The Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series™
Time: 7:30 PM unless otherwise noted. 2nd Fridays are usually Open Stage/audition night. (Check the schedule for rare exceptions.)
Location: Morristown Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 21 Normandy Heights Road, Morristown, NJ, a smoke & alcohol free environment. DIRECTIONS
Admission: On May 31st, Troubadour is changing its admission price from $10 with a heavy emphasis on donations to a set $20 admission price / $15 for Members. Children 12 and under may attend free, but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Streaming: All Troubadour concerts may be viewed in person or live-streamed, except as noted.
For More Information: Email [email protected].
Buy Troubadour tickets online: You may purchase tickets in advance for Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series shows by clicking on the In-person Tickets link in the show listing below. Online sales cease a bit before midnight on the day before the event. Tickets will still be available at the door on the day of the show unless the event is completely sold out, in which case there will be a prominent notice posted on this website. Some events accept admissions payment only at the door, with no advance sales.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Dan Bern is a captivating live performer who has enthralled a loyal and ever-growing fan base in the US and Europe since the mid ‘90s. His songs range from deeply moving to wildly imaginative and hilarious, often within the same song.
He has been compared favorably to the great masters of songwriting, such as Guthrie, Dylan, Costello. Though he draws from the great American tradition of songwriting, there is something deeply unique and compelling that make you want to get to know the man behind the songs.
He conjures incredibly specific imagery like in a painting. Though he may turn to cynicism and political satire at times, the beauty of his work is that he is able to imagine better worlds, revealing a deep capacity for empathy and optimism. Bern connects with his audiences skillfully and directly, weaving the topical and local in with the more universal themes. He has written for many films and TV shows and has made more than thirty albums.
In late 2024, Laurie MacAllister embarked on an exciting new chapter, launching a solo career with a sold-out performance at the legendary Club Passim. Two decades earlier, she co-founded the beloved Americana trio Red Molly, which released seven acclaimed albums and toured both the U.S. and internationally, including appearances at MerleFest, Cayamo, Boston Symphony Hall, Australia’s Port Fairy Folk Fest, and Denmark’s Tønder Festival.
Her 2018 self-produced solo album “The Lies the Poets Tell” is a heartfelt tribute to the contemporary folk music scene, celebrating a handful of its best songs and songwriters. SiriusXM praised the album as “Defining. A curated collection packed with emotional vibrancy.” A new album is in the works for a 2027 Release. This year she will grace stages from the legendary Club Passim to the Black Bear Americana Festival to the Northeast Regional Folk Alliance Conference…and now, the Troubadour!
The Folk Project Open Stage, North Jersey’s premier open stage, is back live on the second Friday of every month. The Main Stage features two-song (or ten minutes, whichever is shorter) sign-up slots for our audience. To sign up to perform email Chairman Todd at [email protected].
Admission: $7 at the door only (tickets for the live show not available online.) Children 12 and under free but must be accompanied by parent or guardian.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
With the energy of fiddle music, the introspective quality of contemporary folk, the precision of bluegrass, and the drive of Americana, the members of the Vermont-based American Roots band Low Lily (Liz Simmons, Flynn Cohen, and Natalie Padilla) combine their individual talents into one stunning soundscape. Low Lily has shared their signature sound with enthusiastic audiences throughout North America and the UK, garnering two #1 songs on international folk radio and two Independent Music Award wins. Their original song “Hope Lingers On” has been sung by choirs around the world as an anthem for peace and justice.
Peppino D’Agostino left Sicily more than 30 years ago with a simple dream: to play alongside the world’s greatest guitarists. He has more than fulfilled that ambition, becoming one of the most respected and influential figures in contemporary acoustic guitar.
A leading voice in the second wave of fingerstyle guitarists that helped redefine the instrument in the 1990s, D’Agostino is celebrated for his dazzling technique, innovative use of open tunings, percussive effects, melodic compositions, and emotional depth. His broad musical tastes and playful warmth have inspired generations of guitarists and audiences worldwide. Acoustic Guitar magazine named him “the guitarist’s guitarist,” while Guitar Player readers voted him Best Acoustic Guitarist.
D’Agostino has performed in more than 30 countries and shared stages with Tommy Emmanuel, Leo Kottke, Sergio Assad, Larry Carlton, and Eric Johnson. His recordings include Acoustic Spirit, Close to the Heart, Every Step of the Way, and Penumbra, which bridges classical and acoustic guitar traditions.
Beyond performing, D’Agostino is a dedicated teacher, offering workshops and online instruction. His music has also appeared in video games and at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. His concerts are celebrated for virtuosity, spontaneity, humor, and an intimate connection with audiences. Whether composing, teaching, or performing on his signature Seagull guitar, D’Agostino continues to push the boundaries of acoustic music.
** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Where can you hear four amazing acts for the price of one? Why, at the Troubadour’s highly anticipated Spotlight Nights, of course! This edition features incredibly talented and musically diverse duos and trios from all over North Jersey. But wait, there’s more: free food! Arrive at 6:30 and enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres while mingling with old friends and meeting new ones.
The TriSonics play original acoustic instrumentals spanning roots, folk, bluegrass, blues and jazz, featured on their three albums to date. The players are Michael William Levine on Dobro, Don Sarlin on guitar and their newest member Michael Aharon on cello and bass. Their respective credits include Van Morrison, Tanya Tucker, Backstreet Boys, Patti LaBelle, Trapezoid, Solas, David Bromberg, Mary Travers, Vasser Clements, Larry Gatlin, Mac Davis, Esther Phillips and others with appearances in the U.S., the UK, Europe and Asia, and on TV (SNL, others).
Video Link: Lee at Williamsport
*** Admission: $35/$30 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Twenty-five years after the release of “Teenage Dirtbag”, somehow Wheatus’ now iconic debut single is arguably the biggest it’s ever been, becoming the cornerstone of a huge TikTok movement embraced by nearly a million people, including celebrities such as Madonna, Lady Gaga, Mark Ruffalo, Lil Nas X, Jon Bon Jovi, Chevy Chase, and countless others. “Teenage Dirtbag” re-entered the the UK Top 40 charts in 2023. Frontman Brendan B Brown, backed by vocalist Gabrielle Sterbenz, continues a tour of intimate acoustic shows across 49 states celebrating this timeless classic, and so much more.
Opening act and Wheatus backup vocalist, Gabrielle Sterbenz’s, weaves her gospel-honed vocals with touches of the Great American Songbook into raw and intimate songwriting. This long-time backing vocalist steps into the foreground with her new album “Icky Guy,” out October 30th. To date, Disterbenz has performed her music for audiences in 49 US States, the UK, EU, Canada, and Australia. As a backing vocalist, Gabrielle has worked on The Tonight Show, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Late Night with Seth Meyers, with Robbie Dupree (“Steal Away”), and as a backing vocalist and rhythm guitar player for Mike Doughty, of the band “Soul Coughing.”
The Folk Project Open Stage, North Jersey’s premier open stage, is back live on the second Friday of every month. The Main Stage features two-song (or ten minutes, whichever is shorter) sign-up slots for our audience. To sign up to perform email Chairman Todd at [email protected].
