Feb 16, 2019

Ruth Schweitzer – Special to The CJN – Lynda Marks Kraar’s parents, both Holocaust survivors, were distressed when they saw their artistic, only child, now an ace guitarist, was preoccupied with music rather than concentrating on academics. “I think as a child of Holocaust survivors, music was not high up on the priority list. Either you were...

Feb 6, 2019

Cd released 2016 “Still on Fire” Winner song of the week CBC Here and Now 99.1FM CBC Sounds of the Season Host band 2016 We are a funky R&B soul band with a blistering groove. Jerome Tucker band is a blistering funky, rocky, exciting entity. Based out of Toronto they have etched their mark in the city through their live televised performances,...

Jan 30, 2019

Reprinted from Danforth BIA Website ANNOUNCES FULL LINEUP FEBRUARY 22-24, 2019 www.winterfolk.com WHO: Donné Roberts, Jack de Keyzer, Gary Kendall Band, Mose Scarlett,Cassie & Maggie, Moscow Apartment, James Gordon, Ken Whiteley, Danny Marks, Brian Blain, Tony Quarrington, Noah Zacharin, The Lifers, Tragedy Ann, David Storey, Ori Dagan, Chloe Watkinson,...

Jan 28, 2019

Reprinted from FYI Jan 25, 2019 – Chloe Watkinson: “This Is Our Time” (Aporia): This Toronto singer is gradually making inroads with the tracks she has been releasing over the past year, now spinning on 200+ radio stations in 26 countries, and this new cut, released today, should sustain her career momentum. Watkinson’s sound fuses...

Jan 27, 2019

FEBRUARY 22-24, 2019 www.winterfolk.com WHO: Donné Roberts, Mose Scarlett, Cassie & Maggie,Moscow Apartment, James Gordon, Ken Whiteley, Danny Marks, The Lifers, Tragedy Ann, David Storey, Ori Dagan,Chloe Watkinson, Sammy Duke, Ken Yoshioka, Jon Brooks STAV + more! WHAT: Winterfolk XVII Blues & Roots Festival TICKETS: ON SALE NOW! Festival Wristbands...

Jan 26, 2019

Co Presented by The Toronto Blues Society

Jan 21, 2019

Tickets are typically sold out by showtime. Order early to avoid disappointment. 

Jan 21, 2019

Reprinted from Toronto Moon Magazine Jan 19, 2019, by Beverly Kreller – Festival-goers will have a chance to get a sneak preview of what’s in store at the 17th ANNUAL WINTERFOLK BLUES AND ROOTS FESTIVAL when some of the finest folk, roots and blues artists will take the stage at St. Paul’s United Church, 200 McIntosh St.  in Scarborough, tonight Doors...

Jan 18, 2019

Reprinted from Roots Music Canada Jan 18, 2019 – Music fans will have a chance to get a sneak preview of what’s in store at the 17th annual Winterfolk Blues and Roots Festival when some of the finest folk, roots and blues artists will take the stage at St. Paul’s United Church (200 McIntosh St.) in Scarborough on Saturday.  (Doors open at 7:30 p.m., and...

Jan 15, 2019

The Winterfolk Blues an Roots Music Festival will be back at Danforth and Broadview February 22- 24, 2019. We are looking for volunteers to help out over the weekend so if you want to get involved and hear some great live music please consider signing up https://www.winterfolk.com/volunteer-now/…  If you want to find out more about volunteering come out to the...

Jan 13, 2019

7 Juno nominations for his own recordings in Blues, Roots, Traditional & Children’s categories 20+ Canadian Maple Blues Award nominations, Best Blues song for “Everybody has the Blues” (OCFF/FMO 2007) Estelle Klein Lifetime Achievement Award (OCFF/FMO) & Canadian Hall of Fame Award (Mariposa Folk Festival) Ken Whiteley is a multi award...

Jan 10, 2019

Save on advanced wristband orders, as the price will be higher at the door. Order now and save!

Jan 9, 2019

Reprinted From Music News Digest – Acoustic Harvest hosts a Winterfolk Blues and Roots Festival preview concert in Scarborough on Jan. 19 at St. Paul’s United Church, 200 McIntosh St. The event showcases some of the artists who’ll play Winterfolk in Toronto in February, with the lineup comprising Cassie and Maggie, Alana & Leigh Cline, Shake...

