2004 TPFF Peformer List

2004 TPFF Performers

This index is listed alphabetically by first word in a group's name, by last name of an individual performer, or by last name of the first person listed in a duo/trio. (Please note that all information listed below was current at the time of original publication; phone numbers, emails and the like may have changed since.)

A B C D E F H I J K L M O P R S T W Y

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A Bunch of Ballads (Abbott Stage)

Ballads are stories told in songs. In our local area, the tradition of singing these narratives is still very active, and we have assembled four of the best local practitioners, great singers all: Melissa Weaver Dunning, Chris Noyes, Lisa Null, and Andy Wallace. Look for their individual bios.

Amara (Jamboree Court)

Amara has been studying dances of the Middle East, North Africa, Turkey and Central Asia for 13 years and performing professionally since 1997. She has traveled to Turkey and Morocco and is planning on a trip to Egypt next year. Amara teaches weekly Middle Eastern/North African dance classes at three different levels through the Gaithersburg and Rockville Departments of Recreation and Montgomery College's Wellness Program for faculty and staff. She also teaches workshops on ethnic/folkloric dance forms, costuming, stage makeup, and Arabic and Turkish rhythms as well as beginning dombek (Middle Eastern drum) classes. Amara is co-director of the semi-professional dance ensemble, BASSAMA!, which has performed at the Frederick Festival of the Arts, First Night Alexandria, Taste of D.C., Taste of Bethesda, and at a benefit concert for the pediatric oncology unit at Johns Hopkins hospital. See her Web site at http://www.amaraofthemoon.com.

Her accompanists, Gordon Coupe and Dale Hall, play a variety of Middle Eastern and African percussion instruments. Gordon also plays the electric guitar and is self-taught on the saz (Turkish long-neck lute). Both perform regularly with Stream and the Blue Dragon Band and the Cairo Connexion and sometimes for Amara's classes.

Nick Annis (Grove Stage)

Nick Annis was kicked out of his high-school marching band and found the chorus room next door, and has been singing since. He has tested oil wells in Texas, run a bakery and a cabinet shop and a restaurant. He fixed some stuff, broke some others. He has sold ice-cream from a truck and sold kitchens. He has built up some things and some friendships, and tore some down, too. The recent transplant from Florida was a winner of the Wildflower! songwriting contest in Texas, a finalist in the Plowshares contest in Pennsylvania, and finished second in the South Florida Folk Festival songwriting contest. Nick is often accompanied by singer and multi-instrumentalist Elizabeth Crisfield. The former Floridian is a classically trained violinist who has turned to fiddle. She also has played in the contra band Arch Creek and in a Celtic duo with Scotsman Murray MacLeod. http://www.nickannis.com

Archie Edwards Blues Heritage Foundation (7th Heaven Stage)

The Foundation is an ever-changing mix of new and experienced musicians who celebrate the blues through concerts and weekly jam sessions. We're delighted to again have some of the Archie Edwards regulars come to Takoma Park and show us what happens every Saturday afternoon at the legendary D.C. barbershop at 2007 Bunker Hill Road, N.E. One of the group's members, Eleanor Ellis, also played at the first Takoma Park Folk Festival in 1978. http://www.acousticblues.com

Arte Flamenco Arte Flamenco (World Stage)

Born in the mountains, the caves, the gypsy neighborhoods, in the south of Spain, preserved by families in the intimacy of the patio, Flamenco is not only a dance, but a whole way of looking at life, and interpreting life's joys and sorrows through music. The music is the result of blending of many cultures that thrived over the centuries in the Iberian Peninsula, and includes elements of the New World and of Africa. Arte Flamenco is a locally based dance company founded by Natalia Monteleon in 1997. Their performance schedule has taken them to all local Hispanic and international festivals, arts events, regional schools and universities. Among their highlights are three performances at the Millennium Stage of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Perfoming Arts, the Baltimore Museum of Art, the University of Maryland, and the Mexican Cultural Institute. http://www.arteflamenco.us

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Noa Baum (Jamboree Court)

Noa Baum is an acclaimed performance artist, educator and workshop facilitator. Born and raised in Jerusalem, she trained in theatre at Tel-Aviv University and holds an M.A. in Educational Theater from NYU. Since 1982, Noa's storytelling has captivated and inspired children and adults internationally. She's worked with a wide spectrum of populations from Head Start programs and senior centers to universities and hundreds of schools, libraries, churches and Jewish congregations. Noa's storytelling builds a bridge of understanding and compassion between East and West, American and Israeli, Arab and Jew, past and present. Her one-woman show, "A Land Twice Promised" is based on Noa's personal dialogue with a Palestinian woman, offering the moving testimony of memories that illuminate the complex and contradictory history and emotions that surround Jerusalem for Israelis and Palestinians alike. http://www.noabaum.com

Beth-Allison & the Well-Strung Boys (Field Stage)

Beth-Allison & the Well-Strung Boys play a unique style of Americana music that combines rock, alt-country, blues, jazz and even a little bluegrass, reflecting the diverse influences of the individual members. While mostly showcasing the songwriting skills of Beth Rinaldo, Allison Page and Scott Holland, the group also performs an eclectic selection of the favorite songs by artists such as Lucinda Williams, Gillian Welch, Bruce Springsteen, Steve Earle, the BoDeans, Johnny Cash and Kasey Chambers. Rounding out the group is the dynamic rhythm section of Kevin Forder on bass, Pete Best on drums, and the extraordinary Helen Hausmann on violin, mandolin and vocals. http://www.beth-allison.com

Blue Moon Cowgirls (Field Stage)

The Blue Moon Cowgirls is a shimmering trio of female voices backed by the highly acclaimed instrumentalist, Ira Gitlin. The Cowgirls blend front-porch directness with neon-lit sophistication as they sing about home and highways, heaven and honky-tonks, heartbreak and hope. Their repertoire stretches from the 1920s Appalachia to the Everly Brothers and beyond. http://www.bluemooncowgirls.com

Bog Wanderers Ceili Band (World Stage)

A ceili band is one that plays for Irish country dancing, and the Bog Wanderers are one of the top ceili bands on the east coast of the U.S. Jigs, reels, hornpipes, polkas, and slides are their mainstay, with the added attraction of superb vocals by banjo-player Betsy O'Malley.

For the last ten years, the Bog Wanderers have been the house band for the monthly ceili (traditional Irish country dance) sponsored by the O'Neill Malcom branch of Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann (CCE), the Dublin-based "Irish Music Association." The dance is held in Fairfax, Virginia and always attracts a great group of Irish-dance enthusiasts, both new and experienced.

