44th Annual Middlebury Festival on the Green July-9-15 2023!
Kaleta got his start in the late 70s performing in church and was soon after picked up by iconic Juju master and world music pioneer King Sunny Ade. A few years later Fela Kuti came calling. Kaleta would go on to tour the world playing guitar for the King of Afrobeat in his storied band Egypt 80 through the 1980s and into the 1990s. Now based in New York City, Kaleta has been leading Super Yamba Band since 2017. The members of Super Yamba Band have honed their craft performing with a diverse range of artists including David Byrne, Rubblebucket, Yeasayer, and Between The Buried And Me, to name a few. Collaborating over several years with Senegalese griot and talking drum master Modou Mbenge, known best for his work with African pop star Abdou Guite Seck, was a defining moment in the development of Super Yamba's sound and the musician's understanding of the African music tradition.
We love Tom Verner! He is a national treasure living right here in Addison County. Magician Tom Verner’s Magicians Without Borders performs magic shows for children in refugee camps, orphanages and hospitals around the world – often in war torn places where love, laughter and magic are desperately needed. Tom says, “I like to think that the magic brings not only laughter and surprise, but on some deeper level perhaps, magic plants seeds of hope. Hope that the impossible is possible. Hope that after years of waiting in refugee camps, the waiting will end and the people will go home again.” Since 2002, Magicians Without Borders has traveled to over thirty countries using magic to entertain, educate and empower.”
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Monday July 11th 6:00-6:40
Community Sing led by Moira Smiley & Sadie Danforth |
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Bruce Molsky is one of the most revered “multi-hyphenated career” ambassadors for America’s old-time mountain music. For decades he’s been a globetrotting performer and educator, a recording artist with an expansive discography including seven solo albums, and well over a dozen collaborations including two Grammy nominations. He’s also the classic “musician’s musician” – a man who’s received high praise from diverse fans and collaborators like Linda Ronstadt, Mark Knopfler, Celtic giants Donal Lunny and Andy Irvine, jazzer Bill Frisell, and dobro master Jerry Douglas.
"An incredible power of history and tradition in his vocal" - Linda Ronstadt
"It is no exaggeration to say that Bruce Molsky is one of the greatest American fiddlers of all time. His playing is mesmerizing and transporting, and best experienced live" - WBUR (Boston NPR)
"An incredible power of history and tradition in his vocal" - Linda Ronstadt
"It is no exaggeration to say that Bruce Molsky is one of the greatest American fiddlers of all time. His playing is mesmerizing and transporting, and best experienced live" - WBUR (Boston NPR)
Monday July 11th 8:30pm
Rani Arbo & daisy mayhem
Rani Arbo & daisy mayhem
Harmony, rhythm, and indelible songs have been the hallmarks of Rani Arbo & daisy mayhem for two decades and counting. From the Newport Folk Festival to Solid Sound and beyond, this Americana quartet delivers wit, camaraderie, and pure musicality to renew the human spirit. Their sound is “tight, with stylish, unexpected choices” (Acoustic Guitar), a mix of New Orleans grooves, old-time gospel harmonies, bluesy swing fiddle, fiery electric and acoustic guitar, and junk percussion. Their lockstep harmonies shake the rafters or hush the room, and their originals, wild card covers and traditional tunes plumb the human condition with joie de vivre. “Rani Arbo & daisy mayhem dig deep into their collective souls, finding joy in the moment, peace in the harmonies, and rapture in the rhythmic drive.” (The Hartford Courant).
Tuesday July 12th Noon Brown Bag
Mimealot
Mimealot
Chris Yerlig was first with us in 2019. We are thrilled to have him return this year.
“One of the funniest…captures the hearts of our audiences…timing and rhythms are flawless…maintains the children’s attention whether they are 3 or 13…..you can’t take your eyes off him. ” K.L. Providence Children’s Museum, RI
“An outstanding artist who performs his craft flawlessly and dazzles the audience. By far one of the best.” Long Island Fair, NY
Chris has had the privilege of performing all over the world since his European beginnings in France, Spain and England. He now makes his home in New England, and travels all over the US and the world. Other countries he has performed in are Bangladesh, Benin & Cameroon (in Africa), Canada, China, Curaçao, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, India, Japan, Morocco, and Switzerland.
“One of the funniest…captures the hearts of our audiences…timing and rhythms are flawless…maintains the children’s attention whether they are 3 or 13…..you can’t take your eyes off him. ” K.L. Providence Children’s Museum, RI
“An outstanding artist who performs his craft flawlessly and dazzles the audience. By far one of the best.” Long Island Fair, NY
Chris has had the privilege of performing all over the world since his European beginnings in France, Spain and England. He now makes his home in New England, and travels all over the US and the world. Other countries he has performed in are Bangladesh, Benin & Cameroon (in Africa), Canada, China, Curaçao, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, India, Japan, Morocco, and Switzerland.
