The University of Chicago Folklore Society
1212 E. 59th St.
Chicago, IL 60637

Lor’s Folk & Country Notes

Partially updated 10/14/11. This is always a work in progress, since I can never keep up with it all. Typos and poor html coding are mine and should not be blamed on the main website designer. The list starts with several ongoing events (such as exhibits that have already started) arranged chronologically by ending date, followed by a chronological list of shorter events (such as concerts) plus longer events that haven’t started yet. I mostly list events centered around Chicago and the surrounding states, so check the band websites if you want to know about their appearances in other areas. Also, if an “expired” event looked interesting, check their website to see what they are currently doing.

Although I try to include a wide range of what might be considered "folk," the list tends to reflect my own favorite old-time stuff, and is not only music, but also includes such topics as horses, early technology (from flint knapping to steam locomotives), farming, folk arts and crafts. I add updates when I have time, so of course it’s never complete. Most stuff is copied shamelessly from the events’ or artists’ own sites, so any commentary is mostly theirs. My comments are in brackets and say "Lor says" or something like that. Because I get some of this info months in advance of the event and it can change, I recommend you look on the internet, e-mail, or call to confirm details. You can send me info on your concert or event at laura.gloger@yahoo.com if you want it posted here. Also e-mail me if you want your event entry changed or deleted.

Please note that I haven’t been to most of these events and places myself, so I can’t give you any first-hand info about quality, value, safety, etc. This list is just meant to provide leads on potentially interesting things to do.

Did You Know They're Native? New Exhibit

. Come see the Mitchell's newest exhibit and find out how many famous Americans you never knew were Native American.  Twenty-four noteworthy people of Native American descent are spotlighted through photos and biographical information.

Exhibit: "Cahokia: Rediscovering Archaeology”

An American Indian metropolis settled between 600 and 1300 CE, Cahokia offers an incredible glimpse into Mississippian culture.  Characterized by agricultural economies, mound architecture, technological innovation, and artistry, Cahokia’s population of 40,000 in 1250 made the city larger than London at that time. Cahokians built one hundred twenty mounds, created a complex social and belief system, and had specialized professions.  However, for reasons still unknown, this thriving city was abandoned in 1300 with no traces of its inhabitants remaining.  Located eight miles east of present day St. Louis, eighty of Cahokia’s mounds remain.  But with only one percent of Cahokia excavated by archaeologists, there is still much to learn about this vanished society.  As recently as 2010, a large copper workshop was discovered and changed what we know about tools at Cahokia.  Archaeologists, people who excavate sites and analyze artifacts they collect, discover more about Cahokian society with each dig.

exhibit - Deconstructing Stereotypes: Top Ten Truths

Many of us face stereotypes and misconceptions about our heritage and culture. What stereotypes impact the lives of Native peoples the most? Learn the real story about the top ten misconceptions and stereotypes from a Native perspective. What do you know about Native American mascots, gaming, reservations, or tribal sovereignty? Visit the Mitchell Museum's newest exhibit to unlearn stereotypes and gain a deeper understanding of historic and contemporary American Indian issues.

exhibit - Carving Traditions: Modern Inuit Carvings

Carving is an Inuit art form that dates back approximately 2,500 years.  Created initially as a decorative art, Inuit carvings have evolved over the centuries, becoming a way to remember and honor past nomadic lifeways and to pass down traditions. Come see over 50 Inuit carvings from the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian's collection and from private collectors.

* October 2011 *

Storytelling with Sue Black - Dragons, Goblins and Pierogies -- Oh My!

When: Sat. October 15, 2011, 2pm
Where: Dunning Library, 7455 W. Cornelia Avenue, Chicago, IL 60634
Price: ??
Contact: Phone: 312-743-0480
http://www.chipublib.org/branch/details/library/dunning/

Program: Polish American Heritage Month. About this event: An old woman with a pierogi hanging from her nose? A dragon beneath the castle in Krakow? You never know what will happen next when storyteller, Sue Black, gets her audience involved in the action. Get ready for some fun! For kids and their families, grades K-5. 

Julia Sweeney

  Workshops &  stories, written, improvised, or riffed; 8 Saturdays - BEGINS OCT. 15, 2011. All profits donated to : The Cara Program. Julia is working on a book of stories about parents and parenting currently entitled: If It’s Not One Thing, It’s Your Mother.  She’ll read new chapters, work on ideas, and probably do some venting.   She also develops stories for her stage show with Jill Sobule, (see Jill & Julia at Space on Dec. 31st at 6:pm.)  She’ll be working on material for that show as well. The Cara Program is a cool charity that gets 5 stars on Charity Navigator.  The mission is to help homeless people and chronically poor people in Chicago get and maintain jobs.  They have a great rate of success.  Check out their website at www.thecaraprogram.com

Film: Meek’s Cutoff

Kelly Reichardt, 2010. • The year is 1845 and Stephen Meek (Bruce Greenwood) may well have gotten himself lost, along with the group of pioneers he promised he would guide to the coast of Oregon. If he actually doesn’t know where he’s going, he sure as hell isn’t going to admit it. An artfully shot film, Meek’s Cutoff uses incredible panoramic vistas as more than aesthetic content—they stage the film’s ample symbolism, but also work to deepen the mystery. Women in the movie are strong, central, and fiercely intelligent, which is only one of the many of the stereotypes of the Western genre that Reichardt subverts. 35mm

Sam Bush, with special guest Redwood Landing

Amazingrace Coffeehouse 40th Anniversary Celebration. Grammy winning mandolin master Sam Bush is known as the King of Newgrass who expanded the horizons of bluegrass music, fusing it with jazz, rock, blues, funk and other styles. He's the co-founder of the genre-bending New Grass Revival and an in-demand musician who has played with everyone from Emmylou Harris to Bela Fleck to Charlie Haden. http://www.sambush.com/ Chicago folk stalwarts Redwood Landing, now in their 4th decade, reconvene to start off the evening. "Redwood Landing presents a challenge to anyone trying to label a band. Is it a folk group with congas, a jazz group with harmonicas and maracas, or a blues band with a flute? There's simply no confining them." - The Chicago Daily News, Sept. 1974.

Pieta Brown CD Release Show, with Nora O'Connor

Pieta Brown is an enigma. She’s a free-spirited beauty and enchantingly preoccupied, often slightly disheveled with an intense yet understated allure, both self-possessed and disarmingly unaffected. A Midwesterner with left-over-from-childhood Southern charm, she’s stationed off the beaten path, like many of her musical heroes, with integrity and vision intact. Distinguishing herself from the crowd of singer/songwriters Pieta is being called "one of the best modern songwriters” (Sonic Boomers) and “a genuine talent” (iTunes). Or, as one of Pieta’s own songwriting heroes, Iris Dement, put it, “one of the best poets I’ve heard in a long damn time.” Even her own father, beloved folk icon, Greg Brown, has just recorded one of her songs, to be included on his upcoming album to be released in the Spring of 2011. Genre: Singer Songwriter. Nora O'Connor was born and raised as a first-generation Irish-American on the scrappy south side of Chicago. Mugs down "dere" tend to shoot first, ask questions later -- and always get the mother effing job DONE. The doe-eyed Miss Nora is no exception. In addition to being the most versatile and sought-after singer in town -- she is also a legendary bartender, a midwife's assistant (doula) and an ordained reverend. Whether you need to be serenaded, soused, birthed, or hitched -- O'Connor has the goods, and how. Nora has recorded and toured with a bazillion famous music people. She's sung and played guitar as a member of Andrew Bird's Bowl of Fire for five years and counting, was a doe-eyed Rose Red to Gina Black's Snow White with Bloodshot Records' glam-country outfit The Blacks, and has recorded and performed with just about everybody else -- including The New Pornographers, Archer Prewitt, Neko Case, Jon Wesley Harding, The Aluminum Group, Otis Clay, Chris Mills, Janet Bean, Frisbee, Justin Roberts and (in her favorite musical moment shared with Kelly Hogan) sang with Mavis Staples at the 2003 "Waltz" benefit at The Metro in Chicago.  O'Connor has also contributed tracks to Bloodshot Records' fifth anniversary release "Down to the Promised Land," their Knitters tribute "Poor Little Knitter on the Road," the new Wanda Jackson tribute "Hard Headed Woman" and their acclaimed kids CD "The Bottle Let Me Down."

The Siegel-Schwall Band with Lil Ed and the Blues Imperials

40th Anniversary Alligator Records Gala Event. Along with the first-wave British Invasion bands like The Rolling Stones, John Mayall's Bluesbreakers, and stateside groups like The Paul Butterfield Blues Band, The Siegel-Schwall Band were instrumental in The Great Blues Revival of the 1960's. Like Paul Butterfield, Siegel-Schwall were Chicago-based, serving as the house band at the famed Pepper's Lounge. They earned their spurs backing greats like Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Little Walter and Willie Dixon. From 1966 until they disbanded in 1974, they ranked among the most important forces in reaching the baby boomer audience that sustains the blues to this day. The Siegel-Schwall Band also pioneered the cross-fertilization of the blues with other forms, performing Bill Russo's "Three Pieces For Blues Band and Symphony Orchestra" in 1968 with the San Francisco Symphony and The Boston Pops. Corky Siegel has continued this expansion of the blues with his project, Chamber Blues. The current band includes two other genuine notables, bassist Rollo Radford and drummer Sam Lay. Radford's resume stretches from Martha & The Vandellas to Sun Ra, giving him the artistic range to follow wherever Siegel and Schwall want to take the blues. Lay's credentials are awesome. His stellar work with Muddy Waters, Little Walter and The Paul Butterfield earned him entry in both The Blues and The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame!

Artworks Chicago & What the Traveler Saw present The International Art Market

Featuring a treasure of Arts, Crafts & Music. Music shows start 1pm-5pm. 10/15 Ray Silkman; 10/16 Koku Gonza.

Students for Creative Anachronism

When: We have reserved the following In Fall: Fighter practice is on Sundays from 2pm-6pm in the Cloister Club.  The fighter practice rooms have not been confirmed for the following dates: October 16, October 23.  
Where: Ida Noyes Hall, University of Chicago, 1212 E. 59th St., Chicago, IL
Price: ??
Contact: If you would like to become a part of our group or find out more about us, contact our Chatelaine, Sarafina Sinclair (Harlie Des Roches), at sarafinaDOTsinclairATgmailDOTcom, or 312-493-2255
http://www.midrealm.org/greygargoyles/
http://www.sca.org/

Want to “get Medieval?” If so, then join us. Activities: Armored combat, rapier combat, dance, music, archery, calligraphy, costuming, heraldry, cooking, and many more. Beginning  Sunday, 9.January.2011, at the Grey Gargoyles/ Ayreton Fighter practice, the Grey Gargoyles' Knight's Marshal, Wolfram von Waldersbach, will continue teaching beginner fighting classes for our new members and for anyone who wishes to learn the basics of armored combat.  The classes will be going over the basics of the "Bellatrix" and "A-Frame" styles. The classes will cover stance, footwork, offense and defense while using weapon and shield.  Classes will start at 2pm and will last for about an hour, but could go longer. There will also be time for extra one-on-one instruction afterward.  Separate armoring and weapon-crafting classes may also be provided as needed. For more information, contact Forester Wolfram von Waldersbach at wolfram_von_waldersbach@hotmail.com.  

Tales from the Sahel: An Evening with Baaba Maal

One of the true stars to rise from the African continent, Senegalese master musician Baaba Maal has been making music for the world to enjoy for two decades. With releases ranging from contemporary Afropop to expressions of time-honored African music, his projects have received resounding critical acclaim worldwide, and he is dynamic live performer. http://www.baabamaal.tv/

Redwood Landing, with Claudia Schmidt

 It all began a long time ago on an autumn day at a small college on the Lake about thirty miles north of Chicago. The year was 1969 and a lot of things were changing everywhere. There was a huge peace sign hanging on the outside wall of Blackstone dormitory at Lake Forest College and most every student was wearing overalls, hair down to their waists and a stoned look in their eyes. Remember? It was inside this dorm that Mitch Meyerson was playing his guitar. On that day he first heard Neal Howe singing some blues down the hall. Ready to start a band as he did in high school, Mitch asked Neal if he wanted to play a few tunes. This was the beginning... In conjunction with the Amazingrace Anniversary Celebration, Redwood Landing will perform their final show this fall at SPACE Almost four decades as a touring professional have found Michigan native Claudia Schmidt traversing North America as well as Europe in venues ranging from intimate clubs to 4,000 seat theatres, and festival stages in front of 25,000 rapt listeners. She has recorded fourteen albums of mostly original songs, exploring folk, blues, and jazz idioms featuring her acclaimed 12-string guitar and mountain dulcimer playing.

Robbie Fulks, with master banjoist Greg Cahill.

When: Monday Oct 17, 2011, 7pm
Where: Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., Chicago, IL 60622
Price: $10 suggested donation. Age 21+.
Contact: Hideout, (773) 227-4433
http://www.hideoutchicago.com/index.html
http://www.robbiefulks.com/

"Mr. Fulks is more than a songwriter. He's a gifted guitarist who has taught for years at the Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago, he's a soulful singer with an expressive honky-tonk tenor, and he's a natural performer. It rings true when he says he's only truly comfortable when he's onstage or when he's totally alone. But what really sets him apart is his songwriting, which is one part artful country, one part artful sendup of country and one part a little of everything else." -- New York Times.

Mon 12/05/11, 7:pm Robbie Fulks duo with Nora O'Connor

The Special Consensus

Details: Greg will be the "special" guest of former Special C guitarist and renowned      songwriter/performer Robbie Fulks in a rare duet performance. Big fun!       www.hideoutchicago.com  
"The Special Consensus is a superb bluegrass outfit in the classic vein. The vocals are spotless, the playing as shiny as a newly minted penny, and music like this is the reason people come to love bluegrass. Special Consensus approaches this hallowed American musical form with boundless energy and an aesthetic reverence that tickles the ribs, tugs at the heart, and puts a restless two-step in boots and bare feet." --Mark S. Tucker, Folk & Acoustic Music Exchange. "Special Consensus may be Chicago's very own veteran bluegrass band, but talent like this is the property of the world." --David Royko; Chicago Tribune. "If you've liked what Special Consensus has been doing since 1975, you'll like what they're doing in 2009." -- Neal Loevinger, Hudson Valley Bluegrass Association. Entering their 35th year, The Special Consensus continues its quest to turn listeners into true bluegrass lovers. This great band has been the breeding ground for some of the best young stars in bluegrass today and has always been able to reach an eclectic group of people by extensive touring, teaching bluegrass in the schools, appearing on television and radio programs, and playing with symphony orchestras. Bandleader, Greg Cahill is one of the busiest men in music today. Besides heading up a band that tours more than most, he is the President and Chairman of the Board of the International Bluegrass Music Association. Future Special Consensus gigs:
 Friday April 13, 2012; 8pm, Acorn Theater, 107 Generations Drive (behind the post office), Three Oaks, Michigan 49128. Details: We are really looking forward to returning to this fine venue - we always enjoy our shows here and can't think of a better place to spend "Friday the 13th"!                                 www.acorntheater.com  269-756-3879
•:Saturday April 28, 2012  7:30pm, Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL Details: An album release concert to celebrate the release of our second Compass       Records recording. Hope to see all of our many Chicago area friends!           773/728-6000. www.oldtownschool.org   
Saturday June 2, 2012  Afternoon & evening sets, Where: Bluegrass by the Lake festival in the Park by the Lake - Greenfield, IL 62044, Details: Our return to this fine festival hosted by our friends the River Ramblers
Sunday June 3, 2012, Niles Bluegrass Festival, Riverfront Amphitheatre, Main & Front Streets- Niles, MI 49210. Details: Our annual appearance at this fun family festival - we're proud to be part of this     great festival every year. Always great bands on all three days of the fest.
Thursday-Sunday, June 7-10, 2012, Midwest Banjo Camp at Olivet College, 320 S. Main St., Olivet, MI 49076. Details: Greg is once again teaching banjo at this fantastic camp for players at every level;       the faculty is superb, making for a truly enjoyable and informative venture.      www.midwestbanjocamp.com 
Wednesday-Thursday June 13-14, 2012; Two shows daily + workshops.: Bean Blossom Bluegrass Festival, Bill Monroe Music Park, - Bean Blossom, IN 46140. Details: Our annual appearance at the original Bill Monroe bluegrass festival!
Sunday June 17, 2012, 6pm, at Niles Riverfront Amphitheatre, Main & Front Streets. Details: Our annual concert series appearance at this ideal outdoor performance       setting - always great to see and visit with so many of our friends here.
Saturday & Sunday, July 14-15, 2012, outdoors on Breidert Green, White St. & Kansas St., downtown Frankfort, IL 60423, Details: We are very pleased to be part of the second annual Bluegrass on the      Green festival, once again sponsored by our good friends at Down Home Guitars.     The first annual was a huge success and we look forward to another fantastic event.
Friday-/Saturday August 31-September 1, 2012, at: Barnes Family Bluegrass Music Festival, Mercer County Fairgrounds, on Southwest           12th Ave., Aledo, IL. Details: We are very proud to be included on the talent roster in this milestone year for this    festival - the 40th annual! A huge congrats and sincere thanks to our good friends      the Barnes Family - the Bluegrass Redheads!
Sunday September 2, 2012,  one mid-afternoon set and one early evening set: Town Park in Earl Park, IN (off US 41/US 52 5 mi S of Kentland/US 24). Details: We had a great time at this fest this year (2011) are are very happy to be        returning to the Earl Park Fall Festival for this milestone 40th annual event.

