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Staying Local

We're nearing the end of festival season. Mount Airy, Clifftop and Galax have all come and gone. Yet another year that I've stayed home. One of these days I'll get to one of those bigger events. Meanwhile, I made a brief appearance this weekend at my favorite local festival: Raccoon County.

Our hero jamming with friends.
The Raccoon County Music Festival occurs every August at the Geauga County Century Village Museum in Burton, Ohio. There were a variety of musical acts on two stages, from polka to old-time, as well as some workshops and a square dance at the end of the day.

Throughout the grounds, people toured the historical buildings and played games, while others gathered to play music. With only a couple hours to spare, I tested out my new banjo setup among live victims (other than my wife and dog). It's hard to believe it's been more than two months since I've played my banjo with others.

My local banjo hero, Mark Olitsky, gave a workshop later in the day, but sadly I couldn't stay that long to attend. Hopefully, he'll be hosting another session at the upcoming Kent State Folk Festival (now called the 'Round Town Festival for whatever reason) in September.

This week, there's still more for the old-time music fan in Northeast Ohio, as Frank Fairfield plays the Beachland Tavern tomorrow at 8:30. Admission is $10.

If you keep an eye out, you can find plenty of good banjo times in your our own neck of the woods. Pick a good one.
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