The Bog Wanderers are:
Betsy O'Malley, tenor banjo, tin whistle and vocals
Joe Dezarn, fiddle, remarks
Danny Flynn, button accordion and piano accordion
Tabby Finch, piano, harp, hammered dulcimer
Jesse Winch, drums, bodhran, percussion, mandola, guitar and harmonica

The Bog Wanderers have just released their first CD, Here's To You, on the Falling Mountain label. It's a fabulous collection of tunes and songs both traditional and original.
http://www.fallingmountain.com/bws.html

Oscar Brand (Abbott Stage)

Oscar Brand has presented the oldest continuous radio show in history since 1945, the award-winning "Folk-song Festival" on New York Public Radio. In his long association with the National Public Radio network, he has been host of "Voices in the Wind," arts interviewer for "Morning Edition," and co-host of the five-hour "Sunday Show." Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Brand has also worked with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation and composed the Canadian anthem, "Something To Sing About." He has scripted and scored ballets and commercials, is the author of seven best-selling books, and has recorded 90 LPs. Curator of the Songwriters Hall of Fame, Brand has written songs for two Broadway shows and for Doris Day, Ella Fitzgerald, Harry Belafonte, the Smothers Brothers, and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. He also wrote and scored the Kennedy Center's Bicentennial musical, "Sing America Sing." He has won numerous awards for his work, which includes 75 documentary films and hundreds of television programs. As a leading performer for children on TV, records, and films, Brand was on the advisory panel that created the series known as "Sesame Street." His concerts for adults and children have earned him such accolades as this from The New York Times: "One of America's best." He created music for the critically-acclaimed film, "In White America" and the score for "How To Steal an Election." Brand's CD, Presidential Campaign Songs 1789-1996, was released by Smithsonian Folkways Recordings in 1999. http://www.oscarbrand.com

"Mister Don" Bridges (Grassy Nook Stage)

"Mister Don" returns to the Festival with his high-energy interactive children’s music that includes plenty of sing-alongs, songs with accompanying motions, and lots of rhythm instruments for the kids to play as they sing, march, dance, and skip. Come join the fun! http://www.donbridgesongs.com

Richard Broadbent (7th Heaven Stage)

Playing and singing nearly all his life, Richard Broadbent began writing songs in 2001. Richard's writing aspires to that of the great storytellers like Steve Goodman, John Prine and Bob Dylan, in a writing and singing voice that is all his own! His first recording is Christiana, a collection of songs 53 years in the making, and released November 2003. Check out http://www.richardbroadbent.com for more!

Buffalo Nickel Band (Lenore Robinson Dance Stage)

This six-piece swing ensemble has delighted audiences at folk festivals, concerts, and dances with their inventive and easy-going style since 1986. Versatile mandolinist Tom Mindte demonstrates that his chosen instrument is quite at home in swing; his playing is reminiscent of the great Jethro Burns, and Tom is a fine vocalist as well. Bob Rubin's lyrical guitar work makes it clear why he is one of the most in-demand players in the D.C. area. The band's drummer is Bill Mason, a consummate professional and a jazz player since the 1930s; his musical resume includes the U.S. Army bands that backed jazz legends such as Louis Armstrong during overseas tours. Marv Reitz contributes vocals and a swinging style on saxophone and clarinet. Pete Hinz skillfully complements the other strings with his violin, and Kathy Reitz does a fine job on the big bass fiddle. The Buffalo Nickel Band plays an enjoyable mix of tunes ranging from Benny Goodman to western swing, and includes both vocal numbers and instrumentals for your listening (and dancing) pleasure. http://www.pxrec.com/Patuxent_Swing-bnb-homepage.htm

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Frank Cassel

beloved Banjoman at the Takoma Park Farmers Market on Sundays, will rove through the Festival grounds all afternoon. For information about his new CD and his other performances, please see http://www.banjomanfc.com.

Chris Chandler and Anne Feeney (Grove Stage)

Renowned rabble-rouser and unionmaid Anne Feeney and acrobatic performance poet Chris Chandler roll up with their "metaphoric highwire act," a dynamic concoction of rousing music, "folken word" poetry, and humor that inspired the Boston Herald to call them "the most creatively radical performers on the coffeehouse circuit." Pittsburgh native Anne Feeney, who has spent decades putting her songs and body on the front line of the labor movement, possesses a seemingly limitless repertoire of activist songs that provides the musical counterpoint to Georgia-born Chris—now living in Takoma Park—puts on a vaudvillean presentation of beat poetry and road tales from his journeys. Their highly theatrical collage of songstress, southern preacher and wandering minstrel show supports the cause of working people's solidarity. http://www.primecd.com/chandler.htm

John Chowning (7th Heaven Stage)

John Chowning is a singer-songwriter from the Washington, D.C., area who grew up in the Midwest. John has appeared at a number of venues in the Washington area over the past dozen years, but only recently has he taken performing seriously. However, he has considered himself a dead-serious songwriter since his early years growing up in a small Indiana mining town. His family and musical roots come straight out of the hills and hollers of eastern Kentucky, but along the way he has blended gospel, rock, blues, and other musical influences together to create what he sometimes calls "suburban acoustic." Others have called his music literate, passionate, insightful, and deeply purposeful. His own songs and the covers he chooses simply relate to the everyday struggles of life.

Lea Coryell and Ralph Lee Smith (Abbott Stage)

Lea Coryell and Ralph Lee Smith play and sing roots-based music, with Lea playing old-time banjo and Ralph playing Appalachian dulcimer. Both also play harmonica. Lea's repertoire includes Appalachian music, sea songs, blues, old and new country music, humorous songs, and traditional hymns. Ralph plays old-time Appalachian songs and tunes on the dulcimer. Both perform on authentic traditional and antique instruments, including a 19th Century "tack-head" banjo and a 19th Century dulcimer, both from Southwestern Virginia.
http://www.shenandoahacoustics.com/coryell

Rachel Cross (7th Heaven Stage)

Rachel Cross started her musical career in 1983 as a street musician in Paris, France, and has been playing guitar, writing songs, singing and recording ever since. Rachel was the lead singer and rhythm guitarist for the award-winning world-beat band Big Village for eleven years. Known for her high-energy performances, positive vibe, and powerful voice, Rachel has performed at countless venues, colleges, and festivals including the Kennedy Center, on board the Green Peace Warrior, and at the Mid-Atlantic conference for the National Organization of Women. Her debut solo CD, Angels & Aliens, Monsters & Freaks, on Dreamy Eyes Records is now in its second pressing and is receiving airplay across the nation.
http://www.rachelcross.com

Jennifer Cutting's Ocean Orchestra (Field Stage)

What do you get when you cross Irish jigs with a rock-and-roll rhythm section; mythology and classical symphonic themes with spine-tingling electronics? You get the Ocean Orchestra, an all-star ensemble of the Washington area's favorite Celtic and rock musicians, directed by boundary-bending composer/bandleader Jennifer Cutting. The lineup features Cutting on electronic keyboard and accordions; Grace Griffith on vocals, Zan McLeod on bouzouki, mandolin, and electric guitar; Chris Noyes on vocals, whistle, and acoustic guitar; Dave Abe on fiddle; Rico Petruccelli on bass, and Chris Stewart on drums. Alternately ethereal and house-rocking, the band plays Cuttings's newest electric folk arrangements of Irish and British traditional music and her award-winning originals, as well as reprising a few of the best-loved pieces she wrote for her critically acclaimed British folk-rock band, The New St. George. Cut loose and dance, or lose yourself in dreamy reverie. There's nothing like it anywhere... Ocean is Celtic music for ancient moderns! http://www.kinesiscd.com/jennifercutting

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D.C. Labor Chorus (Abbott Stage)

The D.C. Labor Chorus is a musical ensemble representing union members from the Washington, D.C., area. Some Chorus members are professional musicians but most are union members and activists who just love to sing! The D.C. Labor Chorus sings for rallies, demonstrations, and picket lines. They welcome union members to the annual Great Labor Arts Exchange at the George Meany Center each summer, and they hold an annual "Sacred/Favorite Songs" concert every winter. The D.C. Labor Chorus welcomes new members who love to sing and promote union solidarity.

