folk Archives | Mariposa Folk Festival and Foundation

Mandolin Orange Added to the 60th Anniversary Lineup

Posted on February 25, 2020

Mariposa Folk Festival has announced the addition of Mandolin Orange to the 60th anniversary artistic lineup.

This Americana roots duo has helped to redefine the genre for a younger generation, blending storytelling with acoustic elements of bluegrass, folk and country, and amassing an impressive fan base through live shows and online streaming.

Festival Artistic Director, Liz Scott, says she “…first saw Mandolin Orange at the Ann Arbor Folk Festival five years ago when the husband and wife team was in their mid-twenties, and fell in love with their intimate harmonies and sweet-toned folk and bluegrass-tinged vibes.”

Scott added, “Now their songs are at the top of playlists everywhere and they’re loved by audiences of all ages, and they’re bringing their full band to Mariposa.”

Mariposa Folk Festival previously announced that John Prine and Mavis Staples will perform on the festival Main Stage, and has, so far, unveiled about 2/3 of the artists that will perform at the 60th anniversary festival. More exciting lineup announcements will be made in the coming weeks.

The three-day Mariposa Folk Festival takes place July 3-5, 2020, in Orillia, Ontario, on more than ten stages, and features top folk-roots music presentation, along with presentations of story, dance and craft.

All ticket categories are on sale. Kids 12 & under are admitted free. The festival has special pricing for youth and young adults. Onsite RV and tent camping is available.

John Prine Coming to Mariposa

Posted on November 7, 2019

Mariposa Folk Festival is kicking-off the announcements for this summer’s lineup with a very big bang.

The rare talent, true original and revered songwriter, John Prine, has signed-on to help celebrate the 60th anniversary of Mariposa Folk Festival taking place July 3-5, 2020.

Prine is one of the most often requested artists by festival attendees and has been high on Mariposa’s artistic wish list for many years.

Artistic Director, Liz Scott, exclaimed, “Few artists have achieved the significance of this rare talent and true original, and his fans are absolutely devout. I am thrilled to welcome John Prine to the Mariposa Main Stage this year, on the heels of another award-winning, highly-acclaimed album.”

Mariposa Folk Foundation President and Festival Chair, Pam Carter, stated, “It’s our 60th anniversary festival, and presenting music icon John Prine is a wonderful way proclaim Mariposa’s storied past”. Carter added, “Our programming will also reflect Mariposa’s importance on Canada’s music scene as a contemporary folk festival”.

The three-day Mariposa Folk Festival features more than ten stages of top folk-roots music, along with presentations of story, dance and craft. All ticket categories are on sale. Kids 12 & under are admitted free. The festival has special pricing for youth and young adults. Onsite RV and tent camping is available.

Rich DelGrosso – Mariposa Talks Interview

Posted on February 4, 2017

In this Mariposa Talks interview, Rich DelGrosso, bluesman and mandolin player, reveals how important the mandolin was in the early development of the blues, and explains how a visit the Mariposa Folk Festival many years ago changed his life.

Here’s another video of Rich DelGrosso your enjoyment:

Rich DelGrosso demonstrating blues mandolin basics in the key of G:

Bruce Cockburn Joins the Mariposa Lineup

Posted on December 8, 2016

For Immediate Release
December 8th, 2016

BRUCE COCKBURN JOINS THE MARIPOSA LINEUP

Orillia, Ontario, Canada – Mariposa Folk Festival is proud to announce that one of Canada’s finest artists, Bruce Cockburn, is returning to Mariposa after a long absence. The renowned singer-songwriter and revered guitarist was a regular performer at Mariposa Folk Festival during its Toronto Island years, making six appearances during that period following his 1968 Mariposa debut.

Bruce Cockburn’s artistry is deeply influenced by politics, spirituality, and musical diversity. His music transcends folk, jazz, rock, and worldbeat, and his memorable songs are inspired by personal observations and experiences in places like Guatemala, Mali, Mozambique, and Nepal. Cockburn has earned many awards during his career, from Officer of the Order of Canada, honourary degrees, and humanitarian awards, to twelve Junos.

