Roslindale Open Mike
2025-04-28 19:00 - 21:00, 2025-05-12 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Online
A semi-monthly virtual open mike sponsored by Roslindale Open Mike. Watch on YouTube.
Performers are welcome! Visit Roslindale Open Mike for more information.

Heather Maloney
2025-05-02 20:00 - 22:00 | Me&Thee, Marblehead MA, 28 Mugford St, Marblehead, MA, 01945, United States
Massachusetts-based “writer song-singer” Heather Maloney headlines at the Me&Thee on Friday, May 2 at 8pm. Maloney found music in the midst of three years at a meditation center, honing a sound moored in days of silent reflection and reverence for storytellers like Joni, Rilke, Ken Burns, and the anonymous authors of Zen parables. While she eventually traded the quiet, structured life of a yogi for the kinetic life of a touring musician, the core of her songwriting has remained centered around the same curiosity about our inner world and the desire to articulate it through storytelling.

The Cadleys at Harmony on the Green in Lexington (singer-songwriter Mel opening)
2025-05-03 07:30 - 21:30 | Harmony on the Green Coffeehouse Lexington MA, 1912 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, MA, United States
The Cadleys will close out Harmony on the Green’s third season. They have entertained audiences throughout Upstate New York and New England with their powerful mix of traditional bluegrass and “new acoustic” a la Alison Krauss. They offer live performances with hair-raising harmony singing, and virtuoso musicianship.
Mel is a singer-songwriter creates music steeped with soul and rock ’n roll. Her singing is reminiscent of Miranda Lambert, Bonnie Raitt, and Stevie Nicks. Her healing voice & poetic lyrical work has been praised by audiences. Mel has done collaborations with electronic producers that have been likened to the stylings of Maggie Rogers. She has shared stages with Matt Hartke (a Billboard Top 40 Platinum-Selling Songwriter), Troy Ramey and more.
Harmony on the Green has free parking, including ADA parking in our back lot. Our building is accessible from our front door with an elevator up to our Clark Hall to your left as you enter. We have single user accessible bathrooms. Light refreshments are served in our intimate hall. Tickets are $25 or pay-what-you-can, and will be available at the door, and on our website closer to concert date.

Mark Erelli and His String Quintet
2025-05-03 19:00 - 21:00 | Bass Hall at Monadnock Center, Peterborough NH, 19 Grove St, Peterborough, NH, 03458, United States
QUOTES
“Mark Erelli + His String Quintet put on a performance that effortlessly reaches across seemingly disparate demographics, blurring the boundaries between popular and classical music audiences.”
“Erelli’s evocative lyrics and soulful vocals are elevated by the lush, dynamic interplay of the quintet.”
“Whether he’s wielding a pen or a Telecaster, Mark Erelli’s music welcomes the casual listener, and richly rewards those who choose to dig deeper.”

ABOUT
Critically acclaimed singer/songwriter Mark Erelli, known for his distinctive blend of folk, rock, and Americana, joins forces with a world-class string quintet to reimagine his celebrated songs. The result? A cinematic and breathtakingly intimate performance that never fails to leave audiences spellbound.
Erelli’s string quintet is helmed by double bassist Zachariah Hickman (Ray Lamontagne, Josh Ritter) and Annie Bartlett on viola (ROSIN, Hank Wonder). The reinterpretations of songs from throughout his catalogue present him in an expansive, visionary light, allowing Erelli’s voice to shine like never before.
A live album highlighting this extraordinary collaboration, recorded during the group’s July 20, 2024 performance at the Shalin Liu Performance Center, is due for release on April 16, 2025. Recorded live in front of a packed hall, the evening was a masterclass in musicianship. Erelli’s evocative lyrics and soulful vocals are elevated by the lush, dynamic interplay of the quintet.

More about Mark Erelli
Highlights from Erelli’s career include 13 solo albums; three records with his bluegrass band Barnstar!; sideman stints accompanying Marc Cohn, Paula Cole, and Josh Ritter; and a pair of records he produced for GRAMMY-winning songwriter Lori McKenna. Recent support dates include shows with Watchhouse, Amy Helm, Lori McKenna, and John Hiatt.
In the summer of 2020, Erelli faced a profound personal challenge when he was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa (RP), a degenerative eye disease. This diagnosis raised questions about how his diminishing eyesight might affect his songwriting and creative insight. These concerns and his quest for creative expression are central themes in his newest album, Lay Your Darkness Down.
Lay Your Darkness Down follows his 2020 album Blindsided, which received high praise from Rolling Stone Country, Associated Press, NPR, The Boston Globe, and other notable outlets. Folk Alley encourages people to “listen close; there’s sure to be something in there to break your heart a split second before it leads you straight to grace.” Whether he’s wielding a pen or a Telecaster, Mark Erelli’s music welcomes the casual listener, and richly rewards those who choose to dig deeper.