Dead Men's Hollow (Abbott Stage)

Dead Men's Hollow hails from the shadows of the nation's capital. Mining the essentials of an old-time country string band, they take traditional songs ... add a little jazz, gospel and blues ... add female harmony vocals ... and come out with their own unique brand of Americana. Acoustic Americana. Harnessing the prolific pens of the band, they also stir in a mix of original songs about traditional country themes: trains, being lonesome, crying, and love gone wrong. The result is Dead Men's Hollow. http://www.deadmenshollow.com

DinoRock Productions (Grassy Nook Stage)

Imagine dancing, singing dinosaurs and their human sidekicks, a company of players crisscrossing the United States in a big white truck, performing everywhere from Oregon to Florida, from California to Maine. That's DinoRock Productions. This October will be their 20th anniversary.

Since their premiere at the Smithsonian Institution's Discovery Theatre in October of 1984, the musical-theater company founded by puppet designer Ingrid Crepeau and singer/songwriters Michele Valeri and Michael Stein have brought facts and fun about dinosaurs to children and families in 40 states and the District of Columbia, but they are never happier than when they are performing for a hometown crowd.

In a review for Family Fun magazine in Chicago, Illinois, Moira McCormick said: "A winning franchise all around, DinoRock will knock the socks off your Jurassic-loving tot." http://www.dinorock.com

Melissa Weaver Dunning (Abbott Stage)

Melissa Weaver Dunning is a singer of traditional ballads specializing in the music of England, Ireland and Scotland. Her powerful and clear unaccompanied singing brings the old story songs to life and weaves vibrant pictures of life in another age. Melissa has had the great good fortune to study for many years with Scottish weaver and singer Norman Kennedy. She is dedicated to carrying on some of the wealth of tradition gleaned from this apprenticeship both in weaving and in music, and has been teaching classes in traditional handweaving since 1996. Melissa has performed throughout the Eastern United States and in the British Isles and in France, including performances at the Smithsonian Institution and Georgetown University and with the Boston Camerata. Melissa also works in school settings, presenting specialized programs in the areas of history, literature, and the arts. Her repertoire includes early American folk song, shape-note hymns, and the village singing traditions of Europe and Eastern Europe. WeaverDun@aol.com

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Ellen Engle and Marc Shepanek (Lenore Robinson Dance Stage)

Ellen Engle and Marc Shepanek, a.k.a. Flying Feet Enterprises, have won swing-dance championships from Virginia to Australia. Popular local-area dance instructors since 1989, Marc and Ellen teach at Glen Echo Park on Monday evenings and on the second Sunday and second Friday of every month. They also can be found teaching and performing at other venues and special events throughout the Washington, D.C., area. Their classes will have the beginning dancer up and dancing in no time, while having fun and feeling no pressure. Marc and Ellen will tell you that the best dance move in the world is a smile and that as long as you take care of your partner and those around you, there are no wrong moves, there are only new moves. http://www.flyingfeet.org

Exuberance (Lenore Robinson Dance Stage)

Exuberance is made up of middle-school and high-school fiddlers who study with Ellen Jacobs, along with some of their favorite adult back-up players. The group has an extensive repertoire of jigs, reels, waltzes and other dance tunes.

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Joe Glazer (Abbott Stage)

Folksinger and social historian Joe Glazer has been collecting, composing, and performing songs of workers, protest, and politics for more than 50 years. He has performed in nearly every state in the U.S. and more than 60 countries around the world where he interpreted American life in song and story for the United States Information Agency. Glazer has recorded more than 30 albums, CDs, and cassettes with songs about working people, social movements, the environment, politics, and American immigrants. His latest recording is The Music of American Politics, highlights of American political history told through its campaign songs. glazerjoe-m@boo.net

Gypsy Meltdown (Lenore Robinson Dance Stage)

Gypsy Meltdown features a trio of musicians active in the traditional American folk-dance scene. With Kathy Kerr on fiddle, Colleen Reed on flute, and Keith Gillis on guitar, Gypsy Meltdown weaves together old and new melodies from New England, Appalachia and the British Isles with driving rhythms to create a groove.

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Halau O Na Hali'a (Grassy Nook Stage)

Halau O Na Hali'a is a hula school based in Waldorf, Maryland, under the auspices of Kumu Hula (Hula Master) Wayne Kaho'onei Panoke, of Kaneohe, Hawai'i, and Kumu Hula Ladd Kahele Heleloa of Las Vegas, Nevada. The halau (school) was created to perpetuate the Hawaiian culture through dance (hula), chant (oli), and mele (song). halauonahalia@yahoo.com

Tom Hall (Lenore Robinson Dance Stage)

Tom Hall has been enjoying and teaching Cajun/Zydeco dancing since 1986, when he lived near New Orleans and attended frequent fais do-dos. Tom is a founding member of what is now a vibrant Cajun/Zydeco music and dance community in the Washington/Baltimore area. He makes frequent visits to Louisiana dance halls and is learning to play the Cajun accordion. tommyhall@earthlink.net

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ilyAIMY (7th Heaven Stage)

Cross Ani DiFranco with Jethro Tull and sprinkle liberally with the passion of an acoustic-grunge aesthetic. "A bone-rattling acoustic act with driving lyrical force ... male/female harmonies that lock in, lift, drop and pull ... and then they slow it down and rip you open." —Jake Stephens, On Tap magazine. Touring nationally during the last nine months has confirmed it: The music of Baltimore-based acoustic duo ilyAIMY doesn't sound like any other band and doesn't fit comfortably into any established genre. Only a series of nominations from the Washington Area Music Association (2001: Best Alternate Rock Recording, and 2002: Best Contemporary Folk Group or Duo) have even tried to nail it down. What ilyAIMY is: tight harmonies, percussive acoustic guitar, personal songwriting and a strong co-fronting partnership unlike that of any other band. Rob Hinkal and Heather Lloyd are "a welcome jolt in a stream of otherwise sedate coffeehouse folkies," says the Rocky Mountain Bullhorn, bringing an edgier folk flavor while maintaining the acoustic singer-songwriting tradition. http://www.ilyaimy.com

International Dance Favorites (Lenore Robinson Dance Stage)

Jamie Platt has been teaching international folkdancing regularly for more than 20 years. Information on the Glen Echo Folkdancers can be found at http://www.dancingplanetproductions.com. He has appeared many times at the TPFF, the Washington Folk Festival and the FSGW Minifest. His teaching is fun and accessible to all. Sarenica plays a variety of lively music from Serbia, Croatia, Greece and elsewhere. This will be fun!

