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Music
Performers present a wide variety of music from traditional folk and blue grass to gospel and Jewish Klezmer. Featured performers have appeared throughout the United States and on many international stages. They bring to the Festival an authentic and nostalgic appeal reflecting a kinder and gentler time in America’s past. Most music is acoustic and presents an excellent opportunity for families to introduce children to a type of music and instruments they have never seen. Featured performers include:
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NEW BARLEYCORN- N.E. Ohio’s beloved Irish entertainers bring vitality, passion and humor to their music. Having appeared around the world from Ireland to Australia, New Barleycorn will be appearing Sunday with their blend of contemporary Irish folk and traditional Celtic music. thenewbarleycorn.com |
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YIDDISHE CUP- A perennial Festival favorite, Yiddishe Cup brings the unique sound of Jewish Klezmer music to the Heritage Festival. Acclaimed as an “Ohio Treasure” by the Ohio Arts Council, Yiddishe Cup has been described as sounding “like jazz with 11 herbs and spices added” or Eastern European Jewish Folk music and American Swing. Yiddishe Cup has appeared throughout North America keeping alive the music from the Yiddish culture nearly obliterated by the Holocaust. Yiddishecup.com |
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WARD AND BENCE- are best described as “authentic.” Kendra Ward and Bob Bence have traveled coast to coast and appeared on international stages throughout England, Scotland and Wales. Kendra’s a master on the hammered dulcimer and her music reflects the strong bond between her Appalachian past and contemporary audiences. She is recognized as one of the most creative and technically gifted hammered dulcimer players in the world. Bob Bence joined Kendra in 1983 and has been her partner ever since bringing both his guitar and hilarious sense of humor to their performances. Dulcimer Times.com |
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STEVE FREE- Winner of the 2008 Governor Awards for the Arts Individual Artist category, Steve Free is an internationally known singer/ song writer. He is the consummate story teller, using his music to bring together audiences in the spirit of love of family and respect for the land. Free is one of the top American folk/country artists on European radio, has produced a platinum record and topped the charts with both Billboard and Cashbox. His unique performances reflect both his Appalachian and Native American roots and leaves no one in the audience untouched. stevefree.com |
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ELIXIR- Considered an “Ohio Treasure” by the Ohio Arts Council, Elixir’s popularity and uniqueness is based on their ability to take traditional songs of America 1800 and twist them around contemporary beats. Imagine a Beach Boy’s version of “Skip to My Lou” or the Doors singing “Old McDonald” and it becomes evident why this group is so popular. Their music combines bluegrass, jazz, rock, reggae, country and folk. They also add a touch of Smothers Brothers style comedy, fun props and the history of America’s musical heritage to make every show standing room only . Elixirsings.com ] |