Admission: $7 at the door only (tickets for the live show not available online.) Children 12 and under free but must be accompanied by parent or guardian.
Fri., Dec. 18, 7:30 pm, In-person and on-line. Caroling (in-person only) starts at 7.
Mark your calendar for the Project’s annual Holiday Concert to benefit our welcoming and supportive host, the Morristown Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. The evening is an opportunity to bring our two great communities together, and it will be one rip-roaring good show. Plus, all proceeds will be donated to the Fellowship.
After a spirited round of caroling, the evening will showcase some of the finest Project performers, along with a special guest.
==================================================================
We’ll feature the musical power couple, Dan Crisci and Ginny Johnston. Dan is a brilliant jazz pianist and composer. Ginny is an equally brilliant singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. And together, they’re magic.
Video Link: The Joint is Jumpin’
==================================================================
We’ll present a spread of holiday goodies as only Bob Cole can conjure up.
And the caroling will be led by golden-voiced Marie Trontell.
This will be a great evening for a great cause.
*** Admission $20, Folk Project members $15, Children under 12 with Adult Free, and $15 on-line. ***
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Cold Chocolate is a genre-bending Americana band that fuses folk, funk, and bluegrass to create a unique sound all their own. Featuring Ethan Robbins on guitar and mandolin & Ariel Bernstein on percussion and banjo, this power duo from Boston is impressing audiences throughout New England and beyond. Punctuated by tight harmonies and skillful musicianship, and with a focus on songwriting, Cold Chocolate has quickly gained recognition for their original music and high-energy shows. The band has shared bills with Leftover Salmon and David Grisman, and regularly performs at venues and music festivals across the country.
Meghan Cary delivers award-winning original songs with powerful vocals and unshakable stage presence. Called a “storytelling troubadour” by Billboard Magazine, Cary inspires connection and community with music that’s earned comparisons to Brandi Carlile and Melissa Etheridge. Her anthem “River Rock” and 2025 single “Raise Your Voice” rally audiences to hope and action. A favorite at festivals like Falcon Ridge and Philadelphia Folk Fest, she has shared stages with Joan Osborne, Chris Smither, and more. Whether performing, teaching, or speaking, Cary empowers others to embrace their stories with humor and heart.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Joe Cirotti Trio, a well-oiled string band from the shadows of Northwest Jersey’s Appalachian ridge, crafts a sound steeped in tradition yet infused with modern twists, driven by a passion for the roots of American folk, jazz, country, and bluegrass. Their influences range from Doc Watson, Tony Rice, and Garcia/Grisman to Django Reinhardt, Pink Floyd, and Van Halen. With Joe Cirotti on guitar, Pete Lister on upright bass, and Timmy Coyle on mandolin and guitar, the trio has become a fixture across the Northwest New Jersey stages over the past 11 years and released their debut album in 2023. Their bond is fueled by a blue-collar passion for picking and buoyed by their shared love of roots music and whiskey.
Acoustic guitar virtuosos Don Ross and Julie Malía bring dazzling fingerstyle mastery, rich vocals, and irresistible musical chemistry to the stage. Two internationally acclaimed solo artists, they have performed more than 100 concerts together across Europe and North America.
Ross, a two-time U.S. National Fingerpicking Guitar Champion and recipient of Canada’s prestigious Walter Carsen Prize, has collaborated with Bruce Cockburn and Andy McKee.
Malía, a celebrated and sought-after European acoustic artist, was nominated for the German Record Critics’ Prize for her album Seagull.
Together, their virtuosic guitars and heartfelt songs promise an unforgettable evening. Don’t miss this extraordinary musical partnership!
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
For centuries, the lute was known as the “Prince of Instruments,” and lute players were celebrities in royal courts across Europe. Ayreheart, a progressive folk quartet founded by Grammy-nominated lutenist Ronn McFarlane, strives to restore the lute to its former glory – but in a modern context. With backgrounds in rock, folk and jazz, the members of Ayreheart (McFarlane on lute, Will Morris on fretless bass, violin and colascione, Mattias Rucht on percussion, and Heather Aubrey Lloyd on vocals and acoustic guitar) bring fresh energy to old traditions.
A great groove is timeless.
Gabe Parsons is a Folk Rock singer-songwriter from Hopewell Valley, NJ,whose music traces the long roads between home, heart, and change. After developing his sound in New Orleans while studying at Loyola University’s School of Music Industry, Parsons returned to the Northeast, where he has since played over 150 shows and gigs and built a strong following—particularly in Philadelphia, with appearances at World Cafe Live, Milk Boy and other notable venues.
In 2024, Parsons performed at French Quarter Festival alongside Kristin Diable and opened for the Crowe Boys on their national tour. His debut LP, Long Road Traveler, released in mid-October 2025, earned positive reviews in several music publications, including a feature in EARMILK, and was celebrated with a sold-out release show in his hometown at Needle Creek Brewery. He was also recognized as WXPN’s Local Pick of the Day, further cementing his growing presence in the regional Folk Rock scene.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Dan Bern is a captivating live performer who has enthralled a loyal and ever-growing fan base in the US and Europe since the mid ‘90s. His songs range from deeply moving to wildly imaginative and hilarious, often within the same song.
He has been compared favorably to the great masters of songwriting, such as Guthrie, Dylan, Costello. Though he draws from the great American tradition of songwriting, there is something deeply unique and compelling that make you want to get to know the man behind the songs.
He conjures incredibly specific imagery like in a painting. Though he may turn to cynicism and political satire at times, the beauty of his work is that he is able to imagine better worlds, revealing a deep capacity for empathy and optimism. Bern connects with his audiences skillfully and directly, weaving the topical and local in with the more universal themes. He has written for many films and TV shows and has made more than thirty albums.
In late 2024, Laurie MacAllister embarked on an exciting new chapter, launching a solo career with a sold-out performance at the legendary Club Passim. Two decades earlier, she co-founded the beloved Americana trio Red Molly, which released seven acclaimed albums and toured both the U.S. and internationally, including appearances at MerleFest, Cayamo, Boston Symphony Hall, Australia’s Port Fairy Folk Fest, and Denmark’s Tønder Festival.
Her 2018 self-produced solo album “The Lies the Poets Tell” is a heartfelt tribute to the contemporary folk music scene, celebrating a handful of its best songs and songwriters. SiriusXM praised the album as “Defining. A curated collection packed with emotional vibrancy.” A new album is in the works for a 2027 Release. This year she will grace stages from the legendary Club Passim to the Black Bear Americana Festival to the Northeast Regional Folk Alliance Conference…and now, the Troubadour!
The Folk Project Open Stage, North Jersey’s premier open stage, is back live on the second Friday of every month. The Main Stage features two-song (or ten minutes, whichever is shorter) sign-up slots for our audience. To sign up to perform email Chairman Todd at [email protected].