Irish Fire (Field Stage)

The members of Irish Fire are no strangers to followers of Irish traditional music. Singers Grace Griffith (2003 WAMA Artist of the Year) and Dominick Murray blend their voices in beautiful harmonies and are joined by Donegal-style fiddler Dave Abe, keyboardist Paul Nahay, and champion Irish step dancers to present a lively performance of stories, traditional songs, and dance tunes. Playing together since 1997, the group has performed at such diverse venues as the Birchmere and the White House. http://www.irishfire.net

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Jawbone (Grassy Nook Stage)

Still fresh from their trip to India to perform for the Dalai Lama in October 2003, Jawbone (Amikaeyla Gaston, Eric Maring and Gregory Heelan) is thrilled to be making its third appearance at the Takoma Park Folk Festival. Jawbone’s lively harmonies, a wide array of instruments (including, yes, a donkey’s jawbone), improvisational sing-alongs, and a “love-for-life” approach to music appeal to little and big people alike. Their debut CD, Jawbone, was released in September 2003. http://www.jawbone.us

Bill Jenkins World of Music (Grassy Nook Stage)

Children of all ages: Come and create your own music! Grab an instrument and be part of a real band composed of authentic Asian, African, and South American percussion instruments. Multi-cultural music educator Bill Jenkins demonstrates his unique collection of over 100 musical instruments from Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America and Native American heritage and guarantees to turn the audience into a band by the end of his set. Bill Jenkins has been collecting instruments from around the world for 30 years and brings them to schools, museums, libraries, etc., for hands-on programs. Through playing music we learn to appreciate other cultures and connect with all of humanity in peace. worldofmuse@aol.com

JumpStart (Lenore Robinson Dance Stage)

JumpStart is a high-energy contra-dance band with over 21 years experience. They enjoy playing dance music from the American, Canadian, Scottish and Irish traditions, as well as many original tunes. They perform regularly with the Patchwork Dancers and for dances, concerts, weddings and parties. They've played at the Smithsonian museums, on the Mall, and at many area festivals. JumpStart includes Jim Besser (concertina, guitar), Kathy Kerr (fiddle) and Jay Roberts (guitar).

Joanne Juskus with Willard Morris (Grove Stage)

One of the mid-Atlantic's most enchanting singer-songwriters intertwines her exhilarating vocal and instrumental arrangements into a blend of ethereal folk pop. Juskus, whose voice has been compared to Joni Mitchell and Kate Bush, has received eight WAMMIE nominations. http://www.joannejuskusmusic.com

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Kathy Kerr (Jamboree Court)

Kathy Kerr says there is nothing more fun than playing music. On fiddle and mandolin, she is happy to try any style. She is a frequent performer in local contra-dance bands including Gypsy Meltdown; Squeezer, Geezer and Kerr, and the ultimate jam, the Glen Echo Open Band. “Open up that case and let's play!”

Steve Key (Cash & Carter Tribute) (7th Heaven Stage)

Steve Key wrote "Record Time (33, 45, 78)," recorded by country star Kathy Mattea, has performed at major folk festivals such as Philadelphia and Winnipeg, and won the New Folk Songwriting Contest at the Kerrville Folk Festival in Texas. He is also known for his humorous songs, story songs, folk ballads, sing-along anthems, and songs of heart and home. His current CD, House Blend, was recorded at house concerts in Maryland, and he continues to play house concerts, showcase clubs, church-based coffeehouses, festivals and other folk venues. He is the president of Focus, a non-profit membership organization based in Washington, D.C., which presents folk-music concerts in various venues and has a mission of creating a full-time listening venue for folk music ( http://www.FocusMusic.org). He is also the host of weekly open mics in the D.C. area. http://www.stevekey.com

Camela Widad Kraemer (7th Heaven Stage)

Widad grew up in Wisconsin, traveled as an actress for some time, and landed at a theater where her music career began. While she was singing covers on stage with a company in Columbus, Ohio, she stated writing songs for her first album, Eve. This first recording took her to Austin, Texas, where she performed live on the Austin Music Network and KUT 90.5 with John Aielli. After some time she took her music to Los Angeles for a while, and then to Northern California, where most of the songs for Call to the Soul, her latest release, were written. Now living on the East Coast, you can find updates about her local live performances at http://www.camelak.com.

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Wendy Lanxner & Tricia Khleif (7th Heaven Stage)

xoxo ('sho-sho') is a group of musicians in the Washington area making original music. xoxo's music may be hard to categorize, but it's easy to relate to. With vocals, guitars, mandolin, flute, fretless bass, and a hybrid drumset, the group has the musical resources to bring a rich palette of sounds to their original material. In any given xoxo set, you may very well hear vocal harmonies, Middle Eastern, rock or reggae rhythms, all playing over funky, deep-rooted melodic bass lines. The group's spirited energy, sense of humor, and soulful delivery draw in audiences, and their material covers the wide range of human experience. xoxo features Wendy Lanxner on vocals, guitar, mandolin and flute; Tricia Khleif on vocals and guitar; Franz Kellner on fretless bass, and Bob Novak on percussion. xoxowendy@verizon.net

David LaFleur (7th Heaven Stage)

David LaFleur's dynamic, thoughtful and hilarious songs keep him in demand in coffeehouses, house concerts, and festivals throughout the D.C., Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia area. See http://www.floridamusic.org/cgi-bin/musicians.cgi?num=35 for more!

Ruthie Logsdon (Cash & Carter Tribute) (7th Heaven Stage)

Lead vocalist of Ruthie and the Wranglers, Ruthie Logsdon has racked up numerous WAMMIES including 2002 Best Country Vocalist and 2000 Songwriter of the Year from the Washington Area Music Association. Ruthie was proud to discover that she is related to the late Jimmie Lloyd Logsdon ("Rocket in My Pocket,""The Death of Hank Williams") and is carrying on a family tradition! www.ruthieandthewranglers.com

Gregory Lygon (7th Heaven Stage)

Known for his acoustic-guitar artistry and for a crystal-clear tenor voice, Gregory Lygon is quickly earning the respect of his peers in the Washington, D.C.-area music community. His refreshing approach to AAA/Contemporary Acoustic music combines the clarity and conscience of folk, the sophistication of jazz and the imagination of new age to create a dynamic and soulful sound. Nominated in 2003 for the WAMMIE Award for Best Instrumentalist in the Contemporary Folk category. His CD, UnEarthly Passions, was hailed by the Alexandria Old Town Crier as "exotic & dreamlike." http://www.gregorylygon.com

Lyuti Chushki Lyuti Chushki (Lenore Robinson Dance Stage)

In the Bulgarian language, "Lyuti Chushki" means "Hot Peppers," and that is the kind of spicy traditional Bulgarian music that this band plays. Lyuti Chushki is a combination of professional musicians from Bulgaria and American musicians from the Baltimore/Washington area who have been playing for festivals, weddings, concerts, and other special events since 1997. Their toe-tapping music, played on traditional instruments from Bulgaria, takes you back to the old country—it is joyful, evocative, compelling and lyrical, in modes and rhythms generally not found in western music. Their unusual instrumentation includes kaval (end-blown flute), gaida (bagpipe), gudulka (bowed stringed instrument with resonating strings), tambura (fretted instrument similar to a guitar) and tupan (large drum), all of which serve to accompany the unique Bulgarian vocal style, which has a beauty all its own. weiner.larry@comcast.net

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Diane Macklin (Jamboree Court)

Diane Macklin is a professional storyteller, actress, and educator who uses storytelling as a way to break down cultural barriers and unite people of all backgrounds. She tells original stories and folk tales from Africa, the Americas, and other parts of the globe. The stories Diane tells are centered around hope, peace, justice, and wisdom. She focuses on character-building through the arts. Her motto is "Making a difference, one story at a time."

