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A Hiatus Before Festival Season

Things got busy. That's why you haven't heard from me. That's also why my banjo and fiddle have sat dormant for about two months. All of a sudden I feel the urge to get back into the musical habit as several local festivals are on the horizon. 

Between family, work, kids activities, a vacation, a death in the family and just the general schedule glut of summertime, I haven't found the time to play music lately. But I'm itching to get back to it. Thankfully, the upcoming Music in the Valley festival provides some much-needed motivation to resharpen my skills. 

Music in the Valley

The first event on deck is the annual Music in the Valley festival July 8-9 at Hale Farm in Bath, Ohio. This has been an excellent opportunity to play old-time music with others from my region. However, this year is getting a boost with Cleveland-based fiddler Paul Kirk assisting the programs manager to add instrumental highlights for banjo, fiddle and mountain dulcimer, as well as a fiddler workshop focused on the repertoire of Ward Jarvis. Musicians get in free through Folknet entrance, otherwise you're paying for wine tastings through the main doors. 

Raccoon County Music Festival

I was happy to see that the Raccoon County Music Festival is returning Aug. 12 at Century Village in Burton, Ohio. After the pandemic, this event seemed like it was in danger of being discontinued. I've always loved this festival. I missed it last year, but I'm looking forward to returning this year. 

Music Along the River

Last year was my first time attending Music Along the River, or MATR as it's lovingly referred to by its supporters, and I'm hoping to go again. Details for the event have not yet been announced, as there remains heavy construction at the festival grounds in Harpersfield, Ohio. The famed covered bridge at the site has been removed for renovation for more than a year, making accessibility a challenge. I'll be sure to update this post when more information is available. 

I hope your summer banjo plans are full of fun. Pick a tune that makes you smile. Cheers! 

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