Paul Rishell and Annie Raines Concert Saturday May 3, 2025
2025-05-03 19:00 - 21:15 | South Shore Folk Music Club, Duxbury MA, 842 Tremont St, Duxbury, MA, 02332, United States
Handy Award Winners, Country Blues guitar and harmonica masters Paul Rishell and Annie Raines are celebrating +30 years as a working team. They’ve recorded 6 albums together, including the award-winning Moving to the Country. They have performed and recorded with John Sebastian, Susan Tedeschi, Pinetop Perkins, opened for Ray Charles, Dr. John, and Little Feat and performed on Late Night with Conan O’Brien and A Prairie Home Companion. In 50 years as a performer, historian, and torchbearer of the country blues tradition, Paul Rishell teaches the techniques required to do justice to the originals while sharing meeting iconic pre-war blues legends Son House, Johnny Shines and Sonny Terry. Annie Raines’ harmonica virtuosity has been lauded by top players James Cotton, Charlie Musselwhite and Pinetop Perkins. With over 11 years as Country Blues Visiting Artists in Berklee College of Music’s American Roots Music Program, Rishell & Raines continue to entertain and educate audiences with traditional and original songs at festivals and clubs all over the world. “W.C. Handy Award-winners Rishell & Raines are rousing interpreters of country blues, the original acoustic style that gave birth to electric blues, R&B, and rock. While their guitar, harmonica, and vocals are roiling, muscular, and masterful, their shows are down home-friendly and fun-loving.” —Scott Alarik, BOSTON GLOBE

Beth DeSombre
2025-05-03 19:30 - 21:30 | Off the Common Coffeehouse, Bridgewater MA, 50 School St, Bridgewater, MA, 02324, United States

James Keelaghan returns to the Linden Tree in Wakefield
2025-05-03 19:30 - 21:30 | Linden Tree Concerts, Wakefield MA, 120 Chestnut St., Wakefield, MA, 01880, United States
JAMES KEELAGHAN RETURNS TO WAKEFIELD’S LINDEN TREE
SATURDAY, MAY 3 AT 7:30 PM
The Secret Sauce to open.
The final Linden Tree Concerts 40th season welcomes back Canadian singer-songwriter James Keelaghan on Saturday, May 3rd at 7:30 pm. Winners of Linden Tree’s Winter Potpourri, The Secret Sauce trio, will open the show. Reservations are recommended as the popularity of these performers often lead to a sold out show.
James Keelaghan is an award-winning folk singer-songwriter based in Perth, Ontario. Many of the lyrics in his songs display a concern for social problems and justice in society. Called Canada’s finest singer-songwriter by one of the most respected and lauded music journalists of the last 50 years, James Keelaghan is an artist who has proven to be a man for all seasons.This poet laureate of the folk and roots music world has gone about his work with a combination of passion, intent and intensity, and curiosity.
Fusing his insatiable appetite for finding the next unique storyline Keelaghan also forges his pieces with brilliantly defined craftsmanship and a monogrammed artistic vision, making him one of the most distinctive and readily identifiable voices of not only the Canadian scene, but as a member of the international singer-songwriter community.
Armed with a songbook that has enlightened and enthralled, and been embraced, by audiences around the world, Keelaghan’s life as an artist is one that is a perpetual journey on so many levels. His masterful story telling, over the course of nine recordings, has been part of the bedrock of his success, earning Keelaghan his share of nominations and awards, and acclaim from Australia to Scandinavia. “The necessity to write has always been a double-edged sword.” Keelaghan’s aces have long been a love of language, and history, his skills as a thespian that he acquired at an early age, that explain his ability to make an immediate connection with audiences in a live setting, and an ear for a memorable melody, and harmonies that make those melodies glisten.
Keelaghan’s inspirations can come in many forms, he is always on the lookout for a good story or idea. His sister told him the story that became Kiri’s Piano. It was such an image of a dark chapter in Canadian history, Japanese internment camps in the Second World War. Not only does his deep catalogue include timeless originals like Fires of Calais, Cold Missouri Waters, Jenny Bryce, and Hillcrest Mine, but also he is an interpreter of outside material, a fine example being his gripping take on Gordon Lightfoot’s epic Canadian Railroad Trilogy on the Lighfoot Tribute disc Beautiful and My Blood written with Jez Lowe.
For Keelaghan staying at the top of his game comes down to a very clear rule, “never stop accumulating.” “I want my audiences to know that I am open enough to try new things and push their bounds.” It was Dave Marsh, the award-winning American music critic and historian who not so long ago stated that James Keelaghan is “Canada’s finest songwriter,” and those few but powerful words of praise say it all about an artist who continues to set the bar at a lofty height. James will be presenting old favorites and songs from his newest recordings, so many for him to choose. Keelaghan.com
The Secret Sauce was the top vote getter in Linden Tree’s 2024 Winter Potpourri. Janet Feld, Esther Friedman & Jackie Damsky have joined forces as The Secret Sauce, performing tasty originals & choice covers, with lots of sweet 3-part harmony, plus guitar, mandolin, & violin. They came together over a love of each other’s songs, great friendship, and fun, and that’s how the Secret Sauce rolls!
The Linden Tree Coffeehouse is located in the social hall of the Wakefield Lynnfield United Methodist Church, 273 Vernon Street in Wakefield. There is a parking lot behind the church and it is handicapped accessible. The show begins at 7:30 pm, doors open at 7:00. Homemade baked goods and beverages are available. Tickets are $25 (those under 18 $10) Pay cash or check at the door. Reservations: for preferential seating. 978- 326 7905. www.LindenTreeCoffeehouse.org
STAY TUNED: Wakefield Porch Fest is being scheduled for Sat. Sept 6
Linden Tree Concerts will return in fall 2025 in new location.
Most shows will be on Sunday afternoons at 2 pm.

