam sessions have become a daily ritual, drawing songwriters from far and wide, even though they are thousands of miles away from the bustling music scenes of New York or Nashville.

Why does this tiny and secluded place reverberate with the melodies of singing and guitars? This captivating story is unraveled in On the Porch, a comprehensive exploration based on more than two years of immersive research. Author Chase Peeler warmly invites us into the world of music, introducing us to a diverse cast of characters as unique as the town itself. He delves into the interplay between novice and expert musicians, a rarity in contemporary America. Peeler vividly recounts the devastating impact of a border closure, which temporarily divided this musical community. However, music has once again become a powerful unifier, bridging the gap across the Rio Grande. He also ponders the consequences of gentrification in this off-the-grid paradise, raising concerns about its potential to transform the delicate musical ecosystem.

On the Porch is a joyous celebration of human musicality, shedding light on the profound role that music plays and can play in our lives, both in Terlingua and beyond. It serves as a reminder of the universal power of music to connect, inspire, and uplift. Through its pages, we embark on a journey that traverses the boundaries of geography and culture, exploring the profound impact of music on the lives of individuals and communities.

Dimension: 216 x 140 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781477323649