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: Unless otherwise noted, $10 on your way in plus the balance of what you think the show was really worth on your way out. All exit donations go directly to the Headline Act. Vaccinated children 12 and under may attend free, but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Until such time that children under 5 may be safely vaccinated, alas they will not be admitted.
Streaming: All Troubadour concerts may be viewed in person or live-streamed, except as noted.
For More Information: Email [email protected] or call 973-335-9489.
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.
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.***
Dan Rodriguez is a Minneapolis-based singer-songwriter whose music is rooted in hard work, open roads, and deep love of home. Raised in the suburbs of Detroit, he moved to Minneapolis at 18 to study music and stayed, embracing the snow, the seasons, and the sturdy Midwestern spirit that now shapes his sound.
A whiskey-and-beer-drinking, fishing-and-hunting-loving, motorcycle-riding, good-food-appreciating family man, Rodriguez shares his life with his wife and their two sons, Oak and Alder. That grounded, back-to-basics lifestyle runs through his songwriting, where blue-collar grit meets heartfelt reflection.
Music is his trade and performing is his calling. Whether he’s in the studio crafting songs, out on the road bringing them to audiences, tending backyard chickens, tapping city maples for syrup, or pulling vegetables from his wife’s thriving garden, Rodriguez lives the kind of life he writes about: honest, rooted, and real.
Danielle Miraglia hits the stage with a strong, steady thumb on her old Gibson and an infectious stomp-box rhythm, delivering songs that range from deeply heartfelt to fiercely socially conscious. Her performances are equal parts grit and groove, moving both your heart and your hips.
Her latest release, Bright Shining Stars, debuted at #15 on the Billboard Blues Chart. The Cascade Blues Association praised it as “…tough as rawhide, but smooth as blended whiskey.” Released on the Vizztone Label Group, the album captures the powerful one-woman-band sound Miraglia has honed over years of live performance. This solo acoustic folk-blues recording features guest appearances by Laurence Scudder, Peter Parcek, and Richard “Rosy” Rosenblatt.
Alongside her compelling originals, Miraglia includes select covers from her live repertoire, paying homage to influences such as Big Bill Broonzy, Bob Dylan, and Janis Joplin. The title track, “Bright Shining Stars,” was written by her husband, Tom Bianchi, adding a personal touch to an album that reflects both her roots and her evolution as an artist.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Claudia Schmidt brings her exuberant music and love of humanity back to the Troubadour! With her multi-octave voice, 12 string guitar and mountain dulcimer, she weaves together song, story and spoken word in a one-of-a-kind presentation that will fill your heart and refresh your soul. After more than 50 years of writing and performing, she is as strong as ever, sharing her wonder and amazement at the world and all the creatures, including us, who inhabit it. She recently released her 22nd album, Reimagining, and is working on new material for yet another release in the not-too-distant future. Come and get energized, humorized and harmonized!
Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter Pat Wictor makes his home in many musical worlds. Grounded in rural blues and gospel traditions, Wictor’s lean, poetic songs and expressive guitar playing are seasoned with jazz, pop, improvisational surprise, philosophy and social commentary.
Pat’s most recent CD, FLARE, a meditation on political division in America, was called “brilliant” by WFUV’s John Platt, and reached #1 on the Folk-DJ charts. Wictor currently tours solo and in a variety of duos, and is a music educator of note, teaching workshops on guitar, songwriting, body percussion, and vocal and instrumental improvisation.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
The Black Feathers—Irish and English-born singer-songwriters Ray Hughes and Sian Chandler—are partners in music and in life, known for their haunting harmonies and natural onstage chemistry. Blending Americana, folk, and acoustic indie rock, their songs feel both timeless and contemporary, with expressive guitar work supporting richly layered vocals.
They have toured extensively across the UK, US, and Canada, appearing at festivals including Philadelphia Folk Festival, Falcon Ridge, and Mile of Music, as well as on NPR’s Mountain Stage. Their performances draw listeners in quickly, with an emotional depth and connection that lingers well beyond the final note.