Tuesday July 12th 7:00pm
Vermont Folklife Center Traditional Arts Showcase
Vermont Folklife Center Traditional Arts Showcase
In 2022 the Vermont Folklife Center is celebrating 30 years of innovation in tradition in their Vermont Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Program (VTAAP). In the words of program founder Greg Sharrow, "the making of art is an irrepressible force that is true of everyone!" VTAAP works to create opportunities for traditional arts in Vermont communities to grow and thrive, helping to shape identity and support both individual and community wellbeing.
An apprenticeship is a face-to-face learning opportunity where a master artist passes on their skills to one or more apprentices through hands-on work. During the past 30 years, Vermont Folklife Center has supported over 350 apprenticeships representing everything from the arts of native Abenaki and of English, French, Polish and Irish immigrants, to those of Lao, Somali Bantu, Congolese, Bosnian, Tibetan and Bhutanese Nepali refugee communities.
Anniversary festivities are taking place throughout 2022 including at the 2022 Festival on the Green! The July 12th showcase highlights three virtuosic artists who have been involved with VTAAP over the years and have made major efforts to pass on their artistic mastery to the next generation:
An apprenticeship is a face-to-face learning opportunity where a master artist passes on their skills to one or more apprentices through hands-on work. During the past 30 years, Vermont Folklife Center has supported over 350 apprenticeships representing everything from the arts of native Abenaki and of English, French, Polish and Irish immigrants, to those of Lao, Somali Bantu, Congolese, Bosnian, Tibetan and Bhutanese Nepali refugee communities.
Anniversary festivities are taking place throughout 2022 including at the 2022 Festival on the Green! The July 12th showcase highlights three virtuosic artists who have been involved with VTAAP over the years and have made major efforts to pass on their artistic mastery to the next generation:
- Migmar Tsering - Migmar plays traditional Tibetan music on the dranyen, a long-necked, seven-stringed instrument. Born in Tibet, brought up in India, and a Vermonter since 2011, Tsering is a singer, songwriter, musician, composer, and Tibetan dance instructor. He is the founder of the Rolyang Lobling school (in English, “music class”) where he has worked with dozens of apprentices to make Tibetan music and dance happen in Vermont.
- Pete Sutherland - Pete is a living legend of the traditional music and dance scene in Vermont, and is nationally recognized as a musician, composer, visual artist, writer, and storyteller. Within the apprenticeship program he has worked with multiple students to share his knowledge of Franco-American fiddling, Vermont song and fiddle repertoire, and most recently, contra dance piano accompaniment with Emmett Stowell of Waitsfield, VT who will join him on the FOG stage.
- Shyam Nepali - Hailing from the centuries old Gandharba musical tradition of Nepal, Shyam has enjoyed an almost 30 year long career bringing the sounds of the Nepali Sarangi (described as "the wooden bird that can fly") to audiences around the world. Shyam has filled a very unique and important role in the Sarangi tradition of Nepal, expanding on the work of his Grandfather, Magar Gaine, and his father, Ram Sharan Nepali, legendary Sarangi players who broke new ground on the world of Sarangi playing, with their technical and artistic innovations to the instrument. Since 2018 Shyam has been working with apprentices within the Bhutanese-Nepali community in Burlington, planting the seeds of a new generation of Vermont sarangi players.
Awarded the OPUS prize for “Discovery of the Year 2017-2018”, among many other accolades since their first album release in 2017, this trio has been winning over the hearts of listeners worldwide, young and old alike. É.T.É are Élisabeth (fiddle, step-dancing, vocals), Thierry (bouzouki, podorythmie, vocals), and Élisabeth (cello, vocals). The word été in French means summer–a fitting tribute to how their original, lively take on Québec traditional music is infused with a new vitality.
With lovely vocal harmonies, deep groove, and rich instrumentation, É.T.É are an explosive trio on stage, transforming the nostalgia of a kitchen party into an unforgettable show experience that celebrates the joie de vivre of Québecois culture.
Wednesday July 13th
Noon Brown Bag
No Strings Marionette Company presents:
Bully! For the Three Big Pigs
Noon Brown Bag
No Strings Marionette Company presents:
Bully! For the Three Big Pigs
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No Strings Marionette Company has been an anticipated part of our festival for years. Don't miss this Brown Bag performance. Puppeteers Dan Baginski and Barbara Paulson's traveling stage transforms any space into an intimate theater where the seamless blend of movement, music, and masterful manipulation captivates young and old alike. With puppeteers in full view, the audience sees how the puppets are brought to life. These Vermont artisans lovingly hand craft the marionettes, props and scenery, whether for an original tale or an adaptation of a classic. Shows begin with an interactive song featuring audience members, and finish with demonstrations sparked by the audiences' curious questions. Once the mind believes there are no strings...this realm becomes real...and the Adventure begins! This year they will present Bully! For the Three Big Pigs.