Rupert Wates
2025-05-04 14:00 - 17:00 | Lakeview Houseconcert Series, Sharon MA, Sharon, MA, United States
Lakeview Houseconcerts in Sharon, MA Presents:

Rupert Wates 2PM Sunday May 4th 2025 Potluck lunch at 1PM
RSVP to info@lakeviewhouseconcerts.org to reserve a seat. You must get an invitation email from me to attend.
For more info about him see rupertwatesmusic.com/
Call 508 528 0026 for questions, please leave a message.
$25 suggested donation in the tip jar but payment is optional. 100% of the donations go directly to the artists. There are no tickets, but please RSVP so I know how many will be here. Join us at 1PM here for a potluck lunch. Bring a dish, we supply drinks and ice cream.
“Truly gripping lyrics with great themes and troubling, witty messages. An inspirational artist” (Leith FM Radio Scotland)
“A new and unique songwriter-musician already in the front ranks by dint of timeless work” (Folk And Acoustic Music Exchange)
Kerrville New Folk Song Finalist 2018
October, 2024 – “What do you say when an excellent professional exceeds your highest expectations? Bravo to an exemplery performance by Rupert. His well timed repartee, with the audience whom he stunned with his songs and his guitar playing, felt warm and inclusive. To have this level of talent in my backyard leaves me in awe. To say I recommend him is a gross understatement.
Ruupert is a professional from start to finish.”
(H. Dahlhauser)

Kray Van Kirk
2025-05-04 15:00 - 17:00 | Whale Cove House Concerts, Rockport MA, Rockport, MA, 01966, United States
This concert will be indoors at the hosts’ home in Rockport, Mass. and capacity will be limited to 30. The suggested contribution is $20, payable at the door by cash, check, or Venmo. Send email to info@whalecove.org to get more information or to request an invitation.
A fine finger-style guitarist with a precise baritone, Kray Van Kirk has a Ph.D. from the University of Alaska, but he set science aside to write songs, tell stories and summon heroes.
“We are driven by myth and the seasons of the heart,” he says, “and the stories are all true. There is a dark cave inside each of us, and monsters of all kinds lurk there, all the more lethal for being hidden. The quest is to journey inside, render the monsters powerless, find whatever it is that burns at the core of your soul and bring it back into the light. In a world divided it is critical to write songs and tell stories that show absolutely everyone they get to be the hero. Nobody is left behind.”
When he reached Scotland and the Fringe Festival, the Daily Fringe Review wrote “The evening’s act was Kray Van Kirk, whose 12-string guitar and soaring vocals were spellbinding; the Alaskan singer-songwriter, in his Edinburgh debut, was not the reason I arrived early, but was certainly why I stayed late.”
Of this charming, Quixotic and eclectic performer, the Borderline Folk Club in New York wrote that Van Kirk was “what every singer-songwriter should aspire to.”

Contemporary folk/Americana house concert with Lindsay Straw and Cam Olver
2025-05-04 19:00 - 21:00 | House of Play Houseconcerts, Newton MA, Newton, MA, United States
Come join us for a fun house concert in Newton! Snacks, drinks, and plenty of joy provided. To reserve a seat, you must email us ahead of time with your name and phone number to houseconcertsnewton@gmail.com. Information and address will then be sent to you. $20 minimum donation goes directly to the artists. Doors open at 6:30.
Lindsay Straw

Lindsay Straw is a Boston-based singer, guitarist, and Irish bouzouki player. A Berklee graduate, she blends roots music from both sides of the Atlantic, combining traditional Irish and Scottish influences with American styles. Performing solo and with The New Grown-Ups and The Ivy Leaf, she has three albums and a rich performance history. Known for her unique take on traditional music, she’s celebrated as a reincarnation of legendary trad singers of eras past.
Links:

https://lindsaystraw.com/

Cam Olver

Cam Olver is a Newton-based solo guitarist specializing in fingerstyle. He creates intricate arrangements that seemingly defy the capabilities of one instrument and emulate the lavish construction of a full band. The result is a wonderfully complex music that is easy to listen to and suits any scenario. Cam graduated from Berklee College of Music with a Bachelor of Music in Performance Recording and Production. His studies were full of varied ensemble experiences, as well as an in depth development of his skills as a guitarist and a solo arranger. He has put these skills to use in his post grad projects including an EP release, numerous covers, and fingerstyle specific competitions such as the 2024 Natasha International Fingerstyle Competition, where he placed in the finals.
Links:
https://camolver.com