Jan 9, 2019

Reprinted from NOW Magazine – The 17th annual festival takes place at three venues and four stages in the Danforth area. This all-ages, mid-winter, weatherproof event features urban, blues, rock, jazz, country, folk and roots music. Performers include Bywater Blues Band, Cassie & Maggie, Chloe Watkinson, D’Arcy Wickham, Danny Marks, HOTCHA!, Marg...

Jan 8, 2019

Acoustic Harvest + Winterfolk Blues & Roots Festival Present: Winterfolk XVII Preview – Saturday, January 19 – St. Paul’s United Church, 200 McIntosh St. Scarborough, ON – Doors 7:30pm | Music 8:   For Immediate Release / Please Retain For Listings Acoustic Harvest and Winterfolk XVII Blues & Roots Festival Present…  Winterfolk...

Jan 8, 2019

The 9th Annual Maple Blues Awards, Bassist Of The Year, Phoenix Concert Theatre, Toronto Everyone knows Gary Kendall as oft-elected Maple Blues’ Bassist of the Year, blues man about town and keeper of the bottom end for Downchild. But Gary’s alter ego is found in his much beloved Gary Kendall Band – a band in which each carefully selected player is equal and...

Jan 8, 2019

No One Travels Alone (Borealis/2018), is first example in popular music of an album written and recorded in circular, ‘corona’ form. 4 x Nominee ‘Songwriter of the Year’ (2007/2009/2012/2014) @ The Canadian Folk Music Awards Jon Brooks writes songs to calm those who’ve looked into and seen what is in their hearts; he also writes...

Jan 7, 2019

Representing Western new York Blues Society in Memphis at the International Blues Challenge Guitar Blues Slide singer songwriter “Hamilton is blessed with a wealth of great blues guitarists. None is better than Alfie Smith when it comes to the acoustic slide and he’s got a voice to match.” ~Graham Rockingham The SpecAlfie Smith is a prolific...

Jan 3, 2019

Acoustic Harvest and Winterfolk XVII Blues & Roots Festival are teaming up to present the Winterfolk XVII Preview and Benefit Concert on Saturday, Jan. 19 at St. Paul’s United Church, 200 McIntosh St., in Scarborough. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., and the music starts at 8 p.m. and continues until 10 p.m. Tickets are on sale at the door for $25 or in advance...

Dec 29, 2018

Toronto born Mike McKenna is a blues guitar player who in has played with Luke & the Apostles, Downchild, MeKenna Mendelson Mainline, and more. Opened for Jefferson Airplane & Grateful Dead Toronto born Mike McKenna is a blues guitar player who in has played with Luke & the Apostles, Downchild, MeKenna Mendelson Mainline, and more.  Opened for...

Dec 28, 2018

Performing songwriter who has recorded four albums of original song.     Latest album “Traveling Truthfully” available Dec 1/2016.     Honourable Mention for Songwriting-Bandwars (Mike Pinder of Moody Blues).     David sings with a powerful conviction, heartfelt insightful songs that reflect life and its lesson’s. A prolific songwriter, his original...

Dec 28, 2018

Songs about Canadians in the First World War, by Tony Quarrington For King and Country will feature Toronto musician-composer Tony Quarrington’s new CD about Canadians and their contributions during the First World War. The roots-music songs will be performed by Quarrington and a dozen other performers from a wide range of genres who collaborated on the album....

Dec 27, 2018

2 X Juno Award Winner 7 X Maple Blues Award Winner Jack de Keyzer is a 2 X Juno (Canada’s Grammy) and 7X Maple Blues award winning artist, blues guitarist, singer, song writer and producer and one of the finest blues guitarists on the scene today.   Jack de Keyzer is a 2 X Juno (Canada’s Grammy) and 7X Maple Blues award winning artist, blues guitarist, singer,...

Dec 26, 2018

Alana & Leigh Cline are a Toronto based Celtic fiddle/guitar instrumental duo who combine Irish, Cape Breton and Scottish styles to create their own sound. Irish, Scottish and Cape Breton Traditional Fiddle & Guitar Duo “I am listening to your CD and it’s BRILLIANT.” Bonnie Dobson Alana & Leigh Cline are a Toronto based Celtic...

Dec 26, 2018

Danny Marks is a genre bending stage performer who can blend music and humor seamlessly, with style and authenticity. star of stage screen and radio holder of the Maple Blues Award for Lifetime Achievement Celebrated Musician and Broadcaster Danny Marks began to play guitar at age eleven. He turned professional at seventeen and scored big with his first real...

