Folk Society Events
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Local Folk Radio
Listen to "Paddling off the Mainstream" with Kris Kadwell
Every Thursday 7:00 - 9:00pm
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Open Stage
Every third Saturday
8:00pm
(705) 457-2760
Saturday, April 20, 8:00pm
Host:TBA
There is a wealth of talent in Haliburton County and the surrounding area.
Much of that talent appears at our Open Stages.
2012-2013 Concert Series
2012
2013
Ticket Information
Tickets: Nonmember $25 / Folk Society members and students $20 (HST included)
Next Concert
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Catherine MacLellan with Chris Gauthier
Guests: Bethany Houghton and Ernie Demuth
Friday, May 24
Location: Minden United ChurchDate: Friday, May 24
Time: 7:30pm
Tickets: $25/$20 for students and Folk Society members
Matching pure and ethereal vocals with poetic lyrics and her uncompromising songwriting craft, there’s no doubt as to why Catherine MacLellan has become one of the most celebrated new singer-songwriters in Canada, and around the world, by her contemporaries and media alike.
Voted “Critics Favourite New Discovery” by Penguin Eggs Magazine in 2008, MacLellan has quickly built up a loyal fan base and has been a hit with critics worldwide. Her album Church Bell Blues hit No. 1 on the iTunes Canada Roots charts, received critical acclaim and comparisons to Joni Mitchell from international publications such as Q, Maverick, fRoots, the Austin Chronicle, and the Boston Globe. She toured with Bruce Cockburn in the U.S. and with Steve Forbert in the U.K., and showcased in Paris, Cannes, Berlin, New York, London, and Memphis.
As a child, MacLellan didn’t have to look far for inspiration. She’s the daughter of Canadian music legend, singer-songwriter Gene MacLellan, the writer of such huge international ’70s hits as “Snowbird” (Anne Murray) and “Put Your Hand In The Hand” (Ocean).
After high school and a year in Australia, MacLellan moved to Toronto, and began playing open mic nights in folk clubs. On relocating back to PEI, the passion gradually became a vocation. Through a band, The New Drifts, and then old-time country group Saddle River, MacLellan honed her skills as a performer. With the release of her debut album Dark Dream Midnight, she ventured into the Quebec and Ontario markets, to positive response.
PEI-based MacLellan has certainly been embraced by the Atlantic Canadian audience, as evidenced by two 2005 PEI Music Awards for Dark Dream Midnight and the four 2006 Awards for her second album, Church Bell Blues, as well as multiple East Coast Music Award (ECMA) nominations in 2006 and 2007. Most recently, MacLellan won four more PEI Music Awards in 2010, for folk recording, album (both for Water in the Ground), female vocalist and SOCAN songwriter of the year (for the song “Take a Break”).
Silhouette is the highly anticipated new album from Catherine MacLellan. The record captures her best qualities effortlessly—stitching together elegantly woven songs with her memorable blend of heartfelt and powerfully introspective lyrics and catchy melodies.
Recorded largely at a secluded cabin in rural Prince Edward Island, MacLellan brought together a band of longtime friends and musical collaborators with producer David Baxter to craft the 14-track album that Canada’s Exclaim! Magazine has touted as being “a near-hour-long album devoid of filler…a testimony to MacLellan’s ascent to greatness.” Indeed, the subtle yet steadfast strength of the album is undoubtedly the understated power of MacLellan’s songwriting and performance on the largely acoustic-driven songs.
Her sweet tones weft gracefully throughout pensive and internalized lyrics that ponder, in the most elegant terms, the most relatable of internal dilemmas—balancing work and family, love blooming and fading away, and evaluating one’s own personal strength. Throughout the 14 tracks on Silhouette, it’s felt that you’re listening to the voice of an every-woman with a gift for expressing with poise the most personal of internal conflicts.
A particularly sweet note on Silhoutette hits on the penultimate track “Snowbird”, a stripped down cover version the most lauded song ever written by her father Gene MacLellan, featuring Canadian icon Jim Cuddy (of Blue Rodeo). It’s a meaningful acoustic tribute to the elder MacLellan’s songwriting legacy, and fan favourite re-imagined by Catherine in a whole new light.
Like the person in the room who demonstrates his or her commanding presence without announcing their arrival, Catherine MacLellan’s fine songwriting talent and accomplished performance draws her listeners in with little effort, and without need of any persuasion. Silhouette is a reminder that Catherine’s musicianship is unparalleled among performers of her generation.
HIGHLIGHTS
Winner at the 2010 East Coast Music Awards:
Female Solo Recording of the Year
Folk Recording of the Year
Four time winner at the Music PEI Awards!
Songwriter of the Year: Catherine MacLellan – “Take a Break”
Female Vocalist of the Year: Catherine MacLellan
Album of the Year: Catherine MacLellan – Water in the Ground
Folk Recording of the Year: Catherine MacLellan – Water in the Ground
Winner for Solo Artist of the Year at 2009 Canadian Folk Music Awards
#1 Roots Artist on iTunes Canada
PEI winner for CBC Radio 2 – Canadian Song Quest
Penguin Eggs – New Artist Discovery of the Year
Derek McGrath
Guest: Cedric Butz
Friday, June 21
Location:Haliburton Highlands MuseumDate: Friday June 21
Time: 7:30pm
Tickets: $25/$20 for students and Folk Society members
“From the moment I heard the opening notes of the hauntingly beautiful ballad “stranger”, I was hooked. Derek McGrath is a storyteller, reminiscent of Harry Chapin or john Hiatt. He populates his songs with characters we might see every day but have never really taken a closer look at.” - Ron Lea
People will often ask me what kind of music I play. It's been called “roots music” whatever that means. Pretty much all of my songs begin on an acoustic guitar, most of them on my old Taylor. They're songs about longing, dreaming, disappointment, solitude, loves won and loves lost. In short, they're songs about the journey. My music has been influenced by the beautiful pain I've found in the songs of Jackson Browne, the raw poetry of Bob Dylan, the soaring passion of Van Morrison, the rustic sophistication of The Eagles and the brilliant melodies of Crosby Stills Nash and Young.
"I try to tell the truth, or at least a truth. I try to express my truth in away that makes the listener feel it more than conceive it. Where do my songs come from? I'm not sure… But I love going there."
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Past Concerts (2006-2013)
2013
Betty and the Bobs
Saturday, March 2
Location: YMCA Camp Wanakita
Date: Saturday March 2
Time: 7:30 pm
Betty and the Bobs was formed as an extracurricular vehicle for a group of Toronto musicians and friends who had worked together in different combinations. The mandate is to do all the songs they have ever wanted to do, but would never get around to doing in their own bands. - Country, blues, R&B, Beatles, gospel, old jazz, as well as some wacky original songs. The players include:
Soozi Schlanger (vocals, fiddle) is best known as the voice and fiddle that drives “Swamperella”,a traditional Cajun band with a devoted following and now a strong CD offering. As one of the Betties, she sings old-time country and forties jazz with unstoppable conviction.
Suzie Vinnick (vocals, bass, guitar, and mandolin) is the newest Betty. She is a multiple award-winner (for bass playing, songwriting and singing) including the 2003 Maple Blues Award for Female Vocalist of the Year. With “Betty and the Bobs”, this talented multi-instrumentalist can play anyone's part, but it's her voice, a voice “of spun honey and gold”, and her original rendering of classic songs that knocks peoples' socks off.
Katherine Wheatley (vocals, guitar) plays at folk clubs across Canada and in Europe and is currently working on her third CD. Hailed by critics as “a truly Canadian original” and a songwriter with “an uncanny depth of observation”, she always comes up with gems for the band to perform and for the audience to sing along with.
David Woodhead (vocals, bass, mandolin, ukelele) is best known for his creative instrumental work in the folk world, including recordings and/or performances with Perth County Conspiracy, Stan Rogers, Brent Titcomb, Valdy, and Loreena McKennitt. In addition to producing albums and writing music for film and television, he's released his own CD “Sweets and \Conundrums”. In “Betty and the Bobs”, David gets to expose a rootsier side and do some lead vocals.
Wendell Ferguson (vocals, guitar) is the six-time Canadian Country Music Association Guitar Player of the Year and has traveled the globe accompanying a who's who in both the country field (George Fox, Shania Twain, The Dixie Chicks) and the folk arena (Quartette, Bob Snider, Cindy Church). As for his own hilarious tunes ? well - when the band has a “Wendell moment”, everything stops for a sideways look at the world.
Tom Leighton (vocals, keyboards, accordion, etc) A multi instrumentalist, Tom plays piano, accordion, accordion bass, bouzouki, bodhran, whistles, jaw harps, mandolin and trombone - sometimes several of them at the same time!
Guests: Phil McMahon and friends
Thursday, February 7 
Location: Minden United Church
Date: Thursday February 7
Time: 7:30pm
Named for a unique Newfoundland phrase that means ‘imminently’, now is indeed the time for The Once.
From their beginnings as three actors who also loved to sing together, The Once has embraced a different vision of Newfoundland music. Their sounds do not come from the noisy pubs and dockside taverns that fuel so much of the Island’s energy. Instead, their music comes from a quieter and more thoughtful place. Hope and tragedy are intertwined in their music, whether they are singing an old lament from World War I, original songs that speak of love defeated, or tasteful songs from the artists whose music inspires them.
Their title of their new album comes from a poem by poet George Murray, a poem that so inspired them they built a song around it. Song For Memory speaks of the power of words and music to freeze time and emotions, to make small moments large, and large moments small. The song’s climax features the memorable line, “row upon row, of the people you know”, life’s expectations writ both in a personal and expansive way at the same time.
As a trio, the band has kept it uncomplicated, depending on the power of their voices and acoustic instruments. Lead singer Geraldine Hollett, has an instrument of rare power; she is a singer who can still a noisy room, so expressive she can tell a novel-length story with a few words. Accompanied by Phil Churchill and Andrew Dale on guitar, mandolin, fiddle and bouzouki, they create a perfect blend of voice and melody. Sometimes melancholy, sometimes funny, always poignant, The Once sound like nothing else that has ever come from Newfoundland.