Frosted Fireflies
2025-05-09 17:00 - 20:00 | Niagara Coffee Haus, Mills MA, 8 Exchange St, Millis, MA, United States
A live music and auteur photography project inspired with imagery reflecting the austere nature of a corseted society epitomizing empowerment through struggle in the human condition. Post-Folk melancholy with strings attached. Themes of alienation.
Frosted Fireflies will be performing two shows in Millis on May 9th, 2025 at 5pm at Millis Public Library and 7pm at Niagara Coffee Haus. The musical style is post-folk melancholy with violins and guitar. The concert 3 person ensemble are members of “Mowesby and the Northern Flicker” performing songs written by Robert Zammarchi. The library set is free to the public and will feature a photographic visual slides backdrop by Raziel Panic. The Niagara set requests a five dollar donation. Sponsored by the Millis Cultural Council and Middlesex Savings Bank.

John Henry’s Hammer Coffeehouse – Open Mic Friday 5/9/2025
2025-05-09 18:30 - 21:30 | John Henry’s Hammer Coffeehouse, Worcester MA, 90 Main St, Worcester, MA, 01608, United States
Here are the usual IMPORTANT details for JHH Open Mic:
2nd and 4th Fridays (except when noted)
First Unitarian Church, 90 Main St, Worcester, MA
Doors open and performer sign-up at 6:30 p.m.
Performances begin @ 7 p.m.
10 minutes in the limelight- spoken word or music (usually two songs unless you choose to sing American Pie or some sea shanty with fifty verses). Duos or groups are considered one act and CANNOT sign up as single performers too. Wearing a fake moustache will NOT fool us. $3.00 admission for everybody. Performer or spectator. Payable to the lovely lady at the folding card table.
Refreshments & snacks (donation appreciated).
PLEASE enter State Street upper parking lot door. Handicap parking and accessibility at the other side of the church on Court Street by the Courthouse apartments. If you DO park on Court Street only park on the church side of the street or you could get towed. The parking meters on Main Street and State Street require money until 8:00 pm. The meter maids and dudes love to hand out tickets.

Hanneke Cassel and her Band
2025-05-09 19:30 - 21:30 | Second Friday Concerts at First Church Belmont MA, 404 Concord Avenue, Belmont, 02478

The Steel Wheels
2025-05-10 19:00 - 21:00 | The Park Theatre, Jaffrey NH, 19 Main St, Jaffrey, NH, 03452, United States
QUOTES:
“The Steel Wheels are certainly not the first band to use bluegrass music as a springboard to dive into a rainbow of possibilities, but they are certainly among the best that do.” TOM CLARKE: Tahoe Onstage
BIO:
The Steel Wheels have long been at home in the creative space between tradition and innovation, informed by the familiar sounds of the Virginia mountains where the band was formed, but always moving forward with insightful lyrics and an evolving sound. In 2005, Jay Lapp (vocals, guitars, mandolin) and Eric Brubaker (vocals, fiddle) joined lead singer Trent Wagler (guitar, banjo) in forming the band as a vehicle for Wagler’s songwriting. They released several albums under Wagler’s moniker, before officially adopting the The Steel Wheels name with the 2010 release of Red Wing. Quickly staking their claim as independent upstarts in the burgeoning Americana scene, The Steel Wheels followed up this release with three more self-produced albums in the next five years, before joining forces with producer Sam Kassirer for Wild As We Came Here (2017) and Over The Trees (2019). Kevin Garcia (drums, percussion, keys) joined in 2017, bringing a new level of sonic depth and polish to the outfit. Newest member Jeremy Darrow rounds out the rhythm section and grounds the band as they continue to explore deeply rooted yet fresh folk rock sounds. Having gained the experience of thousands of shows, festivals and many miles on the road, the stubbornly independent band has formed deep bonds with each other and the audience that sustains them.
The Steel Wheels have responded to this time of isolation and loss by seeking to connect with their audience in new ways. In 2020, unable to perform their rootsy brand of Americana for crowds in live settings, the musicians turned their creative powers to crafting songs for individuals. Produced in isolation in the band’s home studios, the Everyone a Song albums are part of an ongoing project to collect the personal experiences of fans and forge them into that most enduring, yet ephemeral, format we call “song.” An accompanying podcast, We Made You a Song, explores the stories behind these songs, and the songwriting process itself. While each song was commissioned to honor a specific relationship or event—a birth, a wedding, a memory of home—the emotions evoked are universal.
Nowhere is this shared humanity more evident than at the band’s own Red Wing Roots Music Festival, a weekend-long celebration of music, community, and the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. Hosted by The Steel Wheels every summer, the festival provides a space for the band to shine, from their high energy Saturday night main stage set to their afternoon showcase with young Red Wing Academy students. At Sunday’s gospel hour you are as likely to hear Steel Wheels originals or Warren Zevon covers as you are traditional gospel fare. The weekend is rounded out by the beloved tribute set in which the band collaborates with a cadre of fellow artists to honor an influential figure in American music, with past tributes ranging from Dolly Parton to John Prine.
Whether at a joyous summer festival, in their many shows across the country and beyond, or in the studio, The Steel Wheels continue their mission set out over a decade ago; shaking up traditions to see what sticks, telling stories, and joining communities through song. https://www.thesteelwheels.com/bio

