We just received this notice from Cort Riggs, son of Pinecastle Records and Music Shed founder Tom Riggs.

Given recent events related to my father’s health and the current business environment, we find it necessary to cease operation of Pinecastle Records effective February 1, 2010.

Artists and distributors will be able to purchase Pinecastle product through Music Shed, the retail/wholesale outlet started by my father and myself more than 22 years ago. Music Shed will continue to operate from our current location in Columbus, NC and can be reached at 828-894-2446.

We will soon begin exploring how to best preserve the vast catalog Tom, the artists and talented staff of Pinecastle have amassed over the 20-year history of the label.

Tom will be settling in to a skilled nursing facility, close to our family, and in the near future we hope to visit with our many old friends at shows and festivals.

This is very sad news for Pinecastle’s many talented artists, and for the bluegrass industry as a whole.

Folks, I know that times are tight for most of us right now, but if your situation allows it, please make a point to patronize bluegrass merchants, concerts and artists whenever and wherever you can. I am aware of several other companies in our part of the music world who are having a tough time making ends meet these days. Let’s not lose anymore if we can help it!