Their debut album has built a gradual but fervent following, and their live show is unique in its combination of intimacy and power. They have won several East Coast Music and Canadian Folk Music awards, and the country is slowly waking up to just what an amazing band they are. Since they signed to Borealis Records in 2010, they have toured through out the country and Europe, drawing huge crowds and glowing reviews wherever they go. With Row Upon Row of the People They Know, The Once will take their place amongst Canada’s finest performers.
Some of their Music
QUOTES
“Whether they keep it a cappella or pile on layers of accordion, bouzouki, mandolin and guitar, each track is a treat. Geraldine Hollett’s strong, clear voice and the rich vocal harmonies of bandmates Phil Churchill and Andrew Dale brim with passion and warmth…It’s time for the rest of the country to listen up.”
-Rachel Sanders, Exclaim
“Perfect vocal harmonies thick enough to stand on. Think of the heavenly mix of Alison Krauss,
Emmylou Harris and Gillian Welch, back them up with The Chieftan, and let
Daniel Lanois swim around in it, and you’re still only halfway there.”
Amelia Curran, ECMA Nominated Singer/Songwriter
2012
Teresa Doyle
with the Moontones (Bethany Houghton, Kris Kadwell and Ian Pay)
Friday, November 16
Location: Haliburton Highlands Museum
Date: Friday November 16
Time: 7:30pm
Teresa Doyle is a versatile and supple singer. With the release of her latest
album, Late Night Parlour, she’s now qualified to call herself an accomplished
jazz songwriter and guitarist, as well. Teresa has a gift for making
life look easy. You see it in the joy and confidence she brings to the stage
accompanied by a big band or alone with her guitar. Whether singing a
playful flirt of a samba or crooning a heart-rending ballad, Teresa’s vocal
artistry and songwriting are rock-solid.”
— Philly Markowitz, CBC Toronto
Teresa Doyle is a vocal explorer with a lifelong passion for pushing the boundaries of her voice.
She is endlessly experimenting with new vocal colours, extended vocal techniques,
and vocal textures from other cultures. Her exploration has taken her around the world singing
with Kenyan farm women, a Japanese lute player, Tibetan overtone singers, Soca musicians
from Tobago, improvisers in New York, South Indian yogis, traditional Gaelic singers from Ireland,
and folk musicians from The Yukon Territory to the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Her repertoire reflects her journey but is always firmly rooted in the Celtic music and stories
of her native Prince Edward Island. Her new project, Song Road, with fiddle virtuoso
Jaron Freeman-Fox is a travelogue of her musical explorations.
Teresa moves effortlessly from one musically passion to another. She has five award-winning
Celtic recordings including a collection of Irish Gaelic songs. The birth of her son in 1994
inspired her to create quality children’s music from the Celtic tradition.
Teresa credits much of her recording success to her long-standing relationship
with the now late Oliver Schroer. Her most recent release, Late Night Parlour,
is dedicated to his memory.
There is much more information about this versatile singer/songwriter awaiting at
Monday, November 19
Nathan Rogers
Guests: The Lounge Ghosts (Sheri Hawkins and Jonee O)
“Nathan Sings Stan- the Rogers Legacy Continues”
Location: Northern Lights PavilionDate: Monday, November 19
Time: 7:30pm
Some say it's in the genes, while others claim the sons of these legendary songwriters went out and earned their own success. Whatever the case may be, Nathan Rogers has managed to carve out his own cutting-edge niche in today's music world while at the same time keeping a foot planted in the tradition so well defined by his father.
For the first and perhaps the only time, Nathan Rogers is touring a full program of his famous father's material. Joining him on stage are Andrew Bryan on fiddle, J.D. Edwards on guitars and harmonicas with David Woodhead or Trevor Mills on bass -- depending on the concert location.
Both Woodhead and Mills had an association with Stan. David toured and recorded with him and Trevor is the son of his long-time record producer Paul Mills.
Nathan will perform on six- and 12-string Laskin guitars -- the same type his father favoured.
The music of Stan Rogers still resonates with all Canadians, and there is no one who could deliver an evening of his music with the integrity and feeling of his son, Nathan.
"Obviously," he said, music was a big part of his family life when he was growing up and it's exciting for him to foster his father's musical legacy, which, he adds, probably doesn't need a lot of help.
Stan Rogers, a Canadian folk musician and songwriter, was noted for his rich, baritone voice and his finely crafted, traditional-sounding songs which were frequently inspired by Canadian history and the daily lives of working people, especially those from the fishing villages of the Maritime provinces and, later, the farms of the Canadian Prairies and Great Lakes.
Stan Rogers died in a fire aboard Air Canada Flight 797 on the ground at the Greater Cincinnati Airport at the age of 33. His influence on Canadian folk music has been deep and lasting.
"People are really very good," he says. "Clearly, there is that curiosity factor because of who my father was, but people also see me for me, my own music and accept what I do," which, he adds, is an eclectic mix of various genres many of which are difficult to label.
But this current show is totally dedicated to his father and he says it's a pleasure to help people relive that music that they've enjoyed all these years.
Rogers said performing his father's music does offer a less nerve-wracking experience than playing his own music for an audience, which he added that most wouldn't believe is the case. This sense of ease is due to the fact that Rogers knows Stan's music will already go over well with crowds.
"A lot of this music has proven people like it. People will come to listen to it and people will be happy to hear it, and that doesn't matter whether it's me or some guy picking a guitar around a campfire," he said.
"This music already has the love of the Canadian people and people in other parts of the world as well."
with Amelia and the Mayor
Sunday, October 21, 7:00pm
Dominion Hotel, Minden ON
"His lyrics and melodies illicit every emotion you can muster as he paints picture after picture of loves lost, towns disbanded, fishermen killed by their trade and the most important moments of his own life. His voice is surprisingly sweet and soft-sounding, completely unexpected coming from his 6’4” frame.
He begins an instrumental on one of the five or six instruments he may have on stage with him and you realize that this man is not just a singer or a songwriter. As his fingers fly, with such speed and precision, upon each instrument in turn, you get another picture—one of pure joy and boundless energy; total spiritual abandon bordering in its execution on genius. It’s a word that is used to describe him again and again.
Then just as you think you’ve seen everything, he begins to speak to the audience. He’s more comfortable now. He’s getting over the shyness he feels when meeting new people. Now he feels he can connect safely. Opening up with a few one-liners, he moves on to amusing anecdotes and true tales from his own past. Some bring a roar of laughter from the audience that can be heard outside the theatre, others bring a tear to the eye. He’s home now, his banter is easy as he draws the crowd into each song and tune. The connection is complete and he is one with his audience. Even behind his dark glasses, you can tell that he too sheds a tear when his audience does."
Amelia,the Mayor, J.P and Emily
Ron Hynes
Sunday, May 13th, 7:00pmWild Moose Restaurant and Pub
1701 Wigamog Road
Haliburton, Ontario K0M 1S0
With a songwriting career that spans more than 30 years, Ron Hynes is a six-time East Coast Music Award winner, a Genie Award winner and a past Juno, CCMA and Canadian Folk Music Awards nominee. He's been recipient of both Artist of The Year and the prestigious Arts Achievement Award from the Newfoundland & Labrador Arts Council, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award from the St. John's Folk Arts Council.
Ron Hynes also holds an Honorary PhD from Memorial University for his songwriting and contribution to the cultural life of his beloved home province of Newfoundland (Canada).
Frequently referred to as the "man of a thousand songs", Ron Hynes' songs have been covered by dozens of artists worldwide, including Emmylou Harris, Murray McLauchlan, Valdy, John McDermott, Prairie Oyster and most recently, classical soprano Hayley Westenra. He is arguably best known for the oft recorded unofficial Newfoundland anthem, “Sonny' Dream”.
In the fall of 2010 Ron's new CD "Stealing Genius" was released by Borealis Records to remarkable critical praise. In addition, the feature film about Ron's life "The Man of a Thousand Songs" debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival to capacity audiences.
Run, don't walk! Tickets are very limited.
Dave Gunning
Date/Time:Thursday, April 19, 7:30pmLocation: Visitor's Centre at the Fish Hatchery
2012 Winter Folk Camp Evening Celidhs
Saturday March 3
Sunday March 4
The Marigolds
Sunday January 29, 2:00pm
Northern Lights Pavilion, Haliburton
In 2010 the Marigolds were nominated for Vocal Group of the Year at the Canadian Folk Music Awards.
Instrumentally, the lineup features Suzie Vinnick on lead guitar, Caitlin Hanford on rhythm guitar, Gwen Swick on electric bass, and Randall Coryell on drums.
The Marigolds have performed at concerts and major festivals across Canada, including Mariposa, Home County, Blue Skies, Eaglewood, Folk Harbour in Lunenberg, Nova Scotia, Northern Lights, Folk on the Rocks in Yellowknife, and the Vancouver Island Music Festival.
The Marigolds pack a diverse repertoire with a winning delivery. Each Marigold brings a unique gift to the musical table and, as a group, they run with it. They have fun on stage, and it shows. The past several years have witnessed the joy audiences have found in the Marigolds music and, thus, their rise in the Canadian roots music arena.
The Marigolds have a genuine affection for the timeless and classic genres of traditional country and bluegrass, Appalachian ballads and the blues. They celebrate this rich history on their second Juno-nominated CD, That's the State I'm In. The fourteen original songs are an inspired journey through lost love, found love, redemption and optimism.
"Such beauty and pure brilliance doesn't come along often... five out of five stars."
- Maverick Magazine, UK roots magazine
All members of the Marigolds also enjoy solo careers. As well, Suzie performs with Rick Fines and Betty and the Bobs, and Gwen and Caitlin perform with Quartette alongside Sylvia Tyson and Cindy Church
2011
Katherine Wheatley and Wendell Ferguson
Sunday December 18, 7:30pmThe Wild Moose
This concert features the wonderful duo of Wendell Ferguson and Katherine Wheatley. They are best of musical pals. Her heartfelt lyrics and stunning voice and his honest yet irreverent humor make their show both moving and hilarious. One presenter said "An absolutely transcendent concert". Another said "She didn't leave a dry eye in the house. He didn't leave a dry seat". One presenter said "An absolutely transcendent concert".