TV show: Tracks Ahead

When: Mondays, 10/17/11, 10/24/11, 10/31/11; 7:30pm-8pm
Where: WYCC, TV channel 20.1 & 20.2
Price: free on broadcast TV
Contact:
http://wycctv20.wordpress.com/program-schedule/

Tracks Ahead is a television series about railroading, produced by Milwaukee Public Television for PBS starting in 1990. The hit PBS series Tracks Ahead has a unique appeal for train lovers of all ages. Now broadcast on more than 200 PBS stations across America, Japan, ...

The Chicago Barn Dance Company Monday night dance

Band: The Cosmic Otters, with Jonathan Whitall on fiddle and Meg Dedolph on guitar, play an assortment of dance tunes from the British Isles for an eclectic night of music.  Special guest Katie Zukoff from Bloomington, Indiana calls.

Renaissance Dance Practice

When: Dance practice is on Tuesdays from 6pm-8pm in the 3rd floor Theater.  
Where: Ida Noyes Hall, ,1212 E.59th St, Chicago, IL
Price: Free- Open to the public
Contact: Email Rebecca Friedman, for more: rebeccaanne@uchicago.edu
LINKTEXT

Presented by the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA). Dance in the styles of the English, French, and Italian Renaissance. Authentic 15th and 16th century dances taught with recorded or live, authentic music by members of the SCA. Teaching for beginners. No partner or commitment required. All are welcome!

Concert - Eddie Korosa and the Boys from Illinois

Program: Polish American Heritage Month. About this event: Join us for a wonderful evening of Polka music along with your favorite standards, from big band waltzes and swing to rock and roll and country. Enjoy the acclaimed Eddie Korosa and the Boys from Illinois as they continue the tradition of musical entertainment for Polka fans of all ages.

TV show: Burt Wolf: Travels & Traditions

When: Wednesday, 10/19/11, 10/26/11; 2:30pm-3pm
Where: WYCC, TV channel 20.1 & 20.2
Price: free on broadcast TV
Contact:

Storytelling with Lynne Clayton - Princes, Peddlers & Peasants: Stories of Poland and Its People

When: Wed. October 19, 2011, 3:30pm
Where: Beverly Library, 1962 W. 95th Street, Chicago, IL 60643
Price: ??
Contact: For more information, come in or call the library at 312-747-9673.
http://www.chipublib.org/branch/details/library/beverly/

Program: Polish American Heritage Month. About this event: A professional actress for over 20 years, Lynne brings a freshness and vitality to her tales of wonder, fantasy and the spiritual journey. Her stories and songs are for children and adults of all ages. Her tales celebrate the human condition in all its many colors.

TV show: Out of Ireland

When: Wednesday, 10/19/11, 10/26/11; 5pm-5:30pm
Where: WYCC, TV channel 20.1 & 20.2
Price: free on broadcast TV
Contact:

Fox Valley Folklore Society Singarounds

A weekly acoustic jam that has run every Wednesday night in the "Fox Valley" (in West suburban Chicago) since January of 1975. Not an "Open Mike" but an informal "Sing," we welcome acoustic musicians playing & sharing the music they love (all levels invited). We encourage traditional Folk / Blues / ethnic music, but welcome all, especially Roots related contemporary songwriters & instrumentalists. Listeners are also welcome. http://www.fvfs.org

Jim Post, with Michael Smith

Post performed and recorded in the 1960s as the duet Friend and Lover with his wife at that time, Cathy Conn Post. He worked as a solo singer-songwriter in Chicago and throughout the Midwest in the 1970s and 1980s. Post was a regular performer at the Earl of Old Town and other Chicago folk music bars, and was a contemporary of notable singer-songwriters Steve Goodman, John Prine, Fred Holstein and Bonnie Koloc. In 1971, he produced and played on an album of Chicago folk musicians, Gathering at the Earl of Old Town, that included the first recording of Goodman's City of New Orleans. During the 1990s and 2000s, he focused on performing in the character of Mark Twain in one-man shows. Post has also recorded an album of children's songs. He lives in Galena, Illinois with his wife Janet. Genre: Folk.  Michael Peter Smith was born in South Orange, New Jersey in September of 1941 and raised in the area, attending Catholic schools later referenced in a few of his songs. He bought his first guitar at age fifteen (for $5) and was soon playing in a group called The Kalypso Kids, whose first and only recording is lost in antiquity. College in Florida brought a quartet dubbed the Wanderers, with gigs on the beach and at local coffeehouses, then touring in The Talismen, a duet. It was Folk Music, and Folk Music was happening.

Henhouse Prowlers

Trad bluegrass. Five musicians, two who hail from Illinois and the others from as far and near as North Carolina, upstate New York and Missouri. With a PBS series soundtrack already to its credit and a sophomore recording in the works, The Henhouse Prowlers have been barnstorming on the red hot bluegrass scene since 2004. A couple of personnel shifts later, in 2007 the roughly thirty-something quintet made the commitment to go the distance, to be a full-time touring bluegrass band. But not just another bluegrass band. The Henhouse Prowlers are adeptly positioning themselves for nothing less than success. Each member does double duty within the group, holding a business as well as musical post, making it a total collaborative effort. Dedicated equally to tradition and innovation, The Henhouse Prowlers center their sound on that of the early, formative years of bluegrass, while they keep their pulse on today by covering contemporary topics in a largely original repertoire. henhouseprowlers.com
The Henhouse Prowlers strive to play bluegrass the way it was meant to be played. A five piece band (guitar, banjo, fiddle, Dobro and upright bass) with a focus on traditional vocal harmonies, hard driving instrumentals and sincere lyrics. In keeping with the standards set 50+ years ago, the Prowlers perform around a single microphone and wear neatly ironed suits to accompany their cracking smiles.
Future Henhouse Prowlers gigs:
11/25/11, 7:30pm, Mayne Stage, 1328 W. Morse Avenue, Chicago, IL 60626. $12 Adv. / $18 D.O.S.


Wed. Dec 14, 2011, 8pm, at Bluegrass Night At The Circus, 210 S 1st St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48103, US

Storytelling with Megan Wells - Mice Weddings and Other Polish Adventures

Program: Polish American Heritage Month. About this event: An award winning performing artist, Megan Wells combines the worlds of theater, communication and storytelling. A writer and actress, Megan entertains and inspires with her stories about Polish folk tales.

SO FINE: An Amazingrace Celebration of The Music of Steve Goodman and John Prine

featuring Johnny Burns, Ed Holstein, Sons of the Never Wrong, Steve Dawson, Megon McDonough, Al Day, / Ingrid Graudins, Liam Davis, Anne Heaton, Jim Craig, and Bubbly Creek. Amazingrace, the student-run collective that shined liked the sun for a short while in the '70's, brought Evanston the brightest of stars in many musical constellations. Just like SPACE, it was the happiest of homes for the greatest of bluesman, jazz masters, roots rockers, traditional musicians, singer songwriters, and especially folkies. Both John Prine and Steve Goodman often graced the stage at 'Grace, and in loving memory of those great days we invite you to join us at SPACE as we celebrate their songs with a stellar set by some of Chicago's greatest singers, songwriters, and instrumentalists, many of whom played alongside these legends and all of whom have been deeply inspired by their poetry, humor, and great musical gifts. Musical accompaniment by The SPACE Musical Dinosaurs featuring Jim Tullio & Stuart Rosenberg

Burie Family

When: Oct. 22, 2011, 1:30pm ~2:30pm
Where: Brooklife Church, 857 S Rochester St,, Mukwonago, WI 53149 .
Price: ?
Contact: Ph: (262) 544-4043
http://www.theburiefamily.com/

Heartsong Christian Music Festival [Map], a charity event for: Hope Center of Waukesha [Link]

The Burie Family, a family ministry that encompasses gospel bluegrass and classical music.  Who we are: Bethany Burie (age 18) on guitar, vocals and piano; Neil Greenwald (age 17) on banjo and Dobro; Rebekah Burie (age 16) on fiddle and lead vocals; Joe Burie (age 14) on bass and vocals; Nathaniel Burie (age 13) on mandolin and vocals. Future Burie Family Gigs:
Nov. 6, 2011, 2:30-4:30pm,  Waukesha Community Church [Map], 21380 W Cleveland Ave., New Berlin WI 53146; Ph: (262) 544-4043
Jan. 13, 2012, 7:30 pm, Doors open 6:30! Cup o Joy  [Link] [Map], 232 S Broadway, Green Bay WI 54303; Ph: (920) 435-3269
Aug. 17-18, 2012 See festival website for band schedules VOP Gospel Music Fest   [Link] [Map], Hilbert Civic Park, Hwy 57, Hilbert WI:

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow

When: Sat. October 22, 2011, 2pm-3pm
Where: Beverly Library, 1962 W. 95th Street, Chicago, IL 60643
Price: Registration Required
Contact: For more information, come in or call the library at 312-747-9673.
http://www.chipublib.org/branch/details/library/beverly/

About this event: The Melikin Puppeteers will present the classic tale of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, which tells the story of Icabod Crane and his hapless attempt to win the heart and hand of Katrina Van Tassel in the context of a comical ghost story. Recommended for children ages 5 and older.

Hogeye Folk Arts, Ltd., presents: Eric Noden & Joe Felisco

Eric Noden and Joe Filisko are a blues-singing, guitar-picking, harmonica-tootin', song-writing duo with an international audience and appeal.  Their latest CD, titled "I.C. Special," features 15 original songs representing branches of American roots music.  Just look at their photo:  these guys mean business! Eric Noden sings, shouts and stomps while conjuring old spirits from the strings of his acoustic guitar. His right thumb often lays down a driving bass figure that weaves around the intricate melodic lines played with his fingers.  (Yes, he has thumbs and fingers on both hands!)  This style, favored by noted early bluesmen, is difficult to capture and thus rarely used by modern guitar players.  Eric is known as a performer, historian, and teacher of early blues music.   Varying his approach from song to song, Eric draws from a deep well of American music that fuels his high-energy performing style.   Joe Filisko can make his harp cry, flutter, sing, or sound like a train, creating soaring melodies and driving percussive rhythms.  (And like Eric, thumbs and fingers, both hands.)  He is known around the world as a player, historian, and customizer of his often-misunderstood instrument.  Joe's customized Marine Band harmonicas have been played by world-renowned artists the likes of Charlie Musselwhite, Kim Wilson, and others.  Besides his recordings with Eric, Joe has released a CD of classic harmonica material titled "The History of Blues Harmonica."  His harmonica might loook like yours...but we bet it sounds better.

The Dimestore String Band

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Siegel Schwall Band, with Johnny Burns Celebrating the 40th Anniversaries of Alligator Records and AmazinGrace

Along with the first-wave British Invasion bands like The Rolling Stones, John Mayall's Bluesbreakers, and stateside groups like The Paul Butterfield Blues Band, The Siegel-Schwall Bandwere instrumental in The Great Blues Revival of the 1960's. Like Paul Butterfield, Siegel-Schwall were Chicago-based, serving as the house band at the famed Pepper's Lounge. They earned their spurs backing greats like Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Little Walter and Willie Dixon. From 1966 until they disbanded in 1974, they ranked among the most important forces in reaching the baby boomer audience that sustains the blues to this day. The Siegel-Schwall Band also pioneered the cross-fertilization of the blues with other forms, performing Bill Russo's "Three Pieces For Blues Band and Symphony Orchestra" in 1968 with the San Francisco Symphony and The Boston Pops. Corky Siegel has continued this expansion of the blues with his project, Chamber Blues. The current band includes two other genuine notables, bassist Rollo Radford and drummer Sam Lay. Radford's resume stretches from Martha & The Vandellas to Sun Ra, giving him the artistic range to follow wherever Siegel and Schwall want to take the blues. Lay's credentials are awesome. His stellar work with Muddy Waters, Little Walter and The Paul Butterfield earned him entry in both The Blues and The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. "The word 'legendary' gets thrown around a lot these days, but it seems appropriate to apply to The Siegel-Schwall Band." - Triple Door, Seattle.

The Chicago Barn Dance Company Monday night dance

Band:Join the Flyboys, featuring Paul Tyler, Bill Taylor, Jordan Wankoff and Fred Campeau, for a night of fantastic old-time tunes and lively dancing, including some tasty contras and squares called by Meg Dedolph.

Corky Siegel's Chamber Blues

"Gritty Chicago blues and rarefied classical chamber music might not seem like a match made in heaven," says the Chicago Tribune -- "until you've heard Corky Siegel bring the two together ... a crowning achievement." Is it blues, is it classical? Walking the line between Beethoven and B.B. King and armed with the creative genius and instrumental prowess that have defined his career for nearly four decades, Mr. Seigel has pioneered an original, genre-busting Chamber blues - a fresh, innovative sound capturing the sparkling qualities of classical music merged with the emotional melodic style of blues, all within an intimate chamber setting. Under Corky's lead, The West End String Quartet and percussionist Frank Donaldson complete the Chamber Blues Band. Described by critics internationally as: remarkable, astonishing, extraordinary, hot, mesmerizing, joyous and outrageous fun, their music and concerts have delighted diverse audiences globally and their genre-defying presentations are drawing new and old concert-goers to places they have never been before.

Fox Valley Storytelling Guild

Enjoy this age-old art in a supportive setting that has nurtured the area’s finest tellers. Monthly meetings of story enthusiasts -- tellers of all skill levels and listeners too. Come once; come often. Tell; listen. No dues for joining us but the experience is priceless.

Halloween Piñatas

About this event: Artist Jesus Dimas teaches children and adults how to make Halloween themed piñatas from paper mache.  This program is intended for ages five and older and is limited to 25 participants. Instructions will be given in English and Spanish. Contact: Susana Garza, Phone: 312-747-7381  

Preservation Snapshots Lecture: 40 Over 40

Speaker: Jim Peters, Landmarks Illinois.  Note: This lecture will be held the fourth Thursday of the month.    To commemorate Landmarks Illinois’ 40th anniversary, we have created a list of the top 40 “preservation success stories” that have taken place over the past four decades throughout Illinois. Learn how some of Chicago and Illinois’ beloved landmarks escaped the wrecking ball.
Preservation Snapshots is a series of discussions on preservation issues presented by Landmarks Illinois. Experts in preservation - but also skilled in wit, humor and easy understanding - will present talks on a specific subject each month. Before each lecture there will be a Preservation Update, with announcements about upcoming meetings, other lectures and upcoming events related to preservation.  Please note, that occasionally the meeting place for a lecture will change due to conflicting scheduling at the Chicago Cultural Center. Review the individual lecture descriptions for current location information. Thank you.
Next month:   Chicago's Bridges. Date: November 17, 2011; Time: 12:15pm -1pm. Admission: Free. Place: Claudia Cassidy Theater, second floor of the Chicago Cultural Center. Speaker: Dennis McClendon, Chicago geographer and historian.  Chicago’s bridges are a reminder of the city’s geographic situation: a narrow river with low banks was the young city’s busy harbor but cut off downtown access on two sides. Engineers developed ingenious new solutions to provide convenient river crossings, while architects strove to make them more beautiful. The result is a collection of moveable bridges that are such a unique part of Chicago’s character that several are now protected as city landmarks.

Country Night in Berwyn

• The Slim Pickens Band, Tim Menard & the Flying Nowakowski Brothers, For Pilots, and Whistle Pigs; [Country]

El Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Crafts & Stories

When: Sat. October 29, 2011, 1pm-2pm
Where: North Pulaski Library, 4300 W. North Avenue, Chicago, IL 60639
Price: Space is limited. Please call (312) 744-9573 to register.
Contact: Library, (312) 744-9573
http://www.chipublib.org/branch/details/library/north-pulaski/

Program: School Age Programs (6-9 years). About this event: Drop in for an afternoon of crafts and stories to celebrate ancestors and have fun. All are welcome! Program is bilingual.

Shangri La Chinese Acrobats

For over 30 years, the amazing performances of The Shangri-La Chinese Acrobats® have performed for hundreds of Universities and performing arts centers. This company flawlessly interprets the precision and grace of an art form honed by centuries of training and disciplines of Chinese acrobatics. Their multi-faceted and multi-cultural production features dazzling acrobatic displays, formidable feats of daring and balance, explosive energy, brilliant costumes, with a touch of Chinese comedy. These daring maneuvers and death-defying acrobatic acts will have your audiences clamoring for more! Some of The Shangri-La Chinese Acrobats' numerous TV appearances include the Family Channel's "Home & Family Show" and CNN, where they were interviewed by Christiane Amanpour.They have met many celebrities and dignitaries over the years, including President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Roslyn. The Shangri-La Chinese Acrobats received the Performing Arts Campus Entertainment Award by the National Association for Campus Activities and were nominated for the Reader's Choice Award - Best Live Novelty Act by Campus Activities Today Magazine. The Shangri-La Chinese Acrobats also had the honor of performing at the USA Olympic Swim Team's Golden Goggles Gala and reprised their performances for that organization at the recent USA Swim Team's Olympic Trials in Omaha, Nebraska.