The Willie J. Laws Band - Andy Santospago
2025-05-10 19:00 - 21:30 | Niagara Coffee Haus, Mills MA, 8 Exchange St, Millis, MA, United States
The Willie J. Laws Band brings their unique blend of Blues, Soul, RnB, & Country to the Haus. Blues instrumentalist, Andy Santospago opens.

Willie J. Laws is a Texas guitar “gun slinger”, vocalist and, songwriter following in the footsteps of T-Bone Walker, Lightning Hopkins, Albert King and, many others. This music is the kind of real Texas soul, all mixed up with classic R&B, country, blues/funk that grows from the Texas soil. A two-time nominee for New England Music Award – Best Blues Act 2015 and 2016, 2015 Nominee for Boston Music Award – Best Blues Act 2015. Come see what many are calling the “Real Deal”.

Andy Santospago is a performer, songwriter and session musician. You can find him playing residencies with jazz trios, rock bands and, as an accompanist for singer-songwriters. Andy graduated Berklee School of Music, where he focused on Jazz and formed relationships with some of Boston’s finest musicians. He has been on hundreds of stages and studio sessions, hopping between various styles and genres.

Tickets can be purchased at Eventbrite
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/triumphant-return-of-willie-j-laws-band-w-andy-santospago-in-support-tickets-1109864888759?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl&fbclid=IwY2xjawJs8y9leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHh4e1zs2sfJnHk18Eg_XZ1HDucTAvx5qIIVoBK3B-j0TIfsoZ-xn_O0sUKgu_aem_eqdSm4Z2jvglszmtB2TgMw

The Ruta Beggars
2025-05-16 19:30 - 21:30 | Follen Folk Nights, Lexington MA, 755 Massachusetts Ave, Lexington, MA, 02420, United States
Appealing to traditional and progressive acoustic music fans alike, The Ruta Beggars combine bluegrass and early swing to create a timeless act filled with intricate vocal harmonies, fiery instrumentals, and plenty of fun. They have been praised for their creative yet tasteful arrangements and charming performances. Since 2018 they have brought the joy of their live show to audiences across the US and Canada from festival stages to storied folk listening rooms and as support for legacy acts Lyle Lovett and Ricky Skaggs. The Ruta Beggars are 2019 Thomas Point band competition winners, 2023 IBMA official showcasing artists, Freshgrass Foundation commissioned composers, Freshgrass Award finalists, and Skyline Records artists.
Follen Folk Nights is located within the historic Follen Church in Lexington, Massachusetts. Our venue offers a unique and intimate setting for music lovers. Our octagonal sanctuary, renowned for its excellent acoustics, hosts a diverse range of performances from both emerging and established artists. We are committed to providing great experiences for both our audience and the musicians who grace our stage. Join us for a memorable musical experience in a special space.
Tickets and more info available at follenfolknights.org

Friday Folk Coffeehouse Presents the Ruth and Ben String Band on May 16!
2025-05-16 19:30 - 21:30 | Friday Folk Coffeehouse, Dedham MA, 670 High St, Dedham, MA, 02026, United States
Friday Folk Coffeehouse at First Church Dedham
670 High Street, Dedham, MA
(781) 326-7463
Contact: Geoff Tegnell
First Church Friday Folk Coffeehouse presents its 9th concert of the 2024-2025 season featuring the Ruth and Ben String Band at First Church and Parish Dedham 670 High Street, Dedham on Friday, May 16, 2025 at 7:30 pm in the Auditorium. There will be refreshments for purchase. Tickets are $15 and are available online at Folk Coffeehouse | dedhamuu and at the door. Doors open at 7:00 pm.
The Ruth and Ben String Band plays electrifying old-time Appalachian music. Led by guitarist Ruth Rappaport and her fiddler son Ben Wetherbee, the band’s repertoire includes rousing fiddle tunes and traditional, modern, and original songs that feature tight harmony singing. They are joined by clawhammer banjo player Joel Wennerstrom and upright bass player Larry Unger.
As a multi-generational four-piece band, their musical influences are far reaching and include many genres–from Irish fiddle tunes and early country to punk. Ruth brings years of experience as a principal member of the ‘80’s and ’90’s all-woman old-time band from Boston, “The Poodles,” touring Europe and the US. Her son Ben is following in Ruth’s footsteps with his musically diverse fiddle playing, which has garnered much attention through his many performances in the area. Joel’s rhythmic and melodic banjo playing can be heard on recordings alongside members of the Punch Brothers and various Appalachian fiddle contest winners. You can find Larry playing in numerous old-time and contra dance groups around the country. Together they make a highly entertaining quartet. Hold onto your hats! This will be a lively show!
First Church and Parish Dedham Unitarian Universalist was first gathered in 1638 and is located in Dedham Center at 670 High Street. Its lively music program includes choir at Sunday services, the Parish Players theater troupe, and the First Friday Jazz & Classical Concerts in addition to our Friday Folk Coffeehouse events.