Admission: $7 at the door only (tickets for the live show not available online.) Children 12 and under free but must be accompanied by parent or guardian.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
With the energy of fiddle music, the introspective quality of contemporary folk, the precision of bluegrass, and the drive of Americana, the members of the Vermont-based American Roots band Low Lily (Liz Simmons, Flynn Cohen, and Natalie Padilla) combine their individual talents into one stunning soundscape. Low Lily has shared their signature sound with enthusiastic audiences throughout North America and the UK, garnering two #1 songs on international folk radio and two Independent Music Award wins. Their original song “Hope Lingers On” has been sung by choirs around the world as an anthem for peace and justice.
Peppino D’Agostino left Sicily more than 30 years ago with a simple dream: to play alongside the world’s greatest guitarists. He has more than fulfilled that ambition, becoming one of the most respected and influential figures in contemporary acoustic guitar.
A leading voice in the second wave of fingerstyle guitarists that helped redefine the instrument in the 1990s, D’Agostino is celebrated for his dazzling technique, innovative use of open tunings, percussive effects, melodic compositions, and emotional depth. His broad musical tastes and playful warmth have inspired generations of guitarists and audiences worldwide. Acoustic Guitar magazine named him “the guitarist’s guitarist,” while Guitar Player readers voted him Best Acoustic Guitarist.
D’Agostino has performed in more than 30 countries and shared stages with Tommy Emmanuel, Leo Kottke, Sergio Assad, Larry Carlton, and Eric Johnson. His recordings include Acoustic Spirit, Close to the Heart, Every Step of the Way, and Penumbra, which bridges classical and acoustic guitar traditions.
Beyond performing, D’Agostino is a dedicated teacher, offering workshops and online instruction. His music has also appeared in video games and at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. His concerts are celebrated for virtuosity, spontaneity, humor, and an intimate connection with audiences. Whether composing, teaching, or performing on his signature Seagull guitar, D’Agostino continues to push the boundaries of acoustic music.
** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Where can you hear four amazing acts for the price of one? Why, at the Troubadour’s highly anticipated Spotlight Nights, of course! This edition features incredibly talented and musically diverse duos and trios from all over North Jersey. But wait, there’s more: free food! Arrive at 6:30 and enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres while mingling with old friends and meeting new ones.
The TriSonics play original acoustic instrumentals spanning roots, folk, bluegrass, blues and jazz, featured on their three albums to date. The players are Michael William Levine on Dobro, Don Sarlin on guitar and their newest member Michael Aharon on cello and bass. Their respective credits include Van Morrison, Tanya Tucker, Backstreet Boys, Patti LaBelle, Trapezoid, Solas, David Bromberg, Mary Travers, Vasser Clements, Larry Gatlin, Mac Davis, Esther Phillips and others with appearances in the U.S., the UK, Europe and Asia, and on TV (SNL, others).
Video Link: Lee at Williamsport
*** Admission: $35/$30 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Twenty-five years after the release of “Teenage Dirtbag”, somehow Wheatus’ now iconic debut single is arguably the biggest it’s ever been, becoming the cornerstone of a huge TikTok movement embraced by nearly a million people, including celebrities such as Madonna, Lady Gaga, Mark Ruffalo, Lil Nas X, Jon Bon Jovi, Chevy Chase, and countless others. “Teenage Dirtbag” re-entered the the UK Top 40 charts in 2023. Frontman Brendan B Brown, backed by vocalist Gabrielle Sterbenz, continues a tour of intimate acoustic shows across 49 states celebrating this timeless classic, and so much more.
Opening act and Wheatus backup vocalist, Gabrielle Sterbenz’s, weaves her gospel-honed vocals with touches of the Great American Songbook into raw and intimate songwriting. This long-time backing vocalist steps into the foreground with her new album “Icky Guy,” out October 30th. To date, Disterbenz has performed her music for audiences in 49 US States, the UK, EU, Canada, and Australia. As a backing vocalist, Gabrielle has worked on The Tonight Show, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Late Night with Seth Meyers, with Robbie Dupree (“Steal Away”), and as a backing vocalist and rhythm guitar player for Mike Doughty, of the band “Soul Coughing.”
The Folk Project Open Stage, North Jersey’s premier open stage, is back live on the second Friday of every month. The Main Stage features two-song (or ten minutes, whichever is shorter) sign-up slots for our audience. To sign up to perform email Chairman Todd at [email protected].
Admission: $7 at the door only (tickets for the live show not available online.) Children 12 and under free but must be accompanied by parent or guardian.
Fri., Dec. 18, 7:30 pm, In-person and on-line. Caroling (in-person only) starts at 7.
Mark your calendar for the Project’s annual Holiday Concert to benefit our welcoming and supportive host, the Morristown Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. The evening is an opportunity to bring our two great communities together, and it will be one rip-roaring good show. Plus, all proceeds will be donated to the Fellowship.
After a spirited round of caroling, the evening will showcase some of the finest Project performers, along with a special guest.
==================================================================
We’ll feature the musical power couple, Dan Crisci and Ginny Johnston. Dan is a brilliant jazz pianist and composer. Ginny is an equally brilliant singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. And together, they’re magic.
Video Link: The Joint is Jumpin’
==================================================================
We’ll present a spread of holiday goodies as only Bob Cole can conjure up.
And the caroling will be led by golden-voiced Marie Trontell.
This will be a great evening for a great cause.
*** Admission $20, Folk Project members $15, Children under 12 with Adult Free, and $15 on-line. ***
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Cold Chocolate is a genre-bending Americana band that fuses folk, funk, and bluegrass to create a unique sound all their own. Featuring Ethan Robbins on guitar and mandolin & Ariel Bernstein on percussion and banjo, this power duo from Boston is impressing audiences throughout New England and beyond. Punctuated by tight harmonies and skillful musicianship, and with a focus on songwriting, Cold Chocolate has quickly gained recognition for their original music and high-energy shows. The band has shared bills with Leftover Salmon and David Grisman, and regularly performs at venues and music festivals across the country.
Meghan Cary delivers award-winning original songs with powerful vocals and unshakable stage presence. Called a “storytelling troubadour” by Billboard Magazine, Cary inspires connection and community with music that’s earned comparisons to Brandi Carlile and Melissa Etheridge. Her anthem “River Rock” and 2025 single “Raise Your Voice” rally audiences to hope and action. A favorite at festivals like Falcon Ridge and Philadelphia Folk Fest, she has shared stages with Joan Osborne, Chris Smither, and more. Whether performing, teaching, or speaking, Cary empowers others to embrace their stories with humor and heart.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Joe Cirotti Trio, a well-oiled string band from the shadows of Northwest Jersey’s Appalachian ridge, crafts a sound steeped in tradition yet infused with modern twists, driven by a passion for the roots of American folk, jazz, country, and bluegrass. Their influences range from Doc Watson, Tony Rice, and Garcia/Grisman to Django Reinhardt, Pink Floyd, and Van Halen. With Joe Cirotti on guitar, Pete Lister on upright bass, and Timmy Coyle on mandolin and guitar, the trio has become a fixture across the Northwest New Jersey stages over the past 11 years and released their debut album in 2023. Their bond is fueled by a blue-collar passion for picking and buoyed by their shared love of roots music and whiskey.