Freakin' Firkin Sunday! plus Irish Session

Over one hundred years ago, the building known as the Palace Livery provided a vital service making it a unique gathering place for residents of and travelers to Southwest Michigan. This former horse stable has been brought back to life as The Livery. Brewmaster Steve will be tapping the Firkin cask at 3pm (or thereabouts) on this Sunday. Enjoy a pint of real ale in its true form – and also enjoy the lively Irish Session Hosted by Rick Willey & Katie Montoya, which is the same day from 2pm-5pm. Please note - The Livery is for people age 21+. Under age 21 allowed w/parent or legal guardian.

Joan Baez

Film: Timber Gang

Yu Guangyi, 2006. • Yu’s documentary confronts the viewer with a China not-yet eclipsed by massive development, depicting the grueling, Herzogian conditions of rural subsistence labor. Lumberjacks in a mountainous area of China use a method that has not changed for centuries. The men stay in humble cabins, where they eat, drink wine and sleep together. This is the last year for the lumberjacks. In the spring they will start looking for other work in the city. DVD.

Chicago Barn Dance Company Monday Night barn dance

Band: Tonight, White Mule returns to the stage, featuring Genevieve & Smith Koester on fiddle & banjo with Kevin McKenna on guitar, play a night of energetic old-time tunes, guaranteed to warm you up.  Big Bill Sudkamp calls contras and squares.

* November 2011 *

Chris Ligon CD Release show

[Roots]

Mustard's Retreat

a benefit for Trinity House with The Yellow Room Gang!!
From Mustard's Retreat's start at an open mike at the Ark in the summer of 1974, this award-winning duo consisting of David Tamulevich and Michael Hough has gone on to become a perennial favorite, not only here in southeastern Michigan but all over the folk singer-songwriter circuit. Their songwriting and recordings have received consistently high praise, and their live performances even more so. Their songs are touching, humorous, insightful, and intelligent, and their music is always revealing something new-- lately they've become a key presence in the growing local songwriting collective, the Yellow Room Gang. Come by and pick up Mustard's Retreat's enthusiastically reviewed new CD, "With Relish"! Future Mustard's Retreat gigs:
• 
•  
•
Feb 11, 2012, 8pm, The Ark, 316 South Main, Ann Arbor,  MI 48104; 734-761-1800  
Feb 15, 2012, 7pm, Madison Heights Senior Center, 29448 John R Rd., Madison,  MI;  248-589-2294  
• Mar 17, 2012, 8pm, THE WEALTHY THEATRE, 1130 Wealthy Street, Grand Rapids, MI  
Mar 30, 2012, 8pm, Ten Pound Fiddle Coffeehouse, Unitarian Universalist Church, 855 Grove Street, East Lansing,  MI;  517-337-7744. ..performing with the Yellow Room Gang!  
Apr 20, 2012, 7:30 pm THRASHER OPERA HOUSE, 506 Mill St., Green Lake, WI;  920-294-4279. ..opening for the legendary Peter Yarrow 
Apr 21, 2012, 7:30pm, Elgin Community College Second Space Theatre, 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin, IL; 847-622-0300. ...opening for the legendary Peter Yarrow 
Apr 22, 2012, time TBA, Acorn Theater, 107 Generations Dr., Three Oaks,  MI; 269-756-3879. ..opening for the legendary Peter Yarrow. 
Jun 9, 2012, 7pm, Wfmt Studio, 500 North St. Louis Avenue, Chicago,  IL; 217-621-2931
Jul 21, 2012, 7:30pm, ATEN PLACE/CONCERTS IN THE BARN, Old Mackinaw Trail, Boyne Falls,  MI;  231-549-2076. ..performing with The Yellow Room Gang..  
Aug 10-12, 2012, Shawano Folk Festival, Shawano, WI;  920-822-5042

the High-Road Tour with the Blind Boys of Alabama with Sara & Sean Watkins of Nickel Creek

[Gospel/Roots/Soul]

Art Stevenson & High Water

Art Stevenson & High Water are Wisconsin's best-known bluegrass show, and have been in demand throughout the Midwest festival circuit since 1993. The band's bluegrass sound comes from the close duet singing of husband and wife team Art and Stephanie Stevenson, along with the spirited banjo and Dobro playing of Dale Reichert, and the hard-driving mandolin picking of Bruce King. This 4 piece bluegrass band from the heart of Wisconsin has become a local favorite. You’ll hear bluegrass, classics, early country and mountain songs, as well as gospel vocal trios and quartets, warm with friendly humor. Future Art Stevenson & High Water gigs:
Feb. 10-11, 2012, Swamp N Grass, Elkhart Lake, Wis. Mar. 3, 2012, Klondike Days, Eagle River, WI March 24-25, 2012, 18th Annual Great Northern Bluegrass Music Festival, Schaumburg, IL May 5, 2012, Performing Arts Center, Pittsville, WI 7:30pm June 8-9, 2012, Northwoods Bluegrass Festival, Ladysmith, WI June 22-23, 2012, FlatRock Music Festival, Crivitz, WI July 20, 2012, Chestnut Center For The Arts, Marshfield, WI, 7pm with High 48s! Aug. 18, 2012, Sixth Annual Gandy Dancer Festival, Mazomanie, WI. Aug. 24-25, 2012, 3rd Annual Bluegrass In The Pines, Rosholt Fair Park, Rosholt, WI. Aug. 31, Sept.1-2, 2012, Barnes Family Bluegrass Festival, Aledo, IL Sept. 21-22, 2012, Threshermen’s Bluegrass Festival, Pontiac, IL

The Chicago Barn Dance Company Monday dance

Sunnyside Up plays bluegrass and old-time music for us tonight.  >"Sunnyside Up is a three piece Chicago string band that draws in listening audiences with an expertly crafted mixture of bluegrass, swing, fiddle music and songwriting. At the dawn of the 21st Century when new musical labels like Alt-Country and Americana were young, these guys got the bug to put together an alt-string band. Mandolins were re-fretted, cellos were tuned up, jazz guitar players were converted into flat-pickers and new double basses was purchased. Today the musical energy continues as new songs and instrumental tunes are found, forged and arranged for your acoustical listening pleasure." SunnysideUpMusic.com Paul Watkins calls contras and squares.

Burma Soldier: A documentary about one man’s journey from soldier to peace crusader

About this event: Burma Soldier, directed by Nic Dunlop, Annie Sundburg and Ricki Stern (Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work; The Trials of Darryl Hunt), tells the story of Myo Myint Cho, a Burmese peace activist who went from teenage soldier fighting on the military junta’s side in an ongoing civil war to a fifteen-year prison sentence for his efforts to bring democracy to Burma, to becoming a refugee himself.  The film details the history of Burma over the past 30 years. Narrated by Colin Farrell.  For more information and resources, visit the HBO page on the film at www.hbo.com/documentaries/burma-soldier/index.html. For information, call the branch at (312) 744-0019.

The Chicago Barn Dance Company Monday night dance

Chicago Reel plays celtic music; Tom Senior calls. Chicago Reel brings some of Chicago's finest musicians together for a refreshing take on traditional Irish music. Two fiddles join banjo, button box and piano to play a wide repertoire of reels and jigs, old and new, energetic and full of spirit. Their songs, rooted in the old-style sean-nós tradition, tell haunting stories of forsaken love and tales of emigration filled with hope for a new life.

Hogeye Folk Arts, Ltd., presents: Mark Dvorak & Ed Trickett

Mark Dvorak and Ed Trickett would be on most people's Folk Music "Dream Team," if such a thing existed.  Well, guess what:  it exists in the universe created by Hogeye Folk Arts...and here they come! Mark Dvorak is a charismatic performer with a spark of gentle passion that lights every concert hall and every greenway.  He has been called a folk singer's folk singer who follows unerringly in the footsteps of Pete Seeger (see "Weavermania!") and Woody Guthrie, and his song writing has been called wondrous and profound.  Mark's natural style of performing can make an old song sound new and a new song sound familiar.  Entertaining warmth, sincerity, distinctive talent and variety have distinguished Dvorak as one of today's important folk artists. Ed Trickett is a psychologist by day and a musician every other available minute.  A "song-finder extraordinaire," Ed has been collecting and arranging songs and tunes, old and new, for over 40 years.  His repertoire includes hundreds of great songs that he has made his own because they struck a resonant chord.  He accompanies himself on 6- and 12- string guitar, and is perhaps best known for his 26 years as part of the Bok, Trickett, Muir trio with Gordon Bok and Ann Mayo Muir.  Like Mark, Ed has appeared on stages around the world.

The American Indian Center’s 58th Annual Powwow

The Midwest’s largest and most colorful gathering of Native American culture. Singers and dancers from all across the nation. Over 40 authentic arts and crafts vendors. The American Indian Center is seeking to maintain our organization and the important services we offer year round to support our families as our priority. No drugs, no alcohol. [2008’s info was: Vendors: contact joep@aic-chicago.org . ]

Fermilab Folk Club Barn Dance

Dance with Music by TBA, Caller: TBa. The Fermilab Folk Club sponsors regular monthly barn dances to promote and preserve traditional square and contra dancing. The Fermilab dances are held from September - June at the Kuhn Village Barn on the grounds of Fermilab in Batavia, Illinois. From the east: Turn west on Batavia Rd. from Rt. 59 in Warrenville. Go past the guardhouse (stop for a pass if necessary) and turn right at the first stop sign. The barn is the second building on the right. From the west, use the Pine St. entrance from Kirk Rd. Proceed across the lab and turn left at the 5th stop sign (Sauk Dr.). If needed, stop at the guardhouse for a pass. Future 3rd Sunday dances: February 19, 2012 , Music by TBA, Caller: TBA, March 18, 2012 , Music by TBA, Caller: TBA, April 15, 2012, Music by TBA, Caller: TBA,

The Chicago Barn Dance Company Monday night dance

A special dance with two bands and callers:  Patt & Possum and the Money Creek Boys play for us, and Jo Mortland and Bill Sudkamp call.

The Chicago Barn Dance Company Monday night dance

Band: The Common Taters play tonight and Lisa Ornstein calls.

* December 2011 *

Hogeye Folk Arts, Ltd. presents: Larry Rand & Nicole Mendyk

Larry Rand's roots are showing.  His Chicago roots.  He gave California a try, but he missed Chicago's tranquil political scene...our cool, dry summers...and the excitement generated by our playoff-bound baseball teams.  (Larry, the American Psychiatric Association called; they want your delusions back.) The blues or the news, guaranteed to amuse. That's Larry Rand in a nutshell...and a nutshell just might be from whence he emerged some forgotten time in the middle of the last century.  An award-winning journalist, Larry melds his command of current events and folk music into songs that satirize society, sans the dogma.  "I try to aim up at the rich and powerful," he explains, as if to assure us that we are not the source of the problem (unless, of course, you're rich and powerful).  "Uptempo Folksong?"  Yep, that's Larry's work; request it and he shall sing. Joining Larry on stage will be Nicole Mendyk, also a product of the Chicago folk scene, performing professionally for nearly 20 years.  Among other credentials, she is an educator who taught university-level ESL and did outreach work with Vietnamese immigrants in Chicago's Uptown.  Welcome!  And Rick Veras, Chicago's venerable musician, complements the duo's mix of guitar, banjo and dulcimer with clever accompaniments on fiddle and mandolin.  Let the music and fun begin!

Red Star Express

When: December 3, 2011 (Snow Date - Dec. 10)
Where: Gospel Bluegrass Holiday Concert at St. Martin's Heritage Park, Chilton, WI.
Price: ??
Contact: .
http://www.redstarexpress.com/

Future Red Star Express gigs:
• JANUARY 13 - Red Star Express returns to the Cup O Joy. 7:30pm. Bluegrass Gospel show
•
•

Traditional Irish Music with Annie Andrews, John Williams and Donald Terao

Liven up your evening!

Celtic Woman

When: Sat., 12/17/11, 8pm
Where: Pfeiffer Hall, North Central College, 310 E. Benton, Naperville, IL
Price: Price Level 1 - $80; Price Level 2 - $70; Price Level 3 - $65. A $2 per ticket convenience fee applies to online purchases.
Contact: Box Office Phone: (630) 637-SHOW; E-mail: boxoffice@noctrl.edu
http://finearts.northcentralcollege.edu/x45065.xml

For the first time ever, the enchanting Irish music sensation Celtic Woman will perform its beloved Christmas songs in a unique and traditional symphonic setting. Since Celtic Woman’s March 2005 debut, this unique, all-female ensemble continues to have mainstream success. No other group of their genre can claim more than six million CDs and DVDs sold worldwide, two Top 10 album debuts and three gold and platinum albums. “A Christmas Celebration—The Symphony Tour” will organically showcase the pure angelic voices of Celtic Woman in a reverent yet dynamic live music experience accompanied by the stirring instrumentals of the DuPage Symphony Orchestra. Future show: March 3, 2012 Béla Fleck and the Flecktones

=== January 2012 ===

Little Johnny

When: Sunday, Jan 8, 2012, 6:30pm-
Where: C J Arthur's, 1168 Wilmette Ave , Wilmette, IL
Price: ??
Contact: C J Arthur's, 847-256-8870
http://www.cjarthurs.com/

Rockin' Blues Band mixing Chicago Blues, Originals and Choice Classic Rock.

Hogeye Folk Arts, Ltd. presents: Bryan Bowers

All we really need to tell you is that Bryan Bowers is coming. You'd figure out the rest on your own, even if it meant calling every person you know who has ever seen Bryan perform. The day after he first heard an autoharp played well and in tune, Bryan bought one. Only one year later, he was already redefining the autoharp as a folk and performance instrument and on his way to becoming a living legend in the musical idiom he loves so dearly. Bryan has mastered a 5-finger picking technique that makes the autoharp multidimensional. He takes this quaint instrument and his own strident voice ... forges them with his charismatic personality ... and creates a distinctive sound that compliments both his traditional and original material. Widely regarded as the leading virtuoso on the autoharp, Bryan can be as tightly wound as the strings on his harp ... or as mellow as a Cubs fan. He is spontaneous, energetic, witty, and charmingly uncomfortable in his unchallenged position as the best at what he does. It's been said of Bryan that he "generates more music from an autoharp than you can imagine from a 12-string guitar and harpsichord combined." The best part is that we don't have to find him a harpsichord.

Joel Michael-Schwartz

When: Sunday, Jan 15, 2012, 6:30pm-
Where: C J Arthur's, 1168 Wilmette Ave , Wilmette, IL
Price: ??
Contact: C J Arthur's, 847-256-8870
http://www.cjarthurs.com/

.Joel Michael-Schwartz is a mandolinist who will perform an eclectic collection of pieces ranging from celtic to jazz to classical to funk, and more besides!

Eric Lugosch

"...one of the most creative heads of the American acoustic guitar scene... who consistently seeks musical depth in his arrangements and whose artistic concept is marked by both respect for tradition as well as uncompromising originality. His spectrum of colors embraces the entire range of American music, be that ragtime, blues, R&B or jazz. The hallmark of this American fingerstylist consists of an elegant, vigorous tone and a twinkling humor while playing that inevitably peers charmingly through his music." --EricLugosch.com

The Mudflapps

The Mudflapps is a four-piece bluegrass/roots music band from Chicago. The self-proclaimed "drinking band with a music problem"... Chosen by the Chicago Tribune as one of the best free music nights in Chicago. Our beloved Monday night regulars, The Mudflapps bring their unique blend of bluegrass and roots music!!

Liz Mandevlle & Donna Herula

When: Friday, Jan 20, 2012, 8:30pm
Where: C J Arthur's, 1168 Wilmette Ave , Wilmette, IL
Price: ??
Contact: C J Arthur's, 847-256-8870
http://www.cjarthurs.com/

Blues Award winning songwriter Liz Mandeville and slide guitarist Donna Herula won the 2011 Windy City Blues Society Blues Challenge and will be representing Chicago at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis in February 2012. Liz and Donna have honed a powerful sound based on great songs, deep blues and driving rhythm. Pairing Liz’s strong voice, solid guitar and witty originals with Donna’s masterful slide playing and spirited vocals, they create a fresh blues experience that has earned them standing ovations. They bring to the stage years of experience and solid showmanship coupled with a child-like excitement that’s impossible to resist!

Chicago Bluegrass and Blues

Handsome Molly

When: Monday, Jan 23, 2012 & 2/27/12 & 3/26/12 & 4/23/12 & 5/28/12 & 6/25/12 & 7/23/12 & 8/27/12 & 9/24/12 & 10/22/12 & 11/26/12, 8pm-10pm
Where: C J Arthur's, 1168 Wilmette Ave , Wilmette, IL
Price: ??
Contact: C J Arthur's, 847-256-8870
http://www.cjarthurs.com/

Bluegrass.

I Love My People

When: 1/26/2012; 7:pm
Where: Grande Prairie Public Library, 3479 183rd St., Hazel Crest, IL, 60429-2419
Price: This event is Free and Open to the public.
Contact: For more information, please contact LaVonne Starks, 708.798.5563.
http://www.prairie.org

A Road Scholar Program by Oba William King. Music to soothe the soul; poetry to lighten the spirit

Book Seminar: Meeting

Dammed Indians Revisited: The Continuing History of the Pick Sloan Plan and the Missouri River Sioux, by Michael L. Lawson. Books for February & March book seminar meetings will be chosen during this meeting. Participants need not have read the book to join in the seminar!