Susan Werner - Taylor Abrahamse opens ** SOLD OUT **
2025-05-16 19:30 - 22:00 | Old Sloop Presents, Rockport MA, 12 School St, Rockport, MA, 01966, United States
Advance tickets are $25 for adults and $5 for those age 18 and under. Visit oldslooppresents.org, John Tarr Store in Rockport, or The Bookstore of Gloucester. The suggested contribution at the door is $30 for adults, $5 for those age 18 and under, and $60 for families.
Tickets and more information
Over the course of her twenty five year touring career, Susan Werner has built a reputation as one of the country’s most compelling live performers. With formidable chops on guitar (she began playing at age 5) and piano (she was a guest on Marian McPartland’s Piano Jazz) along with a graduate degree in voice performance, her shows are a one-woman master class in musicianship. Her songs are noted for their poetry and sharp wit, and also for their astonishing stylistic range.
Like a maple leaf in a gust above the prairies, Taylor Abrahamse blissfully glides beyond the borders of song, gender & genre with his/her deftly crafted, hook-laden hammerclaw pop. A Paul Simon/Prince crossbreed and a Kerrville Newfolk Winner – (s)he’ll leave you laughing, inspired, and singing along… if you can reach that high

The North Reading Community Coffeehouse Performing Artist Series Presents Kray Van Kirk
2025-05-16 19:30 - 22:00 | North Reading Community Coffeehouse, North Reading MA, 147 Park St, North Reading, MA, 01864, United States
The North Reading Community Coffeehouse Performing Artist Series is proud to welcome singer/songwriter Kray Van Kirk on Friday, May 16 at 7:30 p.m. (doors open at 7 p.m.) This is Kray’s first appearance and we are really looking forward to having him. The North Reading Community Coffeehouse is located in the Activity Room at the Flint Memorial Library, 147 Park St, North Reading, MA. There is a suggested donation of $15 and seats can be reserved by emailing Nrcoffeehouse@gmail.com.
A fine finger-style guitarist with a precise baritone, Kray Van Kirk has a Ph.D. from the University of Alaska, but he set science aside to write songs, tell stories and summon heroes.
“We are driven by myth and the seasons of the heart,” he says, “and the stories are all true. There is a dark cave inside each of us, and monsters of all kinds lurk there, all the more lethal for being hidden. The quest is to journey inside, render the monsters powerless, find whatever it is that burns at the core of your soul and bring it back into the light. In a world divided it is critical to write songs and tell stories that show absolutely everyone they get to be the hero. Nobody is left behind.”
When he reached Scotland and the Fringe Festival, the Daily Fringe Review wrote The evening’s act was Kray Van Kirk, whose 12-string guitar and soaring vocals were spellbinding; the Alaskan singer-songwriter, in his Edinburgh debut, was not the reason I arrived early, but was certainly why I stayed late.”
Of this charming, Quixotic and eclectic performer, the Borderline Folk Club in New York wrote that Van Kirk was “what every singer-songwriter should aspire to.”
Please join the North Reading Community Coffeehouse in welcoming Kray Van Kirk for what is sure to be a very entertaining evening!

John Gorka
2025-05-16 20:00 - 22:00 | Me&Thee, Marblehead MA, 28 Mugford St, Marblehead, MA, 01945, United States
World renowned singer-songwriter John Gorka returns to the Me&Thee on Friday, May 16th to wrap up the club’s 55th season. From New Jersey, John Gorka got his start at a neighborhood coffeehouse in eastern Pennsylvania. Though small, Godfrey Daniels was and is one of the oldest and most venerable music institutions in the country and has long been a hangout for music lovers and aspiring musicians.

North Reading Community Coffeehouse May, 2025 Showcase
2025-05-17 18:30 - 21:30 | North Reading Community Coffeehouse, North Reading MA, 147 Park St, North Reading, MA, 01864, United States
The North Reading Community Coffeehouse is proud to present its May, 2025 Showcase. The performers are Neil Dale, “Diz” Dizacomo, Tim Foley and Kirsten Manville. We have a group of very talented musicians this month with a nice variety of music which will make for a very entertaining show. Each performer will do about a 30 minute set.The event is free but donations will be gratefully accepted and we will be offering refreshments with all the proceeds going to the Friends of the Flint Memorial Library in North Reading with whom we will be doing these concerts in conjunction with, to help support the library.