Wendell Ferguson is the six-time Canadian Country Musician's Association (CCMA) Guitar Player of the Year. Wendell Ferguson has traveled the globe and accompanied a veritable who's who in both the country field and the folk arena. He is one of the best loved and most respected guitar players in Canada. Wendell performs his own, very funny songs at folk festivals and concert series.
And according to the Ottawa Citizen, Katherine Wheatley is "a performer to keep you on the edge of your seat."
Arresting vocals, fine guitar playing and a 'down to earth' feel that some attribute to her years working as a geologist, mark Katherine's work. As well as touring extensively, she has written music for film and television documentaries and has been a musical guest on many shows, including CTV's Canada AM and CBC Radio's Vinyl Cafe.
It is impossible not to smile, marvel and be happy in heart.
(translation from Swedish review of Let the Rain Fall)
Sunday, June 19, 8:00pm
Northern Lights Pavilion see map
Funny and upbeat, with just a pinch of sass, the Good Lovelies' textbook three-part harmonies, constant instrument swapping and witty on-stage banter have enlivened the folk music landscape since they joined forces in 2006 for their first show at Toronto's funky Gladstone Hotel.
How the Good Lovelies (Caroline Brooks, Kerri Ough and Sue Passmore) got together is a bit of a mystery: Sue remembers meeting her band mates during a limbo competition, Caroline thinks they met at a chess tournament, but Kerri is convinced they first crossed paths during a bar fight... Whatever the story may be, the ladies immediately realized they had something special, so they hit the road on a mission to charm Canadian audiences coast to coast.
Their tireless rain or shine outlook and undeniable mutual respect have helped the trio weather years of constant touring. With jaunts to Australia, the UK and the US in their 2011 schedule, the Good Lovelies' road-tested tenacity will bring them further afield than ever before.
Lighthearted songwriting and irresistibly buoyant dispositions have made them the darlings of the summer festival circuit, including spots at the storied Mariposa and Hillside Festivals and the Montreal Jazz Festival. They have toured with Stuart McLean and the Vinyl Café and appeared on stages and in studios with Broken Social Scene, Kathleen Edwards and Jill Barber.
In addition to their acclaimed holiday album, "Under the Mistletoe" (2009), which showcases old and new seasonal tunes (including three original songs), the Good Lovelies' self-titled full-length album (also released in 2009) proved their blithe brand of folk music has year-round appeal. With this record, the Good Lovelies won New Emerging Artist at the Canadian Folk Music Awards. In 2010, this same album received a Juno for Roots/Traditional Album of the Year.
"Let the Rain Fall", their third full-length album, is an ode to camaraderie. With equal parts city and country, highway and home, wistfulness and sass, the Good Lovelies' good humour and self-assurance shines through from the toe-tapping start of "Made for Rain" to the sweet final notes in the French-flecked "Mrs. T." In between, you'll hear reflections on urban imperfections with "Backyard", straight-up love songs like "Best I Know" and upbeat numbers like "Kiss Me in the Kitchen."
Winter Folk Camp 2011 Evening Ceilidh
Camp Wanakita
featuring:
Saturday March 5
Moontones, David Archibald,
Suzie Vinnick, Anne Lederman
Sunday March 6:
Rosemary Phelan, David Woodhead,
Georgette Fry, Eve Goldberg
2010
Friday January 7, 8:00 pm
"A spine chilling talent..."- Toronto Star
"...Funky-Jazzy-Reggae conscious Folk-Pop that enters your ear like cotton candy melts on your tongue."- Northeast In Tune Magazine
"Stunning vocals...Emotionally compelling and multi-layered..." - Monkeybiz.ca
Speaking courageously and tenderly to the hungry hearts of poets, activists, and lovers alike, Folk/Soul songstress Layah Jane is the shy one with head-turning presence; the tall one with the bright blue eyes, tangled blonde curls, and dancing hips. Layah's music is embodied, raw, and disarming.
With a clever poetic and political conscience from teenage years rocking to Ani Difranco, tender vocal phrasing from pressing walkman earphones spouting Sarah McLachlan into her middle-school ears, and an instinctive understanding of harmony and rhythm from in utero exposure to her parents' Joni Mitchell, Rickie Lee Jones, Sade, and Kate Bush records, Layah Jane has studied the grand dames of her musical lineage, and has discovered and developed her own spirited voice.
Layah began crafting songs in her early teens, and has bedazzled, bemused, and bewitched listeners ever since. Don't be distracted by the CBC Galaxie Rising Star Award, the Ontario Independent Music Awards for Best Folk and Best Female Artist, the Toronto Independent Music Award for Best Jazz, or the songwriting award for Best Political Song at the Ontario Council of Folk Festival's conference. Resonance bowls over award plaques, and melody sticks stronger than boastful bios or promises from strangers: You won't be disappointed. You'll hum like a bee with honey.
With 4 recordings released in 4 years on the independent Grace Note Records, (Brightness & Bravery in 2008, Patience EP in 2007, and Grievance & Gratitude and Grievance & Gratitude Remixes in 2005), Layah's prolific and passionate songwriting is carving her the kind of music career that is fruitful and long-haul steady. Rumour has it that there's another record on the way. Psst...Pass it on.
The web of self-booked tours that Layah and band mate/guitarist Oliver Johnson embark on criss-cross North America. They add more miles to a little white VW bio diesel-fueled Jetta than the mechanic cares to count, scarf down more almonds and apples than the average touring vegetarian rockstar can stand, and meet many a beaming, weeping, and cheering audience along the way.
The magical silence that holds potent soft notes together and sets roaring ones apart is guitarist and producer Oliver Johnson's specialty. With R&B rhythm dirty from his years on the road with Canada's forefront soul and funk players, and melodic intuition from his Jazz college background and 12 bar Blues-tinged childhood, Oliver's guitars are known to let out softly audible sighs when he plays them. Adeptly playing the range between subtle and raucous, with emotive atmosphere and blistering solo leads, Oliver's sensitive and soulful accompaniment is integral to the dynamic of Layah's live and recorded work. Their onstage chemistry: electric. The product: palpable joy.
When Layah Jane and Oliver Johnson take the stage, we are transported to a place where emotion is raw, reflection is deep, and revolution is not only possible but necessary.
***
Award Highlights:
* Ontario Council of Folk Festivals songwriting award Honourable Mention (2009, 2008)
* Ontario Independent Music Award for Best Female Artist (2008) and nomination for Best Song (2008)
* Toronto Independent Music Award nomination Best Folk (2008)
* Ontario Independent Music Award for Best Folk (2007)
* Toronto Independent Music Award nominations for Best Folk, and Best Female Fronted Band (2007)
* Toronto Independent Music Award for Best Jazz (2006) and nomination for Best Live Acoustic Act (2006)
* CBC Galaxie Rising Star Award (2005)
* Ontario Council of Folk Festivals political song award for "Reverence and Ridicule" (2005)
* American Independent Music Award nomination for Best Folk/Singer-Songwriter (2005)
Sunday, November 14
Location: West Core Bldg, YMCA Camp Wanakita
Archie Pateman - lead and harmony vocals, banjo, guitar
Matthew Lawson - upright bass, lead vocals
Ben Rogalsky - lead and harmony vocals, mandolin, guitar,
harmonica, banjo, percussion
Lee Watson - lead and harmony vocals, guitar, mandolin
The Breakmen formed in 2005 when four of Vancouver BC's best young songwriters and acoustic musicians got together to work on each others songs. They quickly found an enthusiastic audience for what they were doing, performing to sold out houses and playing a leading role in the flourishing West Coast roots music scene.
The band's sound has matured into a distinct voice in Canadian roots music; Roots Soup to be exact! - well stirred and seasoned to create a blend of roots, americana, vintage country, bluegrass, and delicious rock and roll music. Known for tight vocal harmonies, creative instrumental work, and contagious stage energy the band has attracted both national and international attention.
The Breakmen were nominated twice for the 2009 Canadian Folk Music Awards for Emerging Artist of the Year and Vocal Ensemble of the Year for their second studio effort, When You Leave Town. The Band was also nomiated for a 2009 Independant Music Award for Americana Album of the Year.
With fresh material piling up The Breakmen decided it was time to head back into the studio in March to record a third full-length album to be released in November 2010. The album was recorded under the direction of Juno award winning producer, Bob Hamilton in Whitehorse, Yukon at Old Crow Recording Studios. The Breakmen will be touring throughout Canada, the American North-West and Europe to promote their third studio effort in 2010 and beyond.
with Brigitte GallSaturday May 22, 8:00pm
The Carpenter's Inn, 1203 Calico Road Haliburton (see Map)
Jason Fowler is a Toronto singer/songwriter, session guitarist and producer. He has released five CDs under his own name and has played on over 100 albums.
His latest recording, Buckets Of Rain, was released in 2009. It was recorded at his home studio and is a collection of his favorite songs that he's been singing for most of his life; songs by Mississippi John Hurt, Blind Blake, Doc Watson, Bob Dylan, Arlo Guthrie, John Prine, Bruce Cockburn, Murray McLauchlan, Gordon Lightfoot, Tom Waits and Hoyt Axton.
A two-time winner at the Walnut Valley National Guitar Championships in both the Fingerpicking and Flatpicking categories, Jason is acknowledged as one of Canada's most gifted guitarists.
He holds a degree in Classical Guitar Performance from McGill University and was the inaugural winner of the OCFF (Ontario Council of Folk Festivals) Instrumental Composition of the Year Award.
He has toured with Irish tenor John McDermott since 2001. He is a member of The Anne Lindsay Band and has also accompanied April Verch, Amy Sky, Marc Jordan, Susan Aglukark, The Cottars, Quartette, Susan Crowe, Nana Mouskouri, Murray McLauchlan, Brent Titcomb, Ian Tamblyn, Jory Nash and many other artists in Canada's roots music community.