Acoustic guitar virtuosos Don Ross and Julie Malía bring dazzling fingerstyle mastery, rich vocals, and irresistible musical chemistry to the stage. Two internationally acclaimed solo artists, they have performed more than 100 concerts together across Europe and North America.
Ross, a two-time U.S. National Fingerpicking Guitar Champion and recipient of Canada’s prestigious Walter Carsen Prize, has collaborated with Bruce Cockburn and Andy McKee.
Malía, a celebrated and sought-after European acoustic artist, was nominated for the German Record Critics’ Prize for her album Seagull.
Together, their virtuosic guitars and heartfelt songs promise an unforgettable evening. Don’t miss this extraordinary musical partnership!
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
For centuries, the lute was known as the “Prince of Instruments,” and lute players were celebrities in royal courts across Europe. Ayreheart, a progressive folk quartet founded by Grammy-nominated lutenist Ronn McFarlane, strives to restore the lute to its former glory – but in a modern context. With backgrounds in rock, folk and jazz, the members of Ayreheart (McFarlane on lute, Will Morris on fretless bass, violin and colascione, Mattias Rucht on percussion, and Heather Aubrey Lloyd on vocals and acoustic guitar) bring fresh energy to old traditions.
A great groove is timeless.
Gabe Parsons is a Folk Rock singer-songwriter from Hopewell Valley, NJ,whose music traces the long roads between home, heart, and change. After developing his sound in New Orleans while studying at Loyola University’s School of Music Industry, Parsons returned to the Northeast, where he has since played over 150 shows and gigs and built a strong following—particularly in Philadelphia, with appearances at World Cafe Live, Milk Boy and other notable venues.
In 2024, Parsons performed at French Quarter Festival alongside Kristin Diable and opened for the Crowe Boys on their national tour. His debut LP, Long Road Traveler, released in mid-October 2025, earned positive reviews in several music publications, including a feature in EARMILK, and was celebrated with a sold-out release show in his hometown at Needle Creek Brewery. He was also recognized as WXPN’s Local Pick of the Day, further cementing his growing presence in the regional Folk Rock scene.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Dan Bern is a captivating live performer who has enthralled a loyal and ever-growing fan base in the US and Europe since the mid ‘90s. His songs range from deeply moving to wildly imaginative and hilarious, often within the same song.
He has been compared favorably to the great masters of songwriting, such as Guthrie, Dylan, Costello. Though he draws from the great American tradition of songwriting, there is something deeply unique and compelling that make you want to get to know the man behind the songs.
He conjures incredibly specific imagery like in a painting. Though he may turn to cynicism and political satire at times, the beauty of his work is that he is able to imagine better worlds, revealing a deep capacity for empathy and optimism. Bern connects with his audiences skillfully and directly, weaving the topical and local in with the more universal themes. He has written for many films and TV shows and has made more than thirty albums.
In late 2024, Laurie MacAllister embarked on an exciting new chapter, launching a solo career with a sold-out performance at the legendary Club Passim. Two decades earlier, she co-founded the beloved Americana trio Red Molly, which released seven acclaimed albums and toured both the U.S. and internationally, including appearances at MerleFest, Cayamo, Boston Symphony Hall, Australia’s Port Fairy Folk Fest, and Denmark’s Tønder Festival.
Her 2018 self-produced solo album “The Lies the Poets Tell” is a heartfelt tribute to the contemporary folk music scene, celebrating a handful of its best songs and songwriters. SiriusXM praised the album as “Defining. A curated collection packed with emotional vibrancy.” A new album is in the works for a 2027 Release. This year she will grace stages from the legendary Club Passim to the Black Bear Americana Festival to the Northeast Regional Folk Alliance Conference…and now, the Troubadour!
The Folk Project Open Stage, North Jersey’s premier open stage, is back live on the second Friday of every month. The Main Stage features two-song (or ten minutes, whichever is shorter) sign-up slots for our audience. To sign up to perform email Chairman Todd at [email protected].
Admission: $7 at the door only (tickets for the live show not available online.) Children 12 and under free but must be accompanied by parent or guardian.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
With the energy of fiddle music, the introspective quality of contemporary folk, the precision of bluegrass, and the drive of Americana, the members of the Vermont-based American Roots band Low Lily (Liz Simmons, Flynn Cohen, and Natalie Padilla) combine their individual talents into one stunning soundscape. Low Lily has shared their signature sound with enthusiastic audiences throughout North America and the UK, garnering two #1 songs on international folk radio and two Independent Music Award wins. Their original song “Hope Lingers On” has been sung by choirs around the world as an anthem for peace and justice.
Peppino D’Agostino left Sicily more than 30 years ago with a simple dream: to play alongside the world’s greatest guitarists. He has more than fulfilled that ambition, becoming one of the most respected and influential figures in contemporary acoustic guitar.
A leading voice in the second wave of fingerstyle guitarists that helped redefine the instrument in the 1990s, D’Agostino is celebrated for his dazzling technique, innovative use of open tunings, percussive effects, melodic compositions, and emotional depth. His broad musical tastes and playful warmth have inspired generations of guitarists and audiences worldwide. Acoustic Guitar magazine named him “the guitarist’s guitarist,” while Guitar Player readers voted him Best Acoustic Guitarist.
D’Agostino has performed in more than 30 countries and shared stages with Tommy Emmanuel, Leo Kottke, Sergio Assad, Larry Carlton, and Eric Johnson. His recordings include Acoustic Spirit, Close to the Heart, Every Step of the Way, and Penumbra, which bridges classical and acoustic guitar traditions.
Beyond performing, D’Agostino is a dedicated teacher, offering workshops and online instruction. His music has also appeared in video games and at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. His concerts are celebrated for virtuosity, spontaneity, humor, and an intimate connection with audiences. Whether composing, teaching, or performing on his signature Seagull guitar, D’Agostino continues to push the boundaries of acoustic music.
** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Where can you hear four amazing acts for the price of one? Why, at the Troubadour’s highly anticipated Spotlight Nights, of course! This edition features incredibly talented and musically diverse duos and trios from all over North Jersey. But wait, there’s more: free food! Arrive at 6:30 and enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres while mingling with old friends and meeting new ones.
The TriSonics play original acoustic instrumentals spanning roots, folk, bluegrass, blues and jazz, featured on their three albums to date. The players are Michael William Levine on Dobro, Don Sarlin on guitar and their newest member Michael Aharon on cello and bass. Their respective credits include Van Morrison, Tanya Tucker, Backstreet Boys, Patti LaBelle, Trapezoid, Solas, David Bromberg, Mary Travers, Vasser Clements, Larry Gatlin, Mac Davis, Esther Phillips and others with appearances in the U.S., the UK, Europe and Asia, and on TV (SNL, others).
Video Link: Lee at Williamsport
*** Admission: $35/$30 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Twenty-five years after the release of “Teenage Dirtbag”, somehow Wheatus’ now iconic debut single is arguably the biggest it’s ever been, becoming the cornerstone of a huge TikTok movement embraced by nearly a million people, including celebrities such as Madonna, Lady Gaga, Mark Ruffalo, Lil Nas X, Jon Bon Jovi, Chevy Chase, and countless others. “Teenage Dirtbag” re-entered the the UK Top 40 charts in 2023. Frontman Brendan B Brown, backed by vocalist Gabrielle Sterbenz, continues a tour of intimate acoustic shows across 49 states celebrating this timeless classic, and so much more.