Kid's Craft Mornings

Children learn about Native American culture through hands-on activities at these Mitchell Museum workshops, generally held twice monthly on Saturdays throughout the school year and on various days during the summer. Museum staffers and volunteers lead the informal, 90-minute sessions where children learn to construct simple versions of traditional Native American objects using everyday craft materials and engage in other activities related to Native culture. Kids Craft Mornings are recommended for children ages 5 and up, but there is no minimum age requirement. Participants must be accompanied by an adult. No pre-registration is necessary.
  Please join the museum for guided kids' craft activities. 
January 28 & 29    Plains Warrior Shields. February 4 & 5        Northwest Coast Rattles February 11 & 12     Children's Bolo Ties February 18 & 19  Gods Eyes February 25 & 26  Woven Baskets March 3 & 4           Beaded Key Chains March 10 & 11 Corn Husk Dolls March 17 & 18        Talking Feathers March 24 & 25      Loom Beading. March 31 & April 1 Lakota Star Quilts

Hogeye Folk Arts, Ltd. presents: Weavermania (Mark Dvorak, Michael Smith , Barbara Barrow, Chris Walz)

The Weavers--Ronnie Gilbert, Pete Seeger, Fred Hellerman, and Lee Hays– were America's first successful folk singing group. Their record, Tzena, Tzena/Goodnight Irene, sold two million copies in 1950, and the songs they shared with the world are still favorites for young and old: Michael Row the Boat Ashore, On Top of Old Smoky, Kisses Sweeter Than Wine, and Wimoweh and many, many more.  Time Magazine called The Weavers, "the most widely imitated group in the business," and their musical influence can still be heard in the Kingston Trio; Peter, Paul and Mary; and in every coffee house and folk club in the country. Pete Seeger, one of the original Weavers, praises the Weavermania! ensemble for its success at capturing the sound and spirit of the original group.  Barbara Barrow, who sings Ronnie Gilbert's parts, teaches voice and guitar at Chicago's Old Town School of Folk Music. Chris Walz, who sings Fred Hellerman's parts and plays Guitar, toured for four years with the acclaimed Special Consensus bluegrass band and was in the cast of Woody Guthrie's American Song, a theatrical production which toured nationwide for two years. Mark Dvorak, who takes on the Pete Seeger persona and plays banjo and guitar, is an award-winning recording artist who follows in the footsteps of Woody Guthrie, Lead Belly and Art Thieme. 
Michael Smith, who sings the bass parts of Lee Hays, has extensive experience as a songwriter, concert artist, and recording artist. Two of Smith's best- known songs, The Dutchman and Spoon River, have entered the pantheon of standard folk repertoire. He is also known as the composer of the musical score for The Grapes of Wrath, and Smith was a member of the original award- winning Steppenwolf Theatre cast, touring with that show for more than three years. Michael Smith is a songwriter's songwriter, having penned songs that are poignant, mysterious, or hilarious ... sometimes all three at once. His voice is honest, his guitar playing fluid and inventive. He gathers his audience with his sense of humor and drama. Michael's concerts are consistently memorable, and his songs have been recorded by the likes of Anne Hills, Bernice Lewis, Tom Rush, Gordon Bok, the late Steve Goodman, and more. He is a singular experience; there's simply no one like Michael on the concert scene.

Roller Mills String Band

The Roller Mills String Band is a delightful high energy string band playing old-time, Irish, and bluegrass traditional fiddle tunes in a style similar to traditional American music of the early and mid 1900’s. With a focus on the hammered dulcimer, this group features a complete instrumental ensemble with some of the most powerful pickers from several Bluegrass bands in Southeastern Wisconsin. Dale Palecek- hammered dulcimer and vocals. Jim Burch- mandolin, fiddle and vocals. Mike Stern- guitar and vocals. Jerry Williams- upright bass. The band practice headquarters is in the shadow of the Barton Roller Mills. At the turn of the century, Barton Roller Mills was among thousands of such family or community owned mills operating in the United States, grinding oats using water power. The roller mills are a landmark reminding us of our traditional roots. Future Roller Mills String Band gigs:
March 31, 2012, Stage time TBA.  ROLLER MILLS STRING BAND, Big Thaw Bluegrass Festival, Unitarian Church North, Mequon WI.  6 bands will be playing
April 28, 2012, 9am-12noon, ROLLER MILLS STRING BAND, Winter Farmers Market, First Congregational Church, 131 N. Webster St., Port Washington.
November 17, 2012, 7pm-9pm,  ROLLER MILLS STRING BAND, Third Annual concert at UW West Bend to benefit the effort to provide Thanksgiving dinner to families in West Bend and Jackson, WI.  Concert is in the main theatre on the West Bend campus. 

Dennis Stroughmatt et L'Esprit Creole; tba, opening performer

Future musicians at Lake County Folk Club:
2/19 Michael Smith; host = Sue Fink
3/18 Mustard's Retreat; host = Cath Kasmer
4/1 Lee Murdock; host = ETC
4/29 My Sweet Patootie; host = Jim Gary
6/17 Anne Hills; host = Dee Lee
9/16 Kat Eggleston; host = Merv Collins
9/30 Zoe Mulford.

Storytelling in the Snug: JIM STOWELL

There will be NO COVER CHARGE, but we will "pass the hat" that evening.
**PLEASE NOTE** Seating in the Snug is very limited. Come early to reserve your seats, have a meal in our dining room, and then retire with your drinks to the coziness of the Snug for storytelling!! Reservations strongly recommended. Future Storytelling at Celtic Knot:
Sunday, March 25, 2012, 7pm-- BENEFIT FOR ILLINOIS STORYTELLING, INC
Sunday, April 1, 2012, 8pm, Vicki Elberfeld
Sunday, May 20, 2012, 8pm, Mike Speller

Radio show: “Pecan Pie”

Bluegrass and country lovingly served up fresh with a dollop of old-fashioned whipped cream. DJ: Chocolate Eclare.

Radio show: A Feast of Irish Folk

Irish music, from the latest releases to traditional masters. DJs: Mary & Erik.

Radio show: The Evil Show (Blues)

The purest blues sounds of the century from the early days of recording to today. DJ: Dave Waldman.

=== February 2012 ===

Ronnie Baker Brooks

Ronnie Baker Brooks grew up steeped in American music tradition, yet his focus remains resolutely on the future. As well as anyone of his generation, he knows the transcendent release at the heart of soul, blues and rock. He knows because, as the son of blues great Lonnie Brooks, he came of age watching the fieriest guitar players and most soulful singers of a previous era express their deepest feelings through their music. "I grew up among the best of the best," Brooks says. "Every time I play, I feel like I've got to do it with the authenticity and passion that I saw in guys like Buddy Guy, Muddy Waters, B.B. King and my father. But I also have to put my twist on it. None of those guys repeated what came before them." Brooks' twist involves enlivening blues-rock with deep soul and modern hip-hop vocals and funk rhythms. Brooks takes roots sounds and transforms them into something that spans the ages. When he debuted with GOLDDIGGER in 1998, much of the blues world was already familiar with Ronnie Baker Brooks via his long apprenticeship as bandleader for living legend patriarch, Lonnie Brooks. His primal effort helped him earn a WC Handy Award nomination for “Best New Blues Artist” and enough encouragement from fans and media to light the runway for takeoff of a successful solo career. Ronnie’s second cd, TAKE ME WITCHA, was released in 2001. By now, he was creating a major stir among the music community as a new kind of blues songsmith. He was writing scintillatingly youthful and urban compositions framed with pyrotechnic guitar work and the unbridled energy of a band more akin to rock and roll than anything else. His career since has successfully navigated a path through the heaving landscape of independent music marketing, revealing how today’s talented artist can achieve unprecedented self-determination in their careers with hard work, intelligent marketing and grass roots loyalty. The four years spent carefully cultivating his latest recordings have paid great dividends with THE TORCH, the epitome of a courageous and genre-bending release. Heart and soul are laid bare on track after track as bridges are built between more traditional concepts of blues music and modern freedoms of expression.  An apt analogy, “THE TORCH” symbolizes Ronnie Baker Brook’s role in the evolution of contemporary blues. A legacy steeped in the Chicago music tradition, he is ignited by passion for the family craft and fuelled by the responsibility of being crowned steward of the form by some of its most venerable masters. Ronnie bears the flame of a generations-old muse to an ever-widening modern audience.  “You won’t hear me singing songs about working in the fields or trying to move up from out of the Delta, because those aren’t my experiences,” Ronnie says, “but you will hear songs about growing up on the south side of Chicago and the things you see in the ghetto as a kid. They’re different experiences, so I might sing about them a different way, but it’s still the blues.” ronniebakerbrooks.com
Future Ronnie Baker Brooks gigs:
Mar 3, 2012 8:00 pm Hilton Chicago Chicago, IL  i  Associated Writers and Writing Program; sponsored by Columbia College. Apr 7, 2012 TBA Callahan's Music Hall, Auburn Hills, MI  i  Callahan's Music Hall, 2105 South Boulevard, Auburn Hills, MI 48326 http://www.atcallahans.com

Ladysmith Black Mambazo

Ladysmith Black Mambazo has married the intricate rhythms and harmonies of their native South African musical traditions to the sounds and sentiments of gospel music. Ladysmith live is always an amazing experience with a unique musical and spiritual alchemy that has touched a worldwide audience for more than four decades.

Scott Alarik.

When: Saturday, February 4, 2012. REMINDER: The in-studio Folkstage concerts begin at 7pm CT. The on-air portion of the evening begins at 8pm CT.
Where: Members Only Concert, WFMT/Folkstage
Price: To attend WFMT's live broadcast Folkstage concerts in our studio, you must join the WFMT Fine Arts Circle for one year. The first year requires an initiation fee of $200 plus $225 per person as the yearly membership and request Folkstage as your thank-you gift.
Contact: 773-279-2000 or music@midnightspecial.org
http://www.midnightspecial.org/
Scott Alarik was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and became a folksinger immediately after graduating from high school in 1969. He made his professional debut as a weekend regular at an oh-so-'60s coffeehouse called Heads Together. He also actively opposed the Vietnam War, joining the Resistance Movement while still in high school by publicly refusing to register for the draft. He was convicted of resisting the draft and served 19 months in federal prison. After his release in 1972, he became a fixture on the national folk circuit, performing regularly on A Prairie Home Companion, releasing three vinyl albums, and appearing at such legendary venues as the Coffeehouse Extemporé in Minneapolis, Somebody Else's Troubles and Earl of Old Town in Chicago, Caffé Lena in Saratoga Springs, Godfrey Daniels and the Cherry Tree in Pennsylvania, the Speakeasy in Greenwich Village, and the Idler, Old Vienna, Iron Horse, and Passim in Massachusetts. Prairie Home Companion host Garrison Keillor wrote of Alarik, "I have rarely seen an audience in such a good mood as when he's just been there." Alarik has maintained his performing career, appearing at coffeehouses near his home in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and releasing two CDs, "-30-" and "All That Is True."
Folkstage is an uninterrupted, one-hour concert featuring some of the best traditional and singer-songwriter talent in folk music. The live concerts can be heard Saturdays at 8pm on Chicago radio station WFMT 98.7FM, immediately preceding The Midnight Special. www.midnightspecial.org/ LIVE FOLKSTAGE BROADCAST SCHEDULE:
February 11, 2012 Suzy Bogguss. March 3, 2012 Don White. March 17, 2012 David Wilcox. March 31, 2012 Uncle Bonsai. April 7, 2012 Evie Ladin with Keith Terry. April 21, 2012 Jennifer Armstrong. April 28, 2012 C. Daniel Boling. May 5, 2012 *Cosy Sheridan & TR Ritchie. May 12, 2012: Sally Rogers & Claudia Schmidt. May 19, 2012 Work o' the Weavers. June 2, 2012 Annie Wenz. June 9, 2011 Mustard's Retreat. June 16, 2012 The Once (rescheduled from November, 2011). July 7, 2012 Terri Hendrix with Lloyd Maines. July 14, 2012 Kate MacLeod & Kat Eggleston. August 18, 2012 Beth Wood. August 25, 2012 Jack Williams. September 1, 2012 Fox Valley Folk Festival preview concert live from Geneva. September 8, 2012 *The YaYas. September 15, 2012 Pierce & Grace Pettis. September 22, 2012 The Refugees. October 6, 2012 Sonia Studio set 4pm / Live broadcast 5pm. October 20, 2012 no program – Operathon. October 27, 2012 Phil Ochs Song Night live from the Old Town School of Folk Music (this is not a membership concert) November 17 Rosalee Peppard. December 1, 2012 The Al Day Trio. December 8, 2012 Edie Carey. December 15, 2012 Krista Detor. January 19, 2013 Garnet Rogers. January 26, 2013 Dennis Stroughmatt et l'Esprit Creole. February 2, 2013 Sultans of String. March 2, 2013 Ari & Mia. March 16, 2013 2-Bit Palomino. April 20, 2012 Cindy Kallet - Ellen Epstein - Michael Cicone. April 27, 2013 We're About 9. May 4, 2013 Lois Morton.

Diana Jones

When: Saturday, February 4, 2012, 7pm  
Where: Old Town School of Folk Music, Gary & Laura Maurer Concert Hall, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL
Price: $ 22 General Public / $20 Old Town School Members / $18 Seniors & Children
Contact: box office; call (773) 728-6000
https://www.oldtownschool.org/concerts/

A Nashville singer/songwriter with deep roots in Appalachia. "There's some kind of channeling from some other lifetime going on. I don't know the answer to these things, but all I can think of is that it must come from some mysterious part of her soul." - Joan Baez

Midway Contra Dance

Band: Bobine, Barry Dupen calling! . The dance is still $3 for students and $6 for non-students. We at the FAC look forward to seeing you Saturday! All dances taught, beginners and experienced dancers welcome! University of Chicago Contra Dances are currently run by the UofC Folk Arts Community. Open to all!

Ladysmith Black Mambazo

For more than forty years, Ladysmith Black Mambazo has married the intricate rhythms and harmonies of their native South African musical traditions to the sounds and sentiments of Christian gospel music. The result is a musical and spiritual alchemy that has touched a worldwide audience representing every corner of the religious, cultural and ethnic landscape. Their musical efforts over the past four decades have garnered praise and accolades within the recording industry, but also solidified their identity as a cultural force to be reckoned with. Assembled in the early 1960s, in South Africa, by Joseph Shabalala – then a young farmboy turned factory worker – the group took the name Ladysmith Black Mambazo – Ladysmith being the name of Shabalala’s rural hometown; Black being a reference to oxen, the strongest of all farm animals; and Mambazo being the Zulu word for axe, a symbol of the group’s vocal ability to “chop down” all things in their path. Their collective voices were so tight and their harmonies so polished that they were eventually banned from competitions – although they were welcome to participate strictly as entertainers.

Greensky Bluegrass

21+, GA  
Greensky Bluegrass is one of the most exciting bands in today's music scene. Like a breath of fresh air, this five piece band plays traditional bluegrass instruments and uses them to create original songs and soundscapes that are unique and new, yet somehow feel comfortable and familiar. Winners of the 2006 Telluride Bluegrass Festival Band Competition, Greensky Bluegrass is taking Michigan's blend of acoustic roots music on the road. Future Greensky Bluegrass gigs:
•  touring the west until August 
• • 

FILM: The Sun Was the Only Witness

Filmed on location in Egypt, the expert commentary and lavish reenactments in this episode bring Akhenaten’s religious revolution dramatically to life. episodes from Akhenaten and Nefertiti: Rulers of Egypt (2002), a series that explores the reign of the revolutionary pharaoh who replaced the Egyptian pantheon with a single deity, the sun god Aten.
Each Sunday afternoon, you can enjoy the best in documentary films on the ancient Middle East at the Oriental Institute. Film showings usually begin at 2pm and last approximately 30-50 minutes unless otherwise indicated. Following the film, docents will be available in the galleries to answer your questions. Future films at OI:
Sunday, Feb. 12, 2012, 2pm, The Mummies of the Heretics. After his death, Akhenaten was declared a heretic and efforts were made to erase all traces of his reign. This episode traces the 19th century discovery of the pharaoh’s famed city of Amarna and the search for the mummies of the heretic king and his queen, Nefertiti. February 19, Nubia 64: Saving the Temples of Ancient Egypt. (1987) Winner of the Grand Prix at the Cannes film festival, this film highlights the unprecedented international campaign to salvage and reconstruct ancient monuments in Egypt and Sudan that were threatened by the building of the Aswan Dam. The film’s rare footage tells the story in human terms, vividly documenting the campaign’s massive and efforts to save temples and shrines. February 26 Nubia and the Mysteries of Kush (2001) This film highlights the splendors of an ancient kingdom in what is now the country of Sudan. Footage includes visits to several archaeological sites, focusing on the discoveries and preservation efforts underway. Created by Emmy-award-winning producer Judith McCrae, the film also explores the natural beauty of the region, accompanied by an original musical score composed by Nubian artist Hamza El Din. In March we feature screenings of three documentaries by internationally acclaimed filmmaker Farzin Rezaeian, who uses the latest technologies to showcase the celebrated art and archaeology of Iran. Tobin Hartnell, PhD candidate in the University of Chicago's Department of Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations who has excavated and surveyed in Iran since 2004, will introduce and then be available to answer questions at each screening. This free program is presented in conjunction with our special exhibit Picturing the Past: Imaging and Imagining the Ancient Middle East. Sunday, March 4 Iran: Seven Faces of a Civilization (2007). This major documentary uses the latest technology to explore the art and archaeology of Iran over 7,000 years. A cinematic adventure that features spectacular graphic reconstructions superimposed on images of actual architectural remains, the film brilliantly recaptures the ancient treasures of Iran in ways never before possible. March 11 Persepolis Recreated (2004). Discover the history and grandeur of Persepolis, a magnificent palace complex of the great Persian Empire from 520 BC until it was destroyed by Alexander the Great in 330 B.C. This production features spectacular reconstructions of Persepolis’ great palaces and explains their function in connection with the Persian New Year festival of Naw Rouz, which Iranian communities world-wide still celebrate at the spring equinox. March 18 Incredible Isfahan: Discovering Persia’s Past (2011). The most recent production from Farzin Rezaeian, this major new documentary presents the zenith of Iranian splendor as showcased in the magnificent city of Isfahan. The film combines contemporary views with compelling computer generated images to explore the cosmopolitan history, artistic traditions, and dazzling architectural monuments that make Isfahan the jewel in the crown of Persian cities.