According to Artistic Director, Mike Hill, “Bruce Cockburn is an artistic director’s dream. He is a highly respected, much loved, very talented artist whose work is consistently original, relevant and of the highest integrity. He’s also a fantastic performer. It just doesn’t get any better than that.”

Mariposa Folk Festival takes place July 7th, 8th and 9th, in beautiful Tudhope Park in Orillia, Ontario, Canada, on the shores of scenic Lake Couchiching. The 3-day festival features the best folk-roots music on the North American scene on twelve stages, as well as story, dance and craft. All categories of tickets are now on sale at the best available price. Kids 12 & under are admitted free. Tent and RV camping is available at the festival site.

Mariposa organizers previously announced that Matt Andersen is on the artistic roster for this year’s festival. Another big name artist will be announced in the coming days.

James Hill – Mariposa Talks Interview

Posted on November 14, 2016

In this interview for the Mariposa Talks series, ukulele maestro James Hill tells us why he chose the ukulele over the violin (it was more fun), talks about some exciting new directions he’s taken in his latest album, and addresses the question of whether the name of his instrument should be pronounced “yuke-a-laylee” or “ook-oo-laylee.”

Here’s some live performance videos of James Hill for your enjoyment:

Voodoo Child (Hendrix Ukulele Cover)
Billie Jean (Michael Jackson Cover)

Every Child Gets to Join-In with Sing Along Tim

Posted on May 30, 2015

singAlongTim A vocal explorer who pushes the boundaries of her voice, Teresa Doyle experiments with new vocal colours, extended vocal techniques, and vocal textures from other cultures.

Her exploration has taken her around the world singing with Kenyan farm women, a Japanese lute player, Tibetan overtone singers, soca musicians from Tobago, improvisers in New York, South Indian yogis, traditional Gaelic singers in Ireland, and folk musicians everywhere from the Yukon Territory to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The repertoire of this gifted artist reflects her meandering musical journey but is always firmly rooted in the Celtic music and stories of her native Prince Edward Island.

Vocal Explorer Teresa Doyle Coming to Mariposa

Posted on May 30, 2015

teresaDoyle A vocal explorer who pushes the boundaries of her voice, Teresa Doyle experiments with new vocal colours, extended vocal techniques, and vocal textures from other cultures.

The repertoire of this gifted artist reflects her meandering musical journey but is always firmly rooted in the Celtic music and stories of her native Prince Edward Island.

Griddle Pickers – Acoustic Country and Bluegrass

Posted on May 29, 2015

griddlepickers Acoustic country and bluegrass band, The Griddle Pickers is dedicated to producing organic, homegrown music steeped in the area’s diverse mix of musical traditions.

They’re a tight and close-knit group, with brothers Sean and Dale Patrick providing lightning-quick pickin’, supported by bassist Mike Milner and his guitar-strummin’ daughter, Sarah.

With vocal talent ranging from bass to soprano, all four members sing, blending their voices to create rich harmonies.

Playing traditional and original bluegrass, country and folk tunes, they’re willing to break the rules and take risks and produce delightful musical surprises.

They have been performing across the region, and were recently interviewed for Bluegrass Canada Magazine.

The Barrel Boys Churn Out Toe Tapping Tunes

Posted on May 20, 2015

barrelBoys Featuring luscious vocals and barn-burning instrumentals, The Barrel Boys are a new staple on the bluegrass scene.

Appreciated for their versatility and eclecticism, their repertoire ranges from bluegrass to classic country, old-time, folk, and roots rock.

Their debut full-length album of entirely original tunes features the superb song writing of all five members, and demonstrates the uniqueness of their sound while staying rooted in tradition.

Recorded live off the floor in the space of just a few days, it is both spontaneous and authentic sounding.

Always entertaining, these guys churn out toe-tapping tunes that pair perfectly with good times and discerning music fans.

RUNA – Bringing a Mystical, Lyrical, Exciting Sound to Mariposa

Posted on May 13, 2015

runa Recognized as one of Irish music’s new super-groups, RUNA has been enchanting audiences by pushing the boundaries of Irish folk music.

Interweaving the haunting melodies and exuberant tunes of Ireland and Scotland with the lush harmonies and intoxicating rhythms of bluegrass, flamenco, blues, and jazz, they offer a thrilling and redefining take on traditional music.