Opening act and Wheatus backup vocalist, Gabrielle Sterbenz’s, weaves her gospel-honed vocals with touches of the Great American Songbook into raw and intimate songwriting. This long-time backing vocalist steps into the foreground with her new album “Icky Guy,” out October 30th. To date, Disterbenz has performed her music for audiences in 49 US States, the UK, EU, Canada, and Australia. As a backing vocalist, Gabrielle has worked on The Tonight Show, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Late Night with Seth Meyers, with Robbie Dupree (“Steal Away”), and as a backing vocalist and rhythm guitar player for Mike Doughty, of the band “Soul Coughing.”
The Folk Project Open Stage, North Jersey’s premier open stage, is back live on the second Friday of every month. The Main Stage features two-song (or ten minutes, whichever is shorter) sign-up slots for our audience. To sign up to perform email Chairman Todd at [email protected].
Admission: $7 at the door only (tickets for the live show not available online.) Children 12 and under free but must be accompanied by parent or guardian.
Fri., Dec. 18, 7:30 pm, In-person and on-line. Caroling (in-person only) starts at 7.
Mark your calendar for the Project’s annual Holiday Concert to benefit our welcoming and supportive host, the Morristown Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. The evening is an opportunity to bring our two great communities together, and it will be one rip-roaring good show. Plus, all proceeds will be donated to the Fellowship.
After a spirited round of caroling, the evening will showcase some of the finest Project performers, along with a special guest.
==================================================================
We’ll feature the musical power couple, Dan Crisci and Ginny Johnston. Dan is a brilliant jazz pianist and composer. Ginny is an equally brilliant singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. And together, they’re magic.
Video Link: The Joint is Jumpin’
==================================================================
We’ll present a spread of holiday goodies as only Bob Cole can conjure up.
And the caroling will be led by golden-voiced Marie Trontell.
This will be a great evening for a great cause.
*** Admission $20, Folk Project members $15, Children under 12 with Adult Free, and $15 on-line. ***
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Cold Chocolate is a genre-bending Americana band that fuses folk, funk, and bluegrass to create a unique sound all their own. Featuring Ethan Robbins on guitar and mandolin & Ariel Bernstein on percussion and banjo, this power duo from Boston is impressing audiences throughout New England and beyond. Punctuated by tight harmonies and skillful musicianship, and with a focus on songwriting, Cold Chocolate has quickly gained recognition for their original music and high-energy shows. The band has shared bills with Leftover Salmon and David Grisman, and regularly performs at venues and music festivals across the country.
Meghan Cary delivers award-winning original songs with powerful vocals and unshakable stage presence. Called a “storytelling troubadour” by Billboard Magazine, Cary inspires connection and community with music that’s earned comparisons to Brandi Carlile and Melissa Etheridge. Her anthem “River Rock” and 2025 single “Raise Your Voice” rally audiences to hope and action. A favorite at festivals like Falcon Ridge and Philadelphia Folk Fest, she has shared stages with Joan Osborne, Chris Smither, and more. Whether performing, teaching, or speaking, Cary empowers others to embrace their stories with humor and heart.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Joe Cirotti Trio, a well-oiled string band from the shadows of Northwest Jersey’s Appalachian ridge, crafts a sound steeped in tradition yet infused with modern twists, driven by a passion for the roots of American folk, jazz, country, and bluegrass. Their influences range from Doc Watson, Tony Rice, and Garcia/Grisman to Django Reinhardt, Pink Floyd, and Van Halen. With Joe Cirotti on guitar, Pete Lister on upright bass, and Timmy Coyle on mandolin and guitar, the trio has become a fixture across the Northwest New Jersey stages over the past 11 years and released their debut album in 2023. Their bond is fueled by a blue-collar passion for picking and buoyed by their shared love of roots music and whiskey.
Acoustic guitar virtuosos Don Ross and Julie Malía bring dazzling fingerstyle mastery, rich vocals, and irresistible musical chemistry to the stage. Two internationally acclaimed solo artists, they have performed more than 100 concerts together across Europe and North America.
Ross, a two-time U.S. National Fingerpicking Guitar Champion and recipient of Canada’s prestigious Walter Carsen Prize, has collaborated with Bruce Cockburn and Andy McKee.
Malía, a celebrated and sought-after European acoustic artist, was nominated for the German Record Critics’ Prize for her album Seagull.
Together, their virtuosic guitars and heartfelt songs promise an unforgettable evening. Don’t miss this extraordinary musical partnership!
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
For centuries, the lute was known as the “Prince of Instruments,” and lute players were celebrities in royal courts across Europe. Ayreheart, a progressive folk quartet founded by Grammy-nominated lutenist Ronn McFarlane, strives to restore the lute to its former glory – but in a modern context. With backgrounds in rock, folk and jazz, the members of Ayreheart (McFarlane on lute, Will Morris on fretless bass, violin and colascione, Mattias Rucht on percussion, and Heather Aubrey Lloyd on vocals and acoustic guitar) bring fresh energy to old traditions.
A great groove is timeless.
Gabe Parsons is a Folk Rock singer-songwriter from Hopewell Valley, NJ,whose music traces the long roads between home, heart, and change. After developing his sound in New Orleans while studying at Loyola University’s School of Music Industry, Parsons returned to the Northeast, where he has since played over 150 shows and gigs and built a strong following—particularly in Philadelphia, with appearances at World Cafe Live, Milk Boy and other notable venues.
In 2024, Parsons performed at French Quarter Festival alongside Kristin Diable and opened for the Crowe Boys on their national tour. His debut LP, Long Road Traveler, released in mid-October 2025, earned positive reviews in several music publications, including a feature in EARMILK, and was celebrated with a sold-out release show in his hometown at Needle Creek Brewery. He was also recognized as WXPN’s Local Pick of the Day, further cementing his growing presence in the regional Folk Rock scene.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Dan Bern is a captivating live performer who has enthralled a loyal and ever-growing fan base in the US and Europe since the mid ‘90s. His songs range from deeply moving to wildly imaginative and hilarious, often within the same song.
He has been compared favorably to the great masters of songwriting, such as Guthrie, Dylan, Costello. Though he draws from the great American tradition of songwriting, there is something deeply unique and compelling that make you want to get to know the man behind the songs.
He conjures incredibly specific imagery like in a painting. Though he may turn to cynicism and political satire at times, the beauty of his work is that he is able to imagine better worlds, revealing a deep capacity for empathy and optimism. Bern connects with his audiences skillfully and directly, weaving the topical and local in with the more universal themes. He has written for many films and TV shows and has made more than thirty albums.
In late 2024, Laurie MacAllister embarked on an exciting new chapter, launching a solo career with a sold-out performance at the legendary Club Passim. Two decades earlier, she co-founded the beloved Americana trio Red Molly, which released seven acclaimed albums and toured both the U.S. and internationally, including appearances at MerleFest, Cayamo, Boston Symphony Hall, Australia’s Port Fairy Folk Fest, and Denmark’s Tønder Festival.