He is the 2003 recipient of the CEC McEachern Award for Outstanding Musical Accompanist. He has produced CD's for David Bradstreet, John McDermott, D'Arcy Wickham, Blake Papsin and has composed/produced a number of CDs for Avalon Music.
The poster-girl for the Comedy Network, Brigitte Gall was born in Creelman, Saskatchewan, and is proud of her Prairie roots - in fact, a lot of her funniest material is based on her years growing up in Regina.
Brigitte is a trained actress who has appeared in several short films, but she is best known for her hilarious brand of Prairie girl comedy. She has performed in comedy clubs all over North America and adapted her comedy show to television for the Comedy Network and CTV.
In 1998, Brigitte Gall found herself listed in the Who’s Who of Canadian Women. Her comedy show utilizes her abilities to sing and play acoustic guitar.
In her own words:
"Brigitte Gall will be bringing her unique brand of observational humour to the stage. A child of the 70's where Ginsu Knives and High Karate reigned supreme, Gall hails from the small Saskatchewan farming community of Creelman. Population 101. Former Actor, comedienne - Brigitte and her husband Michael have just bought a 100 year-old house on the Gull river. Brigitte's career has taken a neck snapping turn and she is now focusing on being a mother to two small girls, writing less film and television scripts and more literary work. She has set her sights on running for Minden Hills Council as an active and avid supporter of the arts, families, agriculture and eco-tourism."
Folk Camp Concerts/Ceilidhs
March 6-7
Camp Wanakita Central Core
Saturday March 6, 8:00pm
featuring
Ian Tamblyn, Cindy Thompson Butineau, Rodrigo Chavez
with Albert Saxby
Sunday March 7, 8:00 pm
featuring
Paul Mills, Eve Goldberg, Linda Morrison,
with Thom Lambert, Sue Shikaze, Myrna McBrien and Ed Poropat
Friday, January 22, 8:00pm
Opening: The Moontones (Bethany Houghton, Kris Kadwell and Ian Pay)
Haliburton Highlands Museum66 Museum Road, Haliburton (See Map)
My Sweet Patootie is more fun than drinking martinis at a tractor pull! They are the “li’l big band” that’s busy ripping up the pea-patch with their very own strain of hayseed jazz. Armed with fiddle, finger-style guitar and two voices, My Sweet Patootie is an old-fashioned shotgun wedding of cool uptown swing and rural Ontario grit. Mark S. Tucker of the Folk & Acoustic Music Exchange (FAME) describes them as “a world of string wizardry”.
Based in Mount Forest, Ontario, Terry Young (guitar & vocals) and Sandra Swannell (fiddle & vocals) met as soloists touring and recording with Canadian Folk Music Award winning veteran roots-group Tanglefoot. They soon discovered a mutual love of big bands and swinging country blues. Thousands of miles and shows later, when Tanglefoot made the decision to trade in a life of touring for shuffleboard and wearing pants up to their armpits, Terry and Sandra changed into their zoot suit and party dress to re-emerge as My Sweet Patootie. They had one goal, to produce fun music with deadly playing. While their new sound is a complete departure from Tanglefoot, Terry and Sandra deliver a stage show packed with the same amount of energy, charm, wit and humour.
Sandra and Terry are both long established artists in the Canadian folk-roots community. Terry Young's dexterity and aggressive approach to his finger style guitar work is described as a "virtuosic" by BBC critic James Harrox, and "jaw dropping" by FAME's Mark S. Tucker. He is a skilled multi-instrumentalist (mandolin and banjo) and holds a bachelor of music degree in voice from the University of Western Ontario.
When Sandra Swannell recorded with the legendary Stompin’ Tom Connors in 2005, she was in the middle of writing a suite of musical sketches for string orchestra. After years of juggling the folk world with classical (principal violist of the Georgian Bay Symphony), she finally grabbed her fiddle and jumped the fence into the roots music world for good.
Terry and Sandra’s highlights and accomplishments include performing at Roots of American Music Festival in New York, the Canadian High Commission in London, and the internationally-syndicated WFMT Midnight Special Festival in Chicago and winning 2007 Canadian Folk Music Awards. In 2007 they performed with Tanglefoot at the 90th Anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge and rededication of the restored memorial at Vimy, France.
My Sweet Patootie uses a light-hearted satirical approach to their song writing as a vehicle to explore life in rural and small town Ontario. Material is drawn from the unknown and unsung characters and obscure events that explore the quirky side of rural Canadian sensibilities, such as self-deprecation, understatement, eccentricity and principle. They tackle everything from urban social-political pressure on rural areas, poverty, the environment, all the way down to singing dogs, aging and how to get rid of someone you don’t like.
2009
Saturday, November 28, 8:00pm
Laura’s songs speak to the strength, grace and truth she finds in the extraordinary and the everyday. Drawing inspiration from a mosaic of musical influences beginning with early folk roots and bluegrass to old jazz standards, her songs tug at the familiar; contemporary set against the backdrop of a traditional musical panorama. Through the keen eye of the observer her songs are sensitive, compassionate and heartfelt often drawing visual references from a childhood spent growing up in small town Ontario along the St. Lawrence River. With her warm, relaxed stage presence, finely honed guitar work, a painters' eye for lush images and sultry, smokey voice, you'll want to close your eyes and watch the mind movies inspired by Laura’s soundtrack.
THE WATER IN BETWEEN
"A beautiful collection of fourteen original compositions painted on a colourful canvas of sultry vocals and stellar musicianship"
Engineered and co-produced by Gene Gouthro (North To Ontario) at Athlone Studios in Everett, the project was mixed by 'Mixmama' Karen Kane in Wilmington North Carolina, mastered by Joao Carvalho Toronto and manufactured by Digital Media Alliance Vancouver. The CD Cover painting 'Amour Amour' was painted by Creemore Artist Sue A. Miller (www.sueamiller.com).
"Laura Bird's sophomore release The Water in Between is a delight in every way."
Robert Reid Guelph Mercury November 2008
"What a delight it is! I love your voice and the songs and here's the bonus: it's one of the most gorgeously produced albums I've heard in quite a while! Just my cup of tea: clean, musical, lush and real."
Paul Mills Musician-Producer The Millstream Toronto, ON
"A warm, rich, fresh voice, …great songwriting, …fabulous musicianship - these are all perfect reasons to get your hands, and ears, on Laura Bird's new CD, The Water In Between ... it all comes together so beautifully; the CD is great! .. a wonderful blend of gentle and upbeat songs, all written, sung, and produced brilliantly. I love this album."
Pat Moore Host: Weekend Warm-Up CKCU FM 93.1
"A fine, folky, warm-sounding effort with Bird's engaging voice taking centre stage, surrounded with some fine bluegrass-influenced picking by herself, Dave Clarke, and especially, Emory Lester. She has a bit of that classic sound made popular by someone like Susan Crowe, but manages to forge her own personality through a strong songwriting ability. A solid release that certainly sounded good on my stereo. Heavy Load, When It Comes My Time and Miracle were standout tracks.
Barry Hammond Penguin Eggs Magazine Spring 2009
Saturday, October 30, 8:00pm
Haliburton Highlands Museum66 Museum Road, Haliburton (See Map)
So... for those still unfamiliar with Mose's work, here are some words and quotes taken from his record company's website:
"Mose Scarlett is, unarguably, one of a kind. While he draws on a wide range of musical sources from the early 1900's through the 40's, his style defies categorization or comparison - the blend is unique. He bills his music as 'Jazz, Blues, Ragtime and Swing' because, as he says, "those are the four things I've been accused of most often".
His self-taught, original technique of fingerpicking, dubbed 'stride guitar' by Canadian music journalists, delivers a syncopated punch and features simultaneous chords, melody and bass line, smoothly executed, without seeming effort.
Over top of the resplendent guitar backing rides a big bass-baritone voice, warm and rich, with enormous emotional range. As the Glasgow Herald recently said, "Mose Scarlett is back, with a voice of Robeson depth, Glencoe cragginess, and kitchen-range warmth...lending the authentic ring of the ancients with his own original stamp, and much spontaneous repartee..."
His eclectic repertoire includes Hollywood classics like 'As Time Goes By', raunchy blues like 'Key to the Highway,' and nearly-forgotten gems like 'The Moon Is a Silver Dollar'. Blind Blake's 'Diddy Wah Diddy' will bump up against Irving Berlin's 'Marie', and be followed by the turn-of-the-century sentimental favourite 'Wait 'Til the Sun Shines Nellie'. Although his pieces are performed only with his voice and acoustic guitar, one might almost believe a big band or parlour orchestra is playing in the background. He at once breathes new life into old songs, and preserves the integrity and emotion of the originals for a new generation of admirers.
Once, when asked who his influences were, Mose replied "I've probably been influenced, one way or another, by everybody whose music I've liked - or disliked". In fact, the Scarlett guitar style was pretty much forged in isolation. "Basically," he says, "I made up my own way of playing before I heard anyone trying to do similar things...but later on, various people helped me to refine it."...people like his friend and mentor the late Lonnie Johnson, who played with Eddie Lang, Bessie Smith and Louis Armstrong...like modernist musician Bruce Cockburn, who produced Mose's first album...like Doc and Merle Watson, whom he used to watch with rapt attention from 5 feet away...and like Jesse 'Lonecat' Fuller, one-man-band extraordinaire, the first artist Mose remembers buying a record by. Mose himself, conversely, should be credited with influencing many other musicians over his 33 years in show business, a fact which has not gone unnoticed in several music journals and artistic autobiographies. Juno winner John Bottomley is a former guitar student of Mose's, and many other musical friends, like Canada's irrepressible Big Rude Jake and America's inimitably eccentric Leon Redbone, allow that Mose had a big impact on their performing styles. He is widely respected among his peers, both for his talents and his wide generosity.