The event will also be livestreamed on the North Reading Community Coffeehouse Facebook page and on the YouTube channel the following day!
We are located in the Activity Room of the Flint Memorial Library at 147 Park Street in North Reading. There is plenty of free parking. We start at 6:30. Please come, sit back, relax and listen to some terrific music! If you have any questions, please contact Art Grossman at NRCoffeehouse@gmail.com.

Anju
2025-05-17 19:30 - 21:00 | Live from the Living Room, Melrose MA, 647 Main St, Melrose, MA, 02176, United States
Join us for the second show in our 2025 Spring Concert Series with Anju! Anju is a songwriter, producer, and performer shaped by the people and places in Massachusetts and Minnesota. Their music conjures imaginary lovers, scents of citrus, and visions of hairy brown skin under the sun.
Anju’s work has been highlighted by NPR’s All Songs Considered, Rolling Stone India, WGBH, and Minnesota Public Radio’s The Current. They were recently an inaugural member of Club Passim’s Folk Collective, an artist-fellow at Antenna Cloud Farm’s Experimental Institute, and a member of New Amsterdam Records’ Composer’s Lab.

Les Sampou featured performer
2025-05-17 19:30 - 21:30 | Open Book Coffeehouse, Canton MA, 786 Washington St, Canton, MA, 02021, United States
The Open Book Coffeehouse in Canton is proud to announce its next live concert on Saturday evening, May 17, with singer/songwriter Les Sampou. The coffeehouse is located at the Canton Public Library, 786 Washington Street, Canton. Doors open at 6:45 PM; music starts at 7:30 PM. Admission is $14 for the general public and $7 for students of any age. Tickets are available that evening on a first come, first serve basis. (cash or checks).

Les Sampou got her start in the Boston folk scene in the 90s and moved on to national prominence and acclaim. On the road for 15 years, Sampou has performed at Montreal Jazz Festival, SXSW, Toronto Blues Festival, Kerrville Folk Festival (where she won the New Folk Songwriting Award), Philadelphia Folk Festival, Winnipeg, and Falcon Ridge to name a few. Sampou has conducted workshops at Berklee School of Music and appeared on top syndicated radio programs such as Acoustic Cafe, World Cafe, and NPR. Sampou has released seven albums, five on her own label and two on Rounder Records. Her album, “Fall from Grace”, topped the Gavin Americana Charts nationwide. Her release “Lonesomeville” charted number 2 on the US/European Americana F.A.R. charts.

Enjoy the relaxing, warm atmosphere of friendly people, good music, coffee, tea, and home baked goodies. The Open Book Coffeehouse is located in the community room of the Canton Public Library at 786 Washington Street, Canton, and is made possible by the Friends of the Library. Parking is to the left when facing the library from Washington Street. Enter by the “Special Events” door to the left of the columns, midway into the parking area.
For more information, visit the Open Book Coffeehouse website at http://library.canton.ma.us, send an email to openbookcoffeehouse@verizon.net, find the coffeehouse on Facebook, or call 617-922-2551.

Crys Matthews
2025-05-17 19:30 - 22:00 | New Moon Coffeehouse, Haverhill MA, 16 Ashland St, Haverhill, MA, 01830, United States
Award winner Crys is not afraid to speak her truth and she does it so very artfully!
New Moon concerts take place in the meeting room of the Haverhill UU Church at 15 Kenoza Avenue. Enter by the back door off the parking lot. Reserve seats at the New Moon website www.newmooncoffeehouse.org. Pay CASH ONLY when the doors open at 6:30. General admission. Building is wheelchair accessible. Save some cash for our famous homemade desserts. For more info, go to www.crysmatthews.com or call 617-327-0542.

John Gorka
2025-05-17 19:30 - 22:00 | Circle of Friends Coffeehouse, Franklin MA, 262 Chestnut St, Franklin, MA, 02038, United States

Vance Gilbert
2025-05-17 19:30 - 22:00 | New Song, Bedford MA, 10 Mudge Way, Bedford, MA, 01730, United States
Vance Gilbert
“If Joni Mitchell and Richie Havens had a love child, with Rodney Dangerfield as the midwife, the results might be something close to the great Vance Gilbert.”
-Richmond Magazine
Thirty years into his career, Vance Gilbert’s influence can be felt all over the contemporary Folk and Americana realm as he has helped pave the way for many of the BIPOC artists who have followed. His 14th album, The Mother of Trouble, features Grammy winner Lori McKenna, Joey Landreth, and Joe K. Walsh.
Vance was born and raised in the Philadelphia area. Starting out hoping to be an R&B and jazz singer, he discovered in college his affinity for the storytelling sensibilities of the acoustic singer-songwriter. He has shared the stage with the likes of Shawn Colvin, Arlo Guthrie, Anita Baker, The Milk Carton Kids, and Southside Johnny and has opened hundreds of shows for comedians George Carlin and Paul Reiser. He is a veteran of the Newport, Winnipeg, Rocky Mountain, Calgary, Ottawa, and Falcon Ridge Folk festivals, the Kate Wolf Music Festival, Australia’s Woodford Folk and Mullum Music Festivals, Mountain Stage, Boston’s Symphony Hall, Nashville’s Lyman Auditorium, and the Barns at Wolf Trap. He even has a tune on a Grammy- nominated children’s album. How rounded is that?