Diane’s silky-smooth "dancing hands” mixed with her dramatic presence enchant audiences, both young and old. She invites listeners into her stories by encouraging participation and igniting the imagination. Her background in education, multiple intelligences, diversity, and conflict resolution are infused into all performances, workshops, and residencies. Diane has earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Vassar College and a Master of Arts in Teaching Middle School English (Grades 5–9) from Simmons College.

Diane has appeared on National Public Radio and Washington Storytellers Theatre Speak Easy. She also works with various organizations committed to arts and education: Wolf Trap Institute for Early Learning, Imagination Stage, and Interact Story Theatre. http://www.dianemacklin.com

Jim Maxwell (Lenore Robinson Dance Stage)

Dr. Jim Maxwell teaches clogging, tap and Irish step. Jim has been teaching clogging; tap, jazz, and Irish step dancing in the Metropolitan area for several years. His teaching was the subject of a Washington Post article on October 12, 2000, and he has a clogging video that is sold nationally. He won first place for free-style clogging. Jim has completed four TV shows that are shown on "Our Place," a show for children. Jim is the director of the Patchwork dancers, and some will be joining him at the Festival. Patchwork starts with a base of traditional clogging dance routines, but the team shows considerable Irish influence in its style. Patchwork performed at so many retirement homes that they received an award for this service from the Fairfax Council for the Arts. http://home.earthlink.net/~jimmaxwell

MiraMarKlezmers (Jamboree Court)

The MiraMarKlezmers play joyous, heartfelt, authentic Klezmer music, tunes that were played for weddings and simchas in the old shtetls in Eastern Europe. Klezmer originates from the Jewish communities in Eastern Europe and has been influenced by Gypsy, Hungarian, Romanian, Russian, and Balkan folk music. This is why it is international in nature and you don’t need to be at a Bar Mitzvah to enjoy it.

The sound of the band is unique because of its uncommon instrumentation. It consists of Frank Sparber (Clarinet), Mira Yemini (Accordion), Larry Robinson (Banjo, Guitar, Mandolin), John Sausser (Tabla), Monty Montgomery (Tuba), Seymour Green (Trombone). The MiraMarKlezmers are professionals who have been playing with different local bands in the Washington/Baltimore area for many years. The band has been playing together for over 5 years. They are music-lovers who love to play for those who love to listen and enjoy.

The band has performed for the Rockville JCC, Israeli embassy, Kensington Coffee House, Smithsonian's Family Day, City of Rockville Family Arts Night Series, libraries, local festivals, private parties, Bar Mitzvahs and weddings. The band has recorded a demo CD, is participating in the recording for the "Hungry for Music” project, and is planning to cut a new CD soon. 081440@msn.com

Lisa Moscatiello & Dave Chappell (Grove Stage)

Billboard magazine has said that Lisa Moscatiello possesses a voice of "knee-buckling poignancy and believability," and Philadelphia DJ (WXPN) Gene Shay has called her "one of the best voices in the business." She has won more than 20 Washington Area Music Association awards, including Artist of the Year and Album of the Year for her CD, Second Avenue. She has been performing with Dave Chappell for nearly 10 years. Dave is one of the most sought-after electric guitarists in the region, known as much for his driving solos as for his taste and versatility. A multiple WAMMIE winner, he has performed with Jerry Lee Lewis, Sam Moore and Marvin Hamlisch and plays regularly with the Rhodes Tavern Troubadors and Billy Hancock. http://www.lisamoscatiello.comdiv>

Zoe Mulford (7th Heaven Stage)
Roots-based songwriter Zoe Mulford creates the sort of magic that silences noisy coffee-shops and gets churchgoers singing about underwear. Her new CD, Traveling Moon, is available at the House of Musical Traditions and through CDBaby.com.

Bill Mulroney (7th Heaven Stage)

Once and again singer-songwriter Bill Mulroney returned to the music scene in 2002 after a brief 22-year layoff. Bill and his Second Wind Band perform each Wednesday night from 8:30 to 12:00 at the new Austin Grill in Silver Spring, Maryland. The band performs acoustic sets of rock, pop, blues, country and folk music—many original songs and also many classic covers. Bill welcomes you to come out to the Austin Grill, located on Ellsworth Drive just off Georgia Avenue, one block south of the intersection of Georgia Avenue and Colesville Road. And check out his Web site, http://www.BillMulroney.com, to learn about the inspiration for his debut CD, Second Wind, and about the songs that have emerged from his "second wind."

Eva Murray (Lenore Robinson Dance Stage)

Traditional dance caller Eva Murray started calling in 1997 and now serves as the dance hostess at contra dances and community gatherings throughout the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area and beyond. She performs at venues small and large, from house parties to the Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park. Eva calls traditional American folk dances, accompanied by live music, for dancers young and young at heart, new and experienced alike. Her repertoire includes zesty contras, squares, circles, long-way sets, triplets and other traditional dances that fit the occasion. Eva's love for traditional dance is apparent in the enthusiasm she brings to the stage! mywebpages.comcast.net/contracaller

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Nana Malaya and the Nubian Theatre Company (World Stage)

The Nubian Theatre Company (Nana Malaya, Bara Morton and Eric Lewis) is an exciting and highly acclaimed professional music, dance and theatre ensemble. It specializes in the folklore of the African Diaspora—Africa, the Caribbean, and the Americas. This multitalented company uses dance, musical instruments, and drama to present a brilliant, energetic performance.

Nana Malaya is an internationally known choreographer and dancer, songstress, actress, storyteller, writer, poetess, musician, mother, minister and activist.

Chris Noyes (Abbott Stage)

Chris Noyes has been teaching and performing on the Eastern Shore of Maryland for the past 18 years. She is a veteran of the Baltimore/Washington Irish-music scene, and is one of the founding members of the original Chesapeake-flavored folk trio, Crab Alley. She has, in recent years, collaborated with Lisa Moscatiello and Grace Griffith, performing as GLC at the historic Avalon Theatre, the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, as well as most of the coffeehouses on the Eastern Shore, Annapolis and D.C. Chris also is a member of Jennifer Cutting's Ocean Orchestra. Chris's solo CD, Mirrorstones, was partially funded in 1994 with a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council; she received a Governor's Citation for excellence in folk music. An avid fan of obscure ballads, she enjoys finding treasures in folk compilations; she also writes her own songs. Chris teaches voice and guitar privately and also teaches music at Tilghman Elementary School on Tilghman Island. She received a Master of Science in Music Education, with a concentration in voice, from Towson University in 2003.

