News about music events in Northern Maryland and Southern PA. Building community through music.
Coming to you from the beautiful rolling hills of Hereford, Maryland!
News, Jams & Music Happenings
September flew by!–so fast I couldn’t even post! But there are lots of things going on and as comes fall, so comes change!
These last few weeks I’ve been working with the Manor Mill in Monkton to build better ways to highlight this area’s rich music scene. So here it comes y’all; hold on to your hats…the changing winds!
#1 Starting in October Hereford Music News will merge with Manor Mill to create video podcasts!
I’ll be interviewing singers and bands that come through the Mill with a focus on the theme of; “How music builds community and provides for a diversity of voices.” We’ll also interview local bands to get their feel for how our community has influenced their musical journeys.
Be sure to follow updates and episodes by following Manor Mill @manormillmonkton and the Hoot FB and Insta at @herefordhoot.
#2 New Jazz program at Manor Mill starting in December! Our aim is to curate “rising” Bmore bands and bring creative artists to our area from nationwide!
To kick this idea off, I was able to bring in Baltimore’s Brandon Woody to the Loft at Manor Mill in September. It was an amazing show! Brandon has offered to help curate bands, so we’re super excited about putting the North County on the Jazz map! Follow us on social media to stay informed of progress.
GREAT ORIGINAL MUSIC IN OUR COMMUNITY!
Recommended Craft Brewery Show!
– Vortex Brewery, New Freedom, Pa. –
Cody Ross Smith will be playing at Vortex Brewery on October 21st and 6 pm. This artist has such a solid alt Country voice. Go see this railroad town passer-by’r, hat tippin,’ boot tappin,’ gee-tar playin’ troubadour.
Recommended Local Venue Show!
– Manor Mill, Monkton, Maryland –
Check out York PA’s very own Olds Sleeper at Manor Mill on October 21st, 7-9. I know-I know, same date as Cody above… so, just start out with a beer and dinner at Vortex, then merrily cruise down 83 to the Loft at the Manor Mill for the 7 pm show! Perfect! Olds Sleeper (otherwise known as Heath James) is a vital part of York’s music, art and poetry scene. Known as a “musician/shaman,” Olds mixes the Delta Blues with his own brand of originals.
Sponsored by The Probst Team of Cummings and Co. Real Estate. Your North County and Southern PA experts!
Thinking about selling? Contact emerson.probst@gmail.com or call 443.996.5555 for free home price assessment.
Until next time…get out and Take a Walk with Thee!
News about music events in Northern Maryland and Southern PA. Building community through music.
Coming to you from the beautiful rolling hills of Hereford, Maryland!
News, Jams & Music Happenings
I wrote this post on a hot August day while thinking, I bet some great blues songs were written on days like this; sitting on squeaky porches with cheap Stella guitars, pulling on shirt collars to air out the sweat, pushing back straw fedoras in a sun so hot you have to move to the corner of the porch to catch some air.
But some awesome music was produced on those porches and we have that music because of independent radio! Well, actually, it wasn’t radio, but “Race Records” and independent studios like Black Swan that captured the early Blues. It took a long while for radio to catch up. Still, the need remains to give exposure to musicians who are trying to make the climb. Read on about how online radio is filling that need.
RURAL RADIO COMING BACK TO THE NORTH COUNTY AND SOUTH. PA !
“My Rural Radio” is being re-launched as an app!
Earlier this month I had an enthusiastic talk with Michael Males, founder of My Rural Radio (MMR) in Central Pa., from his home in Stewartstown Pa. For those who don’t remember his original station (and the yearly festivals at Naylor Vineyards back in the early 00s), MRR is internet-driven and operated off your laptop, or now from an app similar to Spotify that you can play in your car. The station will play local music and give listeners an opportunity to deeply explore and appreciate the talent around us.
“It’s so hard for bands to market themselves now…. I’m doing this to provide a link for real talent and to build fan bases. We’re looking for the real deal here.”
Michael Males
The station–set to launch this September–will carry sponsors and is of no charge to the artists. There will be a “featured artist” each month and that band/singer will be part of a festival to be held at a location yet to be announced.
The exciting thing for us here at HMN is that the artists will now be curated, and we’re super excited to listen to the bands that’ll launch off this platform. So, if you’re a musician or a music fan, come and play/mingle/listen to the Northern Md/ Southern Pa. scene. It may not be the 1960s Laurel Canyon yet… but we’re workin’ on it!