The group has been honoured internationally, winning Top Group and Top Traditional Group in the Irish Music Awards and an Independent Music Award for Best World/Traditional Song.

They combine vocals, step-dancing, guitar, percussion, mandolin, bodhrán, and fiddle for a sound that is at once mystical, lyrical, unique and exciting.

Charlie A’Court – Planted at the Crossroads of Roots and Soul

Posted on May 11, 2015

charlieacourt Planted at the crossroads of roots and soul, the mighty voice, fierce guitar work and contemporary song writing of Charlie A’Court connect with people, one emotion at a time.

He’s a country boy raised on classic R&B, soul, blues, rock and folk ranging from The Band and John Prine to Otis Redding and B.B. King.

Charlie is well known for his emotional delivery and strong stage presence, and for fearlessly bridging genres and challenging stylistic conventions.

He has toured extensively internationally both as a headlining performer or sharing the stage with greats like James Cotton, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, George Thorogood, Harry Manx, Martin Sexton, Delbert McClinton, Colin James and Dan Aykroyd.

Reuben And The Dark Making Their Mariposa Debut

Posted on May 8, 2015

reubenDark Reuben And The Dark is a collection of five multi-instrumentalists and vocalists that make chilling, emotive folk and soul driven by dark, introspective lyrics exploring the duality of misery and joy.

Boasting a rare chemistry between all of its members, the group has emerged from the independent music scene on the strength of strong compositions that translate emotion into song with haunting clarity.

Their debut album, Funeral Sky (2014), has been described as a “…rich, deep, mood-drenched, roots-rock record textured with hymns and hosanna…”

It was produced by Chris Hayden (Florence & the Machine) and Stephen Kozmeniuk (Madonna, Nicki Minaj, and The Game feat Kanye West).

Check out our Reuben And The Dark Pinterest Board.

Rick Fines: Veteran of the Blues and Folk Circuits

Posted on March 20, 2015

rickFines Rick Fines refuses to be pigeonholed.

Steeped in roots music, he crafts a unique blend of warm-hearted blues, juke joint folk, and dockside soul that both embraces and defies the genres.

A veteran of the North American blues and folk circuits, he engages audiences with captivating songs, diverse guitar styling and his signature vocal growl.

Rick’s storied career has seen him working in stellar collaboration and as a successful solo act.

First gaining attention as part of the legendary Jackson Delta, he’s since released four solo albums, another with his own Rick Fines Trio, and a critically acclaimed disc with fellow troubadour, Suzie Vinnick.

Reverend Robert Jones, Sr., Heading for Mariposa

Posted on January 27, 2015

robertJones Singer, storyteller and multi-instrumentalist, Reverend Robert Jones, Sr., uses folk, blues, spirituals and other American Roots music to champion the beauty and power of our shared culture.

A lifelong Detroiter, he has been performing professionally for nearly 30 years for festivals, schools, civil rights organizations and churches.

Rev. Jones grew up immersed in a wide variety of music, especially the blues.

By his mid-twenties, he was hosting an award-winning radio show called Blues From The Lowlands.

Although he is a respected traditional acoustic blues musician, Rev. Jones considers his greatest honor to be his call to the gospel ministry.

Now, he’s making his first Mariposa Folk Festival appearance.

My Sweet Patootie – Two Parts Exemplary Musicianship, One Part Vaudeville Comedy

Posted on May 22, 2014

This contemporary folk duo from Los Angeles sports a fresh sound with beautifully harmonized vocals, Acoustic roots group, My Sweet Patootie, brings twining vocal harmonies, monstrous finger style guitar, fiddle, percussion and abundant charisma together in one perfect package.

Complete with tall tales and corny jokes, they deliver a modern-day show that has been described as “two parts exemplary musicianship, one part vaudeville comedy”.

Their upbeat show is a carnival ride with good-time finger-snapping tunes and carefully placed heartfelt ballads.

Their vintage-style song writing is rooted in folk and Americana.

Throw in a penchant for light-hearted satire and a love of old-time artists, and you get a sound they liken to “Green Acres for the New Millennium”.

