Jan 12, 2017

Multi instrumentalist Tom Leighton brings sophisticated colours and novel arrangements to his music that few musicians can match.     He plays piano, accordion, accordion bass, bouzouki, bodhran, whistles, jaw harps, mandolin and trombone— sometimes three of them at the same time!     Multi instrumentalist, and indefatigable, Tom Leighton brings sophisticated...

Jan 10, 2017

Onion Honey plays original and traditional old-time folk music that sounds like good home cooking with instruments in the kitchen.     Home cookin’ hillbilly folk darlings from Kitchener.     Onion Honey makes folk music, sharp and sweet and mixed in with banjo and mandolin, washboard and guitar, double bass and stomping feet, banjolele and warm...

Jan 10, 2017

The style is a tasteful blend of old timey swing, 60s surf, spaghetti western and sultry torch fronted by Lily who draws on the aesthetics of Audrey Hepburn and Bettie Page.     Well known from song placements in TV shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Charmed, Mistresses, Crazy Beautiful and Being Erica, or TV commercials for Chevy Cob.     Following a vibrant recording...

Jan 9, 2017

Winterfolk XV Preview & Benefit Saturday, January 21st Acoustic Harvest, Robinson Hall, St. Nicholas Anglican Church 1512 Kingston Rd., Toronto | 416.729.7564 Doors 7:30 pm / Music 8:00 pm      WHO: Blair Packham, Tony Quarrington, Lynn Harrison, Brian Gladstone, HOTCHA!, Kim Doolittle, Glen Hornblast, Tragedy Ann and Lillian Wauthier as Host....

Winterfolk Meeting Notes Jan. 5, 2017 Send email to all volunteers from prior years (Brian) Lindsey to reach out to GBC to appeal for volunteers Brian to call Paul Cross – run radio program at Humber, to supply MC volunteers Volunteers cannot see paid shows Terri O’s is a good venue for community stages Instrument lockup- Dora Dougal will check with John...

Jan 6, 2017

Isaak Bonk is a young Toronto folk singer and poet, making his first appearance at WinterFolk.     Named in Brian Gladstone’s “top three discoveries of 2016.”     In the last year Isaak has become a frequent performer within and around the roots community in Toronto. In a short amount of time, although starting out singing the songs of classic...

Take more decades of performing than the guys like to admit; add born in the bone raw talent to instrumental virtuosity, stunning harmonies, endless on-stage energy and thoughtful, thought provoking lyrics and you have arrived at the “End of the Road”.     Perpetual entertainers for the Canada Day Boat Cruise for the Festival of the Sound in Parry...

Jan 3, 2017

Mary is a singer, actor, writer, and teacher who comes from a long line of storytellers and believes no story is too big or too fantastic – especially if it’s told with grace and wit.     Mary Kelly     Mary was delighted when she moved to Toronto from Nova Scotia to find a rich, vibrant folk music community full of talent, big generous personalities and...

Jan 3, 2017

“You can hear the weight of experience Missy brings to her strong original material and to the interpretive voice she brings to standards and the gems from other writers she chooses to cover.” (Mike Regenstreif)!     The only Canadian to perform at The Angola Prison for Women in Louisiana. Won spots on numerous compilation CD’s. Last CD Play Me Sweet...

Jan 3, 2017

Anne Walker is a singer-songwriter based in Toronto who writes moving and deeply honest songs and delivers them in a strong, expressive voice.     New CD released 2016 “Down the Horseshoe Valley Road.”     Anne Walker is a singer-songwriter based in Toronto who writes moving and deeply honest songs and delivers them in a strong, expressive voice. As...

Jan 1, 2017

Folk powerhouse pair The Small Glories are Cara Luft & JD Edwards, a dynamic duo planted on the Canadian Prairies.    

Dec 30, 2016

Nashville Bound is a Nashville-style Songwriters Showcase created by Toronto singer-songwriter Glen Hornblast, who has run this Songwriter Series since 2014, and showcased over 200 Canadian songwriters. Inspired by Glen’s many trips to Nashville, and his performance at the famous Bluebird Cafe, Glen wanted to create a Songwriter Series in Toronto that...