NEW ALBUM COMING OUT FROM HEREFORD’S “OLD PART OF TOWN!”
Coming out on September 28th!
They may be the Old Part of Town, but it’s a good part of town. The band includes a talented collection of old friends and newcomers, all of whom carry impressive musical creds. We’re anxiously anticipating their next album “Inside Out” because this band lives and breathes under that wonderfully mysterious mantle of eclectic Americana. Their sound can be anywhere from Little Feat to John Hiatt to the 80s band Madness. I’ll aim to do a review of the album in the October HMN post.
Pre-orders for “Inside Out” can be found at: ALBUM SALE
SHAWAN RICE – JAZZ ARTIST TO WATCH
Busking in New Orleans
Shawan Rice got her start in Harrisburg Pa. and now resides in New Orleans. Her bluesy, soulful sound is a unique addition to singers and bands playing small venues and breweries in these rolling hills. We believe that with the right accompaniment and songwriting, her music could catch some real wind. She’s been moving up the ranks in NOLA, opening in the next few nights at the Bombay Club and catching some music news attention. Her first studio album “Fever Dreams” just came out this year. Shawan plays locally several times a year and can be found next at the Bridgewater Public House in York Pa. on September 15th, 7-9 pm.
New Music Store in Hereford wants to be a hub for instructors and students.
I talked to Ben Maizlish, manager of the new Crossroads Music Shop (along with the Falls Road General Store) to see how music fit into his family’s rebirth of the iconic Falls Rd-Mt Carmel corner.
“I really want musical instruction to be a big part of what this store is about. There’s so much out there to learn, for any player on any level… I want this place to be a conduit for everyone’s music needs, like… who are the area instrument makers, or repair people…. or how can I find a teacher who’s in the community.”
Ben
Check out the store’s selection of instruments and gear on Thursdays/Fridays 12-6 and Saturday, 11 am – 4 pm. The store is located on the corner of Mt. Carmel and Falls Road, across from the Falls Road General Store.
As an ongoing monthly segment (and in memory of my local instructor, Butch Neal) – the link above will take you to a list of independent instructors by specialty. Though there are some great local music collectives like Stages Music Arts and Lutherville Music School, I found that working with a local independent instructor really allowed me to step out of my musical cocoon. NOTE: This is a work in process, so please comment or send names of instructors to emerson.probst@gmail.com.
September Festival Group To See!
Price Sisters (Friday show) at the Upperco Music Festival, September 20- 23. Come support this event. The Upperco Fire Company volunteers have been key players in supporting local bluegrass-keeping the traditional blend alive and well!
Daphne Eckman. We love this young singer/songwriter out of Annapolis. Thank you, Pipeside, for keeping a good musical eye out there. Folks on the “Eastside,” this brewery is worth a trip just over the Carroll County border. September 15th, 6 – 9 pm.
NEW LOCAL TALENT! – AVA MAE OTT
We discovered Ava from a post from her mother on Nextdoor announcing her recent graduation from university and private vocal instruction. Without a doubt, her voice stopped us at our typewriters! Well, we at HMN do have lots of old typewriters lying around. I spoke to Ava and told her that if she found musicians to collaborate and explored songwriting, she could find a place in the music mix. There’s talk about some exciting opportunities in songwriting workshops coming up near Hereford in 2024. Ava – please stay in touch!
The Annapolis Songwriters Festival, only in its second year, is poised to be one of the largest songwriters festivals in the U.S. after the one in Key West. Some of the headliners include Blondie, Leann Rimes, Michelle Branch, Patty Griffin, Marty Stuart, Amanda Shires, Nikki Lane, Elizabeth Cooke, James McMurtry and hundreds of other singer/songwriter throughout downtown.
MUSICIANS!COME OUT AND SUPPORT A GREAT CAUSE! Thursday September 7th – 6 – 8 pm: Hootenanny! – Open Jam at Black Locust Brewing in Freeland, Md- This will be a fun Bluegrass/Americana jam with all proceeds from the jar going to Hodgepodge Animal Rescue. One dollar per pour donated by Black Locust Brewery in Freeland. All levels of players and singers are welcome.
Thank you to all the readers who’ve followed or liked our Hootenanny Facebook site and Insta at @herefordhoot.
Sponsored by The Probst Team of Cummings and Co. Real Estate. Your North County and Southern PA experts!
Thinking about selling? Contact emerson.probst@gmail.com or call 443.996.5555 for free home price assessment.