In No Strings Marionette Company's version of the classic tale a prolific painter, a sensational singer, and an
industrious architect are faced with the non-stop taunting of a puffed-up bully. As each pig deals with the pushy tactics of the Big Bad Wolf; Pablo Pigcasso, Beverly Swills and I.M. Pig each develop a more successful strategy to effectively deal with the Wolf's bullying behavior. A cast of hand crafted marionettes romp through an artist's studio, an opera stage, and the problem solving mind of a builder of buildings, providing a feast or the eyes, ears and imagination.
In No Strings Marionette Company's version of the classic tale a prolific painter, a sensational singer, and an
industrious architect are faced with the non-stop taunting of a puffed-up bully. As each pig deals with the pushy tactics of the Big Bad Wolf; Pablo Pigcasso, Beverly Swills and I.M. Pig each develop a more successful strategy to effectively deal with the Wolf's bullying behavior. A cast of hand crafted marionettes romp through an artist's studio, an opera stage, and the problem solving mind of a builder of buildings, providing a feast or the eyes, ears and imagination.
Wednesday July 13th 7:00pm
Full night with Radio Free Honduras
Full night with Radio Free Honduras
We're so happy this wonderful band will be with us this year! Radio Free Honduras is a diverse collective of Chicago musicians, all united under one goal – supporting the artistry of Charlie Baran and bringing this tremendous talent into the spotlight where it belongs. Founded by Dan Abu-Absi, longtime guitarist for JT and the Clouds and Birds of Chicago, Radio Free Honduras plays mostly Baran originals, but their live shows often include a wide variety of reimagined cover songs. This band provides Charlie with the wide musical pallet his talent (and songs) deserve. Abu-Absi has gathered a large, revolving collective of some of Chicago’s most talented musicians; lively percussion, eclectic instrumentation, and rich harmonies all provide the backdrop, allowing Charlie to do what he does best – stunning guitar work, tapping into what seems a limitless supply of energy and enthusiasm for music.
“Traditional Honduran music with Rhumbas, Los Lobos inspired rock, and south of the border soul. Baran has made a record that feels right at home as a summer sound-track for Chicago’s eclectic Latin neighborhoods.” (Illinois Entertainer)
“Traditional Honduran music with Rhumbas, Los Lobos inspired rock, and south of the border soul. Baran has made a record that feels right at home as a summer sound-track for Chicago’s eclectic Latin neighborhoods.” (Illinois Entertainer)
We love Jon Gailmor and welcome him back to our stage. Jon has been playing at Middlebury Festival on the Green for over 25 years! Children of all ages love his show and are engaged until the last note.
“Jon's way with an audience is nothing short of genius. He had us in stitches and in tears, with a seamless array of humor, nostalgia, and especially wisdom. One comes away from Jon's house concert with a renewed dedication to the things we value. We are all encouraged to be a little more of who we are when we're with Jon.”
— Jean Eisele, Edmonds, WA
“Gailmor's ability to wrap his powerful and versatile voice around the cleverly-written lyrics and tunes he creates has amazed and delighted audiences for years. Along with musical talent and a sharp intelligence, he has considerable personal charm, capturing his listeners in the palm of his hand, and keeping them there throughout a performance.” — Martha Slater, Rochester, VT
“Jon's way with an audience is nothing short of genius. He had us in stitches and in tears, with a seamless array of humor, nostalgia, and especially wisdom. One comes away from Jon's house concert with a renewed dedication to the things we value. We are all encouraged to be a little more of who we are when we're with Jon.”
— Jean Eisele, Edmonds, WA
“Gailmor's ability to wrap his powerful and versatile voice around the cleverly-written lyrics and tunes he creates has amazed and delighted audiences for years. Along with musical talent and a sharp intelligence, he has considerable personal charm, capturing his listeners in the palm of his hand, and keeping them there throughout a performance.” — Martha Slater, Rochester, VT
Reggie Harris is a musician, storyteller and educator who has been a vibrant force in musical, educational and historical circles for over 35 years. Steeped in the tradition of African American spirituals, folk, gospel, rock and the music of civil and human rights, Reggie’s writing, research, field work and recordings have amassed an amazing repertoire of African American music, blending spirituals and freedom songs, the old with the new. A songwriter of great depth and passion, Reggie’s songs reveal thoughts about life and love and some of the deep aspects of the human experience and cover topics from his own personal journey to world issues and history.