Dec 30, 2016

Mike McKenna has enjoyed 50 years as one of Canada’s most respected guitarists.     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.     His unique style of electric slide guitar has even earned him...

Dec 27, 2016

Joe Hall led the unique canadian folk-rock ensemble THE CONTINENTAL DRIFT in the 1970s and continues to sing and songwrite thru the new millenium.     Has had a monthly residencey at the tranzac club since 2002.     Released an album, in c.d. format, with members of the silverhearts in 2014 entitled THE OMITTMENTS.     After leading the canadian folk -rock...

Dec 24, 2016

Toronto-based musician, Louis Simão has been composing, performing and recording as a multi-instrumentalist in a variety of genres for over twenty years.      New CD “A Luz” released on October 30th, 2016.     “A solo debut well worth the anticipation, Simão breathes new life into traditional Brazilian and Portuguese music!” Howard Druckman,...

Dec 23, 2016

Violinist/fiddler Dr. Tom is a perennial feature in festivals across Canada and abroad. He produces emerging Canadian singer/songwriters. He makes his home in Toronto.     Founder/curator/host of Toronto Urban Folk Art Salon, in partnership with Toronto Public Libraries.     Producer/arranger/performer, violin, voice, piano, percussion. Recording authentic...

Dec 22, 2016

Singer, songwriter Pat Temple brings his impressive, swinging body of work to “Winterfolk” with Canadian, folk legend Pineapple Frank on steel guitar, and the new talent of Kyler Tapscott on lead Guitar and Rob Foreman on standup bass.     “Day for Day”, CD released 2014, featuring 14 different musicians from the Ontario Roots Music...

Dec 22, 2016

“Beautiful songwriting that connects.” Pat Blythe, Cashbox Magazine.     CBC Radio 2 – Set Me Free #2 and Fever #9.     “In an era when music lovers seem to be required to like one thing, one style, one genre, we get the protean of the Julian Taylor Band – confident enough in their own abilities to delimit the genres and let the soulful beats...

Dec 22, 2016

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...

Dec 22, 2016

Danny Marks, star of stage, screen and radio.     BLUES WITH A FEELING AWARD FOR LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT.     CASHBOX LEGACY AWARD.     NEW ALBUM in 2016, CITIES IN BLUE.     This iconic rocker’s roots go back to the sixties as a founding member of Capitol Records’ group, Edward Bear. After a span as a journey man session musician throughout the...

Dec 21, 2016

Trent Severn is an acclaimed Ontario folk trio who sing original, contemporary songs easily described as “Canadian history in harmony”     We want to honour a particular legacy left behind by the great songwriters of Canadiana.     Trent Severn is an acclaimed Ontario folk trio who sing original, contemporary songs easily described as “Canadian history in...

Dec 21, 2016

Folk powerhouse pair The Small Glories are Cara Luft & JD Edwards, a dynamic duo planted on the Canadian Prairies.     Two veteran singer/songwriters have teamed up and are building a buzz around their tight harmonies, authenticity and visceral performances.     Thrown together purely by accident for an anniversary show at Winnipeg’s West End...

Dec 21, 2016

Noel Johnson, Jared Craig and brothers Nathan and Trevor Crook are Johnson Crook, a four-piece roots rock/country band based in Toronto, ON.     Full length self-titled debut album produced by Bill Bell (Jason Mraz, Tom Cochrane, Justin Nozuka, Danko Jones), will be released in 2017.     With rich, four-part vocal harmonies, fiery guitar-driven performances,...

Dec 21, 2016

Reprinted from `India News Calling` – TORONTO – MONDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2016 – Be sure to mark your calendars for the 15th Annual Winterfolk Blues and Roots Festival taking place February 17-19, 2017 in Toronto. Winterfolk is an all-ages, mid-winter, weatherproof event, where you’ll find the best of urban, blues, rock, jazz, country, folk and roots music,...