Lisa Null (Abbott Stage)

Lisa grew up in a musical family and began singing professionally in the 1970s. She's sung at coffeehouses, pubs, and festivals all over the U.S., Canada and Britain, appeared on "A Prairie Home Companion," and recorded two albums, primarily of ballads. A folklorist, writer, and voice teacher, she was a co-founder of Green Linnet records. enul@starpower.net

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Howard Parker (7th Heaven Stage)

Howard Parker and his Hot Take-Out Band serve up a spicy mixture of zydeco, folk, blues and politics to go! Singer/songwriter Howard Parker "reaches for the sky with musical optimism! His songs are a polished blending of American roots music and adult contemporary pop." Introspective songs about learning to embrace who you are, loving people's faults, living out your dreams and facing your paranoia. Funny songs about how to tell off yer boss and dogs that talk! Romantic songs about falling for the wrong person ... and meeting your forever love. Howard performs in a wide variety of venues from coffee houses, restaurants and parties to concert venues and bars. http://www.howardparker.com

Pam Parker with Steve Jones and Scott Giambusso (Abbott Stage)

Pam Parker, a soprano with the D.C. Labor Chorus, has released her first solo CD, Working Class. Pam is often heard on WPFW radio and on progressive radio around the United States. Her rendition of "Folsom Prison Blues" was included on the soundtrack of the independent film, "Tales of a Bugged-Out Black Chick." Pam also performs in area clubs, sponsors and performs concerts for many worthwhile causes, and often sings at peace and justice rallies here in her native D.C. http://www.pamparker.com

Steve Jones is the composer of the powerful labor jazz opera, Forgotten: The Murder at the Ford Rouge Plant. The musical was presented here in the D.C. area before its sold-out premiere in Detroit, and is scheduled to run in other cities. He is also a music professor at Columbia Union College here in Takoma Park. In addition, he sings bass with the D.C. Labor Chorus and is "front man" for the Steve Jones Trio, which plays in great jazz venues all over the D.C. metropolitan area.

Scott Giambusso is a 40-year veteran sideman, leader and producer on the Washington, D.C., music scene. Always in demand, this multi-instrumentalist and singer specializes in guitar, string bass, electric bass, tuba and percussion. His versatility has led to jobs with many diverse acts, from Jamie Abersold and Charlie Byrd to Chuck Berry and The Tokens. Mr. Giambusso is also a faculty member of the Montgomery College Rockville campus, where he teaches jazz bass studies.

Brooke Parkhurst (7th Heaven Stage)

WAMMIE-winning vocalist Brooke Parkhurst is accomplished singer, old-time banjo player and whistle/flute player. Her capacity to create melodic lines is the force behind the original arrangements of the new-wave Irish band Tinsmith. She has been performing and teaching old-time and Irish music since 1986, and was popular in the D.C. area in the '80s and early '90s in the Celtic/Appalachian duo Clishmaclaver. banjowitch@hotmail.com

Ann Porcella (Cash & Carter Tribute) (7th Heaven Stage)

Ann Porcella's musical taste gravitates toward the gospel music she learned at home from her preacher father and very large musical family. Her deep, powerhouse voice adapts well to many different traditional styles, though harmony singing is her first love. She has performed solo and with a variety of ensembles at folk venues around the country, including the Augusta concerts, Folk on Broadway, and the Blue Moon Cowgirls.

Ritchie Porter (Grassy Nook Stage)

Ritchie Porter has been performing, teaching, writing and directing in the Washington area for 20 years. He has taken his one-man shows to many schools, libraries and festivals both here and in New England, including summer tours of the libraries of Cape Cod. His work combines wordplay and a love of literature with an imaginative use of props and physical comedy. Current shows are "The Mystery of the Muffin Man," "Tales from the Magic Box," "Treasure Island" and "The Odyssey." In his spare time, he teaches drama at Saint Andrew's Episcopal School and shares his toys with his wife and two boys. Visit his Web site at http://www.ritchieporter.com.

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Siobhán Quinn and Michael Bowers (Grove Stage)

By the time Stevie Ray Vaughan pulled the 19-year-old Siobhán Quinn up on stage to dance with him on "Look at Little Sister," she was already a music veteran. She had sung traditional Irish, English and American folk, art songs and medieval madrigals in five languages, as well as rock & roll for years. Siobhán belts and soothes her way through explosive performances, combining a strong blend of contemporary and traditional folk and acoustic rhythm & blues. Her inaugural recording, Two Rivers, released in 1999 with Ben Murray, received rave reviews from fans and critics alike. The duo put out a second CD, The Grande Affair, last year. Michael Bowers' music has been referred to as "folk with an attitude" and "urban campfire music." His lyrics range from the heartfelt to humorous. http://www.siobhanquinn.com

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Rhythm Workers Union (Jamboree Court)

The Rhythm Workers Union, founded in the spring of 2001, is a non-hierarchal collective of activist musicians committed to living consciously and building a better world. They have supported more than 150 marches, rallies and benefit concerts for peace and social and environmental justice since their inception, along with providing community drum circles to enhance joy and connectedness. They meet weekly in Takoma Park, engage in consensus decision-making, and hold a new members' night on the second Tuesday of the month. Anyone who cares about issues of peace, justice and sustainability—and who is interested in using music as their activist tool—is invited to join. Get more details at http://www.rhythmworkersunion.org.

Rick & Audrey (Grassy Nook Stage)

With sweet harmonies and a distinctive blend of guitar and bouzouki, Rick and Audrey perform music for the whole family. Some of their favorite audiences average under the age of 10. At schools, libraries, farms, and festivals, Rick & Audrey specialize in instilling a sense of wonder and excitement for younger audiences. As a teacher of elementary music in D.C. schools, Audrey has collaborated with students to create songs and dances that inspire children to participate wholeheartedly. And with Rick's inner child very close to the surface, their performance is always engaging and inevitably educational. But don’t think it’s just the kids having fun. There have been frequent sightings of so-called “adults” dancing on tables, shouting out garden ingredients, and just plain singing along!
http://www.richarddahl.com

Ruthie & the Wranglers (Field Stage)

Ruthie & the Wranglers play rockin' American Roots music (also known as FUN!) and are based in the Washington, D.C., area. Known for their original upbeat songs like "(I'm Gonna Kill Myself) If It's the Last Thing I Do" and "I Wanna Be Your Auctioneer," their first two albums were among the Top 20 of the Americana Radio Charts. Their third release, Live at Chick Hall's Surf Club, also gained national critical acclaim. These musical night owls continue their clever songwriting skills, penned by Billboard magazine as "...nothing short of brilliant," as Ruthie and the Wranglers deliver their all-original album, Someday. http://www.ruthieandthewranglers.com

Bob Rychlik (World Stage)

Bob Rychlik got his first fujara as a gift from a friend in 1999 and has been playing it ever since. Besides performing and composing for the instrument, he also cooperates with Washington dance company City Dance and has performed on many stages from the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., to St. Petersburg, Russia.

