NORWICH – Spanning decades, continents and styles, organizers say the once-little Chenango Blues Festival brings together all the pieces that make up the big world of Blues.

“It touches all the genres of what’s going on in blues music,” said Dan Tracey, who helps organize the event with the Chenango Blues Association. “The blues is the root of rock and country, so we try to bring in a variety of artists, all representing the past and present.”

Blues Review magazine has rated the festival as one of the Top 6 in the country.

It begins at 6 p.m. Friday with a free performance by 1920s-era jug band “The Wiyos” at the Guernsey Memorial Library on West Main Street in downtown Norwich. Two more free shows Friday featuring “The Sidetrack Blues Band” at 7:15 p.m. and New Orleans guitarist Eric Lindell at 8:30 will follow at the Chenango County Fairgrounds.

“Eric Lindell is one of the best young blues guitar players out there today,” said Blues Association member Steven Palmatier.

Admission Saturday is $15 in advance and $20 at the gate. Shows start at noon. For anyone 18 and under, admission is free.

“We try to keep it family-oriented, a place where they can come and enjoy themselves together,” fellow organizer and Blues Association member Linda Palmatier said.