Dec 21, 2016

The Moonshine Cafe continues to evolve as one of the premier Music Venues in the country.     Our challenge is to keep abreast of changes on the music scene and to entice a broad demographic to our venue.     We run events that are targeted to everyone from pre-teen up. Importantly, we love every minute of it.     We have just celebrated our eleventh year of...

Dec 19, 2016

Margaret Stowe is an eclectic jazz-based electric and acoustic guitarist.     Guitarist Margaret Stowe has recorded and performed with a host of Canadian/International artists. “Stowe’s departure point is jazz, but her style ranges from folk to blues to world beats, propelled by her trademark high energy and eclectic tastes.” Prague Post....

Dec 19, 2016

Denielle is an award-winning singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. Her original music and arrangements tell stories with whimsy and purpose, and draw inspiration from swing and jazz from 1920’s to 60’s.     Winner of Grand Prize in Jazz Category for John Lennon Song Competition – Cool Cool Water – 2014.     New Album Release Feb. 8, 2017.     Headlined...

Dec 15, 2016

At 70, Brian Blain is a well-respected elder of the Canadian roots music community, mostly working behind the scenes writing, publishing and hosting his legendary blues campfire jams but still writing and recording songs with smart lyrics, unaffected vocals and a relentless groove.     Bluesman Brian Blain brings his legendary Blues Campfire Jam to...

Dec 15, 2016

Turbo Street Funk is Toronto’s hottest New Orleans-inspired brass-rock quintet. With over 100 performances across Ontario, Quebec and New York State, Turbo Street Funk has gained a reputation for explosive live shows.     Earshot Top 10 Jazz Album Charting Artist.     Toronto Independent Music Awards Nominee.     They’re having so much damn fun it’s...

Dec 15, 2016

Unique shared stage on a spiritual theme.     Hosted by Lynn Harrison, singer-songwriter and Unitarian minister.     Long-running monthly event in downtown Toronto.     The Bridge combines songs (and spoken word and more) on a monthly theme with inspiration from a wide range of spiritual sources. The result is a magical, shared-stage event that is uplifting,...

Dec 15, 2016

When grit and groove meets softly swaying silk, the thrift-folk of Braden Phelan and Liv Cazzola comes to life.     Recipient, Taylor Mitchell Bursary, 2015.     Debut EP Released August 2016.     Western Canada Tour Completed Summer 2016 .     With an electric chemistry and quick-witted sense of humour, they’ve threaded their colours and textures together to...

Dec 14, 2016

Stephanie Braganza is a Canadian powerhouse singer and an animal activist, who after receiving her degree in the performing arts with her co-writer, Kolin Stewart, has worked dilligently on creating music with a message and participates in animal activism, speaking for the rights of animals.     Winner: Best Live Artist in 2012’s Toronto Independent Music...

Dec 12, 2016

Produced 4 compilation CD’s with over 40 artists and working on the 5th in 2017.     Produced numerous artist showcase concerts and working on a 10th anniversary concert in 2017.     Since 2006 SongTown has supported artists through compilation CD’s , concerts , recording and promotion . Empowering unsigned and independent artists to distribute...

Dec 12, 2016

The Brampton Folk Club is a non-profit community organization whose purpose is to promote and encourage folk music in the Brampton area.     We hold monthly meetings, run a ticketed concert series, and perform at various local and community events.     We average about 50 members, with over 20 performing acts.     Visit our website at www.bramptonfolk.ca    ...

Dec 12, 2016

If you’ve seen ‘Seneca College Independent Music presents’ at earlier Winterfolks you’ll know how much talent there is in that programme. If you haven’t, you’re in for a treat. The Independent Music Production Program at Seneca College offers creative musicians and songwriters an intensive, hands-on curriculum, taught by some...

Dec 12, 2016

Since 1997, the Acoustic Harvest Saturday Night Monthly Concert Series has showcased and nurtured the careers of many fine Canadian performers. The late, great, Rick Fielding had the vision to bring the finest in acoustic roots/folk music to Toronto’s east end communities. Thus began Acoustic Harvest. Since it’s inception, audiences have enjoyed...