Fermilab English Country Dancing

Come try out English Country Dancing at Fermilab. We meet in the Fermilab Barn Sunday afternoons once per month. This is an accessible sort of set dancing done to beautiful music - something for all ages and energy levels. All the dances are taught and walked through. All are welcome. No previous experience or partners are needed. (Children must be able to follow instructions and dance independently of their parents or siblings.) Dance to recorded Music or the fine playing of Old Fezziwig’s Band, once a month year-round. If there is interest (determined in advance ) we sometimes hold a potluck supper following the dancing. From the east: Turn west on Batavia Rd. from Rt. 59 in Warrenville. Go past the guardhouse (stop for a pass if necessary) and turn right at the first stop sign. The barn is the second building on the right. From the west, use the Pine St. entrance from Kirk Rd. Proceed across the lab and turn left at the 5th stop sign (Sauk Dr.). If needed, stop at the guardhouse for a pass. Future dances: February 5 with Old Fezziwig’s Band. March 4. April 1 with Old Fezziwig’s Band. May 6.

Tribes Alehouse Monday Bluegrass Jam

When: Mondays, 2/6/2012, 2/13/2012, 2/20/2012, 2/27/2012, 3/5/2012, 3/12/2012, 3/19/2012, 7pm-10pm
Where: The Tribes Alehouse, 11220 W. Lincoln Hwy. (Rt.30) , Mokena, IL, just west of Wolf Rd. next to CVS
Price: ??
Contact: Steve Haberichter. Web site: http://www.downhomeguitars.com; Email: steve@downhomeguitars.com ; Phone: (815)469-6321
http://www.banjohangout.org/

Join Steve Haberichter from Down Home Guitars every Monday for an all acoustic bluegrass jam. Bring your acoustic guitar, banjo, mandolin, Dobro, fiddle etc. Engelhardt upright bass is provided. Come to play or just to listen. All are welcome. Tribes Alehouse has the best beer selection in the south suburbs and a great pub menu. Hope to see ya there!

Bread and Circuses: Truth and Fiction in the Ancient Gladiator and Chariot Arena

When: 2/6/2012, 7pm
Where: Barrington Area Library, 505 N Northwest Hwy., Barrington, IL, 60010-3354
Price: Free. Open to the public.
Contact: For more information, please contact Liz Hubert, 847.382.1300.
http://www.prairie.org

A Road Scholar Program by Lee Brice. When you think of Rome do you hear the crowd shouting "Death!" and see the turn of the thumbs? Of all images, gladiators fighting in the arena remains the most popular image of ancient Rome. Like many modern sports, the ancient arena was popular, drawing huge crowds. Ancient critics dismissed these events as "bread and circuses" created to distract the masses. Similar criticisms are leveled against TV and modern sports. Are the WWF and NASCAR events modern versions of dangerous ancient sports? This illustrated presentation considers the reality of gladiators and chariot-racing and the value of drawing modern connections.

Irish Music Session

Led by Kim Hoffman, Host of WSND’s the Celtic Hour

Old-Timey Music Session

Old-time Appalachian acoustic music led by Josh Stump.

The Mudflapps

When: Tuesdays, 9pm
Where: Red Line Tap, 7006 N. Glenwood, Chicago, IL 60626.
Price: ??
Contact: CONTACT
http://www.heartlandcafe.com/rl_index.htm

Bluegrass

West African Drumming

When: Date: Wed. February 8, 2012, Time: 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Where: King Library 3436 S. King Drive 60616
Price: PRICE
Contact: Library (312) 747-7543
http://www.chipublib.org/branch/details/id/53/

Program: African American Heritage Month. About this event: Teens will provide an overview of the music of the djembe drum including cultural and historical significance of the instrument in West Africa. After School Matters teens will showcase the versatility of the djembe drum by demonstrating how different sounds are made and will perform several traditional djembe drum songs.

Paul Mickey Science Series Lecture

“Known by me to be a freeman of colour": Telling the Jameson Jenkins Story at Lincoln Home National Historic Site. Presented by Timothy Townsend, Historian, Lincoln Home National Historic Site Abraham Lincoln’s neighbor and Underground Railroad conductor Jameson Jenkins lived one block south of Lincoln’s home. In 2007, the Jenkins property was included in the National Park Service Underground Railroad Network to Freedom because of Jenkin’s involvement in helping freedom seekers during what was referred to as a “Slave Stampede” in 1850. While specific information about Jenkins is limited, existing knowledge provides insight into the struggles and challenges that both enslaved and free African Americans faced from anti-black slave codes and other limits to freedom that were in place in Jenkins’ native North Carolina, his temporary home in Indiana, and in his final home in Illinois. Townsend will also discuss plans for the creation of a permanent exhibit to be placed on the lot where the Jenkins house once stood that was funded through a grant from the National Park Foundation. .
One of our Paul Mickey Science Series. Discover Illinois' rich prehistoric and historic past by attending an ISM Paul Mickey Science Series Program. A different speaker and topic are featured each month; future programs:
March 14, 2012. The Dampier Site: A Mysterious Mississippian Center Uncovered on the Missouri River Floodplain in Chesterfield, Missouri, Presented by Joe Harl, Archaeological Research Center of St. Louis, Inc. The Dampier Site was uncovered five to six feet below the surface during borrowing activities for levee improvements on the Missouri River floodplain in Chesterfield, Missouri.  Similar to the use of this valley today by various stores and restaurants, nearly 1,000 years ago people established a large market at the Dampier Site. Uncovered were marine shell beads and whelk shells from the Gulf of Mexico, copper ornaments from the Great Lakes, mica from the Appalachian Mountains, and pumice from the Rocky Mountains. This community also served as an important ceremonial center where temples were constructed and large communal feasts took place. The Dampier Site will provide insights into the overall Mississippian economic and social system, and will help to indicate how much influence Cahokia had on places in east-central Missouri

Friends of the Gamelan

The Friends of the Gamelan (FROG) is a local organization dedicated to the instruction and performance of Javanese gamelan music. Since they first formed in 1980, FROG has developed a diverse repertoire of music that include centuries old traditional compositions and contemporary works. FROG performs and teaches on two magnificent gamelans, one of which is taking up permanent residence here at the Old Town School where we will be offering gamelan classes in session two of this year.

Acoustic Open Stage

Folk, hosted by Steve Foresman. Performers must sign up in advance for a time slot by sending an e-mail to Steve at steve@steveforesman.com. Walk-ins will be accommodated if the schedule permits.

TV show: Antiques Roadshow

When: see below; show duration: 60 min
Where: various local public TV channels
Price: free on broadcast TV
Contact:
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/roadshow/schedule.html

Wednesday, February 08  —  08:00pm 36 - MPTV DT 36.1 & 36.1 - MPTV (10) 36.2 Eugene, Oregon The Eugene, Ore., visit concludes with tin toys, including a circa 1938 Marx car and a battery-powered dump truck; a circa 1861 Civil War cavalry guidon that may have been used in the Battle of Shiloh; and a 1960 jeweled gold moretto.
Thursday, February 9  —  07:00pm 11.2 - WTTW Prime Tampa, Florida In Tampa, host Mark Walberg checks out a scrapbook focusing on Joe DiMaggio's 1941 56-game hitting streak; a marriage license issued to Davy Crockett; and a painting by artist James E. Buttersworth (1817-94). Appraiser David Rago is the guest.
Thursday, February 09  —  08:00pm 34.1 - WNITHD 34.1: Houston, Texas Conclusion in Houston. Included: NASA collectibles; a set of Wedgewood Fairyland lusterware; an English Regency rosewood settee; a watch that once belonged to Mickey Mantle.
. Friday, February 10  —  02:00am 11.2 - WTTW Prime Tampa, Florida; In Tampa, host Mark Walberg checks out a scrapbook focusing on Joe DiMaggio's 1941 56-game hitting streak; a marriage license issued to Davy Crockett; and a painting by artist James E. Buttersworth (1817-94). Appraiser David Rago is the guest.
Friday, February 10  —  07:00am 11.2 - WTTW Prime Tampa, Florida In Tampa, host Mark Walberg checks out a scrapbook focusing on Joe DiMaggio's 1941 56-game hitting streak; a marriage license issued to Davy Crockett; and a painting by artist James E. Buttersworth (1817-94). Appraiser David Rago is the guest. .
Friday, February 10  —  11:00pm 10 - WMVS & 10.1 - MPTV HD 10.1 & 36.2 - MPTV-10 Eugene, Oregon The Eugene, Ore., visit concludes with tin toys, including a circa 1938 Marx car and a battery-powered dump truck; a circa 1861 Civil War cavalry guidon that may have been used in the Battle of Shiloh; and a 1960 jeweled gold moretto.
Saturday, February 11  —  03:00am 34.1 - WNITHD 34.1 & 34.2 - WNITDT2 34.2 Houston, Texas Conclusion in Houston. Included: NASA collectibles; a set of Wedgewood Fairyland lusterware; an English Regency rosewood settee; a watch that once belonged to Mickey Mantle.
Saturday, February 11  —  05:00am 10 - WMVS & 10.1 - MPTV HD 10.1 & 36.2 - MPTV-10: Houston, Texas Conclusion in Houston. Included: NASA collectibles; a set of Wedgewood Fairyland lusterware; an English Regency rosewood settee; a watch that once belonged to Mickey Mantle.
Saturday, February 11  —  08:00am, 11.2 - WTTW Prime Tampa, Florida; In Tampa, host Mark Walberg checks out a scrapbook focusing on Joe DiMaggio's 1941 56-game hitting streak; a marriage license issued to Davy Crockett; and a painting by artist James E. Buttersworth (1817-94). Appraiser David Rago is the guest.
Saturday, February 11  —  10:00am 11 - WTTW & 11.1 - WTTW HD & 34.2 - WNITDT2 34.2 Eugene, Oregon The Eugene, Ore., visit concludes with tin toys, including a circa 1938 Marx car and a battery-powered dump truck; a circa 1861 Civil War cavalry guidon that may have been used in the Battle of Shiloh; and a 1960 jeweled gold moretto.
Saturday, February 11  —  11:00am, 56 - WYIN & 56.1 - Lakeshore HD & 56.2 - WYINDT2 & 56.4 - WYINDT4 Eugene, Oregon; Part 2 of 3 in Eugene, Ore., features a circa 1800 New England Chippendale chest-on-chest; an 1846 map of Western America; and a Russian Imperial officer's sword from the reign of Tsar Nicholas II that is worth between $75,000 and $100,000.
Saturday, February 11  —  5:00pm 20 - WYCC & 20.1 - WYCC-DT & 20.2 - WYCC-DT2 Tulsa, Oklahoma Part 1 of 3. Season 16 begins in Tulsa, where items include a signed note from Mother Teresa; an 1894 Winchester rifle; and a collection of late 17th-, early 18th-century Chinese rhinoceros horn cups that are valued at more than a million dollars.
Saturday, February 11  —  06:00pm 34.2 - WNITDT2 34.2 : Eugene, Oregon The Eugene, Ore., visit concludes with tin toys, including a circa 1938 Marx car and a battery-powered dump truck; a circa 1861 Civil War cavalry guidon that may have been used in the Battle of Shiloh; and a 1960 jeweled gold moretto.
Saturday, February 11  —  7:00pm 34.1 - WNITHD 34.1 Eugene, Oregon The Eugene, Ore., visit concludes with tin toys, including a circa 1938 Marx car and a battery-powered dump truck; a circa 1861 Civil War cavalry guidon that may have been used in the Battle of Shiloh; and a 1960 jeweled gold moretto.

Various Artists (see below)

Future February 2012 shows at the Ark:
8, Wednesday, Girlyman & Edie Carey, 8 pm, $22.50, Contemporary Songwriters & Groups
2/9, Thursday, 8pm, William Fitzsimmons & Denison Witmer, $17, Contemporary Songwriters & Groups
/10, Friday Newfound Road 8 pm $15 Bluegrass/Newgrass
/10 Friday CANCELLED: Student Songwriter Series: The Ark at UMMA 8 pm $ Contemporary Songwriters & Groups
Saturday, 2/11. Mustard's Retreat 8 pm $15 Classic Folk · Local/Regional
2/12 Sunday My Folky Valentine 7:30 pm $15 Local/Regional
2/13 Monday Miss Tess and the Bon Ton Parade 8pm, $15, Jazz/
2/14 Tuesday Solas 8pm $17.50 Celtic/British Isles
2/15 Wednesday JT Nero & Allison Russell 8 pm, $15 Contemporary Songwriters & Groups
Thursday, 2/16, Jill Sobule 8 pm $15 Contemporary Songwriters & Groups
2/17, Friday 8 pm The RFD Boys $11, Bluegrass/Newgrass · Local/Regional
2/18 Saturday, The Ark's 25th Annual Storytelling Festival 7:30 pm, $20, Spoken Word/Stage
2/19 Sunday Storytelling Festival for Kids 1 pm $10, Family · Spoken Word/Stage
2/19, Sunday Kate Clinton, 7:30 pm $30, Humor
2/20, Monday Gaelic Storm, 8 pm $22.50 Celtic/British Isles
Tuesday 2/21 Mike Doughty, 8 pm, $22.50 Contemporary Songwriters & Groups
2/22 Wednesday Playing for Change 8 pm $35 World Music
2/23 Thursday Jeffrey Foucault 8 pm, $15 Contemporary Songwriters & Groups
2/24, Friday 7:30 pm, BreakFEST 2012 to Benefit Breakfast at St. Andrew's $30
2/25 Saturday Susan Werner & Rosebud 8 pm, $20 Contemporary Songwriters & Groups
2/26 Sunday, 7:30 pm David Francey, $15 English/Canadian/Australian
2/28 Tuesday 8 pm Take a Chance Tuesday featuring Who Hit John? $FREE; Please bring a nonperishable food donation for Food Gatherers
2/29 Wednesday, 8 pm, CANCELLED: Whitehorse is Luke Doucet & Melissa McClelland $15, Contemporary Songwriters & Groups · Rock/Pop
2/29 Wednesday 8 pm Open Stage, $3,

Flute Circle

Join our volunteer-led Native American flute circle for an evening of music and conversation.  The flute group is meeting at the museum on alternating Thursdays. New players are always welcome to join! We offer free parking behind the museum for our visitors. The museum is wheelchair accessible.

FermiLab International Folk Dancing

Teaching & children’s dances early. Request dancing later. Newcomers always welcome. Dances from around the world are done -- line dances, circle dances, couple dances, individual dances. Partners not necessary.

Art Sprees: Valentine's Art Spree

When: Thursday, February 9, 2012 - Friday, February 10, 2012, 10am-3:30pm
Where: Thompson Center Atrium, 100 W. Randolph Street, Chicago (Clark/Lake stop on the El)
Price: free admission; prices of items vary
Contact: Kerry Schneider, Assistant Director, T. 312-814-1794 E. kschneider@museum.state.il.us
http://www.museum.state.il.us/events/index.html

Illinois Artisans Artisan demonstrations and exhibits. Juried artisans sell and display fine craft. Meet twelve artisans, learn about their craft, and purchase one of kind pieces: Mary Ruth Albert, Hand Fabricated Dolls, Chicago. Samantha Barrett-Rogers, Jewelry, Lansing (image). Betty Carbol, Collage Pins, Lake Forest. Barbara Ellis-Racic, Jewelry, Glenview. John Ferguson, Metalsmith Jewelry, Chicago. Barbara Freeman, Photography, Chicago. Virginia Guzior, Fine Jewelry, Orland Park. Norma Kuksuk, Glass Jewelry, Park Ridge. Svetlana Kunina, Hand Beaded Jewelry, Lake Villa. Norm Langhoff, Photography, Springfield. Michelle Rial, Glass, Serena. Arelene Salamendra, Surrealist Painting, LaGrange. Susan Sieber, Silk Scarves, Crystal Lake.

TV show: Music voyager

When: Fridays, 2/10/12, 2/17/12, 2/24/12; 7:30pm-8pm
Where: WYCC, TV channel 20.1 & 20.2
Price: free on broadcast TV
Contact:
http://wycctv20.wordpress.com/program-schedule/

trad music, from around the world.