New York Blues Hall of Fame inductee Junior Mack is a vocalist and guitarist whose soulful style is deeply rooted in gospel and blues. A self-taught musician who began playing in 1968, he has shared the stage with artists including The Allman Brothers Band, Warren Haynes, Derek Trucks, and Los Lobos.
A founding member of the Grammy-nominated Heritage Blues Orchestra and longtime frontman for Jaimoe’s Jasssz Band, Mack has also appeared on Broadway in Lackawanna Blues, a Critics’ Pick and Drama Desk Award winner. His performances combine powerful vocals, masterful guitar work, and a commanding, deeply authentic stage presence.
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.
Friday, June 19, 2026 – The Project kicks off every summer with a tribute to Rock with our Folk Project Classic Rock Party.
It’s a play-along, sing-along, and dance-along night at the Troubadour, where Project members sign up to be lead vocalist on stage, fronting our Rock Project All-Star Revue.
It’s a party, with an awesome band! It’s an evening full of music, friends, playing, listening, singing, dancing and rocking together.
**For half of the evening members sign up beforehand to lead a song that you choose, no originals, backed by our spectacular rock band! So, join us and sing your heart out!
**The other half of the evening will be performed by a member who wants to accompany themselves.
**Attendees are encouraged to bring their instruments and play along from the audience.
Lyrics and chords are projected on screen so audience members can sing along or play along from their seats on acoustic instruments. If you attended last year’s rock party, you’ll be back. The music and the spirit are over-the-top fun.
The Rock Project All-Star Revue is composed of the following musicians:
  |
Steve Gibb: Award winning guitarist who has played in Broadway shows; Jersey Boys, Dear Evan Hansen, Beautiful – The Carole King Musical and School of Rock – a true internationally renowned musician. We love Steve and the gift of his music. |
 |
Doug Hall – Keyboardist/ vocalist is the composer of well over 1,000 music scores for advertising and film, recording with such luminaries as Michael Brecker, Luther Vandross and Will Lee. Now returning to his original passion of playing live music, Doug also enjoys teaching piano and music theory. He can play anything with an incredible flair for fun, finesse and virtuosity. |
 |
Todd Dennison – Fun and lighthearted, intense and honest, Todd Dennison carefully and lovingly crafts a masterful collaboration with any musician he is playing with. It is a joy to watch and hear him play. |
 |
John Hone: Singer, Songwriter, Guitarist and Drummer who is the Folk Project’s favorite percussionist and a major talent in the field of ass-kicking rhythms. |
Sign Up to Perform
Participants may choose to perform with the band or solo.
Performing with the Band (Classic Rock only)
To sign up to sing with the band, please provide:
- Your classic rock song choice (no original songs)
- The key you’ll be singing in
- A chart (Word document preferred)
- A YouTube link to the version you’d like to perform
Performing Solo
You’re welcome to perform a Classic Rock song on your own
How to Sign Up
To sign up for either option, email:
Tina Ross – [email protected]
or
Alicia Weimer – [email protected]
Take a look at a past year’s fun:
2024 Rock Party Video featuring Jean Scully: Hollywood Nights:
Comedy Song Night at the Troubadour is a spectacular spectacle where frivolity rules, decorum goes out the window, and laughter’s delivered by the barrel. Four national comedic treasures – David Roth, Rob Parvonian, Todd Chapelle and Host of Hilarity Carla Ulbrich – put their clever insights, playful parodies and laugh-out-loud observations to music. Come ready to laugh, sing along, and thoroughly enjoy this entertaining combination of melody and comedy.
***********************************************************************************
| Carla Ulbrich | https://www.carlau.com |
 |
Carla Ulbrich is a comical singer-songwriter who is often compared to Tom Lehrer or Weird Al. She has a love of the absurdities of ordinary life, and a way with words. She has performed her clever songs in 34 states and 3 countries. Carla’s 9 CDs have been featured on the BBC, Dr. Demento, Sirius XM Comedy Radio, the USA Network, PBS, and NPR’s Weekend Edition.