Dec 12, 2016

NSAI Toronto exists to meet the educational and awareness needs of Toronto-area songwriters and to further the craft of songwriting in the GTA.     The Toronto Chapter holds monthly meetings on the First Tuesday of every month at Harris Institute in Toronto.     NSAI Toronto presents Ontario’s largest 3-day songwriter’s festival, Tin Pan North every year in...

Dec 12, 2016

Dr. B’s Acoustic Medicine show is a weekly open stage and jam every Saturday at the Freetimes Cafe at 1:00 in the Afternoon.      It’s a good listening room filled with creative energy to enjoy some great music.      All artists welcomed. Come in and put your name on the sign-up sheet to reserve your spot.      Join us for an intimate afternoon of great...

Dec 12, 2016

An inspiring presence on the Toronto folk music scene for many years, Lynn Harrison’s music bridges the boundary between “secular” and “spiritual,” uniting diverse audiences and acting as a powerful force for social good.     Also an ordained Unitarian Universalist minister (First Unitarian Toronto).     Released 5th CD “The Conversation” in...

Dec 9, 2016

David Storey is Comin’ Home. Back on stage since 2011, he has enthralled fans with his simple but powerful and literate Folk-Rock ballads describing characters, situations and emotions that are delivered with wit and honesty. Twenty-five years of award-winning writing, directing and producing work in the field of television and movies had kept him away from his...

Dec 9, 2016

You know her as Swamperella – Toronto’s Queen of Cajun…that little power house that can rock a room and can get anyone up dancing … anytime … anywhere!     New CD solo works Released 2013.     Songs from the Heart Contest runner up.     What happens to ‘Swamperella’ once the party is over and everyone has gone home? Soozi Schlanger’s...

Dec 9, 2016

Sue and Dwight’s unique Canadiana sound embodies the musical spirit of the 1960’s folk revival featuring passionate vocals and warm harmonies to convey human stories of peace, courage, and social justice.     New CD Released 2016, For A Moment.     Contemporary folk music with a few twists. Born too late to be part of the 1960’s folk revival, Winnipeg born,...

Dec 9, 2016

Veteran guitarist of all styles TONY QUARRINGTON has lately emerged as a songwriter with his own very individual style. Won Juno as producer Willie P. Bennett’s HEARTSTRINGS 1998. Commemorated in HONORING OUR OWN concert at Winterfolk XII 2014. Working on album of original First World War songs. Veteran guitarist and songwriter TONY QUARRINGTON has been...

Dec 9, 2016

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

Dec 9, 2016

Singer, Songwriter, Story Teller, Musician, Troubador, Humorist, all around music gal.     Into The Blue, Produced by Ken Whiteley, dropping in Spring of 2017.     A sound much like Bonnie Raitt and Lucinda Williams.     Kim is in her 4th decade of singing and debuting her 9th Studio Recording Into The Blue in 2017.     Kim Doolittle has toured the world land...

Dec 9, 2016

Isabel Fryszberg in the last year has won audiences, gained strong reviews and radio play from her debut album Hearts and Arrows. “Her tunes are like diner menus.” John Aspice, No Depression. She will be joined with the sublime Tony Quarrington at Winterfolk.     Winner of Newmarket Arts Council Songwriting Contest for song Something Sacred from 2014 debut...

Dec 7, 2016

Howard Gladstone is a Toronto based singer/songwriter with 4 CD’s of original material.     Returning to music with renewed energy and purpose after a forced hiatus, Howard is working on a new release for 2017.     “Howard Gladstone used to write about music. Now he writes songs. More importantly, he pens the kind of topical tunes that were the province of...

Dec 7, 2016

Singer-Songwriter Freeman Dre is one of Toronto’s best. Backed by a cult following and a killer band.     New Vinyl in 2017.     Winner, NOW Magazine, Best Songwriter, 2011.     Freeman Dre may be the best songwriter you’ve never heard of. An extraordinary lyricist, his musical narratives are charming, dark, sensitive, and funny, and always command...