News about music events in Northern Maryland and Southern PA. Building community through music.
Coming to you from the beautiful rolling hills of Hereford, Maryland!
News, Jams & Music Happenings
An uplifting post to mark midsummer; for as the character Pyramus said in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream– “My soul is in the sky.” That’s what midsummer does; it makes us entirely unable to ponder heavy things. I’m listening to a lot of Rising Appalachia and Elephant Revival these sultry, hot days; shying away from my Tyler Childers and Willy Tea Taylor. Willy and Tyler are much more suited to grey, wind-brushed skies, falling leaves.
HERFORD MUSICIANS MAKING A DIFFERENCE !
Emily and Jason at the Hampstead Farm Market in early July
Emily Potter and Jason Brown – @lightworkermusicians
I recently met Emily and Jason after seeing a video of them at the Hereford Farmer’s Market. I’m sure glad I did! This fully energized couple have a burning desire to directly impact individuals in need.
Emily is the founder of a program called Light Worker Musicians, an organization formed to bring songwriters together in building healing energy, mainly for chronically ill and homebound persons. She organizes healing sessions held via Zoom involving a compassionate chorus of musicians worldwide. Emily’s inspiration comes from having struggled through a medical condition that left her homebound and isolated.
She and Jason have also just launched their Patron Project–a groundbreaking discount program that blends commercial interests with the critical need to fulfill underfunded GoFundMe programs. Commercial products, health and nutrition coaches and others pledge substantial discounts to “patrons” who donate from $5 to $20 a month to GoFundMe users who’ve expended their funding.
There are many people who talk about making a difference, but these two put ideas into action. I don’t think I’ve ever met two more positive and caring people.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:
If you’d like to help Emily and Jason in their efforts (or become a business affiliate in the discount program), please feel free to reach out at lightworkermusicians@protonmail.com. They could use help with web graphics, administration, marketing, vendor connections and events.
Performing Next: Saturday, Aug 5. Hampstead Farm Market. 8.30 am – 12 p.m.
CONSTANT FAN INTERACTION – MUSIC’S FUTURE
“Music streaming and the attention recession have turned music into a background activity. Artists en masse are struggling to cut through the noise, realizing that streaming is neither a place to build deeper relationships with fans nor to generate meaningful income.
Midia Research (1)
THERE’S A LOCAL MUSIC REVOLUTION GOING ON
A revolution is going on in both the music industry – and– for we, the listeners. With so many platforms like Spotify and Sirius (and many more to come), we live our daily lives with music playing as if it were from the sky. In order for musicians to stand out, they have to engage their audiences (in-person and online) CONSTANTLY.
This can take a toll. For example, Sierra Ferrell (featured above) had to cancel some of her July shows because of exhaustion. Sierra started out busking on street corners and used social media to launch her career. She went from Instagram to Grand Ol’ Opry in a blink.
Other artists struggle with the demands of producing continuous social media. I heard this directly from the band Humbletown, who I saw last month at the Manor Mill. They started a YouTube channel and vlog to document their 2023 tour and from what I can see, they’ve only posted a few videos–and who can blame them! They’re travelling the country with two kids and a band stuffed into a panel van! How punk rock is that! (To quote Jack Black in School of Rock). They’re a super talented and genuinely NICE band – check them out.
Wallflower Wanderer Films is there to help!
Wallflower Wanderer Films is a Northern Baltimore-based film company who’s 501K non-profit operation films upstart Bluegrass and Americana singers/bands. It’s definitely worth checking out his website and YouTube (and following his Instagram @wallflowerwanderer.) Daniel Regner (Founder) and his crew are gifted at bringing out the personalities of the next Sierra Ferrells. In a later post I’ll show a recently filmed segment done at Manor Mill. Stay tuned!
Others Making a Difference
Westminster’s Most Friendly Jam!
Now that Common Ground on the Hill has passed, I’d like to give a shout-out to two area volunteers who continuously give to the music community. Tom and Laurie Precht are part of the face of Common Ground, giving countless hours in planning, assisting guests and teaching courses. But their year-round acoustic jam, which has been in operation for more than five years and now being launched in a newly constructed “Jam Room” at their house, will be a magnet for musicians seeking camaraderie and for eventual house concerts. Both Tom and Laurie have also been strong supporters of Hootenanny, and for that, I’m forever grateful.