Dec 25, 2018

One of the Toronto music scene’s enduring treasures, Lynn Harrison writes songs that speak to the heart and inspire audiences of all ages Also an ordained Unitarian minister Releasing her sixth recording in 2019 Host of “The Bridge” inspirational open stage A gifted performer and writer of songs full of passion and light, Lynn Harrison moves audiences wherever...

Dec 25, 2018

Roger Clown has been performing for five decades successfully, in a variety of group and solo offerings, live and electronically, for audiences of all sizes, social standing, ages, genders, and abilities. happily. Roger Clown has been performing for five decades successfully, in a variety of group and solo offerings, live and electronically, for audiences of...

Dec 25, 2018

With a solid music education and a rich performance history (including at Preservation Hall and leading a brass band in New Orleans, and playing regional clubs and festivals in Canada and the US) Chloe launched her solo career in 2018, performing at Toronto venues such as Roy Thomson Hall for the Women’s Blues Revue, Yonge-Dundas Square, and two...

Dec 24, 2018

Brian Gladstone is an analogue techno-hippie trapped in a digital world.  Gladstone’s five albums have all gained worldwide acclaim and global airplay. Brian Gladstone is the founder and active festival director for Winterfolk, an annual blues and roots festival in Toronto Brian Gladstone is a world class fingerstyle guitar player, a an intuitive...

Dec 24, 2018

Maggie & Mr. Rogers put a fresh spin on Folk and Jazz standards, with a repertoire that spans decades.   “Maggie & Mr. Rogers Make Jazz and Folk Belong Together” — Gary 17 – Publisher, Toronto Moon Magazine About our first recording… “Soundscape and quality of the recording are beautiful! Guitars sound sumptuous –...

Dec 24, 2018

Emilyn Stam and John David Williams merge the melodic voices of violin and clarinet, with a touch of accordion, creating a modern, playful sound steeped in traditions from regions of Europe and North America.   “Ingenious, witty…” – fROOTS Magazine (UK) This is creative, witty and beautiful music making.” – Alison Melville, WholeNote Magazine “Emilyn and...

Dec 24, 2018

With several tours across the country, being a part of the CCMA house band, and receiving numerous awards, Alessia Cohle’s love for all styles of music has helped her define and create her own unique sound, joining the next wave of artists who continue to push the future of country music. Winner, Mississauga Music Awards, 2018 Winner, MARTY Awards, 2018...

Dec 23, 2018

Winner, Folk Alliance Australia ‘Young Artist of the Year’ 2018 Debut Canada national tour February 2019 including official showcase at FAI ‘The Horizon Line’ CD released 2016, 2 singles released in 2018 The 2018 Folk Alliance Australia ‘Young Artist of the Year’, soulful and honest, multilingual singer-songwriter STAV....

Dec 23, 2018

Their  first two gigs were in a bookstore and a barbershop. Tony Quarrington and Zoey Adams They wrote 50 songs in our first year of co-composing. With a combined hundred years of professional work, they are poised to be an overnight success He was a veteran guitarist player. She was an actress and writer with musical background. He looked exactly like a hitman...

Dec 23, 2018

Original songs and songs inspired from the soundtrack of my life. Performer, Musicians on Call (NYC) Award-winning author of short stories and poetry Fronts the Palisades All-Star Revue: An American Music Experience Lynda Marks Kraar got her professional start in the Toronto music scene when she was 17. By the time she was 21 she was fronting Lynda Marks and...

Dec 23, 2018

Songwriters, singers, musicologists, authors, advocates, activists Socially conscious contemporary folk music with a few twists Creators of Canada’s only tribute to the 60’s folk revival, ‘Where Have All the Folk Songs Gone’ Born too late to be part of the 1960’s folk revival, Winnipeg born, Toronto based Sue and Dwight embody the musical spirit of that...

Dec 23, 2018

Juno Award Winning Producer for  Willie P. Bennett’s HEARTSTRINGS (1998) Latest album is FOR KING AND COUNTRY, new songs about Canada in WW1. One of the most appreciated tributes to my work was Winterfolk’s album SONGS OF TONY QUARRINGTON I’ve been around the scene playing guitar for fifty-plus years, and I still enjoy it a lot! Tony has many...