Dec 7, 2016

Wayne Neon is a singer/songwriter, composer, arranger and bandleader, a multi-instrumentalist who sings lead and harmony and plays guitar, flute, saxophones, and hand percussion.     Folksinger Humdinger.     World’s Oldest Rookie.     Still Waiting To Be Discovered.     Wayne Neon is the illegitimate love child of Bob Dylan and Duke Ellington. Based in...

Dec 7, 2016

Blessed with an ability to imbue her vocals with palpable emotion without going over the top, Melanie Peterson, a Saskatoon born, Toronto based, singer-songwriter and actress has quietly become a bright light on the Toronto folk music scene.     Toronto based, Saskatoon born singer-songwriter-actress.     Deemed “Mary Poppins with a broken heart” by...

Dec 7, 2016

Brian Gladstone is a world class finger-style guitar player, a dynamic performer, and a prolific song writer not restrained by conventional boundaries.     Brian Gladstone has been involved in the Canadian roots music scene for almost thirty-five years.     Brian Gladstone has been involved in the Canadian roots music scene for almost thirty-five years as an...

Dec 7, 2016

Veteran Toronto fingerstyle dazzler D’Arcy Wickham returns to Winterfolk with a bevy of new material from his upcoming new CD.     Winner, Songs from the heart 2009.     New CD release, 2017.     As a former guitarist for the Ian Thomas Band and Polydor recording artist D’Arcy’s musical career has spanned 4 decades and he now returns to...

Dec 7, 2016

Jory Nash is an award-winning singer-songwriter who blends elements of folk, jazz, blues, country and soul into an original stew of sound.     4 time CFMA nominee.     Songs From The Heart winner, 2000.     Most recent CD released in 2015.     Jory Nash is an award-winning singer-songwriter who blends elements of folk, jazz, blues, country and soul into an...

Dec 7, 2016

Noah Zacharin is an acknowledged guitar master and literate songwriter with 7 CD’s of original music and countless appearances on stage and CD, supporting many of the best in town and beyond.     Noah Zacharin is an exciting performer—a singer/songwriter/guitarist with 7 solo CD’s of multi-genre music, several collaborative efforts, and production...

Dec 7, 2016

ANDY is an energetic and passionate rootsy folk rock singer/songwriter who will have you tapping your toes and singing along with the chorus!     ‘Mind On Other Things’ was nominated for ‘Roots Recording of the Year’ at the 2013 HAMILTON MUSIC AWARDS!     Andy is really looking forward to releasing 2 new albums in 2017. ‘Our Cat...

Dec 7, 2016

Toronto singer songwriter Suzanne Jarvie sings with “lonely, lovely yearn”, has just completed her third European tour of her beautiful Americana debut record, Spiral Road and 2016 EP One Take Only. Suzanne is thrilled to be home playing Winterfolk 2017.     Nominee Best Concept Album, Spiral Road, Independent Music Awards 2015.     “Comparisons...

Dec 7, 2016

West-coast based David Essig is a guitarist’s guitarist and a helluva songwriter to boot who has been performing and recording in Canada for 45 years.     Award-winning Canadian roots musician.     Europeans call him one of Canada’s best roots musicians.     New CD Spring 2016.      David Essig is considered one of Canada’s finest roots/blues...

Dec 7, 2016

Jerome Tucker is a bass player, singer, writer, and performer from the Philadelphia area, now currently performing with his own band, the Jerome Tucker Band, in the Toronto area.     CBC Sounds of the Season, House Band/Performer, 2016.     CBC Here and Now Song of the Week, Sept 2016.     CP24 Featured Artist on morning show, Sept/Oct 2016.     Jerome Tucker,...

Dec 3, 2016

Canada’s newest Steinway artist Laura Fernandez is a multifaceted artist- a multi lingual singer songwriter, pianist and composer who ‘s songs encompass the many aspects of life, inspiring and emotional lyrical content and storytelling are the hallmark of her performances.     Versatile singer song writer, Latin jazz vocalist, composer and Jazz.FM91...