A Mose Scarlett performance is much more than mere instrumental and vocal display. Mose's sets, at times, seem like finely executed pieces of theatre (albeit, sometimes, the theatre of the absurd). His patter includes entertaining and topical commentary on the foibles of the world (who else would think of introducing the 'Sheik of Araby' with a dissertation on oil prices?). In Mose's vicinity the unexpected is never far off - no one knows what is going to happen next (particularly his sidemen). He is deeply rooted in musical history - to give but one example, he performs 'Sweet Georgia Brown' with the rarely-heard verse and extra lyrics (though without a basketball). A keen observer of the contemporary scene, he is a trenchant social critic and a droll raconteur with many stories to tell.
Though Mose is a fixture on the Canadian scene, performing throughout the country at festivals, clubs and theatres, he has also toured widely through the United States, as well as in England, Scotland, Germany and Australia.
Besides performing solo or with various accompanists, he also appeared in a well-loved trio with Jackie Washington and Ken Whiteley, all three of whom were nominated for a 1993 'Roots and Traditional' Juno award. "
Saturday, October 3. 8:00pm
They have created the soundtracks of 2 award winning films, “The Winter Camp”,depicting life in a “turn of the century” lumbercamp, and “Places Out of Time”, which explores Ontario Park’s first one hundred years. The Wailers have produced 3 recording. “The Last of the White Pine Loggers” was recorded in 1987. The recording has since received wonderful responses from folkies, reviewers and historians alike. “Waltz with the Woods”, recorded in 1990, is a salute to Ontario’s heritage and to its Provincial Parks. Their most recent release, “River Though the Pines” revisits the lumberjack era with a wonderful selection of traditional songs and stories for the turn of the century.
For samples of their music see:
Sunday, September 6th, 8:00pm
Opening: Bethany Houghton and Ernie DemuthWintergreen Maple Syrup and Pancake Barn
#3325 Gelert Road (formerly County Road #1)
In a recent review of a show in Thunder Bay, Hubert O'Hearn of The Chronicle Journal wrote "Katherine Wheatley gave an absolutely transcendent concert. She is able to take minor observations in life and find their soul. On stage...she exudes sheer kindness and love. Blessedly, refreshingly, Katherine Wheatley is a truly Canadian original".
With offhand wit, vibrant lyrics and an infectious passion for performing, Katherine has been captivating audiences everywhere she performs. According to the Ottawa Citizen "This is a performer to keep you on the edge of your seat."
Katherine graduated from Queen's University with a geology degree and spent five seasons roughing it in the bush, gathering not only rock samples but material for her songs. It was only a matter of time before she left her tent and recorded her first CD, Straight Line. Produced by John Switzer, it spent 17 weeks on Sam's Top Ten Independent Charts. Katherine's second CD, Habits and Heroes, was produced by David Travers-Smith. It has garnered praise from fans and critics alike and has helped her to launch a strong touring career.
Katherine grew up in Parry Sound, Ontario. Her passion for songwriting began with a $13 guitar ordered from the Sears Catalogue. Years later, after four seasons working north of Flin Flon, Manitoba, she headed to Africa. It was there that a new found sense of adventure prompted her to write a journal and discover her own inner lyricist.
Katherine has been a regular at folk festivals, concert series and clubs across Canada since the release of her first CD. As well as her own career, she is a member of the Toronto band, Betty and the Bobs; is a guitarist in Wendell Ferguson’s trio “The Smoking Section”; she presents songwriting, vocal and independent music career workshops at schools, folk clubs and music stores across Canada; and she is the currently the ambassador for the campaign to raise six million dollars for the new hospital in her home town of Parry Sound, Ontario.
Katherine's music has been used for documentaries, tv series and films. Among numerous radio and television appearances, she has been a featured vocalist on Stuart McLean's Vinyl Cafe, as well as a musical guest on Morningside with Peter Gzowski, This Morning with Bernard St. Laurent, TVO's Studio Two, and CBC Radio's Vicki Gabareau Show. She performed her song "On A Beach In France" on CTV's Canada AM and Good Morning Canada to commemorate the anniversary of Dieppe.
According to the Toronto Star, Katherine Wheatley “turns pebbles of every day life into dreamy mountains of song”. Warren Footz from SEE Magazine in Edmonton wrote “As a listener, it's hard not to sit back, close your eyes and watch the movie play. And man, can this serene red head ever play guitar”.
Katherine Wheatley is also part of Yours Outdoor’s Haliburton Rocks! adventure.
For more information or to register click here
Friday, August 14, 8:00pm
Dominion Hotel
Minden, ON
"Quiet, thrilling, acoustically designed songs of breathtaking beauty - and some personal tragedy. Hardly ever has alternative country/ folk sounded more intriguing"
Madison Violet (aka Madviolet) are a Toronto based duo, consisting of Lisa MacIsaac (vocals, guitar, fiddle, mandolin) and Brenley MacEachern (vocals, guitar, banjo, harmonica). Together, they've been touring the globe non-stop for 9 years, from Antigonish to Australia, Geneva to Grenada. Collectively they've racked up a fan following who love their shows because of their way to make people feel like they're sitting at a campfire, roasting marshmallows with their friends.
Madison Violet started out as Madviolet (which was only to be confused as an 80's psychedelic band The Mad Violets one too many times) so they extended their name to something a little sweeter. Their 1st two albums were recorded in London, UK with legendary producer, John Reynolds (Sinead O'Conner, U2, Damien Dempsey) and they came with great success: 4 ECMA nominations (Best New Artist, Group Recording of the Year, Folk Album of the Year and Pop Album of the Year) , a Canadian Folk Award nomination (Best Vocal Group) and a Top 40 Hot AC single in Canada.
In 2008, Madison Violet released their 2006 album Caravan in Germany after having signed to label, Big Lake (Rough Trade). This proved to be successful, with German radio picking up on their first single 'Worry The Jury' and audiences growing exponentially at each show. September, Madison Violet spent touring Denmark, Germany and Switzerland. October will find Brenley and Lisa in Europe once again, supporting Ron Sexmith in the UK, Denmark, Germany, Sweden, Holland and Norway.
Summer of 2008, Madison Violet recorded their 3rd album, No Fool For Trying; this time in Canada, with producer Les Cooper at the helm. He's taken them in a much rootsier direction. Guest appearances by Paul Mathew on upright bass (Hidden Cameras, Sarah Harmer) Joel Stouffer on drums (Dragonette) and Chris Coole on banjo (Foggy Hogtown Boys) have helped to bring this album to a new level. The songs were all written near the water, either on the Caribbean Island of Grenada or Australia. There is a bit more of a sombre tone to the album, with both Lisa and Brenley having dealt with loss in the past 2 years, but it's lifted musically with the sound of Lisa's fiddle and the bluegrass mandolin played by producer Les Cooper. No Fool For Trying has finally captured the essence of Madison Violet, one that's been described as a cross between rootsy Gillian Welch, gritty Steve Earle and bluegrassy Alison Krauss.
Saturday July 4, 7:00pm (note early start time)
2718 Wilkinson Rd. (old S.Kennisis Lk. Rd)
Wilkinson Road (The former South Kennisis Lake Road) is the first road on the left past Haliburton Forest.
Ian Tamblyn began writing songs, short stories and plays at the age of seventeen. Since that time he has recorded twenty- nine albums, cassettes, and CDs and written over 1500 songs. Many of these songs have been recorded by other artists and he has received and been nominated for several awards, most recently a nomination for Best Artist by the Canadian Folk Music Awards in 2007 as well as being honoured with the Distinguished Alumni Award from Trent University. Since 2004 Ian has conducted numerous songwriting workshops and was instrumental in beginning Writer’s Bloc , an ongoing writer’s workshop that has bee meeting since the late 1980’s in Ottawa.
Currently Ian is working on a new CD of songs and has just returned from a teaching and guiding position in Antarctica with a group called Students on Ice. He has just finished producing a double CD celebrating the songwriting of William Hawkins. This September, Ian will be guiding on the ice breaker Polar Star from Iceland to Newfoundland. In August of 2008 Ian released the second of his Four Coast project CD - Raincoast set on the Northwest coast of B.C. and Alaska.
Review from Penguin Eggs
"With a body of work that goes back many, many years, Ian Tamblyn consistently makes music that stands along side the best Canada has ever produced. Voice in the Wilderness adds more to the muscle and blood of that body. Building on past work, Tamblyn again focuses his painter's eye to describe the details of the land, the animals and the characters that populate this earth of ours
And although he is intensely and unmistakably Canadian, "Cowhachin colours ache in the cold but the Tim Horton's donuts always fresh." He is also the most international of our artists.
Having included Antarctica in his musical pictures in the past, here he poignantly and politically veers through the Fields of California and then settles to paint a gentle and nostalgic landscape of the isle of St. Kilda
Several songs, such as The Birds and Paul Kustra's Vision , are sparse lyrically and dense in musical atmosphere. Others like Tiger Lilly Road are so jam-packed with words that there seems no more room for one syllable. And the oral painting, Yellow Iris Yellow Raincoat, plays tricks with the eyes almost as much as the ears.
Tamblyn, perhaps, is the most underrated songwriter in the country. The term national treasure is often bandied about carelessly. Not in this review. Ian Tamblyn is a national treasure."
"As a singer / songwriter, Tamblyn is quintessentially Canadian and a class act."
with Ross Daniels opening
May 29, 8:00pm
Haliburton Highlands Museum
The Good Lovelies - Sharp, sassy, funny and building a following across CanadaThe Good Lovelies are not your run-of-the-mill "all girl" band. At a time when too many of us are affected by gloom, doom and advancing recession these three women are the perfect antidote.
Armed with a pile of instruments, a repertoire of sassy and sophisticated songs and an effervescent sense of humour they never fail to charm even the toughest audiences.
The aptly named Good Lovelies are Caroline Brooks, Kerri Ough and Sue Passmore, all of them best friends and refugees from solo careers. Described as "flirty-bluegrass" and "the mischievous Andrews Sisters" the Toronto-based trio rely on unerring three-part vocal harmonies, clever songs and, onstage, convulsively funny repartee.
The trio started as a group only two years ago. Since then, they have quit their jobs (or successfully begged for leaves of absence), played countless clubs and coffee houses and half a dozen folk festivals, completed a 40-date tour from Montreal to Vancouver Island and back (by car and without quarrelling) and released a five-track EP with the playful single, and CBC Radio favourite 'Taboo.