|
| Video link: Carla Ulbrich live Demo 2025 | |
| David Roth | https://davidrothmusic.com |
 |
David Roth is a singer, songwriter, music educator, and recording artist whose songs have found their way to Carnegie Hall, the United Nations, several Chicken Soup for the Soul books, the Kennedy Center, Peter, Paul, & Mary and Kingston Trio CDs, NASA’s Goddard Space Center (his song “Rocket Science” sailed on the Space Shuttle Atlantis in 2009), the Rise Up Singing and Rise Again (sequel) songbooks, and 15 CDs on the Wind River and Stockfisch (Germany) labels. The Chicago native is also the Executive Director of SummerSongs songwriting camp (NY), the Cape Cod Songwriters Retreats, and host/founder of the Cape’s Full Moon Open Mic (entering its 21st year), providing a forum for community-building and raising money for local non-profits to help neighbors in need. |
| Video link: Practice makes Progress | |
| Rob Paravonian | https://robprocks.com |
 |
Rob Paravonian is a standup comedian known the world over for his Pachelbel Rant and viral videos which have been viewed millions of times. With the mind of a comedian and the soul of a musician, Rob Paravonian seamlessly fuses sharp comedy performances with top notch musicianship. Rob has opened for George Carlin and Lily Tomlin and has toured everywhere from Alaska to Afghanistan. His songs and performances have appeared on Comedy Central, VH1, SiriusXM, The Dr. Demento Show, and more. |
| Video link: Beep! Beep! Outta the Way! | |
| Todd Chappelle | http://www.toddchappelle.com |
 |
Todd Chappelle is a comedy songwriter who does a mix of funny original songs and parodies. His music is influenced by such artists as Weird Al Yankovic and Tom Lehrer. Todd’s music has been heard on The Dr. Demento Show, CNN Radio, the BBC and Good Day Philadelphia. He is a past winner of the Delmarva Folk Hero contest, and he appeared in the PBS programs “Dela-Where?” (2015), “Dela-Where? 2” (2015), “Dela-Where Else?” (2016) and “Counter Culture” (2019). With a quick wit and a powerful voice, Todd is a dynamic live act who has performed at the New York Funny Songs Festival, the Philadelphia Folk Festival and the Chicago Comedy Rock Festival, along with numerous venues throughout the Northeast. |
| Video link: Go See Alice | |
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Matt Turk and C Lanzbom joined forces to form Deadgrass, a string band jamgrass adventure through Jerry Garcia’s musical world. Bassist Dave Richards, banjo player Kris Bauman and fiddler Kensuke Shoji complete this fine group of seasoned pros exploring the life works of Jerry Garcia on the instruments that first inspired him. Deadgrass celebrates and interprets the music of Jerry Garcia, drawing from Old & in the Way, JGB, Jerry’s Jug Band days and Grateful Dead.
A little more about the band: each member brings a deep well of experience across folk, jazz, rock, and roots traditions, creating a rich, improvisational sound that honors Garcia’s spirit while making it their own.
Matt Turk has performed and recorded with legends including Pete Seeger and Mickey Hart, bringing decades of festival and stage experience.
Grammy-winning guitarist C Lanzbom has collaborated with icons like Bruce Springsteen and runs his own state-of-the-art recording studio.
Dave Richards has played bass on Broadway’s Hamilton and performed with artists like Rosanne Cash.
Kris Bauman is a genre-crossing multi-instrumentalist featured on NPR’s Studio 360 and active across jazz, bluegrass, and beyond.
Kensuke Shoji, originally from Japan, trained at Berklee and brings a blend of bluegrass roots and jazz violin to the band.
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.***
Catherine Miles and Jay Mafale — husband and wife, co-conspirators, storytellers. They are modern folk with a sprinkling of pop-catchiness and theatrical flair. Catherine’s voice is an expressive powerhouse. Jay’s guitar is distinctive and unconventional. Candid and playful onstage, they are known for the plainspoken poetry, clever humor, and unique perspectives of their songs which seek to shift points of view through themes of perseverance and hope. And yes, sometimes they throw in a villain just for fun.
Miles & Mafale’s songwriting has earned them acclaim in venerable listening rooms and festivals nationwide, and recognition as Most Wanted Emerging Artists at Falcon Ridge Folk Festival and three-time Kerrville New Folk finalists.