Her 2018 self-produced solo album “The Lies the Poets Tell” is a heartfelt tribute to the contemporary folk music scene, celebrating a handful of its best songs and songwriters. SiriusXM praised the album as “Defining. A curated collection packed with emotional vibrancy.” A new album is in the works for a 2027 Release. This year she will grace stages from the legendary Club Passim to the Black Bear Americana Festival to the Northeast Regional Folk Alliance Conference…and now, the Troubadour!
The Folk Project Open Stage, North Jersey’s premier open stage, is back live on the second Friday of every month. The Main Stage features two-song (or ten minutes, whichever is shorter) sign-up slots for our audience. To sign up to perform email Chairman Todd at [email protected].
Admission: $7 at the door only (tickets for the live show not available online.) Children 12 and under free but must be accompanied by parent or guardian.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
With the energy of fiddle music, the introspective quality of contemporary folk, the precision of bluegrass, and the drive of Americana, the members of the Vermont-based American Roots band Low Lily (Liz Simmons, Flynn Cohen, and Natalie Padilla) combine their individual talents into one stunning soundscape. Low Lily has shared their signature sound with enthusiastic audiences throughout North America and the UK, garnering two #1 songs on international folk radio and two Independent Music Award wins. Their original song “Hope Lingers On” has been sung by choirs around the world as an anthem for peace and justice.
Peppino D’Agostino left Sicily more than 30 years ago with a simple dream: to play alongside the world’s greatest guitarists. He has more than fulfilled that ambition, becoming one of the most respected and influential figures in contemporary acoustic guitar.
A leading voice in the second wave of fingerstyle guitarists that helped redefine the instrument in the 1990s, D’Agostino is celebrated for his dazzling technique, innovative use of open tunings, percussive effects, melodic compositions, and emotional depth. His broad musical tastes and playful warmth have inspired generations of guitarists and audiences worldwide. Acoustic Guitar magazine named him “the guitarist’s guitarist,” while Guitar Player readers voted him Best Acoustic Guitarist.
D’Agostino has performed in more than 30 countries and shared stages with Tommy Emmanuel, Leo Kottke, Sergio Assad, Larry Carlton, and Eric Johnson. His recordings include Acoustic Spirit, Close to the Heart, Every Step of the Way, and Penumbra, which bridges classical and acoustic guitar traditions.
Beyond performing, D’Agostino is a dedicated teacher, offering workshops and online instruction. His music has also appeared in video games and at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. His concerts are celebrated for virtuosity, spontaneity, humor, and an intimate connection with audiences. Whether composing, teaching, or performing on his signature Seagull guitar, D’Agostino continues to push the boundaries of acoustic music.
** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Where can you hear four amazing acts for the price of one? Why, at the Troubadour’s highly anticipated Spotlight Nights, of course! This edition features incredibly talented and musically diverse duos and trios from all over North Jersey. But wait, there’s more: free food! Arrive at 6:30 and enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres while mingling with old friends and meeting new ones.
The TriSonics play original acoustic instrumentals spanning roots, folk, bluegrass, blues and jazz, featured on their three albums to date. The players are Michael William Levine on Dobro, Don Sarlin on guitar and their newest member Michael Aharon on cello and bass. Their respective credits include Van Morrison, Tanya Tucker, Backstreet Boys, Patti LaBelle, Trapezoid, Solas, David Bromberg, Mary Travers, Vasser Clements, Larry Gatlin, Mac Davis, Esther Phillips and others with appearances in the U.S., the UK, Europe and Asia, and on TV (SNL, others).
Video Link: Lee at Williamsport
*** Admission: $35/$30 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Twenty-five years after the release of “Teenage Dirtbag”, somehow Wheatus’ now iconic debut single is arguably the biggest it’s ever been, becoming the cornerstone of a huge TikTok movement embraced by nearly a million people, including celebrities such as Madonna, Lady Gaga, Mark Ruffalo, Lil Nas X, Jon Bon Jovi, Chevy Chase, and countless others. “Teenage Dirtbag” re-entered the the UK Top 40 charts in 2023. Frontman Brendan B Brown, backed by vocalist Gabrielle Sterbenz, continues a tour of intimate acoustic shows across 49 states celebrating this timeless classic, and so much more.
Opening act and Wheatus backup vocalist, Gabrielle Sterbenz’s, weaves her gospel-honed vocals with touches of the Great American Songbook into raw and intimate songwriting. This long-time backing vocalist steps into the foreground with her new album “Icky Guy,” out October 30th. To date, Disterbenz has performed her music for audiences in 49 US States, the UK, EU, Canada, and Australia. As a backing vocalist, Gabrielle has worked on The Tonight Show, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Late Night with Seth Meyers, with Robbie Dupree (“Steal Away”), and as a backing vocalist and rhythm guitar player for Mike Doughty, of the band “Soul Coughing.”
The Folk Project Open Stage, North Jersey’s premier open stage, is back live on the second Friday of every month. The Main Stage features two-song (or ten minutes, whichever is shorter) sign-up slots for our audience. To sign up to perform email Chairman Todd at [email protected].
Admission: $7 at the door only (tickets for the live show not available online.) Children 12 and under free but must be accompanied by parent or guardian.
Fri., Dec. 18, 7:30 pm, In-person and on-line. Caroling (in-person only) starts at 7.
Mark your calendar for the Project’s annual Holiday Concert to benefit our welcoming and supportive host, the Morristown Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. The evening is an opportunity to bring our two great communities together, and it will be one rip-roaring good show. Plus, all proceeds will be donated to the Fellowship.
After a spirited round of caroling, the evening will showcase some of the finest Project performers, along with a special guest.
==================================================================
We’ll feature the musical power couple, Dan Crisci and Ginny Johnston. Dan is a brilliant jazz pianist and composer. Ginny is an equally brilliant singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. And together, they’re magic.
Video Link: The Joint is Jumpin’
==================================================================
We’ll present a spread of holiday goodies as only Bob Cole can conjure up.
And the caroling will be led by golden-voiced Marie Trontell.
This will be a great evening for a great cause.
*** Admission $20, Folk Project members $15, Children under 12 with Adult Free, and $15 on-line. ***
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Cold Chocolate is a genre-bending Americana band that fuses folk, funk, and bluegrass to create a unique sound all their own. Featuring Ethan Robbins on guitar and mandolin & Ariel Bernstein on percussion and banjo, this power duo from Boston is impressing audiences throughout New England and beyond. Punctuated by tight harmonies and skillful musicianship, and with a focus on songwriting, Cold Chocolate has quickly gained recognition for their original music and high-energy shows. The band has shared bills with Leftover Salmon and David Grisman, and regularly performs at venues and music festivals across the country.