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Sarenica (Lenore Robinson Dance Stage)

Sarenica [pronounced sha-REN-eet-sa] plays Serbian, Croatian, Macedonian, and Greek tamburica music from the South Slavic and Slavic-American traditions. Repertoire includes high-energy music for dancing, as well as for listening, from both town and village folk sources. Its members are Craig Packard, D prim and bugarija, vocals; Kelly Marshall, D prim; Larry Robinson, G brac; Tony Kambic, G brac; Val Radosevic, bugarija, and Tomy Armstrong, bass. Craig@cal.org

Scottish Hour (World Stage)

Join the members of Thistledown—Julie MacGorka, piano, Nora MacGarver, fiddle, and Richard MacSeidel, cello—as well as harpist Ellen MacJames and members of the MacWashington Scottish Country Dance Team as they lead you through the exciting and varied world of Scottish music and dance. You'll be dancing in your seat as they play and dance to traditional and contemporary jigs, reels, strathspeys and waltzes.

Shango Band (Field Stage)

The Shango Band is a D.C.-area reggae group that sings about real life and current world issues with a likeable mix of smooth, lovers-edged tunes and harder, more "true" roots tunes. With all-encompassing sound, strong instrumentation and quality songwriting, the Shango Band has been performing since the late 1980s and won the award for Best Reggae Band in the 2001 D.C. Annual Reggae Music Awards. The band's bass-player, singer, songwriter and producer, Erald (Englishman) Briscoe, spent a number of years in England as a youth. He has performed with many reggae bands there and around the U.S. for about 30 years. Englishman received WAMMIE awards in 1989 for Best Male Vocalist, in 1990 for Best Instrumentalist, three in 1991 and two more in 1992. He has been a Master Artist in the D.C. Folks Arts Program for the Commission on the Arts and Humanities. Other members of the Shango Band also have performed with reggae bands throughout Europe and the U.S. They include Eric (Spidukie) McDermott (drummer/singer/songwriter) and Jackson (Professor) Briscoe (keyboards), a graduate of Howard University and MIT, where he studied mathnmatics and classical music. The Shango Band performs at many university night clubs and international events in Europe and the U.S. Their live performance keeps the audience feeling upbeat, irie and positive! Englishman and the Shango Band recorded their latest CD, Got to Know Your Purpose, in Iceland, while completing their European tour. http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/shango1

Ship's Company Chanteymen (Abbott Stage)

Ship's Company Chanteymen are dedicated to preserving and performing maritime music and other forms of traditional entertainment. The Chanteymen perform professionally in addition to donating time and energy in support of Ship's Company living-history initiatives. This jolly band of merrymakers has been seen and heard all up and down the East Coast of the United States performing at living-history events, music festivals, private parties and other settings. Their full-length recording, Donkey Riding, features hearty work songs, soulful ballads and lively instrumentals. http://www.shipscompany.org/chanteysingers.htm

David Shneyer (Jamboree Court)

David Shneyer returns to lead this popular workshop in blowing the ram's horn (shofar). A folksinger, storyteller and rabbi, David will teach the various sounds associated with this most ancient musical instrument. Everyone will get a chance, too! He will also share stories from the Middle East and Eastern Europe about its meaning and use throughout the ages in legend and in practice. David is the director of the Am Kolel Judaic Resource and Renewal Center, based in Rockville, Maryland. He also plays with the Fabrangen Fiddlers folk band. http://www.am-kolel.org

Verlette Simon (7th Heaven Stage)

Take a little bit of Gladys Knight, add a drop of Mavis Staples, throw in some James Taylor, a little Emily Saliers and a pinch of Jackson Brown, and you'll come out with the acoustic soul fusion of Verlette Simon. Verlette has worked in both the A&R and Promotion departments of Atlantic Records. She has shared the stage with Castleberry Dupre, Milo Z, Rachel Cross, Patty Labelle, Salt 'N Pepper, and Toshi Regan, just to name a few. In 1999 Verlette moved from New York to Maryland, and has managed to build an impressive following in a short time. Her performances are full of inspirational anecdotes, introspective moments and an outpouring of soulful energy. She has performed at such venues such, the Kennedy Center, the Washington Club, Kensington Coffee House, Metro Café, Jammin' Java, Berwyn Café, Woodystock at Chief Ike's Mambo Room, Madam's Organ, and a variety of house concerts and folk festivals. http://www.verlettes.com

Slaveya (World Stage)

Slaveya sings folk music from Eastern Europe and neighboring regions. Slaveya's repertoire is drawn from the primarily Slavic vocal heritage of Bulgaria, Macedonia, Bosnia, Croatia, Serbia and Russia. Traditionally sung by women, the lyrics reflect the constants of village life: the harvest, war and its heroes (folk and real), matchmaking, flirtation, loves lost and found, birth and death. These songs are sung while women work sowing and harvesting in the fields, at "working bees" in the home, and while participating in community life at village dances, weddings and religious and seasonal celebrations.

Slaveya, founded in 1984, takes its name from the Bulgarian word for nightingale. The members of Slaveya are American women who are united in their love of this beautiful music. Tatiana Sarbinska, an internationally recognized performer and teacher in Bulgaria and the United States, joined Slaveya as artistic director in 2003.

Jen & Scott Smith of Naked Blue (Grove Stage)

Borrowing from the Americana tradition but firmly grounded with a pleasing pop sensibility, the husband/wife performing songwriter team of Jen & Scott Smith enjoy the freedom to make a living writing, recording and performing their music. Without the support of a record deal since 1997, they have been supported by a loyal and enthusiastic group of fans across the U.S. that continues to grow. In May 2003 they celebrated their fifth CD release, Five by Five, which has sold thousands of copies. Jen and Scott, along with their band, Naked Blue, have toured the U.S., U.K. and Germany. Jen Smith is a three-time recipient of the Washington Area Music Association Best Female Vocalist in the Rock/Pop, Roots Rock and Contemporary Folk categories. Jen & Scott's songwriting credits include cuts on film and television spots, including "Brooklyn South," "Second to Die," "The Girl Next Door," "About Sarah," "The Smokers," "That's Life," "Jack & Jill," and "The Young & the Restless." http://www.nakedblue.com

Squeeze bayou Squeeze Bayou (Lenore Robinson Dance Stage)