DAVID FRANCEY with Mark Westberg

Outstanding Scottish/Canadian singer- songwriter. 8 terrific albums won him 3 JUNOs (Canada's Grammy) in 5 years! "Best Canadian folk writer in 20 years." (James Keelaghan). .
Live entertainment is featured every Friday night beginning at 8:15pm. Doors open at 7:30pm. A $7 donation is requested. We serve coffees, teas, hot cider, cocoa, soft drinks and snacks. We are one block west of Main Street, and one block south of the Metra railroad tracks. We are inside the First Congregational Church, which is a large, red brick building at the southeast corner of Curtiss Street and Forest Avenue.
Future performers at Two Way Street (* = Will be featured the next night on WFMT 98.7 "Folkstage" with Rich Warren.):
Saturday February 11 (8pm, $5)  Old Time Barn Dance Party! — (See Scheduled Events). Friday February 17 (8:15pm, $7) andi and i — Funked-up folk duo continues to push the boundaries of what can (tastefully) be done with guitar and two voices. Tight harmonies and intricate arrangements in many styles. Thoughtful, lighthearted, and fun! Friday February 24 (8:15pm, $7) LEONARDO — A modern troubadour, he tours the US and Europe singing songs of everyday people in extraordinary moments. Each song is an engaging story propelled by individual rhythms and subtle textures of guitar and vocals. Friday March 2 (8:15pm, $7) Larry Penn — Renowned songwriter and poet, he sings of work, love, life, railroaders, truckers, hoboes and more with warmth, wit, class and insight. His songs are recorded by Pete Seeger, Claudia Schmidt, and others. Friday March 9 (8:15pm, $7) Patti Ecker & Louise Brodie — "Spirited traditionals and darn good originals!" Folk, swing, Celtic, and original songs with an entertaining and funky jazz/blues style. Louise adds superb fiddle. Excellent CDs! Friday March 16 (8:15pm, $7) OPEN MIKE — All welcome! Great variety of acoustic artists! So popular we must limit number of acts. 1–2 songs, 10 minutes max. Open 7:30 for signups – first come, first served. Show starts 8:00. Info: 630-968-5526. Friday March 23 (8:15pm, $7) David Massengill — Critically acclaimed master songwriter/storyteller whose songs have been recorded by Joan Baez, the Roches, Nanci Griffith and others. With mountain dulcimer. "Pure brilliance" (Boston Herald). Friday March 30 (8:15pm, $7) *EVIE LADIN & KEITH TERRY — From California, she's a banjo player, step- dancer, singer, clogger & songwriter who tears up the stage. Keith adds bass, body music...you gotta see him! "Natural entertainer."(SF Chronicle) (*Will be featured April 7 on WFMT 98.7 "Folkstage" with Rich Warren.) Friday April 6 (8:15pm, $7) Patchouli — A super high energy duo with sparkling acoustic sounds and powerful contagious chemistry! Exciting folk, flamenco, pop, jazz & world beat rhythms. They've released their 15th CD, Terra Guitarra, Dragonfly. . 

NewFound Road

Mark your calendars now! It is a Unique Showcase of Traditional Music, featuring three days of the best traditional, community-based, "roots" musicians in Bluegrass, Old-Time fiddle, Irish, Cajun, Chicago Blues, Old-Time String Band, etc. It is a memorable 3-Day Music Party. We have ten excellent bands coming, and two days packed full of workshops. All info will be at: http://uofcfolk.org/. Bring your friends to the festival, take them dancing, and we hope you enjoy it as much as we do. Come listen to our stunning lineup: fiddle; (bluegrass); and more.
Friday, February 10, 8pm:.
Saturday, February 11, 7:30pm:
Sunday, February 12, 6pm:
Workshops include: fiddle, Cajun dance, barn dance, more. We are looking for volunteers to help out at the Folk Festival.  Our festival is almost entirely volunteer-run, so any and all time you have will be appreciated.  Volunteers do everything from ushering the evening concerts to staffing the performers' break room to selling cookies, and more.  It's a fun time (full disclosure: my involvement with the Festival started when I came on as a volunteer last year) and you'll get to hang out at the festival and meet awesome people.  Not to mention, three hours of volunteering will net you a complimentary ticket to one night's performance (up to a $25 value!) Please contact folkfestvolunteers@gmail.com if you are interested. Contributions are always welcome, too, as the weather really socked us in 2011.

Phil Passen on hammered dulcimer

When: Saturday, Febuary 11, 2012,, 1:30pm – 3:00 pm,
Where: Riverside Public Library, 1 Burling Road, Riverside, IL
Price: ??
Contact: Phil Passen, phil@philpassen.com
http://www.philpassen.com/

Phil Passen on hammered dulcimer and vocals. Music of the Civil War on Hammered Dulcimer. Future Phil Passen gigs:
Sunday, March 4, 2012 2:00pm – 3:00 pm, Bloomingdale Public Library, 101 Fairfield Way, Bloomingdale, IL. St. Patrick's Day Music on the Hammered Dulcimer
Sunday, March 18, 2012, 2: pm – 3:00 pm, Wheaton Public Library 225 N. Cross Street, Wheaton, IL. St. Patrick's Day Music on the Hammered Dulcimer.
Saturday, April 7, 2012, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm, Forest Park Public Library, 7555 Jackson Blvd, Forest Park, IL . When That Great Ship Went Down: Music to Commemorate the Sinking of the Titanic
Wednesday, April 11, 2012, 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm, Fremont Public Library 1170 North Midlothian Road, Mundelein, IL. When That Great Ship Went Down: Music to Commemorate the Sinking of the Titanic
Wednesday, April 12, 2012, 7pm - 8pm, Kenosha Public Library, Southwest Branch, 7979 38th Ave, Kenosha, WI. Music of the Civil War on Hammered Dulcimer
Saturday, April 14, 2012, 10:00 am – 11:30 am, Huntley Area Public Library, 11000Ruth Rd, Huntley, IL When That Great Ship Went Down: Music to Commemorate the Sinking of the Titanic
Saturday, April 14, 2012, 2:pm –3:30 pm, McHenry Public Library 809 N. Front St (RT 31), McHenry, IL.. When That Great Ship Went Down: Music to Commemorate the Sinking of the Titanic
Sunday, April 15, 2012, 2pm-3pm, Addison Public Library, 4 Friendship Plaza, Addison, IL. Music of the Civil War on Hammered Dulcimer.
Thursday, April 19, 2012 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm, Woodridge Public Library, 3 Plaza Drive, Woodridge, IL Music from Carl Sandburg's "American Songbag"
Saturday, April 28, 2012, 2: pm – 3:00 pm, Ela Public Library, 275 Mohawk Trail, Lake Zurich, IL. When That Great Ship Went Down: Music to Commemorate the Sinking of the Titanic
Sunday, April 29, 2012, 12pm-1pm, Winnetka Public Library, 768 Oak Street, Winnetka, IL. Music of the Civil War on Hammered Dulcimer.

Blacksmithing Demonstrations

When: Feb. 11, 2012, Feb. 18, 2012, Feb. 25, 2012, 1:30pm-3:30pm. The farmstead and visitor center are open Thursday through Monday from 9am-5pm. The center is closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and select holidays.
Where: Kline Creek Farm, 1N600 County Farm Road, West Chicago, IL 60185 
Price: Admission is always free.
Contact: Call Kline Creek Farm at (630) 876-5900, or e-mail kcf@dupageforest.com.
http://www.dupageforest.com/

Stop by the wagon shed to see the blacksmith repair equipment and demonstrate the tools and techniques of the trade. Demonstrations ongoing. Step back in time and experience what life was like on a DuPage County Farm in the 1890s. Stroll through restored farmstead structures and meet the historically-costumed interpreters operating this living-history farm using the tools and techniques of the past. Activities and events at the farm re-create the seasonal rhythms that have governed farm life for centuries. There is always something to see, do and learn at Kline Creek Farm.

Special Lecture & Book Signing Event: Native American Bolo Ties: Vintage and Contemporary Artistry, by Diane Pardue with Norman L. Sandfield

Author and one of the Mitchell Museum's Council of Advisors, Norman Sandfield will speak at the museum about bolo ties and personally sign his new book, co-authored with Diane Pardue. Sandfield's bolo tie collection consists of more than 1,000 bolo ties, scarf slides and ephemera.  A limited number of books will be available for purchase at the Mitchell Museum.  Come meet this passionate collector and read his fascinating book!

TV show: The Woodwrights Shop

When: Saturdays, 2/11/12, 2/18/12, 2/25/12; 2pm-2:30pm
Where: WYCC, TV channel 20.1 & 20.2
Price: free on broadcast TV
Contact:
http://wycctv20.wordpress.com/program-schedule/

Host is Roy Underhill. Some shows feature Roy showing how to make a project using traditional tools & techniques. Other shows visit other craftsmen, historic sites, etc.

Free Family Workshop: Harry Potter’s Owl and Other Winter Birds – How They Survive

When: Feb 11, 2012, 2pm -4pm
Where: Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St , Chicago, IL 60602
Price: Free
Contact: CONTACT
http://explorechicago.org/city/en/millennium/event_search_result.html?page=1

Stash seeds like chickadees and learn how birds survive the winter! Join author Sheryl De Vore as she teaches about the Snowy Owl, Black-capped Chickadee, Northern Cardinal, Downy Woodpecker, White-breasted Nuthatch and many more.  Learn about the challenges that these residents face during the cold months. Each child will make a bird identification guide to take home. Note: Children must be at least 6 years old and accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration is required.

Various Irish Musicians (see below)

The pub is open every Friday and Saturday night and friends can gather to grab a pint and sit by the fireplace. Pub food, like fish and chips, onion rings, corned beef sandwiches and Irish sausage are available for those wishing to grab a bite to eat. The building is wheelchair accessible. The pub is open to the public on Friday and Saturday nights and live music begins at 9pm. There's plenty of free parking and rarely a cover charge, making this one of Chicago's hidden gems. Fifth Province hours are Friday, 4pm-1am, and Saturday 5pm-1am and pub food is served from 6pm-10pm.  Future events at Fifth Province:
Join us in the Fifth Province on Friday nights for Dinner with Ciara! The Music and Songs of Ireland. These dinner performances in the Fifth Province will feature critically-acclaimed Irish singer, Ciara Walton.
Saturday, February 11, 2012 - 9:00 pm Seamus O'Kane and Jimmy Moore
Friday, February 17, 2012 - 9:00 pm, Joe McShane
Saturday, February 18, 2012 - 5:00 pm Duration: 2 Hours Píobairí, a presentation of uilleann piping and traditional music by Pat Cannady, his piping students, and musical colleagues returns to the Fifth Province pub in 2012.
Saturday, February 18, 2012 - 9:00pm, Duration: 1 Hour The Dooley Brothers
Friday, February 24, 2012 - 6:30 pm, The Center continues its tradition of its annual Friday Night Lenten Fish Fry this February.   The Fish Fry begins February 22 and runs through Friday, April 6,  2012 from 6:30pm-9pm in the Fifth Province. The cost is $12 for adults and $8 for children and patrons pay at the door. Live music begins at 9pm.
Friday, February 24, 2012 - 9:00 pm The Matt Stedman Band
Saturday, February 25, 2012 - 9:00pm Andy O'Driscoll and Martin Doyle

Guided Hike

When: Saturdays and Sundays, 9am & 1:30pm
Where: Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park, 16006 875 E. Street, on the outskirts of Sheffield, IL
Price: ?
Contact: For further information or information packets, call (815)454-2328. If you call after hours, the answering machine will take your call.
http://www.dnr.state.il.us/education/interprt/Hennepin.htm

Dress Seasonally. The Visitor Center is open daily 8am-4pm. The hours occasionally vary on Saturday or Sunday mornings, but the Center is open by 10am.

The Midway Ramblers

. Theme: The Cajuns: Their History, Culture, Language and Song.     Future gig: 2/18/12   Saturday 2:00 pm - 3:pm, Berwyn Public Library, 2701 S. Harlem Ave., Berwyn, IL; 708-795-8000 Registration required. Theme: The Cajuns: Their History, Culture, Language and Song.

Booth Shot Lincoln: Illinois Historical Folksongs of Death and Disaster

When: 2/12/2012 - 2:00pm
Where: Lemont Public Library District, 50 E Wend St., Lemont, IL, 60439-6439
Price: Free. Open to the public.
Contact: For more information, please contact Sandra D. Pointon, 630.257.6541.
http://www.prairie.org/

A Road Scholar Program by Bucky Halker. Illinois has a rich tradition of folksongs related to death and disaster in the state. Tornados, murders, hangings, floods, shipwrecks, gang violence, assassinations, fires, and train wrecks all claimed victims in song. Bucky Halker's new CD, Caskets in the Cornfields, features his renditions of some of these songs and was based on his research about this important material. Join Bucky for a performance and commentary on these "lively" Prairie State songs and their history.

Fermilab Folk Club Barn Dance

Music by Eye of the Monkey, Caller: T Claw. The Fermilab dances are held from September-June. The Barn Dances are co-sponsored by the Fox Valley Folklore Society, and the Chicago Barn Dance Company. Future 2nd Sunday barn dances: March 11, 2012, Music by TBA, Caller: Paul Watkins. April 8, 2012, Music by TBA, Caller: TBA. May 13, 2012, Music by TBA, Caller: TBA June 10, 2012, Music by TBA, Caller: TBA.

Big Cedar Bluegrass Band

Bluegrass music. Woodsongs Coffee House - 1st show ever. Limited Seating, call: 414-463-3630
Future Big Cedar Bluegrass gigs:
March 3, 2012, Concert Lutheran Church of the Living Christ, W156 N10660 Pilgrim Rd, Germantown, WI, 4 blocks south of Mequon Road 6p to 8pm Donation: 2 cans of food for the food pantry
March 31, 2012, Big Thaw Bluegrass Festival, Unitarian Church North, 13800 N. Port Washington Road, Mequon, WI. $12 non-members, $10 members. 1:15pm Front Porch Boys; 2:30pm Fairland Blue Grass; 3:45pm Freshwater; 5:pm Pickin Up Speed; 6:15pm Big Cedar 7:30pm Roller Mills String Band.
April 28, 2012, Concert at Memorial Lutheran Church, 7701 N Green Bay Road, Glendale, WI. 6p to 8pm Admission: $10 or $8.00 with 2 cans of non perishable food 414-352-1160
July 21, St James Episcopal Tent Revival, S 8th St. - West Bend, WI. Watch for details
August 12 Bluegrass at the Village Bluegrass Festival, Pioneer Village -- Hwy I, Saukville, WI. 12:30 to 5:30pm 5 bands; Times TBA

Lake County Folk Club Open Stage

Hosted by Scott Engstrom. Anyone who would like to perform is encouraged to do so. Some of the acts are experienced veterans who tour the Midwest. Others are new to performing. Regardless of who's on stage, you'll never find a more supportive audience. Signup starts as early as 5:45pm. Each performer is typically allowed up to 3 songs or 15 minutes, whichever comes first. If enough people sign up, we begin early.

Suzy Bogguss

American country music singer and platinum selling recording artist Suzy Bogguss recently released American Folk Songbook, a reverent collection of classic folk tunes from "Red River Valley" to "Froggy Went A Courtin'." Inspired by Garrison Keillor's sing-a-longs on a Prairie Home Companion tour, Bogguss' aim was to preserve the simple pleasures that these cherished songs bring. "A one-woman stand-up act would be worth the price of admission. Bogguss, who said she still loves "story" songs, has a story for almost every song." - Huffington Post.

Mardi Gras: The 300 Year Old French Creole Tradition

When: 2/13/2012 - 1:00pm
Where: The Nineteenth Century Club, 178 Forest Ave., Oak Park, IL, 60301-1122
Price: Free. Open to the public.
Contact: For more information, please contact Sonja Blomster, 708.383.7325..
http://www.prairie.org

A Road Scholar Program by Dennis Stroughmatt. Mardi Gras is not only a day of celebration and feasting amongst the Illinois French, but also marks the end of the season known as "Carnival." Usually associated with New Orleans and the state of Louisiana, this event is also a well known and cherished cultural treasure that has been practiced by Creoles in the Illinois country of "Upper Louisiana" for over three centuries. This exciting presentation will discuss the western European and Celtic nature of Mardi Gras, how it relates to other celebrations throughout the year, the Illinois French Creole songs performed, and the festivals still held in the Midwest.

The Panthers and Beyond: The Wider Vision of Black Power and Economic Justice in 1960s Chicago

When: 2/13/2012, 6:30pm
Where: The Robert and Mary Rita Murphy Stump Library, 3700 W 103rd St (Saint Xavier University) Chicago, IL, 60655-3105
Price: Free. Open to the public
Contact: For more information, please contact Mark A. Vargas, 773.298.3350.
http://www.prairie.org/

A Road Scholar Program by Erik Gellman. Erik Gellman will present five myths of late 1960s Chicago history. These myths show how popular memory (and the lack of memory altogether) have prevented students and citizens of Illinois from better understanding our contemporary urban problems around issues like access to jobs, the pipeline from failing schools to prisons, and the use of urban space. By using film footage and images, along with Gellman's extensive research on Chicago civil rights activities during this period, Erik Gellman illustrates a much more relevant urban history of the late 1960s. This talk addresses touchstones like the campaign of Martin Luther King, the Democratic Convention of 1968, and the assassination of Fred Hampton as points of departure to understand the context of social change and its repression during this tumultuous era.

Non-fiction Book Discussion

About this event: Join us for a lively discussion of Bill Bryson's At Home: A Short History of Private Life. Contact: Susan Wilner .