Abbie Gardner + Finals of Performing Songwriter Competition
2025-05-17 19:30 - 22:00 | Rose Garden Coffeehouse, Mansfield MA, 17 West St, Mansfield, MA, 02048, United States
Showtime: 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 7.

FEATURED PERFORMER: ABBIE GARDNER

ALSO THIS NIGHT: Finals of Performing Songwriter Competition. Finalists will include: Dan Cloutier, Thomas Charles Clukey and Charlotte Morris!

ABBIE GARDNER is a fiery dobro player with an infectious smile. Whether performing solo or with Americana darlings Red Molly, her tales of love and loss, both gritty and sweet, are propelled by her impeccable slide guitar chops.

As an award-winning songwriter, captivating vocalist, and a world-class lap style dobro player, she has an unmistakable sound all her own. This is masterfully captured on her 2022 CD “DobroSinger.” The record made it to #11 on the Billboard Blues Charts and #2 on the Folk DJ Charts, receiving rave reviews in Bluegrass Unlimited, Acoustic Guitar Magazine and American Songwriter. It’s a raw intimate recording full of blues, ballads and the ache of the unknown. It’s quite a contrast to her previous CD, which featured a co-write with Chris Stapleton and leaned on full band production. Abbie stands strong as a solo act and has opened for Lori McKenna and Martina McBride.

Acoustic Guitar Magazine says, “sheer brilliance and power … her evocative guitar is a second voice throughout, sometimes singing in unison, in harmony other times, or answering as in a conversation with the singer. The playing and singing are both impeccable and loaded with personality. You can hear every nuance of the slide, smooth one moment or rattling slightly at the end of a phrase like punctuation; and her intimate, pitch-perfect vocals—wistful, playful, confessional—sound like they’re dancing with the guitar.”

Her background is as varied as the songs she writes. Her father, Herb Gardner, is a stride pianist and dixieland trombonist. Abbie didn’t get into music school on her original instrument (flute), but graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Occupational Therapy. She gradually found her way back to music in Boston’s folk music scene.

During the pandemic, Abbie started teaching free Woodshed dobro lessons in her backyard and posting them to YouTube. Helping other people fan the flames of their creativity has always been a nice balance to performing. She has taught in person at Nashville Dobro Camp, ResoSummit, Kaufman Kamp, Rockygrass Academy, and Roots Music Camp. Then for Songwriting, she’s taught at New England Songwriters Retreat, Swannanoa Gathering, Summer Songs, and Moab Folk Camp. Students can check out her month-long, small group virtual songwriting classes and her downloadable “Dobro from Scratch” course.

“Not only a first-rate Dobro player but a songwriter to be reckoned with.” –John Platt, WFUV

KATE CAMPBELL with The Secret Sauce opening
2025-05-18 14:00 - 16:30 | Sailing Into Song House Concerts, Newton MA, Newton, MA, United States
SAILING INTO SONG INVITES YOU TO OUR NEXT CONCERT IN 2025!
SUNDAY, May 18, 2025 2:00 PM, Newton, MA
KATE CAMPBELL with The Secret Sauce opening
KATE CAMPBELL Kate Campbell WebsiteKate Campbell is a southern singer-songwriter who writes and sings memorable folk songs infused with undercurrents of delta blues, folk, pop, and country that originate from a musical landscape spanning the less-travelled back roads from Nashville to Muscle Shoals to Memphis.
Over the course of 20+ years she has resisted the temptation to follow musical trends but instead chooses to set the pace for her unique musical journey clearly palpable in her latest release Listen to Kate: Damn Sure Blue. Crazy in Alabama
THE SECRET SAUCE –Sauce website Janet Feld, Esther Friedman and Jackie Damsky have joined forces as The Secret Sauce, performing tasty originals and choice covers, with lots of sweet 3-part harmony, plus guitar, mando and violin. The band evolved from time spent playing music together.
And as their theme song says, “We love each other’s songs and we have a lot of fun, that’s how we roll…” Listen: Seeds of Peace
SUGGESTED DONATION = $25.
For more information and to receive an invitation send name and email to : sailingintosong@gmail.com
We have 30 seats available.

Read Less

John Henry’s Hammer Coffeehouse – Open Mic Friday 5/23/2025
2025-05-23 18:30 - 21:30 | John Henry’s Hammer Coffeehouse, Worcester MA, 90 Main St, Worcester, MA, 01608, United States