Tom and Laurie Precht’s CARROLL JAM – If you’re looking for a friendly group to explore your musical passion, please sign up on Meetup. Jams fill up quickly. Jams are 2nd Sundays of every month. Next jam is on August 13th at 2 pm.
Jazz and Brass Coming to the North County!
Two events in the next few months involve stepping out of my acoustic/bluegrass boots. Second to Roots music, I have a passion for all things brass. As part of Hootenanny’s commitment to expanding music in the North County, I’ve assisted in arranging two events, with more to follow. News on efforts to expand Jazz and Brass performances in the area will be in future posts as well.
Alesia Brass Band – Based in Glenville Pa.
The Alesia Brass Band (along with other musical guests) are coming to Immanuel Church in Glencoe on October 1st for the 150th anniversary of the church’s founding. The music and activities of that event will be in the spirit of “days gone by.” Alesia is the last “Town Band” standing in the Hereford area, having been in operation for over 100 years!
And for something more modern, I’ve secured the performance of upcoming Trumpet player, Brandon Woody and his band to perform at the Manor Mill on September 23rd. I’ll definitely expand on this exciting event in August’s post. Please spread the word to Jazz friends!
Upendo Live at the 2022 Monument Lighting in Baltimore
RECOMMENDED SHOW OF THE MONTH!
Melody Trucks and the Fitzkee Brothers playing at The Park Inn in Parkton on July 27th at 6 pm. $10 cover. Melody is daughter of the Allman Brothers drummer Butch Trucks and this looks like a rocking show. And the Fitzkee Brothers are kids – hardly 18! Well done, Park Inn, for pulling this one in!
PA Events News – Where Country Rules!
Great lineup at Wyndridge Farm! Remember we featured Jake Mach on a previous post. Also, Olds Sleeper will be there Thursday (20th) 6pm – 10pm. He’s a must see!
And finally, THANK YOUBlack Locust Brewing for your Support of “Hootenanny” in our efforts to bring out new musicians, make new friends, build community through music, and help the critters at Hodgepodge Pets! Join us on First Thursdays for great beer, food and relaxation on the hilltop!
MUSICIANS!COME OUT AND SUPPORT A GOOD CAUSE! Thursday August 3rd – 6 – 8 pm: Hootenanny! – Open Jam at Black Locust – This will be a fun Bluegrass/Americana jam with all proceeds from the jar going to Hodgepodge Animal Rescue. One dollar per pour donated by Black Locust Brewery in Freeland. All levels of players and singers are welcome.
***
Editorial Note:
Thank you to all the readers who’ve followed or liked our Hootenanny Facebook site and Insta at @herefordhoot. We’ll be meeting again at Black Locust on August 3rd at 6 pm. Please come on out and say hello. We’re happy to hear your stories about music in the Hereford area and toast a beer to the players not with us anymore. It’s all about new friends and community!
Sponsored by The Probst Team of Cummings and Co. Real Estate. Your North County and Southern PA experts!
Thinking about selling? Contact emerson.probst@gmail.com or call 443.996.5555 for free home price assessment.
REMEMBER TO “LIKE” AND FOLLOW HEREFORD MUSIC NEWS ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM — @herefordhoot
Until next time…keep Loving these Unclouded Summer Days!
News about music events in Northern Maryland and Southern PA. Building community through music.
Coming to you from the beautiful rolling hills of Hereford, Maryland!
News, Jams & Music Happenings
Summer is fast on us and soon we’ll be off to our paradises, lounging on docks, beach chairs and poolside patios. With that, we’ll be listening to music. I’d like to start this month’s newsletter with reviews of two albums released over the past month by local bands: The Monkton Road Band and Whiskey Feathers.
LOCAL ALBUM REVIEWS -JUST RELEASED
MONKTON ROAD’S “FIREBALL SESSIONS”
I’ve said a lot about Monkton Road on previous posts. It’s no secret I’m a huge fan. So as expected, the quality of musicianship on this album is exceptional. I only had to sit back, pour my signature glass (Wild Turkey, Rye – yes, 2nd shelf, but it was good enough for Hunter S. Thompson) and take in the amazingly clean guitar of Jody West and harmonies of Susie West and Talbot Mayo (2nd and 3rd from left)–I knew I’d be in for something special.
I’ve noted Talbot’s ability to channel that gutsy Loretto Lynn country twang, but I also liken her to the softer sounds of Emmy Lou Harris or Patty Loveless–think Patty’s album “Mountain Soul.” And Susie West, though she pulls her own inspiration from the reflective backdrop of Carly Simon; Susie’s songs run a deep, poetic (often reflective) quality in line with Kathy Mattea (think “18 Wheels and a Dozen Roses“) or Lee Ann Womack.