2020 South Florida Folk Festival Songwriters’ Competition winner Karyn Oliver brings a voice that moves effortlessly between blues, country, and folk, blending soulful grit with lyrical warmth. Often compared to artists like Joan Osborne, Janis Joplin, and Emmylou Harris, Oliver’s sound carries both emotional depth and musical versatility, shaped by the eclectic musical landscape she grew up with in Washington, D.C.
A two-time Kerrville New Folk Finalist, Oliver has built a reputation for thoughtful songwriting and compelling live performances. Her songs explore love, resilience, and the winding paths people take to find themselves again, delivered with vivid storytelling and a voice that can shift from tender to powerful in an instant.
Her recordings have charted on folk and americana radio, and her recent work highlights collaborations with outstanding women musicians in the roots music community. Whether performing solo or with a band, Oliver brings warmth, authenticity, and a deep respect for the craft of songwriting to every stage.
Triple Feature: Jacob Furr, Pete Mancini, and Trae Sheehan
***********************************************************************************
| Jacob Furr | https://jacobfurr.com |
 |
Genre-fluid West Texas singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jacob Furr commands rooms with a rich, haunting voice and cinematic songwriting. He has toured the U.S. since 2014 and won the Bluelight Live Songwriting Competition in 2015, Forth Worth Weekly “Best Songwriter” 2015, “Best Folk Artist” 2023. A strong advocate for local, DIY music, he is a founding member of Hear Fort Worth, as well as being major supporter of music programming and entrepreneur incubator, Amplify817. His songs span electric anthems and intimate folk, tracing love, loss, and hard-won healing. Come hear the Fort Worth Sound take flight live. |
| Video link: Take Care | |
| Pete Mancini | https://petemancini.com/ |
 |
New York songwriter Pete Mancini “crafts a warm, organic sound bearing deep country roots, but still informed by rock ‘n’ roll.” (NPR) After achieving critical acclaim with his first band Butchers Blind, Pete has toured with Jimmy Webb and opened for Los Lobos, Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms, Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes, Cracker, Rhett Miller, Amy Helm, Larry Campbell & Theresa Williams, and Iain Matthews. He is also a member of The Famous Doctor Scanlon Band, which honors the musical legacy of Travis McKeveny. |
| Video link: Old Television | |
| Trae Sheehan | https://traesheehan.com |
 |
Up-and-coming singer-songwriter Trae Sheehan burst out of his native Appalachia and began touring after high school, and has been recording and performing throughout North America ever since. His songs have charted on the Americana Radio and Roots Radio charts, propelled by his smooth voice and heartfelt lyrics. Trae says, “If I can stand on it, it’s a stage,” and from the grandest stages to the humblest street corners, he performs and sings with a passion unmatched. Trae Sheehan is a heart-worn storyteller whose music reflects the landscapes and emotions of a life well-traveled. |
| Video link: Everybody Knows |
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
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.***
Dan Rodriguez is a Minneapolis-based singer-songwriter whose music is rooted in hard work, open roads, and deep love of home. Raised in the suburbs of Detroit, he moved to Minneapolis at 18 to study music and stayed, embracing the snow, the seasons, and the sturdy Midwestern spirit that now shapes his sound.
A whiskey-and-beer-drinking, fishing-and-hunting-loving, motorcycle-riding, good-food-appreciating family man, Rodriguez shares his life with his wife and their two sons, Oak and Alder. That grounded, back-to-basics lifestyle runs through his songwriting, where blue-collar grit meets heartfelt reflection.
Music is his trade and performing is his calling. Whether he’s in the studio crafting songs, out on the road bringing them to audiences, tending backyard chickens, tapping city maples for syrup, or pulling vegetables from his wife’s thriving garden, Rodriguez lives the kind of life he writes about: honest, rooted, and real.
Danielle Miraglia hits the stage with a strong, steady thumb on her old Gibson and an infectious stomp-box rhythm, delivering songs that range from deeply heartfelt to fiercely socially conscious. Her performances are equal parts grit and groove, moving both your heart and your hips.