Chris Thomas King w/ Eric Noden

King was born on October 14, 1964, in Baton Rouge. His father, Tabby Thomas, is a locally prominent bluesman who owned a club called Tabby's Blues Box, which opened in 1979 and closed in 2004 following Tabby’s retirement. As a result, King, started early toward his musical future; even as a youngster he was well known as Rockin' Tabby's son and a child genius. While frequenting his father's club he performed with the late Silas Hogan, Guitar Kelly and Clarence Edwards, three masters of swamp blues. By sixth grade, King was learning to play the trumpet and later traveling as a rhythm guitar player of famous musicians like Lowell Folsom and Joe Tex. As he matured in the musical setting of New Orleans area blues culture, King was encouraged to experiment and develop his own style. Because each blues musician had a unique playing and singing style, he was discouraged from singing others' songs or even playing the way they did. He told Lisa Simeone on National Public Radio's Weekend Edition, "They would never sit me down and say, 'Well, this is how it goes.' They ... told me don't sing their songs ... 'Find your own song and sing that.'".

Solas

Since forming in 1996, Solas has been heralded as the most popular, influential, and exciting Celtic band to ever emerge from the United States. The Philadelphia Inquirer wrote that Solas make "mind-blowing Irish folk music, maybe the world's best."

The Volo Bogtrotters, Global Dance Party

The Global Dance Party is a new series on Fridays that offers an exciting opportunity for the Old Town School community to experiment with dance styles from around the globe. Each night will feature a dance class at 8:30 PM followed by two hours of dance music by dance bands and DJs. Join long running old time stringband The Volo Bogtrotters featuring Old Town School banjo teacher Steve Rosen for a square dance!

Hogeye Folk Arts, Ltd. presents: Bill Staines

Bill Staines, Bill Staines ... wasn't he a wide receiver with the Dallas Cowboys? The maitre d' at The Pump Room? Oh, I know, I know: Hubert Humphrey's running mate in 1968. Wrong. Bill could have been all of those things, except the Veep candidate in 1968; he was too young back then to have been taken seriously. But the truth is that Bill Staines is a perennial favorite of folk music audiences everywhere, especially in Evanston, IL. There's just something about a Bill Staines lyric and melody that talks to all of us, regardless of our backgrounds. As a storyteller, Bill engages his audience with amusing, modest anecdotes that lead smoothly into charming story/songs. His homespun sincerity seems to be the key to his success with his audience. A dewy mountain morning, a drunken cowboy's lament, a trucker's grueling haul on the interstate — Bill invigorates these familiar themes by personalizing them, frequently introducing his songs with vignettes about his travels as a guitar troubadour. Staines the storyteller gives breadth and credibility to Staines the singer/songwriter. We could go on and on (as we have been known to do), but we rest on Bill's reputation and his universal appeal. Looking for a singer/songwriter whose music is relevant without preaching? You've found him in Bill Staines. http://www.acousticmusic.com/staines/

Tom Kastle

When: Sun Feb 19, 2012, 8:00 am
Where: "Daily Papers" with Rick Kogan WGN Radio (AM 720) Chicago
Price: $??
Contact:
http://www.tomkastle.com/

Future Tom Kastle gigs:
acoustic.
* February 22 - 24 Chicago Maritime Festival Outreach Programs (call 773.576.7245 to book a program)
* February 25 Chicago Maritime Festival, Chicago History Museaum
February 29 Old Town School of Folk Music, Chicago, IL Sea Music and Shanty Sing class; 4 consecutive Sundays. NOTE: Due to opening of new building, time and location TBA. Call 773-575-7244 for details. http://www.oldtownschool.org/classes/register/workshops.php?type=Workshop March   10 WaterHouse Foods, Lake Mills, WI

Mardi Gras: The 300 Year Old French Creole Tradition

When: 02/20/2012 - 7:pm
Where: Tinley Park Public Library, 7851 Timber Dr Tinley Park, IL, 60477-5387
Price: Free. Open to the public.
Contact: For more information, please contact Bridget Bittman, 708.845.5719.
http://www.prairie.org/

A Road Scholar Program by Dennis Stroughmatt Mardi Gras is not only a day of celebration and feasting amongst the Illinois French, but also marks the end of the season known as "Carnival." Usually associated with New Orleans and the state of Louisiana, this event is also a well known and cherished cultural treasure that has been practiced by Creoles in the Illinois country of "Upper Louisiana" for over three centuries. This exciting presentation will discuss the western European and Celtic nature of Mardi Gras, how it relates to other celebrations throughout the year, the Illinois French Creole songs performed, and the festivals still held in the Midwest.

A Gift that Money Can't Buy

When: 2/21/2012 - 7:00pm
Where: Moline Public Library, 3210 41st St Moline, IL, 61265-7829
Price: Free. Open to the public.
Contact: For more information, please contact Jennifer Christiansen, 309.524.2475.
http://www.prairie.org/

A Road Scholar Program by Jeffrey Bockman. This program encourages everyone to record and save his or her family's history and stories. Jeff Bockman explains how to use basic forms to record family data, as well as basics for identifying people in photographs, basic preservation, and how to record unique family stories. He discusses personal examples from his family, including ways to handle difficult situations like a parent leaving the family or learning of a disabling disease.

Adult Book Discussion

Program: African American Heritage Month. About this event: Please join us for a discussion of The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America’s Great Migration by Isabel Wilkerson. This Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist chronicles the migration of African Americans from the South between 1915 and 1970. 

Jamal Joseph

About this event: Jamal Joseph discusses and signs his new book, Panther Baby: A Life of Rebellion & Reinvention. Jamal Joseph vividly recounts his introduction to The Black Panther Party, and his progression from a naïve street kid to an outspoken member of a national movement, his years in prison, and later to an Oscar nominee and now as a full professor at Columbia University’s School of the Arts Film Program. Joseph’s story spans and illuminates a ground-shifting and volatile period of New York and national history. Registration is not required and seating is available on a first come, first served basis.

This Land is Your Land: Woody Guthrie and the Great American Folksong

When: 2/23/2012, 6:30pm
Where: Graves-Hume Public Library 1401 W Main St Mendota, IL, 61342-2500
Price: Free. Open to the public
Contact: For more information, please contact Connie Beetz, 815.538.5142.
http://www.prairie.org/

A Road Scholar Program by Bucky Halker 2012 marks the centennial of the birth of Woody Guthrie, the greatest folksong writer the nation has produced. Coming of age during the Dust Bowl and Great Depression, Guthrie would write hundreds of songs and become the voice of the nation's downtrodden, unemployed and homeless. At the same time, Guthrie celebrated the nation's natural beauty and its great democratic potential. Join Bucky Halker for a program that combines performance and commentary as he reviews the life and songs of Woody Guthrie.

Book Seminar & Brown Bag Lunch

Book to be selected at meeting on Jan. 27. New members always welcome! You do not have to have read the book to join in the discussion. 

Big Cedar Bluegrass Band

Bluegrass music concert. February 24, 2012 With special "Guests" The New Cedar Minstrals Folk music with a bluegrass flair . March 16, 2012 With Special "Guests" Buddy Cedar & the Comets - A little classic Rock and Roll with a bluegrass twist. April 13, 2012 The songs of JD Crowe and the New South. May 18, 2012 All Request Show.

The Carolina Chocolate Drops

The Carolina Chocolate Drops are a group of young African-American stringband musicians that have come to together to play the rich tradition of fiddle and banjo music in Carolina's Piedmont. Rhiannon Giddens and Justin Robinson both hail from the green hills of the North Carolina Piedmont, while Dom Flemons is native to sunny Arizona. Although they have diverse musical backgrounds, the band draws its musical heritage from the foothills of the North and South Carolina. Under the tutelage of Joe Thompson, said to be the last black traditional string band player, of Mebane, NC, they strive to carry on the long standing traditional music of the black and white communities. Joe's musical heritage runs as deeply and fluidly as the many rivers and streams that traverse the North Carolina landscape. The Chocolate Drops are proud to carry on the tradition of black musicians like Odell and Nate Thompson, Dink Roberts, John Snipes, Libba Cotten, Emp White, and countless others who have passed beyond memory and recognition. Future Carolina Chocolate Drops gigs: * .
* Feb 25, 8:00 pm Earlham College Richmond, IN

Introduction to African American History and Genealogy Databases

About this event: This one-hour hands-on class will explore genealogy using newspapers, biography and history databases, plus genealogical and census information, to trace individual and family histories. Sample searches will be demonstrated with time afterward for questions and personal searching. The class is limited to 11 people, and reservations are required.  Please call (312) 747-4600 for reservations and more information. 

Open Mic

When: Sat. February 25, 2012, 2:00pm - 3:00 pm
Where: Sherman Park Library, 5440 S. Racine Avenue, Chicago, IL 60609
Price: Registration: Please call 312-747-0477 by Thursday, February 23rd to sign up to perform or attend.
Contact: Library, (312) 747-0477
http://www.chipublib.org/branch/details/library/sherman-park/

About this event: Sing, rap, read a poem, perform spoken word or tell some jokes. Performance can be up to 4 minutes long and must be appropriate for a general audience. This family program is for all ages. 

Song Circle

On the fourth Sunday of each month Marcia Krieger hosts our song circle. The participants form a circle. Each one in turn can choose to play a song, ask another participant for a song, or pass. As Marcia puts it, "The song circle is a casual opportunity to kick back, play some music and make some friends. Everybody gets a chance to play or sing something of their choosing. You also have the chance to play and sing along with others. The circle keeps going 'round to everybody until it's time to call it a night. Make music, make friends."

The Panthers and Beyond: The Wider Vision of Black Power and Economic Justice in 1960s Chicago

When: 2/27/2012 - 7:pm
Where: Glenwood-Lynwood Public Library, 19901 Stoney Island Ave Lynwood, IL, 60411-8659
Price: Free. Open to the public
Contact: For more information, please contact Claire Steiner, 708.758.0090.
http://www.prairie.org/

A Road Scholar Program by Erik Gellman Erik Gellman will present five myths of late 1960s Chicago history. These myths show how popular memory (and the lack of memory altogether) have prevented students and citizens of Illinois from better understanding our contemporary urban problems around issues like access to jobs, the pipeline from failing schools to prisons, and the use of urban space. By using film footage and images, along with Gellman's extensive research on Chicago civil rights activities during this period, Erik Gellman illustrates a much more relevant urban history of the late 1960s. This talk addresses touchstones like the campaign of Martin Luther King, the Democratic Convention of 1968, and the assassination of Fred Hampton as points of departure to understand the context of social change and its repression during this tumultuous era.

Lowell Thompson: African Americans in Chicago

Program: African American Heritage Month. About this event: Lowell Thompson discusses and signs his new book African Americans in Chicago. The story of black Chicago is so rich that few know it all. It began long before the city itself. “The first white man here was a black man,” Potowatami natives reportedly said about Jean Baptiste Point DuSable, the brown-skinned man recognized as Chicago’s first non-Indian settler. It’s all here: from the site of DuSable’s cabin—now smack-dab in the middle of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile—to images of famous and infamous residents like boxers Jack Johnson, Muhammed Ali, and Joe Louis. Here are leaders and cultural touchstones like Jesse Binga’s bank, Robert S. Abbott’s Chicago Defender, legendary filmmaker Oscar Micheaux, Ida B. Wells, the Eighth Regiment, Jesse Jackson, Oprah, and much more . . . including a guy named Obama. Here is the black Chicago family album, of folks who made and never made the headlines, and pictures and stories of kinship and fellowship of African Americans leaving the violent, racist South and “goin’ to Chicago” to find their piece of the American Dream. Chicago has been called the “Second City,” but black Chicago is second to none. Born on Chicago’s South Side, Lowell Thompson is an artist/writer and “creative catalyst.” In 1968, three months after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., he was one of the first African Americans hired in the creative department of any leading American advertising agency.

The Life and Times of America's Salesmen: 200 Years of Library of Congress Pictures and Prints

When: 2/28/2012, - 6:30pm
Where: Somonauk Public Library 700 E LaSalle St Somonauk, IL, 60552-9527
Price: Free. Open to the public.
Contact: For more information, please contact Jeanne Greenwalt, 815.498.9037.
http://www.prairie.org/

A Road Scholar Program by Ronald Solberg Library of Congress pictures and prints are indeed worth more than a thousand words each, as this presentation chronicles the adventures (and misadventures) of America's peddlers, commercial travelers, drummers, patent-medicine salesmen, while featuring the obscure, notorious, the influential, and the innovators who created products that are still with us today.

\|/_ March 2012 _\|/

From Anansi to Brer Rabbit - Trickster Tales from Africa and the Americas

When: 3/01/2012 - 1:00pm
Where: Elwood Community Church 101 N Chicago St. Elwood, IL, 60421-5003
Price: Free. Open to the public.
Contact: For more information, please contact Barbara Williams, 815.423.6576.
http://www.prairie.org/

A Road Scholar Program by Shanta Nurullah In traditional African societies, the storyteller was often the historian, as well as the culture-bearer. West Africa's most vivid, intriguing, and enduring character is the trickster, Anansi. Follow the travels of Anansi from Africa to the west, where Anansi's antics and themes are found in Brer Rabbit tales, often told on southern plantations. These stories of small spiders and crafty rabbits served to entertain and empower those who were using all of their spiritual and mental resources to survive their oppressive conditions. Shanta invites audiences to listen, laugh, and ponder the role of the trickster in folkloric traditions.

(BLUES) Lonnie Brooks Blues Band

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Even after 40 years away from his Louisiana home, Lonnie Brooks’ music is still instilled with the funky, swampy bayou rhythms of Opelousas and Lafayette, and his lyrics often speak of black cat bones and "Mojo Hands." But along the road from Louisiana to Chicago, he's combined the swing of Texas, the soul of Memphis and the pure power of Chicago blues into a musical gumbo that is all his own. <>Future Lonnie Brooks gig<>:
TBA       

Monroe Crossing

Named in honor of Bill Monroe, “The Father of Bluegrass Music,” Monroe Crossing dazzles audiences with an electrifying blend of classic bluegrass, bluegrass gospel, and heartfelt originals. Their airtight harmonies, razor sharp arrangements, and on-stage rapport make them audience favorites across the United States and Canada.  Future Monroe Crossing gigs:
•. Sun, Mar 4, 2012, 7:30pm, Bluegrass Mass with The South Bend Chamber Singers, O'Laughlin Auditorium, Saint Mary's College, Notre Dame, IN. Hotline: 574-284-4632. Print a PosterPoster then print a map to it with yahoo or google.
•.Wed, Mar 7, 2012 7:00 p.m. additional info Bluegrass Mass with The South Bend Chamber Singers, Trinity English Lutheran Church, 405 West Wayne Street, Ft Wayne, IN - Hotline: 574-284-4632. print a PosterPoster - map it with yahoo or google
• Fri, Mar 23, 2012, 7:30 p.m. The Historic Opera House of Independence 23688 Adams Street, Independence, WI - Hotline: 715-985-3055. print a PosterPoster - map it with yahoo or google
• Sat, Mar 24, 2012, Time(s) TBA 18th Annual Great Northern Bluegrass Music Festival Hyatt Regency Woodfield Schaumburg, 1800 East Golf Road, Schaumburg, IL - Hotline: 217-243-3159. Print a PosterPoster - map it with yahoo or google.
• Sat, Apr 28, 2012, 7:30 p.m. Bluegrass Mass with South Shore Chorale Fond du Lac High School Performing Arts center, 801 Campus Drive, Fond du Lac, WI - Hotline: 920-926-1380. Pprint a PosterPoster - map it with yahoo or google
Sun, Apr 29, 2012; Service 9:30, Show 1:30, St Peter's United Church of Christ, Special Guest: Red Star Express. 424 Fremont Street, Kiel, WI - Hotline: 920-894-2404. print a PosterPoster - map it with yahoo or google
Fri, May 04, 2012; 7:30 p.m., Portage Center for the Arts, 301 East Cook Street, Portage, WI - Hotline: 608-742-5655 print a PosterPoster - map it with yahoo or google
Sat, May 05, 2012, 8:00 p.m. Sandwich Opera House, 140 East Railroad Street, Sandwich, IL Print a PosterPoster - map it with yahoo or google..
Sun, May 6, 2012 6:00 pm. remember Charlotte's Web for the Performing Arts, Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, 415 North Church Street, Rockford, IL print a PosterPoster - map it with yahoo or google
Sat, May 19, 2012; 7:00 p.m remember additional info Lunda Theater 1202 Pierce Street, Black River Falls, WI - Hotline: 715-284-9887. Pprint a PosterPoster - map it with yahoo or google
Sun, May 20, 2012, Dinner 1:p, Show 2:00pm Dinner Theatre at The Dorf Haus, 8931 County Hwy Y, Sauk City, WI - Hotline: 608-643-3980 print a PosterPoster - map it with yahoo or google.