“…The Carter Family for the millennial generation……” – The Boston Globe
“If you like your bluegrass served with a little punch, attitude, grit and gravy … Damn Tall Buildings will slide in nice as a welcome edition to your listening rotation.
Bluegrass at heart, but pulling from a wide range of influences including swing, ragtime, jazz, and even a hint of contemporary perspective in the songwriting, they offer virtually unmatched energy and enthusiasm, underpinned by intelligent songs that don’t skimp on the infectiousness…” – Savingcountrymusic.com
“If you like your bluegrass served with a little punch, attitude, grit and gravy … Damn Tall Buildings will slide in nice as a welcome edition to your listening rotation.
Bluegrass at heart, but pulling from a wide range of influences including swing, ragtime, jazz, and even a hint of contemporary perspective in the songwriting, they offer virtually unmatched energy and enthusiasm, underpinned by intelligent songs that don’t skimp on the infectiousness…” – Savingcountrymusic.com
Friday July 15th
Noon Brown Bag
Middlebury Community Center's Steel Drum Camp Band
We welcome Middlebury Music Center’s Steel Drum Camp for this Brown Bag concert. Through drumming and singing they will present Caribbean music and culture. Working together as an ensemble they will create thier own musical production on steel drums from Trinidad.
Noon Brown Bag
Middlebury Community Center's Steel Drum Camp Band
We welcome Middlebury Music Center’s Steel Drum Camp for this Brown Bag concert. Through drumming and singing they will present Caribbean music and culture. Working together as an ensemble they will create thier own musical production on steel drums from Trinidad.
Friday July 15th 7:00pm
Oshima Brothers
Oshima Brothers magnetic sibling sound and contagious joy result from a lifetime of making music together.Raised in a musical family in rural Maine, the brothers have honed a harmony-rich blend of contemporary folk and acoustic pop. On stage, Sean and Jamie create a surprisingly full sound with dynamic vocals, electric and acoustic guitars, octave bass, loops, and percussion. The brothers live in Maine but are often on the road performing, producing music videos, and dancing.
“Sean and Jamie are two of the most inspirational people I've met. They perform a roots-based pop sound that is infectious and fun, and even though a little wistful, this song gets in your head and won't let go.” -- Chris Wienk, WEXT
“’Online’ comes into play with sauntering swagger, the Oshima Brothers taking more blues-centric melodies into their fold… Musically, the song dances somewhere between influences ranging from John Mayer to This Wild Life, with alternative folk production melding with more of a contemporary rhythmic strut.” -- Popmatters
Oshima Brothers
Oshima Brothers magnetic sibling sound and contagious joy result from a lifetime of making music together.Raised in a musical family in rural Maine, the brothers have honed a harmony-rich blend of contemporary folk and acoustic pop. On stage, Sean and Jamie create a surprisingly full sound with dynamic vocals, electric and acoustic guitars, octave bass, loops, and percussion. The brothers live in Maine but are often on the road performing, producing music videos, and dancing.
“Sean and Jamie are two of the most inspirational people I've met. They perform a roots-based pop sound that is infectious and fun, and even though a little wistful, this song gets in your head and won't let go.” -- Chris Wienk, WEXT
“’Online’ comes into play with sauntering swagger, the Oshima Brothers taking more blues-centric melodies into their fold… Musically, the song dances somewhere between influences ranging from John Mayer to This Wild Life, with alternative folk production melding with more of a contemporary rhythmic strut.” -- Popmatters
CFI ~ The finest VT musicians exploring the common language of funk, jazz, reggae, blues & rock at a level that is very, very high indeed…both vocal and instrumental. CFI is: George Petit on guitars, John Rivers on electric bass, Geza Carr on drums and Mike Hartigan on keyboards. Also, Connor Young, Avery Cooper, Nate Reit, Jake Whitesall and Rob Debruyn. The evening's concert will be performed with a full 9 piece band including a four-piece horn section. They brought the house down at thier recent 2022 Burlington Discover Jazz Festival appearance. Come dance and hear what fans are raving about!
The Street Dance returns with the Vermont Jazz Ensemble!
Saturday July 16th 7:00pm
Saturday July 16th 7:00pm
Since 1984, our capstone event has been the Street Dance, featuring big-band selections by the always-popular Vermont Jazz Ensemble. The Vermont Jazz Ensemble is a 17 member instrumental music group that performs music, most of which is in the jazz or big band style. This is a wonderful event for the whole family. For many years Jim Condon taught dance instructions at the street dance. Jim sadly past away last month. Sarah King is stepping in to teach some steps at this year's dance. We will be honoring Jim and all he meant to the festival and the dance community.
Main street will be closed from Merchants Row to the post office for the dance.
Main street will be closed from Merchants Row to the post office for the dance.