To boot, the Good Lovelies can be heard backing Jill Barber on her latest release, "Chances."
More highlights include performances alongside The Arrogant Worms, Old Man Ludecke, Dala, Chris Whiteley & Diana Braithwaite, Catherine MacLellan, Bill Bourne, Ray Bonneville, Rose Cousins, Peter Katz and Rob Szabo.
The monkeys who make up this fun-loving, light-hearted, quirk-folk trio don't stop for sleep and won't stop until the air goes out of their tires.
http://www.goodlovelies.com
http://www.myspace.com/goodlovelies
January 30, 8:00pm
Northern Lights PavilionHaliburton Highlands Secondary School
Haliburton, ON
“Stan Rogers meets Van Halen” is how one fan described them, and Tanglefoot is indeed a mix of sweeping Canadiana and rampaging enthusiasm.
Perhaps best known for their exquisite vocal polish and relentless energy, they’re also a band with substantial instrumental agility and are a noteworthy group of songwriters. “Masters of the storytelling tradition, (with) elegant, sensitive musicianship and an impressive range of talent”, according to BBC Yorkshire, while Robert Reid of the Kitchener-Waterloo Record called them “Canada’s most accomplished musical mythologizers”. Their monumental acapella song “Vimy” (The Music in the Wood, 1996) led to their taking part in the dedication of the restored memorial at Vimy, France on April 9, 2007 (at the same time, the Canadian Celtic Choir was performing the same song on Capitol Hill in Ottawa).
2008
November 21
Opening: Albert Saxby with April Gates
Haliburton Highlands Museum
66 Museum Road
Haliburton, ON
“… alternatively wistful and playful songs… collection of acoustic gems” Chris Neal, Nashville Scene (Critics Pick)
“ .. duo’s close-harmony singing, a deeply affecting blend that harks backs to the impeccable like of the Davis Sisters and Delmore Brothers...” Bill Friskecs-Warren, The Tennessean (Get Out Americana Pick)
“ …. begins with this languid, swaying, romantic melody that recalls The Everly Brothers in their prime. Yes, the harmonies really are that good. The mandolin and accordion solos are utterly lovely. Michele adds a third vocal part on “Go Easy” and swings lightly in “Put Some Love In It.” John dazzles with his mandolin instrumental “Texacadia.” They both hypnotize you on “Whiskey and Gasoline” and delight you with finger-popping “Getting Over You.” Heartily recommended.”
Robert Oermann, Music Row Magazine
“John and Michele Law's songs seem to be the lost essence of country music which has now become so commercial and formulaic sounding.” Randy Bachman
“You've got the sound.” Tom Russell
"If Gram Parsons married Alison Krauss their music would sound a lot like John and Michele."
Willie P Bennett
September 26
Aengus Finnan
Opening:The Moontones (Ian Pay, Kris Kadwell, and Bethany Houghton)
Described as "Disarmingly Artful" by The Toronto Star, and "A Travelling Archivist" by Saturday Night Magazine, maverick balladeer Aengus Finnan writes story-style songs that explore the beauty, grace, grit and sorrow of time and humanity.
He is a new voice on the international music scene, but his work reveals honest and potent observations of life, inspired by a dramatic and dynamic past. Born in Dublin Ireland to performing parents, and raised in Shelter Valley Ontario on an organic cooperative farm, Aengus studied Visual Arts on Vancouver Island and Drama Therapy in Montreal, worked as a research diver, actor, and ornithologist, before eventually taking a position as a schoolteacher on the remote Canadian James Bay coast. At 27 Finnan decided to leave the security of a teaching career in favour of writing songs about the triumphs and struggles of the underdog, of the wonder in day to day life, and the long forgotten tales of the past. Since the independant release of his 1999 debut album "Fool's Gold" he has been quietly garnering some mighty high praise, including the prestigious New Folk Songwriters Award at the Kerrville Folk Festival in Texas, and a national decoration in the form of the "Medal in Honour of The Golden Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II" for his artistic and humanitarian work in Canada.
Aengus has performed at venues and festivals across Canada, the Arctic, and throughout the US (including the Kennedy Center in Washington DC), as well as performances in Japan and Australia, sharing stages and marquee's with the likes of Ian Tyson, Garnet Rogers, James Keelaghan, Stephen Fearing, Valdy, Beth Nielsen Chapman, Tish Hinojosa, Sarah Harmer, Lennie Gallant, and John Renbourn.
Most recently Aengus has spearheaded the Arts Alive Community Outreach initative for the Ontario Council of Folk Festival, organized a series of Gordon Lightfoot Tribute concerts in Canada and the US, had an original song included on the first-ever Gordon Lightfoot Tribute album, and is founder and Artistic Director of the Shelter Valley Folk Festival.
Acoustic Eidolon with Thomas Loefke
Joe Scott and Hannah Alkire have combined their musical talents to create an exciting new acoustic instrumental sound. Joe plays an instrument he invented: the double-neck guitjo, a custom acoustic guitar with two necks, built exclusively for him. This one-of-a-kind instrument has incredible range and tonal qualities, sounding at times like a piano, dulcimer or beautiful harp. Combine that with Hannah's stunning tone and impeccable cello-playing, and you have the ingredients for some very moving music. Acoustic Eidolon's recordings are a rich blend of both artists' musical influences and have been described as pure musical poetry.The bell-like quality of Joe's unique double-neck guitjo provides a lovely counterpoint to Hannah's elegantly inspired cello. It is truly a different and enchanting sound. Their live shows are very entertaining and include a few vocal selections, as well as pieces that borrow from Celtic, contemporary, bluegrass and Latin influences.
Dalis Allen - Producer Kerrville Folk Festival - "Acoustic Eidolon gave an excellent performance at the Kerrville Folk Festival. I enjoyed every minute of their set. It was delightful to watch Joe and Hannah's music and presence on the stage be so be unanimously embraced and supported by our audience. I have already invited them back to Kerrville."
Georgia Good Life Magazine - "The irreplaceable sound of the guitjo in conjunction with Joe and Hannah's musical ability, creates some of the most beautiful music on the scene today. It is truly a different and enchanting sound."
Thomas Loefke
Thomas' music easily spans the confines of both style and time. From the sounds of the Celtic Middle Ages, the centuries-old music of Ireland's nomadic bards and the lively dances of Irish folk music, to his own original compositions, each of Thomas' works has its own special sound, texture, atmosphere and story to tell. Thomas is also the leader of the pan-Celtic group Norland Wind (which includes Maire Breatnach, and the Duggan Brothers from Clannad).
Acoustic Eidolon (Joe Scott, Hannah Alkire) & Thomas Loefke have recently toured in Colorado, Idaho, and Germany.
Two of Joe Scott`s composition Walking Stones and Beyond Words are on Thomas Loefke's new CD "Northern Isles".
Acoustic Eidolon’s sixth CD "Barefoot" features a collaboration with Thomas Loefke on his composition Tor Mor.
Here are some web links
Eve Goldberg
Friday, March 7, 8:00pm
Imagine a kitchen party where Mother Maybelle Carter, Ella Fitzgerald, Mississippi John Hurt, Bessie Smith, Bob Dylan, The Beatles, and Patsy Cline show up, and you begin to get a sense of what it feels like inside songwriter Eve Goldberg's head. Never one to restrict herself to one genre of music, Eve has performed her trademark mixture of folk, blues, country, bluegrass, old time, and jazz in venues ranging from small house concerts to the prestigious Kennedy Center in Washington DC since 1990.
Eve was born in the Boston area but has called Toronto, Ontario home since 1981. As a child, she was dragged to folk concerts by the likes of The Weavers, Doc Watson, Arlo Guthrie, the Watersons, and countless others. Eventually it sank in, and as a teenager she began to devour all kinds of contemporary and traditional roots music. She began performing in 1990, and hasn't looked back since. Along the way she's earned the respect of legendary musicians like Peggy Seeger, Geoff Muldaur, and Penny Lang.
Her watercolour voice and solid guitar style has become a favourite at festivals, folk clubs, and concert series across Canada and the US. With an equal passion for traditional music, and for the art of songwriting and interpretation, Eve's performances are intimate and relaxed, moving effortlessly from folk classics to original gems, all wrapped up in her clear, pure voice and dynamic guitar playing. She has released two albums to widespread acclaim -- 1998's "Ever Brightening Day" released on her own Sweet Patootie Music label, and 2003's "Crossing the Water," released by The Borealis Recording Company. Her instrumental tune "Watermelon Sorbet" was used for years as the opening theme to the popular CBC national radio show "Richardson's Roundup."
Her new album "A Kinder Season"was released in September on Borealis Records (US Release: Jan 9, 2007). Recorded in the months after her mother's death, the album is a remarkable personal testament to the joy and hope that lurks somewhere beyond the heartache, and the sweetness that can be found even in the bitterest seasons of life.
Produced by Ken Whiteley, "A Kinder Season" features twelve new originals that firmly establish Eve as a compelling and thoughtful writer whose songs draw honey from the rock of human experience. As legendary blues musician Geoff Muldaur put it, "As far as I'm concerned, Eve Goldberg is on the verge of riches. Big name folks would want to get hold of this stuff."
You can listen to some of her songs and find out more about Eve at:
About Cass Marie and the Black Feather Band
This fine-feathered quartet combines a relaxed, comfortable folk sound with anything from rock 'n roll to country to jazz and soft pop, and even dips a toe in a gospel-inspired song. Their tunes are as unique as they are individuals and their talent is just as diverse. Songwriter/vocalist Cass Marie explores issues of dependence, independence, self-actualization, body image, the trials of love and the search for happiness in the band's first full-length independent album entitled Love's Uncertain (release date to be announced.) The music combines dynamic vocals and gritty, honest lyrics with haunting cello lines, upbeat fiddle reels, grounding guitar rhythms and jazzy bass lines. There is something for everyone in this poetic, non-traditional "feather-folk." Some performances of note include an opening act for Canadian folk legend, Willie P. Bennett, and for PEI's up-and-coming folk sweetheart, Rose Cousins. " You would never know that this brash singer has any stage fright as she exudes confidence...Cass Marie is an exceptional example of the home grown talent that is flourishing in the Highlands." -Erin Lynch, The Highlands Communicator "To quote one of her songs, there is "Nothin' Sweeter" than the sound of her voice..." -Kris Kadwell, 100.9 CANOE FM
Jory Nash and Buddy Mondlock
Friday, January 25, 8:00pm.