Meghan Cary delivers award-winning original songs with powerful vocals and unshakable stage presence. Called a “storytelling troubadour” by Billboard Magazine, Cary inspires connection and community with music that’s earned comparisons to Brandi Carlile and Melissa Etheridge. Her anthem “River Rock” and 2025 single “Raise Your Voice” rally audiences to hope and action. A favorite at festivals like Falcon Ridge and Philadelphia Folk Fest, she has shared stages with Joan Osborne, Chris Smither, and more. Whether performing, teaching, or speaking, Cary empowers others to embrace their stories with humor and heart.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Joe Cirotti Trio, a well-oiled string band from the shadows of Northwest Jersey’s Appalachian ridge, crafts a sound steeped in tradition yet infused with modern twists, driven by a passion for the roots of American folk, jazz, country, and bluegrass. Their influences range from Doc Watson, Tony Rice, and Garcia/Grisman to Django Reinhardt, Pink Floyd, and Van Halen. With Joe Cirotti on guitar, Pete Lister on upright bass, and Timmy Coyle on mandolin and guitar, the trio has become a fixture across the Northwest New Jersey stages over the past 11 years and released their debut album in 2023. Their bond is fueled by a blue-collar passion for picking and buoyed by their shared love of roots music and whiskey.
Acoustic guitar virtuosos Don Ross and Julie Malía bring dazzling fingerstyle mastery, rich vocals, and irresistible musical chemistry to the stage. Two internationally acclaimed solo artists, they have performed more than 100 concerts together across Europe and North America.
Ross, a two-time U.S. National Fingerpicking Guitar Champion and recipient of Canada’s prestigious Walter Carsen Prize, has collaborated with Bruce Cockburn and Andy McKee.
Malía, a celebrated and sought-after European acoustic artist, was nominated for the German Record Critics’ Prize for her album Seagull.
Together, their virtuosic guitars and heartfelt songs promise an unforgettable evening. Don’t miss this extraordinary musical partnership!
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
For centuries, the lute was known as the “Prince of Instruments,” and lute players were celebrities in royal courts across Europe. Ayreheart, a progressive folk quartet founded by Grammy-nominated lutenist Ronn McFarlane, strives to restore the lute to its former glory – but in a modern context. With backgrounds in rock, folk and jazz, the members of Ayreheart (McFarlane on lute, Will Morris on fretless bass, violin and colascione, Mattias Rucht on percussion, and Heather Aubrey Lloyd on vocals and acoustic guitar) bring fresh energy to old traditions.
A great groove is timeless.
Gabe Parsons is a Folk Rock singer-songwriter from Hopewell Valley, NJ,whose music traces the long roads between home, heart, and change. After developing his sound in New Orleans while studying at Loyola University’s School of Music Industry, Parsons returned to the Northeast, where he has since played over 150 shows and gigs and built a strong following—particularly in Philadelphia, with appearances at World Cafe Live, Milk Boy and other notable venues.
In 2024, Parsons performed at French Quarter Festival alongside Kristin Diable and opened for the Crowe Boys on their national tour. His debut LP, Long Road Traveler, released in mid-October 2025, earned positive reviews in several music publications, including a feature in EARMILK, and was celebrated with a sold-out release show in his hometown at Needle Creek Brewery. He was also recognized as WXPN’s Local Pick of the Day, further cementing his growing presence in the regional Folk Rock scene.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Dan Bern is a captivating live performer who has enthralled a loyal and ever-growing fan base in the US and Europe since the mid ‘90s. His songs range from deeply moving to wildly imaginative and hilarious, often within the same song.
He has been compared favorably to the great masters of songwriting, such as Guthrie, Dylan, Costello. Though he draws from the great American tradition of songwriting, there is something deeply unique and compelling that make you want to get to know the man behind the songs.
He conjures incredibly specific imagery like in a painting. Though he may turn to cynicism and political satire at times, the beauty of his work is that he is able to imagine better worlds, revealing a deep capacity for empathy and optimism. Bern connects with his audiences skillfully and directly, weaving the topical and local in with the more universal themes. He has written for many films and TV shows and has made more than thirty albums.
In late 2024, Laurie MacAllister embarked on an exciting new chapter, launching a solo career with a sold-out performance at the legendary Club Passim. Two decades earlier, she co-founded the beloved Americana trio Red Molly, which released seven acclaimed albums and toured both the U.S. and internationally, including appearances at MerleFest, Cayamo, Boston Symphony Hall, Australia’s Port Fairy Folk Fest, and Denmark’s Tønder Festival.
Her 2018 self-produced solo album “The Lies the Poets Tell” is a heartfelt tribute to the contemporary folk music scene, celebrating a handful of its best songs and songwriters. SiriusXM praised the album as “Defining. A curated collection packed with emotional vibrancy.” A new album is in the works for a 2027 Release. This year she will grace stages from the legendary Club Passim to the Black Bear Americana Festival to the Northeast Regional Folk Alliance Conference…and now, the Troubadour!
The Folk Project Open Stage, North Jersey’s premier open stage, is back live on the second Friday of every month. The Main Stage features two-song (or ten minutes, whichever is shorter) sign-up slots for our audience. To sign up to perform email Chairman Todd at [email protected].
Admission: $7 at the door only (tickets for the live show not available online.) Children 12 and under free but must be accompanied by parent or guardian.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
With the energy of fiddle music, the introspective quality of contemporary folk, the precision of bluegrass, and the drive of Americana, the members of the Vermont-based American Roots band Low Lily (Liz Simmons, Flynn Cohen, and Natalie Padilla) combine their individual talents into one stunning soundscape. Low Lily has shared their signature sound with enthusiastic audiences throughout North America and the UK, garnering two #1 songs on international folk radio and two Independent Music Award wins. Their original song “Hope Lingers On” has been sung by choirs around the world as an anthem for peace and justice.
Peppino D’Agostino left Sicily more than 30 years ago with a simple dream: to play alongside the world’s greatest guitarists. He has more than fulfilled that ambition, becoming one of the most respected and influential figures in contemporary acoustic guitar.
A leading voice in the second wave of fingerstyle guitarists that helped redefine the instrument in the 1990s, D’Agostino is celebrated for his dazzling technique, innovative use of open tunings, percussive effects, melodic compositions, and emotional depth. His broad musical tastes and playful warmth have inspired generations of guitarists and audiences worldwide. Acoustic Guitar magazine named him “the guitarist’s guitarist,” while Guitar Player readers voted him Best Acoustic Guitarist.
D’Agostino has performed in more than 30 countries and shared stages with Tommy Emmanuel, Leo Kottke, Sergio Assad, Larry Carlton, and Eric Johnson. His recordings include Acoustic Spirit, Close to the Heart, Every Step of the Way, and Penumbra, which bridges classical and acoustic guitar traditions.
Beyond performing, D’Agostino is a dedicated teacher, offering workshops and online instruction. His music has also appeared in video games and at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. His concerts are celebrated for virtuosity, spontaneity, humor, and an intimate connection with audiences. Whether composing, teaching, or performing on his signature Seagull guitar, D’Agostino continues to push the boundaries of acoustic music.
** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Where can you hear four amazing acts for the price of one? Why, at the Troubadour’s highly anticipated Spotlight Nights, of course! This edition features incredibly talented and musically diverse duos and trios from all over North Jersey. But wait, there’s more: free food! Arrive at 6:30 and enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres while mingling with old friends and meeting new ones.