There are plenty of songs on this album that are airwave capable, if Country radio had some guts. Two of my favorites are Birmingham, where Talbot’s not my first rodeo, farm-girl sincerity had me riding right beside her down that lonely stretch of Southern highway. Jody’s guitar work on the lead is smooth as silk. Another favorite, Susie West’s Trippin’, had this ol’ Cowboy (wanna-be) softie welling up almost instantly; the harmonies are expertly interwoven–Talbot’s rising sweetly over Susie’s strong, soulful center.
If you love solid Americana with a driving bass/snare pulse that makes you want to roll the car window down and crank it up, then I recommend locking your Spotify on their channel. And for extra effect, back it up with a few Fireball shooters, just wait until you get home.
Listen to or download their album on Spotify or Apple Music. CDs available at shows. Sample song: “Breathe.”
UPCOMING SHOW: The Rotunda in Baltimore on July 8th from 6 – 9.
WHISKEY FEATHERS’ “STARDUST A GARDEN”
It’s exciting seeing this band jump in and rise up through the local scene. Their debut album is almost certainly going to break them further out, maybe a lot further.
I didn’t know much about the band coming into this preview (though I did try to reach out to them sometime back.) But I’m glad I took in their new album from a fresh, bring-it-on perspective. I knew Monkton Road had history (Susie West had been in Nashville and LA, Jody West a studio musician in Nashville) But these guys are truly local. So I wondered what musical blanket would fall over me when I kicked back, pushed the volume on the ol’ Pioneer (Yeah, old school guy) and let these feathers fly.
What I got was a classic album journey from a songwriter who chases after the world, ordering it in line, demanding it stay positive and pour down some much needed, cleansing rain. We’re not talking about Johnny Cash redemption here. We’re talking about celebration – victory over the next ridge. Brittain Duckworth is the ambitious lieutenant waving his sword, a plume of feathers in his hat–charging along the firing line.
Straight up – Stardust a Garden is a soulful expression of the way we all want to feel, mixed with a few backhands against the follies of modern society. I got the feeling the writer knows a bit about things. Which is the number one reason we follow any artist.
There are a lot of great songs on this album. Two of my favorite, which aren’t headliners, are “Wrinkles in the Fabric” and “I am Stars.” Both songs take me back to my hopeful youth. I’m back in high school, sitting on the hood of my 70 Malibu, gazing out over the reservoir, waiting on Friday night.
Whiskey Feathers new album can be found on Spotify or you can download from their website. CDs are available on their website as well.
UPCOMING SHOW: Playing with ” Geraldine” on Friday, June 30th. Concert at the Metro Gallery, 1700 N. Charles St. $20 night of or $18 in advance.
Local Venues Under the Radar
FILLING STATION – Sparks. This is a great little spot and my favorite for coffee at the laptop. Their Mexican food is the best! They just started their summer Friday evening music program and have snuck in Whiskey Narrows and a fun pair called Patapsco Delta Boys this month. At the end of June (30th) they have the ever-eclectic, always entertaining Mark Brine . Mark’s no rookie; two-time Grammy nominated. Connect on Insta for upcoming shows.
PARK INN– This former gas station along the north end of York Road above Parkton always seems to keep a low profile (kind of like the old Park Inn did), but they offer live music. I think they only have a Facebook page for following events. Upcoming bands include “Brother and Sister,” “Fitzkee Brothers,” and “Foggy Hollow.”
MUSICIANS!COME OUT AND SUPPORT A GOOD CAUSEThursday July 6th – 6 – 8 pm: Hootenanny! – Open Jam at Black Locust – This will be a fun Bluegrass/Americana jam with all proceeds from the jar going to Hodgepodge Animal Rescue. One dollar per pour donated by Black Locust Brewery in Freeland. All levels of players and singers are welcome.
Butch: “You have to have timing… I can teach you anything on that banjo but you GOT to have timing. ” Me, (gulp): “I think I got that handled, Butch.”
Butch Neil, reflections on lessons.
FEATURE SUMMER CONCERT
Untwistavus Festival and Black Locust Brewery are collaborating on a day-long music/arts event on July 15th, 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. Events will include collections of local visual artists as well as a screening from local filmmaker Windy Hackett Marshall.