Her latest release, Bright Shining Stars, debuted at #15 on the Billboard Blues Chart. The Cascade Blues Association praised it as “…tough as rawhide, but smooth as blended whiskey.” Released on the Vizztone Label Group, the album captures the powerful one-woman-band sound Miraglia has honed over years of live performance. This solo acoustic folk-blues recording features guest appearances by Laurence Scudder, Peter Parcek, and Richard “Rosy” Rosenblatt.
Alongside her compelling originals, Miraglia includes select covers from her live repertoire, paying homage to influences such as Big Bill Broonzy, Bob Dylan, and Janis Joplin. The title track, “Bright Shining Stars,” was written by her husband, Tom Bianchi, adding a personal touch to an album that reflects both her roots and her evolution as an artist.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Claudia Schmidt brings her exuberant music and love of humanity back to the Troubadour! With her multi-octave voice, 12 string guitar and mountain dulcimer, she weaves together song, story and spoken word in a one-of-a-kind presentation that will fill your heart and refresh your soul. After more than 50 years of writing and performing, she is as strong as ever, sharing her wonder and amazement at the world and all the creatures, including us, who inhabit it. She recently released her 22nd album, Reimagining, and is working on new material for yet another release in the not-too-distant future. Come and get energized, humorized and harmonized!
Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter Pat Wictor makes his home in many musical worlds. Grounded in rural blues and gospel traditions, Wictor’s lean, poetic songs and expressive guitar playing are seasoned with jazz, pop, improvisational surprise, philosophy and social commentary.
Pat’s most recent CD, FLARE, a meditation on political division in America, was called “brilliant” by WFUV’s John Platt, and reached #1 on the Folk-DJ charts. Wictor currently tours solo and in a variety of duos, and is a music educator of note, teaching workshops on guitar, songwriting, body percussion, and vocal and instrumental improvisation.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
The Black Feathers—Irish and English-born singer-songwriters Ray Hughes and Sian Chandler—are partners in music and in life, known for their haunting harmonies and natural onstage chemistry. Blending Americana, folk, and acoustic indie rock, their songs feel both timeless and contemporary, with expressive guitar work supporting richly layered vocals.
They have toured extensively across the UK, US, and Canada, appearing at festivals including Philadelphia Folk Festival, Falcon Ridge, and Mile of Music, as well as on NPR’s Mountain Stage. Their performances draw listeners in quickly, with an emotional depth and connection that lingers well beyond the final note.
New York Blues Hall of Fame inductee Junior Mack is a vocalist and guitarist whose soulful style is deeply rooted in gospel and blues. A self-taught musician who began playing in 1968, he has shared the stage with artists including The Allman Brothers Band, Warren Haynes, Derek Trucks, and Los Lobos.
A founding member of the Grammy-nominated Heritage Blues Orchestra and longtime frontman for Jaimoe’s Jasssz Band, Mack has also appeared on Broadway in Lackawanna Blues, a Critics’ Pick and Drama Desk Award winner. His performances combine powerful vocals, masterful guitar work, and a commanding, deeply authentic stage presence.
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.
Friday, June 19, 2026 – The Project kicks off every summer with a tribute to Rock with our Folk Project Classic Rock Party.
It’s a play-along, sing-along, and dance-along night at the Troubadour, where Project members sign up to be lead vocalist on stage, fronting our Rock Project All-Star Revue.
It’s a party, with an awesome band! It’s an evening full of music, friends, playing, listening, singing, dancing and rocking together.
**For half of the evening members sign up beforehand to lead a song that you choose, no originals, backed by our spectacular rock band! So, join us and sing your heart out!
**The other half of the evening will be performed by a member who wants to accompany themselves.
**Attendees are encouraged to bring their instruments and play along from the audience.
Lyrics and chords are projected on screen so audience members can sing along or play along from their seats on acoustic instruments. If you attended last year’s rock party, you’ll be back. The music and the spirit are over-the-top fun.