Dec 19, 2018

  Winterfolk XVII Festival News Dec 18, 2018       Winterfolk XVII Blues and Roots Festival Mark the Dates – Winterfolk XVII Feb 22-24, 2019 Be sure to mark your calendars for the 17th Annual Winterfolk Blues and Roots Festival taking place February 22-24, 2019 in Toronto. Winterfolk is an all-ages, mid-winter, weatherproof event, where you’ll find the...

Dec 19, 2018

New CD “Terminus” Released July 2018 Three time JUNO-nominated percussionist One-man-band and folk fusion songwriter – performing on eight instruments simultaneously! You would never be able to mistake one-man-band Sammy Duke for anyone else once he starts performing on stage. A critically acclaimed head-turner, this shameless prog-folk rocker...

Dec 19, 2018

Steve Raiken is appreciated by audiences as a very talented singer/songwriter and acoustic guitarist Steve Raiken has been playing guitar and singing for 50 years. As a student at the University of Buffalo in the late 1960s, Raiken immersed himself in the folk music scene. Raiken began performing with a fellow student, Marc Cashman. They performed as headliners...

Dec 19, 2018

New original jazz album “Settling Up” released November 2018 hit #1 on iTunes Canada Jazz Chart in its first week Toronto jazz vocalist SIMONE MORRIS exudes a rare blend of soulfulness and subtlety – a natural storyteller who artfully lures audiences into her craftily-spun musical stories. Simone Morris is reeling from the success of her...

Dec 19, 2018

New Album, Cold Spring, Released 2017 A 5-piece bluegrass powerhouse featuring rich vocal harmonies, killer picking, and a fun-loving, down-to-earth stage presence, The Barrel Boys are a unique staple of the Toronto music scene. Established in 2012, The Barrel Boys are a 5-piece string band based in Toronto, Ontario. The band’s sound is built around rich vocal...

Dec 19, 2018

Winner, Songs from the Heart Contest 2017 Debut Album Released 2018 Doris Folkens is developing a reputation in Canada’s music scene as a storyteller, reviving tales of past generations with old-time inspired folk and nostalgia. Doris Folkens turns stories into folk music – stories that might have disappeared if not for her songs. Her music is...

Dec 19, 2018

WINNER OF TWO 2012 TORONTO INDEPENDENT MUSIC AWARDS (BEST FOLK/ROOTS & HNSS LIVE ACOUSTIC)!! Award-winning, high-energy hillbilly swing duo blends old-time Western, bluegrass, early swing and country gospel delivered with the energy of a runaway train. Soaring vocals, lively accordion, gritty guitar, wailing harmonica and big-beat bodhran. High-energy...

Dec 19, 2018

2nd solo CD released in 2012 Featured in independent documentary film “Harmonica Man From Japan”2006 Ken Yoshioka sings blues, plays guitar and harmonica with soul. Ken Yoshioka is a Toronto based blues singer/songwriter, harmonica/guitar player, originally from Kamakura, Japan.His music is based on deep south delta, Chicago and modern electric...

Dec 19, 2018

Critically Acclaimed New Album: “Nathaniel: A Tribute to Nat King Cole” Winner, “Best Album” Silver Medal at the Global Music Awards Award-winning singer, songwriter and recording artist Ori Dagan is taking jazz to new and exciting places. His rich baritone voice and impressive abilities as an improviser produce an instantly recognizable sound. In live...

Dec 19, 2018

David Storey is excited to announce the release of his new album “made in Canada” which continues the pattern established on two previous releases of wry wit and penetrating insights about life’s challenges, characters and passions. With a dynamic career that over 40 years has zig-zagged between music and broadcasting production, for which he’s won...

Dec 19, 2018

About to release his 40th album “Heritage Sessions” Composer of “Frobisher Bay” which has become a Canadian classic with over 100 covers worldwide Co-founder of legendary folk trio Tamarack, Guelph-based James Gordon has gone on to a thriving solo career with more than 1500 songs, 40 albums, 12 years as CBC Radio songwriter-in-residence...

Dec 18, 2018

WINTERFOLK XVII BLUES & ROOTS FESTIVAL FEBRUARY 22-24, 2019 WHO: Some of the best blues & roots artists on the Canadian music scene today WHAT: The 17th Annual Winterfolk Blues & Roots Festival WHERE: Various venues on the Danforth, Toronto WHEN: February 22-24, 2019 TICKETS: Save $10 on 3-day pass – ONLY $15 till Dec 31...