Jory Nash and Aengus Finnan have been organising an annual Gordon Lightfoot tribute show at Hugh's Room for several years now. Buddy Mondlock is coming to Canada to take part in the 3 night run of the tribute. We are fortunate to be able to have him and Jory come to Haliburton.
Jory Nash blends elements of folk, jazz, blues, soul and pop into an original stew of sound. He has recorded 5 critically-acclaimed CDs. His most recent CD is called "FolkJazzBlues&Soul", which was released in 2007. A master storyteller and a lover of hats, Jory tours across North America, playing mostly solo. Acoustic guitar, piano and banjo are Jory's main instruments. Jory is a fixture on the summerfolk festival circuit, having played at Hillside, Summerfolk, Mariposa, Winterfolk, Toronto City Roots, Home County, Live From The Rock, Shelter Valley. Jory's music can often be heard on CBC Radio, and on college stations across North America. Listen to some of Jory's songs at
Buddy Mondlock's songs have been recorded by Guy Clark, Nanci Griffith, Garth Brooks, Joan Baez, Peter, Paul & Mary, Janis Ian, David Wilcox, Edwin McCain, Art Garfunkle, Cry, Cry, Cry... the list goes on. He has recorded five CD’s including “Everything Waits To Be Noticed,” a songwriting and recording collaboration with Maia Sharp and Art Garfunkel. His most recent is “The Edge of the World.
Here's what others have said of him:
“Buddy Mondlock is the most startling new songwriting talent I’ve heard this year.
This guy is an American Original, a folk poet whose vision veers effortlessly from
wild witticism to soul-piercing insights. Living proof that the troubadour tradition sings on.”
2007
Bob Snider
with Thom Lambert
Singer-songwriter Bob Snider has played on the street and in the concert hall. He's been called a "national treasure", a "living legend" and "author of some of the best Canadian songs of the decade". After a hiatus from performing and recording, Bob Snider returns with a new album "A Maze in Greys". Produced by David Baxter, the new CD contains 13 new songs that are quintessentially Bob. Songs that are direct, beautiful, sometimes quirky, sometimes funny but above all, songs that go straight to the heart.
In Bob's own words:
"The devil does not drag you kicking and screaming into hell. The devil makes you a deal. I don't believe in the devil. I'm just using it as a metaphor, OK? But nobody's forced. People make deals. They're talked into it. Everybody around them is nervous and worried about the future and security and all this stuff. So you get sucked into the machine. But I was never tempted. It just revolts me, the whole thing. I guess that's why I'm a folk singer."
Bob's songs have been covered by a who's who of Canadian musicians including Ashley MacIsaac, Meryn Cadell and the Leslie Spit Tree-O. His earlier recordings include two cassettes, "Live at the Free Times Cafe" and "You" and three CDs, "Caterwaul and Doggerel", "Words and Pictures" and "Stealin' Home". "Poetreason", a Bob Snider tribute concert recording dating back to 1996, includes performances by the likes of The Barenaked Ladies, Change of Heart and Moxy Fruvous, to name a few.
Bob is an exceptional live performer with his warmth and wit putting just the right off-beat spin on his live shows.
Jonathan Byrd with Corin Raymond (Undesirables, Sundowners)
"So come take a chance on a nationally touring singer/song-writer who will take you on a magical musical tour and see if he speaks to you like he speaks to me."
We are really proud and excited to be bringing Jonathan Byrd to Haliburton. It's a real bonus having Corin Raymond doing an opening set.
Jonathan is a Kerrville New Folk winner, 2003.
Previous Kerrville competitors include Nanci Griffith, Lyle Lovett and Steve Earle.
"This rootsy North Carolinian may be the most buzzed-about new songwriter in folkdom. He displays John Prine's gift for stark little songs that tell big, complex stories, Guy Clark's lean melodicism, Lyle Lovett's wry mischief, and Bill Morrissey's knack for the revealing image." - Scott Alarik, Boston Globe
"Jonathan Byrd doesn’t sing songs;
he sings truth."
- performingsongwriter.com -
"Jonathan's delightful, substantive songs are rich with imagery and textures of influences from Appalachian, country, early American balladry, modern atmospheric Mideastern, urban and old timey folk music. A stalwart of modern folk music, Jonathan is constantly evolving in new musical directions and each incarnation has proven to be masterful. Like a gourmet chef, Jonathan does not create the same dish twice, so we're not sure what he will bring to the table tonight. But if music were a meal, Jonathan would prepare us a banquet. Catch this Kerrville New Folk winner as often as you can; you'll never get 'full', your appetite will only grow." -Uncle Calvin's Coffeehouse, Dallas, TX
Folk legend Tom Paxton discovered Jonathan Byrd's music and sent him a quick email, saying, "What a treat to hear someone so deeply rooted in tradition, yet growing in his own beautiful way." He had just released "Wildflowers," in late 2001, simple tales of love and death that seemed to be a hundred years old or more. In 2003 Byrd released his second album, "The Waitress" and won the prestigious New Folk competition in Kerrville, TX. That year, he set CD sales records at the festival.
For his third album, Jonathan approached his friends, the critically acclaimed world-music duo known as Dromedary, often featured on National Public Radio's All Things Considered. "The Sea and The Sky" is the result, a vast, poetic suite of music that weds world sounds to deeply rooted folk balladry.
A native of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Jonathan grew up singing in the Southern Baptist church, where his father preached and his mother played piano. After four years in the Navy, he returned to Chapel Hill to play in rock bands in that legendary underground music scene. A friend of Jonathan's invited him to an old-time fiddle festival in the mountains of southwest Virginia, where his writing began to change. Assimilating the sounds of southern traditional music, Byrd wrote new songs in an ancient style.
One of those first songs was "Velma," a murder ballad based on the true story of Velma Barfield, the last woman to be executed in North Carolina (in 1984) and the murderer of Jonathan's own grandfather. This was the track that prompted Tom Paxton to respond so eloquently to Byrd's music.
As Jonathan grows into a contemporary artist of increasing influence, his traditional roots are always evident in his simple, poetic storytelling and classic flatpick guitar style. But, as quoted in a recent interview for Dirty Linen magazine, Jonathan says, "Everything I do is a departure from what I've done." "The Sea and the Sky" is certainly evidence of that. Keep an ear out for an upcoming electric album, sure to take us further out on a limb without forgetting our roots.
"I thought I was listening to a young Doc Watson." - Jay Moulon, Southeast Performer Magazine -
Sunday, May 20
Juno-award-winning guitarist Ken Hamm brings his repertoire of original and traditional blues and roots material to town for a concert at the Rails End Gallery. Over the past 34 years Ken has built an international reputation through extensive touring in Canada, Africa, the UK, and continental Europe. He has 8 CDs to his credit and is currently touring to promote the release of Live '05, a double CD set of live recordings of blues and original favourites.
"He got up and introduced his first song and started playing on an old Gibson acoustic and I think I said to Brian sitting next to me 'man this guy can play'. He did a few more on the Gibson then grabbed his 1927 National Steel, put on his slide and I swear I saw sparks as he moved it up and down the neck of the guitar."
- Keith Rodger, 'Blues News - MBS Newsletter'
"Ken Hamm opened the evening with a classic Leadbelly number "Bourgeois Town". It was immediately apparent why he is in such demand across this country, as well as in Europe and Britian, for his accomplished steel and acoustic guitar playing. In the third piece of his set, "Northwind Blues", his National 1930 steel guitar seemed to be singing on its own. Ken Hamm has a voice that resonates deeply of the south, with crooning richness that flows out of him as he smiles and nods and bends into chords and notes that roll from his guitar like a conversation."
- From the book MANY VOICES "Finding Our Roots" 2004
Ken will offer a guitar workshop on Sunday morning May 20, 9:30-12:30 at the Rails End Gallery
$50/person. Call 457-8902 to register
Ken is also well-known as a guitar instructor, offering courses from two hours to five
days in length. His hard-driving fingerstyle and slide techniques are the envy of many
players and he is pleased to share his knowledge in a workshop setting.
For more information on Ken's music and to hear sound bites, visit www.kenhamm.com.
"Ken's inclusive approach in workshops, combined with his remarkable skills, have drawn students back again and again."
Friday, April 20, 8:00pm
House concert with Bill Houston, Thunder Bay Singer/songwriter
at the home of Fay Martin and Michael Fay
1166 Horseshoe Lake Road
take Hwy 35 north out of Minden
immediately after the Gull River bridge, turn right
within 1 km ~ first house on the right
Tickets: $10 at the door
For information call 705-286-3668
There's space for 20-30 chairs. It might be wise phone ahead to get a seat.
Saturday, February 10, 2007
Last summer, members of the Folk Society had the good fortune to see
perform on the summer folk festival circuit. We were impressed and
wanted to see more. You have an opportunity to join us to see and hear
this amazing duo on
When asked to provide a little self promotional material, Corin Raymond
sent an email that he said was coming Muhammid Ali style. It started:
“Folks of Haliburton,
On Saturday, February 10th THE UNDESIRABLES come
to Haliburton. My name is Corin Raymond, I am one half of THE
UNDESIRABLES. I sing and my partner, Sean Cotton, plays the guitar and
sings with me. We play songs we've written together over the past
fourteen years. Doesn't sound too extraordinary, does it? One guitar?
Two voices? How good can it be? We've seen it before. Well, I'll tell
you right now, you've never seen anything like us. We deliver an evening
that will defy any expectations you might have. And one of the best
things about my job is that I get to say these outrageous things because
they're true.”
