Local College Hosts Kitty Ledbetter for Book Signing and Discussion of Ozarks' Country Music History

The College of the Ozarks will host Kitty Ledbetter, co-author of Broadcasting the Ozarks: Si Siman and Country Music, for a book signing event on May 3, 2024. The event will be held at the Ralph Foster Museum. Ledbetter will give a presentation at 2:30 p.m., followed by a book signing until 4 p.m. The presentation is free, but regular museum ticket prices apply post-event.

Kitty Ledbetter, an emerita professor of English at Texas State University, has a background in country radio and academic editing. At the event, she will discuss The Ozark Jubilee: Si Siman and the ABC Television Network.

Tom Debo, the museum's curator, noted the museum's connection with Si Siman and his family. He expressed his belief that Ledbetter's program will enhance visitors' understanding of Si Siman's life and work.

Broadcasting the Ozarks explores the country music scene that began in Springfield, Missouri, in the 1930s and thrived for five decades. The book highlights the Ozark Jubilee (1955–60), the first live country music show regularly broadcast on network television. The show brought national attention to the Ozarks region and positioned Springfield as a significant player in the country music industry. Si Siman, the show's producer, was instrumental in this.

Si Siman's life story is notable. As a high school student in the mid-1930s, he booked famous musicians like Tommy Dorsey, Ella Fitzgerald, and Glenn Miller. He later produced nationally syndicated country music radio shows and helped launch the careers of many Country Music Hall of Famers, including Chet Atkins, Porter Wagoner, the Browns, and Brenda Lee. Despite opportunities to work in larger cities, Siman chose to remain in his home in the Ozarks.

This article has been enhanced with AI assistance. Agree to access AI-generated content by clicking here, or opt for content with less AI influence here.