Dec 18, 2018

Mr. Rick was one of the featured performers in “The Harry Smith Anthology, tribute to American Folk Music”   Singer, guitarist, and player of old time Roots Americana, Mr. Rick (aka Rick Zolkower) was born in post war Detroit. Rick learned his craft by watching, listening and hanging with the iconic Folk and Blues performers of the era at...

Dec 18, 2018

Winner, 2018 Toronto Blues Society Talent Search the TD Toronto Jazz Festival Winner, 2017 Merriam Emerging Artist at the TD Oakville Songs of Summer   Winner of the 2018 Toronto Blues Society Talent search at the TD Toronto Jazz Festival, Bywater Blues debuted in early 2017, shortly thereafter winning the Merriam Music Emerging Artist Award from the 2017 TD...

Dec 18, 2018

Winner, Songs from the Heart 2018 (Blues Category) Winner, Songs from the Heart 2018 (Humorous Category) New Full Length, “Matches”, released September 2018       The award-winning music of Guelph folk duo Tragedy Ann inspires chills, provokes smiles, and reminds you to breathe. With the occasional nod to alt. blues and handshake with contemporary...

Dec 18, 2018

Slow-cooked, solid-groove folk blues – soulful, thoughtful and always entertaining. His highly original blues-based repertoire earned him the coveted Porcupine “Golden Quill” Award in 2005 Brian Blain, a mainstay of the Toronto blues scene since the early 90s, will be playing tunes from his upcoming CD including some lighthearted fare...

Dec 18, 2018

2018 JUNO nominees, Nova Scotian sisters Cassie and Maggie have been lighting up the world with their blend of traditional and original Celtic roots music. 2018 JUNO nominees for Root/Trad album of the Year. 2017 Winners of Roots/Trad album of the Year at the Canadian Folk Music awards, nominees for Ensemble, Vocal Group and Traditional singer of the Year...

Dec 18, 2018

Winner, Slaight Music It’s Your Shot Competition, 2018, Canadian Songwriting Competition (Under 18) Winner, Best Young Songwriter Independent Music Awards, 2017, Winner, Best Young Songwriter Canadian Folk Music Award 2017 Winners of a Canadian Folk Music Award, a Toronto Independent Music Award, the Canadian Songwriting Competition (Under 18 category)...

Dec 18, 2018

2 Time Juno Award Winner New CD Released in November 2018 Donné Roberts’ music make winter feels like summer. The rhythm will make you dance and the melodies will make you sing along. The music is mainly in Malagasy the language of Madagascar. Website www.donneroberts.com  Donné Roberts’ music make winter feels like summer. The rhythm will make you dance...

Dec 18, 2018

2017 Toronto Blues Society Talent Search Winner 2017 Amy Louie Grossman’s Scholarship Winner Toronto-based blues/rock guitarist Dan McKinnon has been working hard to establish himself as a Canadian Blues artist on the rise. Following the success of his debut full-length album As Sharp As Possible (2013 Canadian Blues Debut of the Year from the Blues...

Dec 17, 2018

Toronto singer-songwriter Howard Gladstone released Hourglass—his fifth album of original contemporary folk/roots music in the U.S.A. on June 15, 2018 Howard Gladstone shares emotion and meaning in his songwriting and performance, exercising both sides of his brain, the rational and the poetic. His fifth album, Hourglass, is his most honest and accessible...

Dec 17, 2018

Guitarist Margaret Stowe will appear at Winterfolk! Guitarist Margaret Stowe has been playing jazz, jazz-blues and other styles for several decades, performing and recording with a variety of Canadian and international artists. During her career, she has performed with orchestras, in theatre, and at major concert halls, festivals, clubs and restaurants, in...

Dec 17, 2018

Guitar Master, Writer of Deeply-felt, Literate Songs, and Dynamic Performer Noah Zacharin is an acknowledged guitar master, writer of literate and deeply-felt songs, and dynamic and ever-evolving performer. He has released eight CD’s of original music, all of which have been met with critical and popular success. ‘Strange Rider’ (2016) made...

Dec 17, 2018

Nominee, Canadian Folk Music Awards: Emerging Artist of the Year, 2018 The Lifers, led by sisters Liv and Anita Cazzola, are an art-folk/rock collective from Guelph, Ontario. Their intertwined voices dynamically convey vulnerability and strength, confronting the fragility of our world and ourselves. Their latest release “Honey Suite” employs...