Dec 3, 2016

Mr. Rick is a Singer and fingerstyle acoustic guitarist performing original arrangements of the Trad. American Roots and Blues Song book.     Rick has just finished his 3rd CD “Songs about God and Booze” available at CD Baby.     Now Magazine, 4 stars.     Singer, guitarist, and player of old time Roots Americana, Mr. Rick (aka Rick Zolkower) was...

Dec 3, 2016

Wendell Ferguson. The songs are slick, the jokes are sick but the fingers and wits are quick. He won’t leave a dry seat in the house.     Inducted as the artist inductee into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame in 2014.     10 CCMA Awards for Guitar Player and Back Up Band. Plus two JUNO nominations.     2010 Folk Music Award for Best Instrumental Album of...

Dec 3, 2016

Tuneful Toronto-based singer/songwriter Blair Packham used to be in an 80s pop band but he’s spent the intervening years playing countless shows sharpening his solo performing skills.     Blair Packham is one of Canada’s best unsung pop writers. — Ron Sexsmith.     Tuneful, honest, sharp-witted, and performed with style and confidence. – The Toronto...

Dec 3, 2016

Peter Verity plays an original brand of “charged folk” with honest heart and passion.      Winner, Best Folk at the T.I.M.A. awards. (Toronto Independent Music Awards).     Runner up in the folk/roots category of John Lennon Song Contest.     Released three cd’s and a four song ep.     While growing up in the Ottawa valley, Peter Verity was...

Dec 2, 2016

Glen Hornblast is a well-known Toronto singer-songwriter whose music is an intoxicating blend of folk, country, jazz and blues.     Winner “Songs From The Heart Contest” 2015.     Semi-FInalist International Song Competition 2014.     Semi-Finalist USA Songwriting Competition 2013.     Glen Hornblast is a well-known Toronto singer-songwriter whose...

Dec 2, 2016

We’ve been told we like ‘happy songs.’ These are lies.     The blurbs go here. They assure us the artist has been vetted by the right people from the right cultural institutions. If somebody at the Toronto Star felt the artist “stands among an exalted few in the enduring Canadian song tradition: Leonard Cohen, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young,...

Dec 2, 2016

Harpin’ Norm Lucien emerged on the Folk scene with a pocketful of harmonicas and soon his signature style and versatility has become in demand in performance and recording studios. Harpin’ is now enjoying radio play of his songs and a new eleven song CD, ‘The World’s Strongest Man’!     Harpin’ Norm’s feature tonight exemplifies the Fat Albert...

Dec 1, 2016

Stuart cannot be categorized, but his multi-instrumental skills and infectious enthusiasms are winning him fans.     Stuart Laughton’s RADIO DIAL features Rebecca Campbell, Burke Carroll, Martin Worthy and Steve Lucas.     Stuart Laughton is at home on many stages, whether playing guitar, mandolin and harmonica at the Edmonton Folk, Ottawa Blues and Mariposa...

Dec 1, 2016

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...

Dec 1, 2016

David sings with conviction songs about life and its lessons.     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...

Nov 30, 2016

Internationally respected for his guitar playing, Seb will tell you “the guitar’s just a prop…it gets me onstage where I can shoot my mouth off”. Above all else, Seb is a protest singer. Scathing, hilarious, politically incorrect and always entertaining.     Seb has released nine solo albums and has performed on and/or produced over 200 other...

Nov 24, 2016

  Event will also include open mic for anyone who’d like to perform a tune or two The organizers of the 15th annual Winterfolk Blues and Roots Festival are hosting a benefit concert on Saturday, Nov. 26. The event, which will feature guitar aces Tony Quarrington and D’Arcy Wickham, hillbilly swing duo HOTCHA!, finger picker Brian Gladstone,...

Nov 13, 2016

We are always looking for volunteers to fill a variety of different roles at the festival. Volunteering is a great opportunity to gain experience in the industry, give back to the local roots music community, and be a part of something amazing.

