Dale Morris
Dale Morris, born in Sanger, Texas, is a renowned fiddler and music educator, celebrated for his contributions to the Texas fiddling tradition. As the eldest of six children born to Laverne and Louise Morris, Dale was immersed in a musical environment from a young age. Initially learning piano, he later transitioned to guitar and ultimately found his passion in the fiddle, which became his primary instrument.
Dale's fiddling career gained momentum after a pivotal jam session organized by the legendary fiddler Sleepy Johnson, where he was introduced to several iconic Texas fiddlers. This experience was transformative, leading Dale to become an avid participant in fiddling contests. He won his first contest in 1967 and went on to secure multiple Texas State Championships in 1972, 1973, 1978, and 1979. His accolades also include victories at the World’s Championship in Crockett, Texas, and the Super Bowl of Fiddling in 1979, among others.
Beyond contests, Dale's career expanded into performing with notable bands and artists. In the early 1970s, he played with Billy Gray and the “Cowtowners,” and later joined Stonewall Jackson’s “Minutemen” in Nashville. He also performed with The Marty Robbins’ band, Ray Price’s Cherokee Cowboys, and Bill Monroe’s Bluegrass Boys. In 1981, Dale became the 17th member of the legendary “Sons of The Pioneers.”
Transitioning to education in the early 1990s, Dale established a teaching studio in Boyd, Texas, where he instructs students of all ages in fiddle, guitar, and mandolin. His dedication to music and education was recognized in 2020 when he was inducted into the National Fiddler Hall of Fame.