The TriSonics play original acoustic instrumentals spanning roots, folk, bluegrass, blues and jazz, featured on their three albums to date. The players are Michael William Levine on Dobro, Don Sarlin on guitar and their newest member Michael Aharon on cello and bass. Their respective credits include Van Morrison, Tanya Tucker, Backstreet Boys, Patti LaBelle, Trapezoid, Solas, David Bromberg, Mary Travers, Vasser Clements, Larry Gatlin, Mac Davis, Esther Phillips and others with appearances in the U.S., the UK, Europe and Asia, and on TV (SNL, others).
Video Link: Lee at Williamsport
*** Admission: $35/$30 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Twenty-five years after the release of “Teenage Dirtbag”, somehow Wheatus’ now iconic debut single is arguably the biggest it’s ever been, becoming the cornerstone of a huge TikTok movement embraced by nearly a million people, including celebrities such as Madonna, Lady Gaga, Mark Ruffalo, Lil Nas X, Jon Bon Jovi, Chevy Chase, and countless others. “Teenage Dirtbag” re-entered the the UK Top 40 charts in 2023. Frontman Brendan B Brown, backed by vocalist Gabrielle Sterbenz, continues a tour of intimate acoustic shows across 49 states celebrating this timeless classic, and so much more.
Opening act and Wheatus backup vocalist, Gabrielle Sterbenz’s, weaves her gospel-honed vocals with touches of the Great American Songbook into raw and intimate songwriting. This long-time backing vocalist steps into the foreground with her new album “Icky Guy,” out October 30th. To date, Disterbenz has performed her music for audiences in 49 US States, the UK, EU, Canada, and Australia. As a backing vocalist, Gabrielle has worked on The Tonight Show, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Late Night with Seth Meyers, with Robbie Dupree (“Steal Away”), and as a backing vocalist and rhythm guitar player for Mike Doughty, of the band “Soul Coughing.”
The Folk Project Open Stage, North Jersey’s premier open stage, is back live on the second Friday of every month. The Main Stage features two-song (or ten minutes, whichever is shorter) sign-up slots for our audience. To sign up to perform email Chairman Todd at [email protected].
Admission: $7 at the door only (tickets for the live show not available online.) Children 12 and under free but must be accompanied by parent or guardian.
Fri., Dec. 18, 7:30 pm, In-person and on-line. Caroling (in-person only) starts at 7.
Mark your calendar for the Project’s annual Holiday Concert to benefit our welcoming and supportive host, the Morristown Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. The evening is an opportunity to bring our two great communities together, and it will be one rip-roaring good show. Plus, all proceeds will be donated to the Fellowship.
After a spirited round of caroling, the evening will showcase some of the finest Project performers, along with a special guest.
==================================================================
We’ll feature the musical power couple, Dan Crisci and Ginny Johnston. Dan is a brilliant jazz pianist and composer. Ginny is an equally brilliant singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. And together, they’re magic.
Video Link: The Joint is Jumpin’
==================================================================
We’ll present a spread of holiday goodies as only Bob Cole can conjure up.
And the caroling will be led by golden-voiced Marie Trontell.
This will be a great evening for a great cause.
*** Admission $20, Folk Project members $15, Children under 12 with Adult Free, and $15 on-line. ***
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Cold Chocolate is a genre-bending Americana band that fuses folk, funk, and bluegrass to create a unique sound all their own. Featuring Ethan Robbins on guitar and mandolin & Ariel Bernstein on percussion and banjo, this power duo from Boston is impressing audiences throughout New England and beyond. Punctuated by tight harmonies and skillful musicianship, and with a focus on songwriting, Cold Chocolate has quickly gained recognition for their original music and high-energy shows. The band has shared bills with Leftover Salmon and David Grisman, and regularly performs at venues and music festivals across the country.
Meghan Cary delivers award-winning original songs with powerful vocals and unshakable stage presence. Called a “storytelling troubadour” by Billboard Magazine, Cary inspires connection and community with music that’s earned comparisons to Brandi Carlile and Melissa Etheridge. Her anthem “River Rock” and 2025 single “Raise Your Voice” rally audiences to hope and action. A favorite at festivals like Falcon Ridge and Philadelphia Folk Fest, she has shared stages with Joan Osborne, Chris Smither, and more. Whether performing, teaching, or speaking, Cary empowers others to embrace their stories with humor and heart.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Joe Cirotti Trio, a well-oiled string band from the shadows of Northwest Jersey’s Appalachian ridge, crafts a sound steeped in tradition yet infused with modern twists, driven by a passion for the roots of American folk, jazz, country, and bluegrass. Their influences range from Doc Watson, Tony Rice, and Garcia/Grisman to Django Reinhardt, Pink Floyd, and Van Halen. With Joe Cirotti on guitar, Pete Lister on upright bass, and Timmy Coyle on mandolin and guitar, the trio has become a fixture across the Northwest New Jersey stages over the past 11 years and released their debut album in 2023. Their bond is fueled by a blue-collar passion for picking and buoyed by their shared love of roots music and whiskey.
Acoustic guitar virtuosos Don Ross and Julie Malía bring dazzling fingerstyle mastery, rich vocals, and irresistible musical chemistry to the stage. Two internationally acclaimed solo artists, they have performed more than 100 concerts together across Europe and North America.
Ross, a two-time U.S. National Fingerpicking Guitar Champion and recipient of Canada’s prestigious Walter Carsen Prize, has collaborated with Bruce Cockburn and Andy McKee.
Malía, a celebrated and sought-after European acoustic artist, was nominated for the German Record Critics’ Prize for her album Seagull.
Together, their virtuosic guitars and heartfelt songs promise an unforgettable evening. Don’t miss this extraordinary musical partnership!
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
For centuries, the lute was known as the “Prince of Instruments,” and lute players were celebrities in royal courts across Europe. Ayreheart, a progressive folk quartet founded by Grammy-nominated lutenist Ronn McFarlane, strives to restore the lute to its former glory – but in a modern context. With backgrounds in rock, folk and jazz, the members of Ayreheart (McFarlane on lute, Will Morris on fretless bass, violin and colascione, Mattias Rucht on percussion, and Heather Aubrey Lloyd on vocals and acoustic guitar) bring fresh energy to old traditions.
A great groove is timeless.
Gabe Parsons is a Folk Rock singer-songwriter from Hopewell Valley, NJ,whose music traces the long roads between home, heart, and change. After developing his sound in New Orleans while studying at Loyola University’s School of Music Industry, Parsons returned to the Northeast, where he has since played over 150 shows and gigs and built a strong following—particularly in Philadelphia, with appearances at World Cafe Live, Milk Boy and other notable venues.
In 2024, Parsons performed at French Quarter Festival alongside Kristin Diable and opened for the Crowe Boys on their national tour. His debut LP, Long Road Traveler, released in mid-October 2025, earned positive reviews in several music publications, including a feature in EARMILK, and was celebrated with a sold-out release show in his hometown at Needle Creek Brewery. He was also recognized as WXPN’s Local Pick of the Day, further cementing his growing presence in the regional Folk Rock scene.