3rd Sunday String Band

When: Saturday, Mar 3, 2012, 8:30pm-
Where: C J Arthur's, 1168 Wilmette Ave , Wilmette, IL
Price: ??
Contact: C J Arthur's, 847-256-8870
http://www.cjarthurs.com/

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Lee Murdock

A 4-day windjammer tall ship music cruise.
Lee Murdock has uncovered a boundless body of music and stories in the Great Lakes. There is strength and timelessness in this music. Great Lakes songs are made of hard words, hard living, ships that go down and ships that come in. The music is grounded in the work song tradition, from the rugged days of lumberjacks and wooden sailing schooners. Murdock comes alongside with ballads of contemporary commerce and revelry in the grand folk style. Lee's fans have discovered a sweet-water treasure in his songs about the Great Lakes, finding drama and inspiration in the lives of sailors and fishermen, lighthouse keepers, ghosts, shipwrecks, outlaws and everyday heroes. Future Lee Murdock gigs:
• Saturday, March 10, 2012, 8pm, Main Street Theater, 807 Franklin, Michigan City, IN (map). Description: Festival Players Guild presents Lee Murdock performing "From Auld (Old) Sod to New Prairie; Irish Immigrants in America" Main Street Theater Contact 219-874-4269 for more information.
• Thursday, Mar 15, 2012, 1pm , WhereEvergreen Park Seniors Center, 9547 South Homan Avenue, Evergreen Park IL Office of Citizen Services presents Musical entertainment for seniors luncheon by Lee Murdock performing "From Auld (Old) Sods to New Prairie: Irish in America". Call 708-422-8776 for more information or email evergreenocs@yahoo.com
• - Seneca, IL - Seneca Public Library WhenThursday, Mar 15, 2012, 6pm WhereSeneca Public Library, 210 North Main Street, Seneca IL (map) DescriptionSeneca Public Library presents Lee Murdock performing "From Auld (Old) Sod to New Prairie: Irish in America" 210 North Main Street Seneca, IL Contact 815-357-6566 for more information.
* Sunday, Apr 1, 2012, 7pm - Lake Bluff, IL - When WhereAleks' Restaurant, 525 Rockland Rd. Lake Bluff IL (map) Description The Lake County Folk Club presents Lee Murdock in Concert At Alek's Restaurant 525 Rockland Road Lake Bluff, IL Call 847-602-8882 for more information.
WhenFriday, Apr 27, 2012, 6:30pm - Highland Park, IL - Smelt Fest WherePark Avenue Beach, On the lake front, Highland Park IL (map) DescriptionPark District of Highland Park presents Lee Murdock performing Great Lakes Maritime Music for annual Smelt Fest Park Avenue Beach On the lake front, Highland Park, IL Call 847-831-3801 for more information.
WhenSaturday, Apr 28, 2012, 2pm - Clinton Township MI - Lorenzo center WhereLorenzo Center at Macomb Community College (map) Description afternoon cooffeehouse music performance, music and stories relating to "America's Second War for Independence 1812" -- part of a winter series on "Becoming Michigan From Revolution to Statehood." Encore performance, Lee played here in 2009, when it was known as Macomb Cultural Center 44575 Garfield Road, Clinton Township, MI 48038-1139 Phone: 586.445.7348 Email: culturalcenter@macomb.edu http://www.LorenzoCulturalCenter.org
WhenMonday, Jun 4, 2012, 8pm - Chicago, IL - Grande Mariner (docked at Navy Pier) WhereGrande Mariner (docked at Navy Pier), 600 East Grand Avenue, Chicago IL (map) DescriptionBlount Small Ship Adventures presents Lee Murdock Grande Mariner (docked at Navy Pier) 600 East Grand Avenue Chicago, IL
Thursday, June 7, 2012 , 5pm - Chicago, IL - Grande Mariner (docked at Navy Pier) WhereGrande Mariner (docked at Navy Pier), 600 East Grand Avenue, Chicago IL (map) DescriptionBlount Small Ship Adventures presents Lee Murdock Grande Mariner (docked at Navy Pier) 600 East Grand Avenue Chicago, IL
Friday, June 15, 2012  7-10PM Chicago, IL: Music Cruise on Tall Ship Windy, WhenFriday, Jun 15, 2012 Departing from Navy Pier, Sunset sail on Lake Michigan, with Lee Murdock music (map) DescriptionMake your reservations for this affordable Great Lakes adventure Evening Music Cruise, 2-3 hour sailing on Tall Ship Windy Departing from Navy Pier, 600 E Grand, Chicago, IL Ship departs from dock at 7:15pm For information and reservations (required) log in to: http://www.TallShipWindy.com 312-404-5800
Saturday, June 16, 2012, 5pm - Chicago, IL - Grande Mariner (docked at Navy Pier) WhenSaturday, Jun 16, 2012 Grande Mariner (docked at Navy Pier), 600 East Grand Avenue, Chicago IL (map) Description Blount Small Ship Adventures presents Lee Murdock Grande Mariner (docked at Navy Pier) 600 East Grand Avenue Chicago, IL

Film: Qapirangajuq: Inuit Knowledge and Climate Change; Zacharias Kunuk, Ian Mauro & Igloolik Isuma Productions. Inuktitut with English subtitles (54 minutes)

This documentary explores the important contributions the Inuit in the Nunavut have made regarding climate change impacts and associated adaptation strategies.

Sparky and Rhonda Rucker

When: Date: 3/16/2012 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Where: Techline, 307 South Locust Street, Champaign, IL
Price: Door Donations Asking: $10.00 to $15.00 each adults and $5.00 children
Contact: For more information please call: Techline (217) 352-5570
LINKTEXT

EVENT DESCRIPTION

Megon McDonough & Susan O'Halloran

 Pot of Gold: Irish Stories and Songs from Two of Chicago's Own - (Mary Margaret) Megon McDonough and Susan (Eileen Mary) O'Halloran. Susan O’Halloran has been a story artist since the 1970s and has been covered by such media outlets as PBS, ABC Nightline, The New York Times and the Chicago Tribune. About her own storytelling skills, The Chicago Reader’s Critic Choice said, “O’Halloran has mastered the Irish art of telling stories that are funny and heart-wrenching at the same time.” O’Halloran has been featured several times at the International Storytelling Center in Jonesborough, Tennessee and was the keynote presenter for the National Storytelling Network’s annual conference. Within her own storytelling profession, she has received the 2006 Leadership and Service Award and the 2011 Circle of Excellence Award. She is co-producer of the Chicago JustStories Storytelling Festival and the RaceBridgesVideos.com story website. She is author of several books plus producer of award-winning multi-cultural performances and films including Black, White and Brown: Tribes & Bridges at the Steppenwolf Theatre and More Alike Than Not: Stories of Three Americans – Catholic, Jewish and Muslim. Sue lives in Evanston, IL and can be found at: www.susanohalloran.com.  Megon McDonough is best known for her work as an inaugural member of The Four Bitchin’ Babes which allowed her wit and folk sensibilities to comment on the ups and downs of everyday life. She has performed on stages as varied as The Cellar Door and Carnegie Hall. She is an accomplished comedic actress having appeared in numerous theater productions including, Pump Boys and Dinettes, Beehive and a box office record-breaking starring role in Always… Patsy Cline. For which she was nominated for the Joseph Jefferson Award. She won an ACE Cable TV award for singing the theme song of an HBO Olympic ice-skating special and has recorded for a Danielle Steel Made for TV movie. McDonough has nine solo albums to her credit. With her most recent album, My One and Only Love, McDonough realized a lifelong dream of recording jazz and torch songs. Says the Washington Post of her latest release, “Here we find McDonough in her true element, sensitively reprising such standards as “Here’s That Rainy Day,” “If I had You” and the title track.” She has also performed on five compilation albums and released five albums with the Bitchin’ Babes. She has just completed “4+1” Music Inspired by The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. Folk lovers may remember a 17 year old McDonough opening for such acts in the 70’s as John Denver, Steve Martin and Harry Chapin. But McDonough classifies her music as folk/cabaret, citing her love of theatre and jazz as the reason for the unusual mix. Born in Illinois, McDonough was one of nine theatrically inclined children. Her Irish-Catholic parents both had careers in the performing arts. She wrote her first song at 11 and was inspired to play the guitar and sing after watching The Beatles on Ed Sullivan. Ever since, her mantra,” Live to sing and Love to Sing” has guided this wife and mother from Chicago.

For America's Traveling Salesman It Has Been a Laughing Matter

When: 3/21/2012 - 7:00pm
Where: Lena Area Historical Museum 427 W Grove St. Lena, IL, 61048-9306
Price: Free. Open to the public.
Contact: For more information, please contact Gary Price, 815.369.4135.
http://www.prairie.org/

A Road Scholar Program by Ronald Solberg. America's traveling salesman humor is a genre unto itself, in that it is both utilitarian and entertaining, filling literally dozens of turn-of-the-century pamphlets and books. The jokes and the news he carried were a way for the salesman to ingratiate himself to the customer. Salesmen jokes tell us a lot about these knights (and ladies) of the road, as well as a lot about ourselves and changing mores. This 200 years-worth of humor has been gathered from the stacks of the Library of Congress, Smithsonian, and Chicago's Newberry Library.

Genealogy Session

On Saturday, March 24, from 10 a.m. to 12noon the Nordic Family Genealogy Center will discuss the book The Emigrants by Vilhelm Moberg, a story that follows the hardships of a group of Swedes who emigrate to Minnesota in the 19th century.  Use these cold winter nights to read (or reread) this book and talk about your views on it at this genealogy session.  Perhaps share stories of the emigrants in your family too.  To learn more about the Nordic Family Genealogy Center, please visit http://www.swedishamericanmuseum.org/genealogy/ . You may also e-mail genealogy@samac.org or call the Museum at 773.728.8111 and leave a message for the Genealogy Center volunteer.  

Ralph Stanley & the Clinch Mountain Boys

When: March 24, 2012
Where: College of DuPage Arts Center, Glen Ellen, IL
Price: PRICE
Contact:
http://drralphstanleymusic.com/

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The Red Rose Ragtime Band

Presented by Deno Buralli Jr.. Description: Formed in 1981 by percussionist Mike Schwimmer and pianist/arranger Joan Reynolds, the band specializes in ragtime for the 7-piece jazz band format and their concerts present a potpourri of musical Americana, straight from the roots of our animated musical heritage - ragtime, blues, and jazz, as well as pop selections from the 1920's thru the 1930's.  Violinist Will Ejzak-Reynolds will join pianist Joan Reynolds for some piano/violin duets during the program. redrosejazz.com

Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder

<>Future Ricky Skaggs gigs:
5/04/2012 Showtime: TBA Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder Shipshewana, IN Shipshewana Town Center 760 S. Van Buren St. Shipshewana, IN  46565; for info & tickets:  www.bluegaterestaurant.com

The Del McCoury Band

For 50 years, Del McCoury's music has defined authenticity for hardcore bluegrass fans. A living link to when bluegrass was made in hillbilly honky tonks, schoolhouse shows and at the Grand Ole Opry, Del remains a vital presence today performing at alternative music festivals and experimenting with the form while retaining it's classic nature. 2011 marks Del McCoury’s 52nd year of performing. At the age of 67, McCoury is at the height of his game, and has become a major force in bringing bluegrass to a wider audience. McCoury -- along with his band -- has won more International Bluegrass Music Association awards than any other artist in the genre’s history with a total of nearly 40 individual and group citations from the IBMA--including a whopping nine “Entertainer Of The Year” honors, and has been nominated for six Grammys. His love for life and this music is contagious. Regularly drawing SRO crowds which run the gamut from tie-dyed’n’ patchouli neo-hippie jammers to button-down Yuppies to suspendered good ol’ boys, The Del McCoury Band may well boast the broadest, most inclusive fan base this side of the Grateful Dead. They are undeniably one of the most talented, revered and vital groups in bluegrass history (and one of the most potent bands in any field today). There’s no doubt that celebrating 50 Years of Del McCoury is just that -- a delightful retrospective -- but it’s no swan song. Del’s already said it himself, and said it best in one of his own songs, co-written with country hit writer (and second generation bluegrass musician) Harley Allen, “Don’t ever let it be said darling, that what I do don’t bring me joy.” www.delmccouryband.com . Future Del McCoury Band gigs:
• TBA

+ April 2012 +

Corky Siegel's Chamber Blues

http://www.artsland.org/About/Facilities.asp Corky Siegel has earned an international reputation as one of the world’s great blues harmonica masters. He’s played with blues masters such as Willie Dixon, Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf. His newest project, Chamber Blue’s, blends classical and blues styles in a chamber music setting.

WORKSHOP - Making Shaker Oval Boxes with John Wilson

Master the fine points of making Shaker oval boxes with expert woodworker John Wilson during this day-and-a-half program. Each participant constructs a nest of five oval boxes. Workshop fee includes three meals, instruction, materials and use of tools. Attendees receive 10% off overnight rooms at The Inn at Shaker Village!

The History of Science, as told by Mark Twain

When: 4/23/2012, - 12:00am
Where: Peoria Civic Center, 201 SW Jefferson Ave., Peoria, IL, 61602-1423
Price: Free. Open to the public.
Contact: For more information, please contact Joan Root Ericksen, 309.246.8403.
http://www.prairie.org/

A Road Scholar Program by Warren Brown. Mark Twain said "Inventors are the creators of the world-after God." This presentation is a first-person Chautauqua style program by Warren Brown as Mark Twain. You will journey on water, land, and air sharing insights from the "Diaries of Adam and Eve" to friendships with inventors and thoughts about Galileo and Newton. "I have found out there ain't no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them."--Mark Twain. Sponsor Organization: Sun Foundation.

=== May 2012 ===

JD Crowe and The New South

When: Sat, May 05 | 7:30 pm
Where: Price: $24 - Zone 1 $20 - Zone 2 $12 – Youth
Contact: Office: 641.472.2000; Fax: 641.472.7890 Email: info@fairfieldacc.com
http://www.jdcrowe.net/

IBMA's Hall of Fame member Crowe has been one of the most influential and progressive superstars during the past 5 decades.  When it comes to J. D. Crowe & The New South, no other word but "legendary" will do. With a compelling blend of youth and experience, tradition and bold creativity, this is a band as close to the heart of bluegrass today has ever been. J.D. Crowe and the New South are among the most influential bluegrass bands of the past three decades, with a visionary sound that suggests both a rich past and a wide-open future. Bluegrass that is inventive and relevant to modern audiences while still resonating with the music's deeply held sense of heritage is as rare as it is thrilling.
Future JD Crowe and The New South gigs:
6/15-16/2012, Bean Blossom Bluegrass Festival, Bill Monroe Memorial Park, Bean Blossom, IN
9/21-22/2012, Uncle Pen Days Festival, Bill Monroe Memorial Park, Bean Blossom, IN

Corky Siegel's Chamber Blues, with Megon McDonough

Corky Siegel has earned an international reputation as one of the world's great blues harmonica masters. He is a composer, blues pianist, singer / songwriter, and recent winner of the Lila Wallace/Reader's Digest/Meet the Composer's national award for chamber music composition and the Illinois Arts Council Fellowship Award for Music Composition. Corky Siegel's career began when he formed the legendary Siegel-Schwall Band that toured the major rock palaces and clubs in the ’60s and ’70s, performing with blues masters such as Willie Dixon, Little Walter, Muddy Waters, and Howlin' Wolf.  Since then, Siegel has written and performed works for Arthur Fiedler and the San Francisco Symphony, the National Symphony Orchestra, and collaborated with many orchestras around the world. His latest symphonic work, Blues for a Green Planet - Opus 10, was commissioned and performed with the Grant Park Symphony in Chicago, his second commission from that orchestra. Siegel's newest project Chamber Blues, with the West End String Quartet and Frank Donaldson on world percussion, blends classical and blues styles in a chamber music setting.

=== June 2012 ===

Stephen A. Douglas: The Little Giant

When: 06/18/2012 - 7:00pm
Where: Centralia Area Historical Society & Museum 240 S Locust St Centralia, IL, 62801-9120
Price: Free. Open to the public.
Contact: For more information, please contact Becky Ault, 618.545.0657.
http://www.prairie.org/

A Road Scholar Program by Timothy Connors. This country's most well-known politician in 1858, Senator Stephen A. Douglas, is best remembered for clashing with an upstart prairie lawyer in the Lincoln-Douglas Debates. Explore the important role this bombastic and eloquent speaker played in our nation's capital during the years leading up to the Civil War.

=== July 2012 ===

=== August 2012 ===

Once I Had an Old Banjo

When: 8/04/2012 - 2:00pm
Where: St. Paul United Church of Christ Grounds 1319 N 1720th Ave Fowler, IL, 62338-1016
Price: Free. Open to the public.
Contact: For more information, please contact Sherry Sparks, 217.440.6275.
http://www.prairie.org/

A Road Scholar Program by Mark Dvorak. Join Mark Dvorak for a program packed with stories about the origin and evolution of this uniquely American instrument. Hear samples from the historic minstrel show era, songs and stories from old time mountain traditions, as well as samples from masters of the banjo, from Pete Seeger to Earl Scruggs. Sponsor Organization:  Paloma Unit HCE

~~ September 2012 ~~

36th annual Bill Monroe’s Bluegrass Hall Of Fame & Uncle Pen Days Festival

All acts and times subject to change. Don't forget to bring your lawn chairs.  All shows rain or shine. No refunds or rainchecks. No ATV's, or off road vehicles are allowed. No glass bottles, alcohol or pets are allowed in the concert area. Thank you. Festival offers food, vendors, flea market and camping on site.

Mississinewa 1812

t was the morning of December 18, 1812, the morning of the Battle of the Mississinewa.  Above the sound of fighting, smell of gunpowder and feel of death rose one of the most significant chapters in the War of 1812 and dramatic moments in the history of Grant County, Indiana. The largest War of 1812 Living History event in the US. The event features American and British camps, Indian Village and Rivertown where over 140 sutlers, artisans, food purveyors and folk musicians offer their wares, food and songs.  Battle re-enactments are held daily.  Over 30,000 annual visitors. Handicap accessible. No pets allowed; assist animals only. Free Shuttle Bus (Sat. & Sun. only) from Justice Middle School, 720 N. Miller Ave., Marion, Indiana.