Dec 17, 2018

  Evaristo: Cuban Trovador Evaristo is a multi-talented singer, songwriter and guitarist. His CD, “Siempre Que Llueve… (After the Rain)” is available on iTunes, and features some of Toronto’s best Canadian and Cuban musicians. Born in Havana, Evaristo now makes Toronto home, where he performs with his trio, as well as in solo shows on his guitar,...

Dec 14, 2018

With a career spanning over 4 decades and with credits that include …guitarist for the Ian Thomas Band , Polydor Recording and touring Artist, award winning songwriter D’Arcy Wickham looks forward to the release of his 3rd CD ‘Signal Hill’ which is all instrumental at Winterfolk 2019.  In addition to being an artist, D’Arcy is...

Dec 14, 2018

Wayne Neon is the illegitimate love child of Bob Dylan and Duke Ellington. Memorable melodies, clever lyrics, rich voices, and solid rhythms are his hang-ups. His laser focused folk, jazz, blues, rock, skiffle, country, mariachi, English Beat, Motown, Dixieland, Honky Tonk, shuffle, pop, beach party, lounge music gives new meaning to the word eclectic. Wayne...

Dec 14, 2018

Black Suit Devil Singer/Songwriter Andy Du Rego took his years of experience in the Blues & Rock scenes as a guitarist and has fused it with his life experiences to breathe life into the Black Suit Devil project. An ever-evolving project best described currently as Acoustic Soul is a fusion of the Folk, Roots, Blues & Soul genres. While the name Black...

Dec 11, 2018

Glen Hornblast is a well-known Toronto singer-songwriter whose music is an intoxicating blend of folk, country, blues and jazz. His latest CD “Once In A Blue Moon” has been very well-received and has garnered great reviews and radio play around the world. He describes his songs as “sad little stories of love, loss and...

Dec 10, 2018

Seb is a protest singer. Scathing, hilarious, politically incorrect and always entertaining.     Seb is a protest singer. Scathing, hilarious, politically incorrect and always entertaining.     Seb can turn the largest venue into an intimate and exciting place to be.     Since his band, “The Lords Of London”, topped the Canadian Charts when he was just 14 years...

Nov 30, 2018

The 17th Annual Winterfolk Blues and Roots Festival, taking place in Toronto February 22-24, 2019, is set to present the best of urban, blues, rock, jazz, country, folk and roots music, and will feature returning favourite artists as well as fresh new talent.

Nov 30, 2018

Harpin’ Norm Lucien  walked into a kitchen jam in a  pub in downtown Toronto, joined in on harmonica and quickly found himself in the embrace of the Toronto music community! Gradually playing just about every style backing  just about every musician he picked up the moniker ‘Harpin’ Norm! As friends often joke                          “Harpin’ will play with...

Nov 27, 2018

Winterfolk Blues & Roots Festival Presents Winterfolk XVII Preview & Benefit WHO: David Storey, & The Side Road Scholars, HOTCHA!,Chloe Watkinson, Tony Quarrington, Brian Gladstone, and Glen Hornblast Band WHAT: Winterfolk XVII Preview & Benefit + Birthday Bash  WHERE: The Black Swan Tavern, 154 Danforth Avenue, Toronto, ON 416-469-0537...

Nov 27, 2018

We welcome your application. Join with other members of the community to help us make a difference. Though our annual showcase event is the Winterfolk festival in February, our work is ongoing. We appreciate the help of good volunteers year round. If you have any questions prior to submitting the form, please send an email , and we will try to respond...

Nov 25, 2018

The Brampton Folk Club holds monthly song circles on the 1st Monday of every month, from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Bring your instrument! We also present two concert series, hosts open mics and participate in a variety of community events. This is the 4th year we have been honoured to be included at Winterfolk. Many thanks to the Winterfolk committee for inviting...

Nov 9, 2018

How to play at Winterfolk. What we look for in artists and more exciting artist opportunities. 

Mar 1, 2018

Rick Zolkower talks performing, coming to Canada and his future album  February 19, 2018 Brian Baker Americana, musician, Rick Zolkower, Winterfolk Reprinted from Streeter – The fallout from the Riverboat scene in Toronto’s 1960s Yorkville scene was when Detroit-born Americana musician Rick Zolkower arrived here. It was 1972 and the photographer-musician...

Feb 26, 2018

January 21, 2018 – Reprinted from Spill Magazine  Last year, Hugh’s Room announced it was closing its doors. Like many fans, I waited with bated breath, sorry to see yet another beloved Toronto venue cease to exist. Thankfully, generous donations and copious support have allowed the Roncy music club to keep on delivering the goods. With its commitment to...