Nov 11, 2016

Festival-goers will have a chance to get a sneak preview of what’s in store at the 15th ANNUAL WINTERFOLK BLUES AND ROOTS FESTIVAL when some of the finest folk, roots and blues artists will take the stage at Toronto’s Black Swan Tavern on Saturday, November 26th. Doors open at 7:30 pm and music starts at 8:00 pm for this event to benefit Winterfolk. Presented...

Oct 23, 2016

Tony Quarrington, composer, guitarist, songwriter, vocalist, and producer, was honoured by his fellow musicians on August 10th at Toronto’s Black Swan Tavern. “The Songs of Tony Quarrington” featured performances by 15 different artists, each of whom interpreted one of Quarrington’s many compositions. Performers included Laura Fernandez, Glen Hornblast, Brian...

Oct 20, 2016

Don’t miss the first Winterfolk Preview at the Free Times on Sunday Oct. 30th from 8:00 to 11:00 pm – we have a stellar cast that I’m sure you’ll all enjoy: with Tony Quarrington,Brian Gladstone, Mr. Rick, Melanie Peterson,Suzanne Jarvie, Laura Fernandez, HOTCHA! and Michael Costantini – and of course Glen Hornblast as Host!...

Aug 10, 2016

Purchase Tickets to the songs of Tony Quarrington live recording. Order early, as we expect these to be sold out! Be a Part of a New Tribute CD   Recorded Live off the Floor 15 Artists playing the music of Tony Quarrington Laura Fernandez – HOTCHA! – Stuart Laughton – Wayne Neon – Isabel Fryszberg – Soozi Schlanger – Wendell...

Feb 29, 2016

The View from the Corner Stool – Highlights from Friday Night at the annual festival. Includes parformances by Joey Landreth, Murder Murder, Annabelle Chvostek, D’ Arcy Wickham, Tia Brazda, and many...

Feb 10, 2016

Caledon Enterprise By Danielle Marr – David Storey is coming home. Caledon based David Storey, best known for developing, producing and directing the hit TV series Corner Gas is returning to his musical roots. The Inglewood resident is best known for developing, producing and directing the hit TV show Corner Gas, and now, after leaving music for over 20...

Feb 10, 2016

Reprinted from the East York Mirror – The 14th annual Winterfolk Blues and Roots Festival is on tap for the first three days of this Family Day weekend, Feb. 12 to 14. More than 150 artists will perform on five stages in four venues on the west Danforth, between Broadview and Chester subway stations. Those venues include Black Swan Tavern (upstairs and...

Feb 10, 2016

Healing In Song and Audience Participation Songwriting are two of the many events at Danforth festival By Daniel McKenzie | Posted: Feb 10 2016 8:16 am – February can be a long month, despite what the calendar says. It’s cold, people are broke from holiday splurges and spring is still just a foggy futuristic dream. Cue the Winterfolk Blues and Roots music...

Feb 9, 2016

Reprinted from the Toronto Sun, Feb 6, 2016 – Get your fill of blues, roots and folk music while wandering around on the Danforth near Broadview, Feb. 12-14. This is an all-ages musical festival with some 150 artists at five venues — and yes, it’s weatherproof. Participating outlets include the Black Swan Tavern, Mambo Lounge, Terri O’s and Dora Keogh’s....

Feb 8, 2016

Reprinted from East York Chronicle by Gary17 – With over 100 artists appearing on five stages at four venues on Danforth Avenue, the Winterfolk Blues and Roots Festival is set to hold its 14th annual edition in East York from February 12 through 14. Shows take place over three nights and two days at Dora Keogh (141 Danforth), Terri O’s (185 Danforth),...

Feb 6, 2016

Reprinted from the East York Examiner Feb 5 2016 – Toronto’s Winterfolk returns on the weekend of February 12-14. The festival, not limited to folk music, also happens to fall on the Valentine’s Day and Ontario’s Family Day Weekend. There’s lots to celebrate and a chance to bring out loved ones and family (all-ages shows available)...