The Rock Project All-Star Revue is composed of the following musicians:
|
Steve Gibb: Award winning guitarist who has played in Broadway shows; Jersey Boys, Dear Evan Hansen, Beautiful – The Carole King Musical and School of Rock – a true internationally renowned musician. We love Steve and the gift of his music. |
|
Doug Hall – Keyboardist/ vocalist is the composer of well over 1,000 music scores for advertising and film, recording with such luminaries as Michael Brecker, Luther Vandross and Will Lee. Now returning to his original passion of playing live music, Doug also enjoys teaching piano and music theory. He can play anything with an incredible flair for fun, finesse and virtuosity. |
|
Todd Dennison – Fun and lighthearted, intense and honest, Todd Dennison carefully and lovingly crafts a masterful collaboration with any musician he is playing with. It is a joy to watch and hear him play. |
|
John Hone: Singer, Songwriter, Guitarist and Drummer who is the Folk Project’s favorite percussionist and a major talent in the field of ass-kicking rhythms. |
Sign Up to Perform
Participants may choose to perform with the band or solo.
Performing with the Band (Classic Rock only)
To sign up to sing with the band, please provide:
- Your classic rock song choice (no original songs)
- The key you’ll be singing in
- A chart (Word document preferred)
- A YouTube link to the version you’d like to perform
Performing Solo
You’re welcome to perform a Classic Rock song on your own
How to Sign Up
To sign up for either option, email:
Tina Ross – [email protected]
or
Alicia Weimer – [email protected]
Take a look at a past year’s fun:
2024 Rock Party Video featuring Jean Scully: Hollywood Nights:
Comedy Song Night at the Troubadour is a spectacular spectacle where frivolity rules, decorum goes out the window, and laughter’s delivered by the barrel. Four national comedic treasures – David Roth, Rob Parvonian, Todd Chapelle and Host of Hilarity Carla Ulbrich – put their clever insights, playful parodies and laugh-out-loud observations to music. Come ready to laugh, sing along, and thoroughly enjoy this entertaining combination of melody and comedy.
***********************************************************************************
| Carla Ulbrich | https://www.carlau.com |
|
Carla Ulbrich is a comical singer-songwriter who is often compared to Tom Lehrer or Weird Al. She has a love of the absurdities of ordinary life, and a way with words. She has performed her clever songs in 34 states and 3 countries. Carla’s 9 CDs have been featured on the BBC, Dr. Demento, Sirius XM Comedy Radio, the USA Network, PBS, and NPR’s Weekend Edition.
|
| Video link: Carla Ulbrich live Demo 2025 | |
| David Roth | https://davidrothmusic.com |
|
David Roth is a singer, songwriter, music educator, and recording artist whose songs have found their way to Carnegie Hall, the United Nations, several Chicken Soup for the Soul books, the Kennedy Center, Peter, Paul, & Mary and Kingston Trio CDs, NASA’s Goddard Space Center (his song “Rocket Science” sailed on the Space Shuttle Atlantis in 2009), the Rise Up Singing and Rise Again (sequel) songbooks, and 15 CDs on the Wind River and Stockfisch (Germany) labels. The Chicago native is also the Executive Director of SummerSongs songwriting camp (NY), the Cape Cod Songwriters Retreats, and host/founder of the Cape’s Full Moon Open Mic (entering its 21st year), providing a forum for community-building and raising money for local non-profits to help neighbors in need. |
| Video link: Practice makes Progress | |
| Rob Paravonian | https://robprocks.com |
|
Rob Paravonian is a standup comedian known the world over for his Pachelbel Rant and viral videos which have been viewed millions of times. With the mind of a comedian and the soul of a musician, Rob Paravonian seamlessly fuses sharp comedy performances with top notch musicianship. Rob has opened for George Carlin and Lily Tomlin and has toured everywhere from Alaska to Afghanistan. His songs and performances have appeared on Comedy Central, VH1, SiriusXM, The Dr. Demento Show, and more. |
| Video link: Beep! Beep! Outta the Way! | |
| Todd Chappelle | http://www.toddchappelle.com |
|
Todd Chappelle is a comedy songwriter who does a mix of funny original songs and parodies. His music is influenced by such artists as Weird Al Yankovic and Tom Lehrer. Todd’s music has been heard on The Dr. Demento Show, CNN Radio, the BBC and Good Day Philadelphia. He is a past winner of the Delmarva Folk Hero contest, and he appeared in the PBS programs “Dela-Where?” (2015), “Dela-Where? 2” (2015), “Dela-Where Else?” (2016) and “Counter Culture” (2019). With a quick wit and a powerful voice, Todd is a dynamic live act who has performed at the New York Funny Songs Festival, the Philadelphia Folk Festival and the Chicago Comedy Rock Festival, along with numerous venues throughout the Northeast. |
| Video link: Go See Alice | |
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Matt Turk and C Lanzbom joined forces to form Deadgrass, a string band jamgrass adventure through Jerry Garcia’s musical world. Bassist Dave Richards, banjo player Kris Bauman and fiddler Kensuke Shoji complete this fine group of seasoned pros exploring the life works of Jerry Garcia on the instruments that first inspired him. Deadgrass celebrates and interprets the music of Jerry Garcia, drawing from Old & in the Way, JGB, Jerry’s Jug Band days and Grateful Dead.