Susan Fidler comes from quite a pedigree of bluegrass as daughter of Ray Davis, former WAMU radio host for their weekly bluegrass segment. Anyone who grew up in Baltimore or DC in the 60s and 70s remembers clinging by their radio to catch the latest in bluegrass. It was the ONLY way I knew anything about what was going on with new bands, and I can honestly say, Ray Davis (along with Bob Dylan) led me to my first guitar at 14, and then banjo at 22. Susan’s voice is a real gift. I’ll be sure to post whenever she plays in the Gettysburg area. Until then, check our her Youtube channel or Soundcloud for originals, including her album.
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Editorial Note:
Thank you to all the readers who’ve followed or liked our Hootenanny Facebook site and Insta at @herefordhoot. We’ll be meeting again at Black Locust on July 6th at 6 pm. Please come on out and say hello. We’re happy to hear your stories about music in the Hereford area and toast a beer to the players not with us anymore. It’s all about new friends and community!
Sponsored by The Probst Team of Cummings and Co. Real Estate. 18 years serving Maryland and PA.
Thinking about selling? Contact emerson.probst@gmail.com or call 443.996.5555 for free home price assessment.
REMEMBER TO “LIKE” AND FOLLOW HEREFORD MUSIC NEWS ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM — @herefordhoot
Okay… maybe I’m a bit ambitious, but I’m proud of what we have going on. Here are a few headlines for this month:
Hereford Music News gets noticed! Starting in June I’ll be assisting the Manor Mill as the “Regional Music Curator,” helping review singers/bands from the Md, VA, Pa. area. Please email suggestions at emerson.probst@gmail.com.
Whiskey Feathers opening up 89.7 WTMD First Thursdays Concert! Our very own Hereford area Feathers are the opening band for the season–which will be an energetic event! Concert is at the Canton Waterfront Park and tickets are free!
The Inaugural Monkton Music Festival was a great success! The concert was held on the 20th and had a great local lineup. The picture below is of “Old Part of Town.” It was my first time seeing these guys and they sounded great! I totally recommend seeing them. Good times would be at Starbright Farm on June 17 or at Farmacy Brewing on July 2nd.
Me: “I can’t remember all these lyrics–I’m 47 years old!” Butch: “Just repeat the words, no one will care.”
Butch Neil, on freezing on stage.
Local Brewery Shows with Links.
NOTE: Because the summer list of brewery musicians is so long, I’ve decided to highlight the two breweries with the most robust lists of performers. It takes a lot of work to curate and manage a music program–I figured I’d reward the ones that give it the most muscle
Garrett Shultz is another Central PA player with that classic country voice. After leaving the military he decided to go all-in and recently relocated to Nashville. Check out this video for a solid York Pa vibe! He’ll be one to watch.
Hootenanny Thank You from the Heart
I want to thank everyone who came to the last Hoot at Black Locust. I’m always nervous before these events. The concept of no one showing and me trying to stretch out my three Johnny Cash songs for two hours gives me the shakes. But after having done these for years, I’ve found there’s always a miracle handed down from the music spirits…maybe Johnny himself, or more likely my former teacher, Butch. Aside from my new friend Tom who’s a great addition to the Hoot journey, others showed who I haven’t scene since before the pandemic -thank you! My fiddle brother (the other Tom) couldn’t make it, but always there in spirit. A major driving force and there since the beginning, Pat and John–so much love. A super nice Mandolin player (I like that Eastman!) And a guy who played one damn awesome Vincent Black Lightning…you were part of that miracle.
These open-jams are unique in that they’re open to everyone, no matter if you’ve only played in front of your wife and kids, or can pack the Ryman Auditorium (come on, Butch, we need Marty Stuart to drop in!) The point is that we meet new friends, have fun and raise a little money to help a neighbor. So thank you all who make an effort – I hope you’ll come again (Vincent Black Lightning guy!) We’re always ready to turn over the mics because, seriously, I hardly ever get to finish my dang beer!
***
Editorial Note:
Thank you to all the readers who’ve followed or liked our Hootenanny Facebook site and Insta at @herefordhoot. We’ll be meeting again at Black Locust on June 1st at 6 pm. Please come on out and say hello. We’re happy to hear your stories about music in the Hereford area and toast a beer to the players not with us anymore. It’s all about new friends and community!
Sponsored by The Probst Team of Cummings and Co. Real Estate. 18 years serving Maryland and PA.