Jan 26, 2016

The 14th Annnual Winterfolk Blues and Roots Festival takes place on The Danforth in Toronto from February 12-14 2016. Featuring some of the best blues and roots artists on the Canadian music scene, playing on five stages in four venues, it promises to be a fabulous weekend of live music.

Jan 24, 2016

East York Mirror By Norm Nelson The Winterfolk roots music festival is back, running through three days of February’s Family Day weekend on the western end of the Danforth. Discount tickets are available until Jan. 30. Not that tickets are expensive to begin with. First of all, a $15 wristband includes admission to the entire t hree-day festival except for five...

Jan 15, 2016

Early wristband pricing is $15.00 will be $25.00 at the door.

Jan 14, 2016

Trent Severn is an acclaimed Ontario folk trio who sing original, contemporary songs easily described as “Canadian history in harmony”   

Jan 12, 2016

Reprinted from Entertainment Beat Jan 12,2016 Acoustic Harvest presents a pre-Winterfolk showcase on Saturday, Jan. 16 at Robinson Hall, St. Nicholas Anglican Church. This sneak preview of the 14th annual Winterfolk Blues and Roots Festival will feature the finest in acoustic musicians. Sue and Dwight’s old school folk covers traditional themes such as peace,...

Jan 11, 2016

Jason LaPrade may be more well known as an in demand Toronto sound engineer, but he is equally adept as a dobro/guitar player who’s primary purpose is supporting and enhancing the artist’s he performs with.     Owner/Sound Engineer at Crystal Clear Sound.     Jason LaPrade’s uniquely clear, expressive style on dobro, guitar, and lapsteel has...

Jan 10, 2016

Jan 7, 2016

As a result of his astonishing performances Lotus is rumoured to be the illegitimate offspring of Buster Keaton and Elizabeth Cotton.     Pricipal banjoist for Sheesham, Lotus and ‘Son.     Celebrated new cd -great reviews in the UK.”     Just produced Jenny Whiteley CD-The Original Jenny Whiteley.”     In the decades which book-ended the turn...

Jan 7, 2016

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 6, 2016

Fusing the energy of New Orleans parade bands with the circuitous rhythms of West Africa, Cuba, India and Brazil, Toronto’s DRUMHAND is becoming increasingly known for their innovative, dynamic performances and artistic accessibility for audiences of all ages.     4th album , Contretemps, released 2014     Currently recording 5th album (possible advance...

Jan 6, 2016

Brian and his Double Slide would be a pleasent gimmick were it not for his mastery and musicality. Two big things in Brian’s developement were going bare right-handed (without picks) and his trusty metronome.      “Austin Wired” released in 2014. Reached top 10 on many roots and blues charts. Glowing reviews.     Invented and plays Double...

Jan 5, 2016

Brian Gladstone, HOTCHA!, David Storey, and more! Winterfolk Showcase at Acoustic Harvest January 16, 2016, 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm  St Nicholas Anglican Church Robinson Hall 1512 Kingston Rd., Toronto (one block east of Warden Ave.) Toronto, Ont M1N 1R7 Canada Map St Nicholas Anglican Church Brian Gladstone – Winterfolk’s Artistic Director is a free-spirited...

Jan 4, 2016

Get tickets to Winterfolk’s 5 paid stages. Order early to avoid disappointment!

Jan 4, 2016

Old Man Luedecke is the recording name of two-time Juno Award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter and banjo player Chris Luedecke of Chester, Nova Scotia. His 2008 album, Proof of Love, won a 2009 JUNO Award for Traditional Folk Album of the Year. In 2011, Luedecke won the same JUNO award for My Hands are on Fire and Other Love Songs. In 2012 Tender is the Night...

Jan 3, 2016

Pete Otis is a multi faceted singer songwriter who has been in the music industry for over 40 years.     New CD release in April 2016 – “Mountains to Climb.”     Producer of “Honouring Our Own ” concert series.     Producer of “SongTown” concert series.     Pete Otis is a multi faceted singer songwriter who has been in the...