Dakota Karper
Executive Director
Dakota Karper, hailing from rural West Virginia, grew up immersed in the rich traditions of Appalachian Old-time music. From an early age, she embraced folk music as she learned to play the fiddle. Her music reflects a profound connection to her roots, blending haunting melodies, energetic bow strokes, and rhythmic grooves. Over the years, Dakota has played with bands, including the Short Mountain String Band, Hay Fever, Hemlock and Hickory, and Vandalia. In 2019, Dakota founded 'The Cat and The Fiddle,' a traditional roots music school. In 2023, Dakota was a founding member and then appointed executive director of the non-profit 'Cacapon Music & Dance Foundation,' furthering her commitment to preserving and promoting Appalachian music and culture.
www.dakotakarper.com
Booth Dyess
Board President
Booth is a lifelong student of peace educator Prem Rawat and has volunteered for over 50 years in support of his work. He and his wife, Ibi Hinrichs, found a weekend home in Hampshire County in 2006 and retired here in 2016. They are both enthusiastic supporters of the arts and music programs of such community organizations as The River House, Hampshire County Arts Council, and now Cacapon Music and Dance Foundation.
Steve Bailes
Member at Large
Steve Bailes was born in Clarksburg, WV but most of his public schooling was completed in Arlington, VA. He completed an M.A. At West Virginia University. He is a retired Hampshire County teacher where he often taught guitar lessons. He is pleased to know Capon Bridge Middle School has resurrected the Chocolate House which he and Charlie Streisel started. Steve and his wife, Terry Lynn, live in North River Mills where they raised two daughters and continue to operate a farm. He also enjoys playing rock and roll with his band, Rain Crow.
Lisa Harper
Secretary
Lisa grew up in Virginia playing in school orchestras through adulthood. She is a recent resident to West Virginia after building a home in Hampshire County in 2016. Her many times great uncle Robert Harper founded Harper's Ferry and built a Quaker meeting house near the site of Winchester. Lisa wishes she had exposure to traditional music as a child, and has become an enthusiastic supporter of the musical and cultural heritage of Appalachian Old Time music. She uses her technical skills and knowledge to aid in the mission of CMDF.