Thinking about selling? Contact emerson.probst@gmail.com or call 443.996.5555 for free home price assessment.
REMEMBER TO “LIKE” AND FOLLOW HEREFORD MUSIC NEWS ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM — @herefordhoot
Until next time…a bluegrass sendoff from one of my fav bands.
News about music events in Northern Maryland and Southern PA. Building community through music.
Coming to you from the beautiful rolling hills of Hereford, Maryland!
News, Jams & Music Happenings
Our first Hereford Hootenanny at Black Locust was a blast! Thank you everyone who came and gave a few dollars to Hodgepodge Pets – Animal Rescue. On Thursday May 4th we’re having our next “Hoot” at Black Locust and hoping to raise morefor the critters down at Hodgepodge.
And remember, our Hoots are not strictly bluegrass. All you need is the ambition to have some fun and express yourself through music. We don’t care if you bring along your accordion, bongos, spoons… heck, dust off that didgeridoo. It’s a Hootenanny!
COMING SOON – COMMON GROUND ON THE HILL! – A week of workshops and events in Westminster. If you want to learn an instrument or enhance your skills, this is the place to be. Common Ground is a national-level event. In-person dates go from July 2nd to the 7th. Virtual starts on the 26th of June.
Butch: “What kind of music do you play?” Me: “Well… folk, I guess. Bob Dylan… Woody Guthrie. Butch: “So like a Hootenanny!”
Patrick McAvinue was born in Hereford in 1988 and is a nationally recognized fiddle player, having won the IBMA’s (International Bluegrass Music Association) 2015 Momentum Instrumentalist of the year award, and the IBMA’s 2017 Fiddle player of the year. Patrick started training as a violinist at 10 and then studied under Peabody graduate Amy Hopkins in fiddle playing (we Hoot folks love Amy!) and then under Troy Engle. He then went on to receive a BA from Towson University in Jazz Performance.
Check Patrick’s website for local performances. He’ll be playing with the U.S. Navy Band (Country Current) at Upperco Music festival (I think). He’ll also be playing with another extraordinary local, Carroll Swam of Bluestone, on the 30th of April in Severna Park.
Original Music Feature: “Back Home”
Just Released Video by Glen Rock, PA’s Troy Engle!
Southern PA Live Music Scene
Jake Mach of Glen Rock PA.
Glen Rock PA’s Jake Mach has all the attributes of making it big as a singer-songwriter. Jake started playing at eight and joined the Navy after high school and served as a Hospital Corpsman specializing in surgical tech. But he’s full into the music life now, a CPMA-nominated (Central PA Music Association) best singer-songwriter and with a newly-released first album called “Valley Tapes.”
Jake will be playing at Allegro Winery in Stewartstown PA. on May 7th at 1 pm. To note, one of the Hoot’s other favorites – Marrisa Porter – will be playing at Allegro on May 27th, 1 pm.
***
Editorial Note:
Thank you to all the readers who’ve followed or liked our Hootenanny Facebook site and Insta at @herefordhoot. We’ll be meeting again at Black Locust on May 4th at 6 pm. Please come on out and say hello. We’re happy to hear your stories about music in the Hereford area and toast a beer to the players not with us anymore. It’s all about new friends and community!
Sponsored by The Probst Team of Cummings and Co. Real Estate. 18 years serving Maryland and PA.
Thinking about selling? Contact emerson.probst@gmail.com or call 443.996.5555 for free home price assessment.
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Coming to you from the beautiful rolling hills of Hereford, Maryland!
News, Jams & Music Happenings
March is usually a slow month in the local music scene. Outdoor shows have yet to start. But we do have some fun news. I’ll keep it short. We all have lots to do… like, figuring out if our lawnmowers will start.
Thursday APRIL 6th – 6 – 8 pm: Hootenanny! – Open Jam. – This will be a fun Bluegrass/Americana/Folk/Country jam with all proceeds from the jar going to Hodgepodge Animal Rescue. Location is Black Locust Brewery in Freeland.
Wednesday APRIL 19th – 6.30- 9 pm: Upperco Bluegrass Jam. – This is bluegrass central for the Hereford area. Two jams – one for casual playing in the back hall and a main stage up front for the more confident players. Location is the Upperco Activities Bldg. on 16020 Carnival Avenue.
“You’ve got to have confidence, son. You just have to have confidence!”
Butch Neil, to me about playing banjo on stage
Check out the upcoming brewery shows. It definitely looks like Black Locust and Farmacy are the places to be for live music. But seriously, Black Locust; you’re rockin’ it! — Thank you!