Feb 12, 2018

Submitted by Lenny Stoute  The 16th Annual Winterfolk Blues and Roots Festival,taking place in Toronto February 16-18, 2018, is set to present the best of urban, blues, rock, jazz, country, folk and roots music, and will feature returning favourite artists as well as fresh new talent. It’s an all-ages, mid-winter, weatherproof event that emulates a multi-stage...

Feb 1, 2018

Reprinted from Spill Magazine – The 16th Annual Winterfolk Blues and Roots Festival, taking place in Toronto February 16-18, 2018, is set to present the best of urban, blues, rock, jazz, country, folk and roots music, and will feature returning favourite artists as well as fresh new talent. It’s an all-ages, mid-winter, weatherproof event that emulates a...

Jan 30, 2018

Reprinted from Spill Magazine – by Elizabeth Andrews Jan 29, 2018 – Last year, Hugh’s Room announced it was closing its doors. Like many fans, I waited with bated breath, sorry to see yet another beloved Toronto venue cease to exist. Thankfully, generous donations and copious support have allowed the Roncy music club to keep on delivering the goods....

Jan 27, 2018

With 7 recordings under her name this unique singer has an honest and heartfelt connection to the songs she performs.     Juno Nominated Folk and Jazz Singer/Songwriter.     This juno nominated singer never relies on clichés, never adheres to trends, and never emphasizes style over substance. Tying musical elements together is Cullen’s unique aesthetic,...

Jan 26, 2018

Jessica Wedden is a 15 year old fiddler, trick fiddler, step dancer, composer and 2016 Canadian Folk Music Award nominee with an upbeat Celtic and East Coast repertoire, who thoroughly enjoys any opportunity to share her music.     Nominated for Young Performer of the Year at the 2016 Canadian Folk Music Awards.     Opened for Ashley MacIsaac and Joined Him for...

Jan 26, 2018

Girl-next-door with swag. Nerd-cool. Guitar prodigy with heart.     Debut EP ‘Plan A’, Released 2016.     “Best Vocalist” Winner at Emergenza Band Competition Grand Finals, 2014.     Top-10 Finalist in the Australian Songwriting Contest, 2014.     Blending whip-fast verbal gymnastics with stuck-in-your-head pop riffs, Sabrina Soares’...

Jan 26, 2018

Steve Raiken is a highly regarded singer/songwriter and acoustic guitarist.     Acclaimed singer/songwriter and guitarist with signficant radio airplay of 2010 CD.     Steve Raiken has been playing guitar and singing for nearly 50 years. As a student at the University of Buffalo in the late 1960s, Raiken immersed himself in the folk music scene. Raiken began...

Jan 24, 2018

Toronto jazz singer-songwriter Ori Dagan takes jazz to exciting new places.     Critically Acclaimed New Album: “Nathaniel: A Tribute to Nat King Cole” (2017).     Winner, “Best Album” Silver Medal at the Global Music Awards (2017).     “One of the Best Vocal Jazz Albums of 2017” – Curtis Davenport, www.curtjazz.com.    ...

Jan 23, 2018

Reprinted from Toronto Moon Magazine – We referred the other day to the spectacular success of the annual Winterfolk Festival started by Brian Gladstone fifteen years ago next month and as always this year’s 16th edition of the now seminal event promises another great weekend of live Roots, Blues and Jazz music when it takes place Feb. 16-18on five stages...

Jan 17, 2018

Annual roots and blues festival held at several east Toronto venues Reprinted from Inside Toronto East York Mirror – Fans of folk, roots, and blues music can get a glimpse of what’s to come at this year’s Winterfolk Blues and Roots Festival on Sunday, Jan. 21. The Winterfolk XVI Preview will be held at Hugh’s Room Live, 2261 Dundas St. W., just south of...

Jan 16, 2018

More Info Do you want to know more about volunteering at Winterfolk? Would you like to meet other volunteers? Do you have past experiences you’d like to share with others? This is an informational gathering for anyone who is thinking about volunteering at the festival and for those who have done so in the past. I’ll be there to answer your questions...

Jan 16, 2018

Fiddler, singer, composer, storyteller, multi-instrumentalist, Anne is known for her explorations into Canadian/World traditions, and for bringing them to life through tune, song and story.     Winner: Estelle Klein Award, FMO 2016.     FMO Showcase Artist 2017.     Spirit of the Narrows, Anne Lederman’s play about Indigenous FIddling called “Best...

