"In an age where a fiddler has easy access to every tradition of playing under the sun, Howard is doing what I consider the most meaningful thing–delving deeply into the musical tradition of the place where he lives. He is assimilating the beautiful, complex style and repertoire of old time Texas music, and is doing it with authority, integrity, and a true feel for its timeless quality."
–Bruce Greene, Old Time Fiddler, Yancey County, NC

"Texas fiddle music is as diverse in its styles as is the nationalities of its people. From cowboy fiddlers to the Mexican conjunto influenced styles south along the Rio Grande to the Cajun and Louisiana influences in the East Texas Piney Woods, Mr. Rains is preserving this rich musical heritage for all to enjoy now and in generations to come."
–Ted Branson Under the X in Texas, KOOP Radio, Austin, TX

Howard Rains is a traditional old time fiddler who studies early Texas fiddle tunes learned from family, friends and rare, old recordings. The music Howard plays is from a lost era of Texas fiddling that took place before the advent of Texas swing and the contest style of fiddling. Howard keeps these old tunes alive by staying true to the sources while at the same time, playing them in his own style.

Howard is available to play square dances and contra dances, festivals, house concerts or weddings and is also available to teach workshops or lessons. Howard can play solo or with a duet, trio or quartet.

Click here to hear samples of Howard’s music.