I’ll be talking more about these two in the coming months as we discuss ways to help each other in using music to benefit our community.
Jason and Emily not only play at local events, they offer a program dedicated to using music for healing and growth. Emily has an extensive music therapy background, having spent years with the VA working with veterans. After my conversation with them this month, I see lots of growth potential…including online programs, retreats and collaborative events. More in our April newsletter.
Original Music – Feature: “Jarrettsville”
Dedicated to Dick Laird and Tom Neal, formerly of Bluestone bluegrass.
This place looks like a ton of fun! One concert to be sure to mark on your calendars is the Buck Moon Bluegrass and Folk Festival at Balla Cloiche on July 1st. Hot Rod Mule is a MUST SEE Southern Pa. band!
Editorial Note:
Thank you to all the readers who’ve followed or have liked our Hootenanny Facebook site at @herefordhoot. We’ll be meeting up at Black Locust on April 6th at 6 pm — stop by just to meet some local players at a fun, come-as-you-are location. And next month we interview Marissa Porter – be sure to check her out before she gets BIG TIME! And thank you to Cummings & Co. real estate for fostering giving back to our community.
Sponsored by The Probst Team of Cummings & Co. Real Estate. Over 18 years of serving Maryland and Southern PA. Find us at probstteam.comor emerson.probst@ gmail.com
Coming to you from the beautiful rolling hills of Hereford, Maryland!
News, Jams & Music Happenings
The first part of my research this month was on the impact of the “Brewery Tour” for emerging singer/songwriters. Never before has it been easier for us to connect with artists who may soon make the jump–and we can say we saw her just ten feet away while sipping our Hefty Brown Ale. We are truly blessed.
The list below provides links to the performers so you’ll be inspired to hit a local brewery. But first, a special holler-out to Black Locust Brewery in Freeland. They’ve made a real commitment to bringing in regional talent (like the Monkton Mill) and their success is our success. As Lisa from Black Locust said to me, “We try as much as possible to book artists from farther away… that gives our artists an opportunity to grow their audience.“
Our dream was to let our love of music draw people who also love music, the outdoors, and real farm-grown and brewed craft beers. That’s working pretty well so far!
AND BACK AT MONKTON MILL ON MARCH 18th – 7.30 – 9.30
Congratulations to Whiskey Feathers for their well-deserved breakthrough to the airwaves and their upcoming new album. A large part of our potential to make this area an artist magnet is WTMD in Towson. Independent radio is the modern equivalent to those 1930s radio outposts like XERA “On Border Radio” that launched the Carter Family. Why can’t Baltimore be the next Bristol, Tennessee? (An original 30-min radio show below – if you’re wanting a wide-mouth Mason Jar full of music history!)
Our Pick! Sunny War – Monkton Mill – 3/7
I’m so intrigued by her fingering style. In a recent Insta post, she attributed her playing style to Yasmin Williams, who’s definitely someone worth checking out.
Bluegrass? Old-Time? Celtic? – Whaaa?
This has been out for a while, but I thought I’d add it because, as a player, I’ve struggled with what I’m supposed to do at all these different jams. For those with a few minutes to read, this humorous description is worth it. Go to the link: JAMS or download the PDF.
This truly authentic player was passed to me by my undercover music sleuth (Thank you, Susan!) up in York, PA. Heath James, or “olds sleeper,” has been playing the clubs and pizza joints off the streets of York for a while now. He has a crazy down-tuned banjo style and plays a mean cigar box. True Americana stuff! But for now, one of his lighter songs…a PA love song to finish things up. (NOTE – Next performance at The King George Speakeasy in York on March 3rd, 8 – 10pm)
Heath James “olds sleeper” out of York, PA
Editorial Note:
Thanks for taking a moment to read our local music news. If anyone has any topics or persons involved in local music performances or events, please feel free to reach out at emerson.probst@gmail.com and I’ll include a mention (or story) in an upcoming post. I’m interested in anyone doing original work, but also unique choral initiatives, youth programs and the history of music in the area, including those players who’ve joined old Ralph in his Angel Band. Until next month, keep practicing and keep walking on the sunny side!
Nora Jane Struthers – Singer/songwriter
Sponsored by The Probst Team of Cummings & Co. Real Estate. Serving Maryland and Southern PA. Find us at probstteam.com
High Lonesome Hills of Northern Maryland 