Jan 15, 2018

Greetings of the new year with hope for a better future for the World. As we have done for the past four years, prior to the Winterfolk Festival, we have a sneak-peak at a few of the 150 or so artists who will be performing at the festival. Here’s the lineup: WHO: Dirty Dishes, Julian Fauth, Mr. Rick, Brian Gladstone w/Tony Quarrington, HOTCHA!, and...

Jan 14, 2018

Highly acclaimed Canadian folk, blues and gospel veteran, multi-instrumentalist, powerful vocalist, versatile songwriter.     New cd, “Freedom Blues” released 2016 (Ken’s 30th recording as an artist).     Popular Sunday afternoon Gospel series at Hugh’s Room is currently in it’s 16th year.     Winner of CFMA, Genie Award, Song From...

Jan 10, 2018

by Kerry Doole – Reprinted in FYI Music News –  Now in its 16th year, Toronto’s annual Winterfolk roots music fest continues to get better, and bigger. Staged in clubs on Danforth Ave, and the first round of performers include Jack de Keyzer, D’Arcy Wickham, Brian Gladstone, Juno-winners David Bradstreet and Julian Fauth, David Essig, Kat...

Jan 8, 2018

Mose Scarlett is a Borealis Records recording artist.     A forty year veteran on the Canadian music scene, Mose Scarlett is a Borealis Records recording artist.                                                                                                                                                                                             ...

Jan 8, 2018

Toronto born Mike McKenna is a blues guitar player who in has played with Luke & the Apostles, Downchild, MeKenna Mendelson Mainline, and more. Opened for Jefferson Airplane & Grateful Dead.     Toronto born Mike McKenna is a blues guitar player who in has played with Luke & the Apostles, Downchild, MeKenna Mendelson Mainline, and more. Opened...

Jan 4, 2018

Winterfolk XVI Preview SUNDAY, JANUARY 21ST Doors 6:00 pm | Music 7:30 PM @ Hugh’s Room Live 2261 Dundas Street West, Toronto, ON Festival wristbands only $10 at the...

Jan 4, 2018

Winterfolk XVI Blues & Roots Festival and Acoustic Harvest Present… Dirty Dishes will be performing at the Winterfolk XVI preview at Hugh’s Room Live on January 21, 2018 Winterfolk XVI Preview SUNDAY, JANUARY 21ST Doors 6:00 pm | Music 7:30 PM @ Hugh’s Room Live 2261 Dundas Street West, Toronto, ON Festival wristbands only $10 at the preview! WHO: Dirty...

Jan 2, 2018

More Info Do you want to know more about volunteering at Winterfolk? Would you like to meet other volunteers? Do you have past experiences you’d like to share with others? This is an informational gathering for anyone who is thinking about volunteering at the festival and for those who have done so in the past. I’ll be there to answer your questions...

Jan 2, 2018

This year’s SPEAK Music showcase is hosted by Beverly Kreller with Howard Druckman, as they feature emerging artists TBA.     Host of The infamous Groovy Mondays that ran for 8-years     Presenting and promoting all genres of music for more than 10 years.     Festival showcase presenter and member of Folk Music Ontario since 2006.     SPEAK Music is a publicity...

Jan 2, 2018

Award-winning, high-energy hillbilly swing duo blends old-time Western, bluegrass, early swing and country gospel delivered with the energy of a runaway train. Soaring vocals, lively accordion, gritty guitar, wailing harmonica and big-beat bodhran.      WINNER OF TWO 2012 TORONTO INDEPENDENT MUSIC AWARDS (BEST FOLK/ROOTS & HNSS LIVE ACOUSTIC)!!     Koerner...

Jan 2, 2018

A 40+ year veteran of the Canadian blues scene and one of the top harmonica players in the country, Al is a an engaging and skilled performer whose often humorous anecdotes are interspersed between great blues numbers.     Nominated in 2016 for Maple Blues Award as “Acoustic Act Of The year”.     Won two Juno Awards with his former band FATHEAD.    ...

Jan 2, 2018

A founding member of Edward Bear in the 1960’s, Danny spent many years in Toronto Clubs, from Alberts Hall to the Cadillac Lounge. He apprenticed at CBC radio with Arthur Black and Shelagh Rogers before landing his own program on JAZZ.FM.     Blues with a Feeling Lifetime Achievement Award.     Cashbox Legacy Award.     Released new album in 2016...