The Barr Brothers

Posted on May 8, 2014

barrBrothers After a decade of criss-crossing North America with their Boston-based improvisational rock trio, a fire in a Montréal club proved providential, leading Andrew and Brad Barr in a new musical direction.

On the street with what they could carry, they made friends with a waitress who would become their manager.

Then, after relocating to ‘La Métropole’, they linked-up musically with their new neighbour, harpist Sarah Page, and with multi-instrumentalist and composer, Andres Vial.

The Barr Brothers were formed.

A unique folk sound was also born, one that relies on interwoven string arrangements, wide open spaces, and a multitude of musical traditions.

Now they’re playing fantastic shows and making big waves on the music scene!

Check out our The Barr Brothers story board on Pinterest. While you’re there, click on Follow Board to get updates.

Folk-Pop-Electro-Jazz, Ukelele-Playing, Singer-Songwriter, JoJo Worthington

Posted on May 1, 2014

jojoWorthington Independent artist, JoJo Worthington, is a folk-pop-electro-jazz singer-songwriter who’s making a big impression with her original, catchy tunes.

Best known for singing and playing ukulele, she’s accomplished on the glockenspiel, melodica and other instruments too.

She started writing on guitar at the age of 14, then formed a band so her songs could be heard. By the time she was 16 she had gone solo.

JoJo has performed in Canada, the U.K., and even Hawaii, where she closed for legendary jazz saxophonist, Tom Scott, and ukulele virtuoso, Brittni Paiva.

Two songs on her most recent album have received substantial air play.

https://youtu.be/uncjDRz4-rs

Labour Songs Have Never Sounded Better: Maria Dunn Joins The Mariposa Line-Up

Posted on April 9, 2014

mariaDunn Often compared to Woody Guthrie for her keen social awareness and unvarnished tunes about the lives of working people, Maria Dunn draws deeply on the folk tradition of storytelling through song.

Melding North American roots music with her Scottish-Irish heritage, her music celebrates the resilience and grace of regular folk.

Her recordings have been received with high critical praise including Piece by Piece (2012), a collection of songs about the resilience and grace of immigrant women working at a Canadian clothing factory over its 93-year history.

Labour songs have a special place in folk music, and this gifted singer-songwriter, guitarist and accordionist, does the genre great justice.

Check out our Maria Dunn story board on Pinterest. While you’re there, click on Follow Board to get updates.

Zachary Lucky is Mariposa Bound

Posted on April 8, 2014

zacharyLucky Hearing Zachary Lucky’s songs, it would seem impossible to separate the singer-songwriter from his prairie origins.

Before finding folk music, this grandson of country music artist Smilin’ Johnny Lucky, was a member of two pop bands.

Still only in his mid 20s, Zachary Lucky already has six releases to his credit. On his latest release, The Ballad Of Losing You, there is an inherent shift. As the album title suggests, Lucky has constructed an earnest and personal narrative about the uncertainty of loss and of transformation.

According to No Depression, “Lucky’s songs have lived lifetimes. They sit you down, tell you their stories and heighten your senses to the wonders of nature, love and self”.

His voice is authentic and rich, with a rustic timbre. His guitar playing is easy and natural. It’s a perfect pairing for the particular brand of folk of this artist who is established, yet emerging as a true original.

Check out our Zachary Lucky story board on Pinterest. While you’re there, click on Follow Board to get updates.

Folk and Blues Rocker Keith Secola is Mariposa Bound

Posted on March 6, 2014

keithSecola A guitarist and aboriginal flute player, singer-songwriter, and music producer, Keith Secola is an accomplished folk and blues rocker.

His song, NDN KARS, which receives heavy play on aboriginal radio, is considered by many to be a contemporary Aboriginal American anthem.

Originally from the Mesabi Iron Range country of northern Minnesota and now residing in Arizona, this versatile Ojibwa artist has an audience that spreads from North America to Europe.

He’s a seven-time Native American Music Awards winner and an inductee into the Native American Music Awards Hall of Fame.

Critics have dubbed him the aboriginal version of Neil Young and Bruce Springsteen.

Check out our Keith Secola story board on Pinterest. While you’re there, click on Follow Board to get updates.