A little more about the band: each member brings a deep well of experience across folk, jazz, rock, and roots traditions, creating a rich, improvisational sound that honors Garcia’s spirit while making it their own.
Matt Turk has performed and recorded with legends including Pete Seeger and Mickey Hart, bringing decades of festival and stage experience.
Grammy-winning guitarist C Lanzbom has collaborated with icons like Bruce Springsteen and runs his own state-of-the-art recording studio.
Dave Richards has played bass on Broadway’s Hamilton and performed with artists like Rosanne Cash.
Kris Bauman is a genre-crossing multi-instrumentalist featured on NPR’s Studio 360 and active across jazz, bluegrass, and beyond.
Kensuke Shoji, originally from Japan, trained at Berklee and brings a blend of bluegrass roots and jazz violin to the band.
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.***
Catherine Miles and Jay Mafale — husband and wife, co-conspirators, storytellers. They are modern folk with a sprinkling of pop-catchiness and theatrical flair. Catherine’s voice is an expressive powerhouse. Jay’s guitar is distinctive and unconventional. Candid and playful onstage, they are known for the plainspoken poetry, clever humor, and unique perspectives of their songs which seek to shift points of view through themes of perseverance and hope. And yes, sometimes they throw in a villain just for fun.
Miles & Mafale’s songwriting has earned them acclaim in venerable listening rooms and festivals nationwide, and recognition as Most Wanted Emerging Artists at Falcon Ridge Folk Festival and three-time Kerrville New Folk finalists.
2020 South Florida Folk Festival Songwriters’ Competition winner Karyn Oliver brings a voice that moves effortlessly between blues, country, and folk, blending soulful grit with lyrical warmth. Often compared to artists like Joan Osborne, Janis Joplin, and Emmylou Harris, Oliver’s sound carries both emotional depth and musical versatility, shaped by the eclectic musical landscape she grew up with in Washington, D.C.
A two-time Kerrville New Folk Finalist, Oliver has built a reputation for thoughtful songwriting and compelling live performances. Her songs explore love, resilience, and the winding paths people take to find themselves again, delivered with vivid storytelling and a voice that can shift from tender to powerful in an instant.
Her recordings have charted on folk and americana radio, and her recent work highlights collaborations with outstanding women musicians in the roots music community. Whether performing solo or with a band, Oliver brings warmth, authenticity, and a deep respect for the craft of songwriting to every stage.