He goes on to say,
“It's folk-theatre-- it's a SHOW, it's real entertainment, it's
beautiful harmonies, a guitar player's guitar player and two guys who
were BORN to sing together, BORN to write together. It's a marriage.
It's till the grave and it's unstoppable. It's two guys who bring a
performance ethic that has been mostly forgotten in the world of folk
music. The Undesirables is about asking for an inch and giving ten miles
back. The inch is just showing up to see us. We take care of the ten
miles. What more can I say?”
A bit brash... sounds over the top...but it is true. They make sure you
get your money’s worth.The Undesirables have been honing their songs and
their music for 14 years, paying their dues, and are now getting
recognized for the fine performers that they are.
The Undesirables have been busy the last two years playing summer
festivals, headlining concert series, as well as opening shows in
theatres and concert venues for many top-notch acts including Prairie
Oyster, Jesse Winchester, Fred Eaglesmith, The Rheostatics, and Stephen
Fearing. In February 2006 they showcased (unofficially) at the Folk
Alliance conference in Austin, Texas.
In July of 2006 The Undesirables won The Toronto Blues Society's annual
Blues Talent Search.
This month they will be opening for Serena Ryder.
"Sean Cotton and Corin Raymond are the Undesirables. Together, they have
the most riveting stage presence I've seen in a long time..."
Rachel Jagt's review after seeing them at Hugh's Room.
"A refreshing folk duo led by the inimitable Corin Raymond, a generous
performer who, by the end of the night, you'll have known your whole life."
Brad Wheeler
The Globe and Mail
The Undesirables are a refreshing and infectious songwriting duo who kick out heat like an old woodstove. Guitarist/harmonist Sean Cotton and lyricist/singer Corin Raymond deliver a brand new vibe with roots clout.
It all began in Sean's basement in Georgetown, Ontario. Corin & Sean met while still in high school, and their fast friendship was sealed by a mutual love of raw, unadulterated American roots music. Pouring over album liners of small-town staples like The Doors and The Rolling Stones led them to the songwriters that would truly rip their hearts out; guys like Howlin' Wolf, Blind Willie McTell, and Slim Harpo. They discovered the blues together, and soon were on a steady diet of southern sounds: gospel, old-school R&B, rag and the music of New Orleans. To ask The Undesirables to list their influences is to spark a conversation that will leave you smiling at their enthusiasm and knowledge, and respect for those who came before.
It was in Georgetown, 10 years ago, that they wrote their first song, California Wine - still a requested favourite. As a songwriting team, they each brought an ingredient the other lacked. Sean, who was playing lead guitar in his father's country band at age fourteen, brought the music - a unique style of guitar playing that provided solid rhythm, rich colour, and an unexpected fullness of sound. Corin brought the words. His childhood was filled with stories, poems and the songs of Broadway wordsmiths. In his adolescence he devoured Dylan Thomas, Robert Frost, and Edna St. Vincent Millay. He brought a respect for words and a workman-like attitude to writing lyrics. One goal occupied both their minds: to write good songs.
In performance, The Undesirables are a mesmerizing unit. They perform with total commitment. Corin hand-delivers each lyric with entrancing conviction while Sean digs into the guitar with mastery and taste and their voices blend with sibling harmony.
Their sound fills the room like the smell of onions frying on an iron skillet. Hips start swaying accidentally. Spirits rise.
2006
Sunday, November 5, 2006 7:30pmNorthern Light Pavilion for the Performing Arts (see map)
Haliburton ON
"Just when you think you've got it all figured out, something roars in and it turns you about."
Connie Kaldor wrote this and more about the unexpected twists and turns of life and love for her album Love is a Truck. She could well have been writing about her personal artistic complexities. Music pundits have tried to define the essence of the prairie-born acoustic performer for over two decades but even the most eloquent have fallen short of perfection.
Fact is, Connie Kaldor is a performer without borders. A contradiction in terms. She is a Juno-award winning singer who has flourished on the folk music scene for over two decades yet her repertoire of original material blurs musical boundaries, embracing elements of gospel, rock, country and western, folk, blue grass and adult contemporary.
She is an artist of substance without pretension, witty and urbane without condescension. She is a fearless chronicler of the human experience without the folksong angst. She has recorded nine albums, sold tens of thousands of copies, but has never had a commercial hit.
Her live performances are legendary and her fan base broad and fiercely loyal. People come back to see her again and again because a Connie Kaldor performance is about more than just the power of music. It is also about the power of personality. What she says between songs is as intriguing as the lyrics she sings.
She has travelled prairie back roads to visit modest community centres and sold out concert halls in major cities. From Bejing to New Dehli to Saskatoon to Washington, Connie has triumphed with a mix of song and spoken word honed in pacing and tone by the many years she spent performing.
Like many prairie girls in the 50s and 60s, Connie grew up singing in the church choir and listening to Patsy Cline and The Beatles on her record player. But it wasn't until the 1980s after four years spent performing with an avant-garde theatre company in Toronto that Connie turned to music full time and was welcomed by the folk scene.
A musical bard whose music and lyrics have diverse appeal-appropriated for everything from anger management workshops for men to economic newsletters to soundtracks for film. "She's tough and she's tender. She sings with love and with anger…indecently talented. " Toronto Star.
Friday, July 21st, 2006 8:00pm
26 York Street
Haliburton ON
Jory Nash is a Canadian contemporary singer-songwriter based in Toronto, Ontario. His primary instrument is the acoustic guitar, which he both finger picks and flat pick strums with regularity. Jory also plays piano and banjo and often incorporates a variety of sounds on his CD's and during his live shows. Jory has traveled extensively throughout much of North America playing house concerts, club gigs, folk festivals and radio shows which has resulted in the creation of large, fiercely dedicated grassroots following. His music has been played on over 200 radio stations across North America and his CD's have sold over 2,000 copies, all independently.
Wednesday May 31,2006 8:00pm
Northern Light Pavilion for the Performing Arts (see map)
Haliburton ON
David Francey's list of achievements in the folk music industry keeps on growing.
Hot on the heels of consecutive JUNO awards in the Roots and Traditional Album of the Year - Solo category for both Far End of Summer and Skating Rink, David's fourth CD, Waking Hour earned him yet another nomination in the same category!
David's song "Saints and Sinners" from his debut CD, Torn Screen Door, took first place in the folk category of the 2004 USA Songwriting Competition.
David has also been the proud recipient of the Penguin Eggs Magazine's Album of the Year award for Skating Rink, Far End of Summer and Waking Hour.
This January David appeared on CMT in the television documentary, Four Strong Winds, celebrating Canadian singer/songwriters and their impact on the world of popular music. David's song "Skating Rink" aired during the 2004 nationwide CBC broadcast of the Canadian Heritage Classic Hockey Game and aired before the Montreal vs Toronto game as part of Hockey Day in Canada.
Saturday April 22, 2006 8:00pm
Northern Light Pavilion for the Performing Arts (see map)
Haliburton ON
Karen Savoca puts her heart into a song the way a great actor throws herself into a role. Her supple, soulful alto charms with an infinite range of expression. She can even sing several notes at once, her own brand of throat singing she calls vocal hydroplaning. Savoca is also a gifted songwriter, drawing you into her world with humor and compassion, telling her stories with such grace and ease, you feel as though you've been invited to her table for supper. Though she composes and records on a variety of instruments, Savoca opts for the primal combination of voice and drum in live performance, and her groove is wide and satisfying.
Pete Heitzman can make his guitar sound like a cello, a pedal steel, a rutting elk, and some things only imagined. With this broad pallet of tones and textures he paints the ideal landscapes for Savoca's songs. An innovative and sensitive acccompanist, Heitzman is so full of surprises that he has been called “a human aurora borealis”.
Saturday, February 25, 2006 8:00pm
Northern Light Pavilion for the Performing Arts (see map)
Haliburton ON
For almost 17 years now, Stephen Fearing has been penning some of the most literate, stirring and emotionally charged "folk" music on this planet. Couple this with stunning guitar work, and a smooth intimate voice, and you have the elements of the unique performer that is Stephen Fearing.
After a year of touring throughout Canada and the United States singer/songwriter and guitarist Stephen Fearing is back with a new studio album. “That's How I Walk” is the sixth solo album for this four time JUNO nominee, and follow up to the critically lauded "So Many Miles."
Fearing’s new work blends a raw, streetwise edge with evocative soul-searching imagery to produce music of quiet passion and depth. Ranging in subject from love's loss to poverty, from faith to sexuality, Fearing's work taps the full spectrum of human experience.
For information about Stephen Fearing visit:
Two Maple Blues award winners on the same stage!!
Sunday, January 22, 2006 8:00pm
Northern Light Pavilion for the Performing Arts (see map)
Haliburton ON
Rick Fines has been on the road playing for 23 years now. At 41, he is a veteran of the folk and blues circuits in North America. He won the MapleBlues Award for Acoustic Act Of The Year twice (98, 99) and was nominated three times for the MapleBlues Songwriter of the Year award. In 2004 Rick was nominated for the third time for MapleBlues Songwriter of the Year, as well as the Best Male Vocalist award. His 15 years with Jackson Delta won recognition from both the Juno and the Handy Awards.
Suzie Vinnick is an award-winning singer, songwriter and musician. She recently won 1st place in the Blues Category of the International Songwriting Contest (ISC) for her co-write entitled "The Honey I Want", was awarded the 2003 Canadian Maple Blues Female Vocalist of the Year, and was nominated again as the 2004 Canadian Maple Blues Female Vocalist of the Year.
Suzie has been featured nationally on CBC Radio on Holger Petersen's show Saturday Night Blues, on Stuart McLean’s Vinyl Café, and has performed across Canada and the US, and for Canadian Peacekeepers in Bosnia and the Persian Gulf. She performs powerfully as a solo act or with her tasteful side players, and is also a member of the groups Betty & the Bobs, the Marigolds (with Gwen Swick and Caitlin Hanford of Quartette), and the folk-pop trio, Vinnick Sheppard Harte (VSH).
Haliburton Highlands Museum, 66 Museum Road, Haliburton, ON
Heritage House Café (see map)
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