Squeeze Bayou plays exciting Cajun dance music from Southwestern Louisiana with a dash of Zydeco thrown in. The band plays lively two-steps and soulful waltzes, as well as music that blends many styles, including country music, blues and Creole. Their material comes from traditional sources and the vocals are sung in Cajun French. The band includes Karen Collins (fiddle and vocals), Matt Levine (lap steel guitar), Fred Feinstein (guitar), Kevin Enoch (bass), David Lopez (drums), and Brian Simms (piano accordion). The musicians in Squeeze Bayou have been performing traditional music at dances, festivals, wedding receptions, parties and other events in the Washington, D.C., area for over 20 years. In 1998, the band received the "Prix Dehors de Nous," known as the "Cajun Grammy" for best recording of a Cajun band outside of Louisiana for their CD Steppin' Fast. http://squeezebayou.com

Mark Sylvester (7th Heaven Stage)

Drawing on his folk, jazz and classical backgrounds, Mark composes music that often crosses genres, creating a full and exciting sound from just one acoustic guitar. Mark regularly appears in and around Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Maryland, highlighting music from American Gypsy, his CD of original acoustic-guitar instrumentals. In addition to his solo shows, Mark performs as a member of several groups, including the "forest rock" group Tree Surgeons. A multi-instrumentalist, Mark can be heard accompanying several area singer-songwriters on acoustic guitar and upright bass. http://www.marksylvester.com

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Franklin Taggart (Cash & Carter Tribute) (7th Heaven Stage)

Franklin Taggart is a well-known performer and songwriter in the D.C. metro area. His debut CD, Falling All the Way, was nominated for five WAMMIE awards in 2001. Franklin was awarded the Traditional Folk Instrumentalist WAMMIE that same year. He has begun working on a second CD. http://www.franklintaggart.com

Tinsmith (Grove Stage)

Tinsmith is a high-energy folk band playing traditional Celtic music in a new way. Citing influences from blues to bluegrass, from funk to jazz to mountain music, the group brings traditional songs and tunes into the new century. Known for their fun and energetic performances and for the taste and delicacy of the arrangements, Tinsmith as been making audiences dance since 1997. Led by core members Rowan Corbett (guitar, bouzouki, bones, djembe) and WAMMIE-winning vocalist Brooke Parkhurst (banjo, Irish flute, tin whistles), the group also includes superb bassist Henry Cross and their newest member, guitar and mandolin virtuoso Avril Smith. http://www.tinsmith.net

Mary Sue Twohy (Grove Stage & 7th Heaven Stage)

Smooth vocals dancing above subtle, expressive guitar garnered Mary Sue the 1999 Best New Artist award from the Washington Area Music Association, and nominations for Best Contemporary Female Folk Artist, Contemporary Folk Recording and Song of the Year. Says Dave Richards of the Morning News, "As far as the Goose-Bump meter goes, Mary Sue Twohy is up there with Nanci Griffith, Sarah McLachlan, Iris Dement." She has recorded two CDs: Training Butterflies, produced by Pete Kennedy, and The Risk Involved, produced by Pete and Maura Kennedy. http://www.marysuetwohy.com

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The Unusual Suspects (World Stage)

The Unusual Suspects take a blend of folk and country music, and add a hint of jazz and blues and lots of character to create a unique sound. Their passion for music comes across whether they are playing a classic country tune, a jazz standard, a 1950s pop tune, or one of their moving originals. Utilizing creative arrangements and sweet harmonies, they'll please your mind, your ear, and your heart.

Kim Capps (vocalist, guitar) writes much of the music performed by the Unusual Suspects. Her vocal training includes classical, jazz and rock. Kim finds inspiration in the black gospel and blues she heard growing up in the Southeast.

Richard Seidel (bass, harmony, guitar, keyboard) also plays bass in other D.C.-area bands including Klezcentricity and the Potomac Jazz Trio. He has performed at the Washington Folk Festival, Takoma Park Folk Festival and the Kennedy Center, and often performs for contra dances at Glen Echo.

T.J. O'Malley (guitar, vocals) In addition to playing rhythm and lead guitar for the Unusual Suspects, T.J. is an accomplished country-ragtime fingerpicking guitarist and has performed at the Washington Folk Festival, and with popular local bands Silver Creek and Honey Run.

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Andy Wallace (Abbott Stage)

Andy Wallace has been involved with traditional music and culture for the past 40 years. He spent 15 years directing the National Folk Festival, 5 years with the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, and has organized numerous other festivals and tours. Andy was a founding member of the Folklore Society of Greater Washington. An active performer on the folk-music scene during the 1960s and '70s, Andy worked with Jonathan Eberhart and Mike Rivers in the Ringshouters, with Pete Seeger as a member of the original crew of the Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, and as a solo artist. He has recorded with Jonathan Eberhart, Helen Schneyer, Louis Killen and Pete Seeger, among others, and has appeared on NPR and public television. Andy's repertoire reflects his broad musical tastes and includes ballads, sea chanties, Southern and New England dance tunes, cowboy songs, and Cajun and Quebecois songs and tunes, with some Gilbert and Sullivan thrown in for good measure. His "day job" is Public Events Coordinator at the American Folklife Center, of the Library of Congress. awallace@loc.gov

Ron Warren (World Stage)

Ron Warren's music often reflects his sensitivity to the sounds and energies of the natural world. In addition to the "pensively evocative" music of the Native American flutes you will hear at the Festival, Ron has a busy career as a composer and arranger. ronwarren.net

Wayfarers (Field Stage)

The Baltimore-based group, consisting of Brad Dunnells, Jason Tinney and Laura Cosner, spans the broad range of country, folk and blues. The trio was formed in 2000 as an offshoot of the Irish American group Donegal X-Press and produced a self-titled album in 2001.

Larry Weiner (Lenore Robinson Dance Stage)

Larry Weiner has been involved with Balkan traditional music and dance since the early 1960s. Principally a dance researcher, he has made numerous trips to Yugoslavia, Bulgaria, Greece, Italy and Hungary to study traditional dance in its native setting. Larry has taught Balkan-dance workshops throughout North America and has directed various Balkan music and dance camps for over 30 years. In addition to his strong background in traditional dance, Larry plays tupan (big drum) and tarabuka (small hand drum) and currently serves as Lyuti Chushki’s manager. weiner.larry@comcast.net

Doug Alan Wilcox (7th Heaven Stage)

A somewhat unassuming guy walks on stage and begins to play. When the tune is through, he relates a quick, humorous story before beginning again. By now you're hooked with his easy persona and casual command of the stage and find yourself along for the ride ... Doug Alan Wilcox creates mini-movies—glimpses of life with all its various shadings—in words and music, in a style perhaps best described as "Americana-meets-pop" or "modern rustic"—a happy collision of rootsy genres. Frequently employing non-standard guitar tunings and alternate chord voicings, he manages to present songs that are complex but immediately listenable. Doug's strong belief in a grass-roots approach to performing finds him reaching his listeners one by one, just as easily plying his trade at the corner coffeeshop as the regional concert venue. Based not far outside the D.C. Capital Beltway, Doug Alan Wilcox brings his smart folk/pop with a twang to fans up and down the East Coast and beyond. http://www.dougalanwilcox.com

Winds of the World (World Stage)

Native American flutes and the rare fujara from Slovakia, played by Ron Warren and Bob Rychlik. Look for their individual bios.

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