Triple Feature: Jacob Furr, Pete Mancini, and Trae Sheehan
***********************************************************************************
| Jacob Furr | https://jacobfurr.com |
|
Genre-fluid West Texas singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jacob Furr commands rooms with a rich, haunting voice and cinematic songwriting. He has toured the U.S. since 2014 and won the Bluelight Live Songwriting Competition in 2015, Forth Worth Weekly “Best Songwriter” 2015, “Best Folk Artist” 2023. A strong advocate for local, DIY music, he is a founding member of Hear Fort Worth, as well as being major supporter of music programming and entrepreneur incubator, Amplify817. His songs span electric anthems and intimate folk, tracing love, loss, and hard-won healing. Come hear the Fort Worth Sound take flight live. |
| Video link: Take Care | |
| Pete Mancini | https://petemancini.com/ |
|
New York songwriter Pete Mancini “crafts a warm, organic sound bearing deep country roots, but still informed by rock ‘n’ roll.” (NPR) After achieving critical acclaim with his first band Butchers Blind, Pete has toured with Jimmy Webb and opened for Los Lobos, Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms, Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes, Cracker, Rhett Miller, Amy Helm, Larry Campbell & Theresa Williams, and Iain Matthews. He is also a member of The Famous Doctor Scanlon Band, which honors the musical legacy of Travis McKeveny. |
| Video link: Old Television | |
| Trae Sheehan | https://traesheehan.com |
|
Up-and-coming singer-songwriter Trae Sheehan burst out of his native Appalachia and began touring after high school, and has been recording and performing throughout North America ever since. His songs have charted on the Americana Radio and Roots Radio charts, propelled by his smooth voice and heartfelt lyrics. Trae says, “If I can stand on it, it’s a stage,” and from the grandest stages to the humblest street corners, he performs and sings with a passion unmatched. Trae Sheehan is a heart-worn storyteller whose music reflects the landscapes and emotions of a life well-traveled. |
| Video link: Everybody Knows |
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
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.***
Dan Rodriguez is a Minneapolis-based singer-songwriter whose music is rooted in hard work, open roads, and deep love of home. Raised in the suburbs of Detroit, he moved to Minneapolis at 18 to study music and stayed, embracing the snow, the seasons, and the sturdy Midwestern spirit that now shapes his sound.
A whiskey-and-beer-drinking, fishing-and-hunting-loving, motorcycle-riding, good-food-appreciating family man, Rodriguez shares his life with his wife and their two sons, Oak and Alder. That grounded, back-to-basics lifestyle runs through his songwriting, where blue-collar grit meets heartfelt reflection.
Music is his trade and performing is his calling. Whether he’s in the studio crafting songs, out on the road bringing them to audiences, tending backyard chickens, tapping city maples for syrup, or pulling vegetables from his wife’s thriving garden, Rodriguez lives the kind of life he writes about: honest, rooted, and real.
Danielle Miraglia hits the stage with a strong, steady thumb on her old Gibson and an infectious stomp-box rhythm, delivering songs that range from deeply heartfelt to fiercely socially conscious. Her performances are equal parts grit and groove, moving both your heart and your hips.
Her latest release, Bright Shining Stars, debuted at #15 on the Billboard Blues Chart. The Cascade Blues Association praised it as “…tough as rawhide, but smooth as blended whiskey.” Released on the Vizztone Label Group, the album captures the powerful one-woman-band sound Miraglia has honed over years of live performance. This solo acoustic folk-blues recording features guest appearances by Laurence Scudder, Peter Parcek, and Richard “Rosy” Rosenblatt.
Alongside her compelling originals, Miraglia includes select covers from her live repertoire, paying homage to influences such as Big Bill Broonzy, Bob Dylan, and Janis Joplin. The title track, “Bright Shining Stars,” was written by her husband, Tom Bianchi, adding a personal touch to an album that reflects both her roots and her evolution as an artist.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Claudia Schmidt brings her exuberant music and love of humanity back to the Troubadour! With her multi-octave voice, 12 string guitar and mountain dulcimer, she weaves together song, story and spoken word in a one-of-a-kind presentation that will fill your heart and refresh your soul. After more than 50 years of writing and performing, she is as strong as ever, sharing her wonder and amazement at the world and all the creatures, including us, who inhabit it. She recently released her 22nd album, Reimagining, and is working on new material for yet another release in the not-too-distant future. Come and get energized, humorized and harmonized!
Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter Pat Wictor makes his home in many musical worlds. Grounded in rural blues and gospel traditions, Wictor’s lean, poetic songs and expressive guitar playing are seasoned with jazz, pop, improvisational surprise, philosophy and social commentary.
Pat’s most recent CD, FLARE, a meditation on political division in America, was called “brilliant” by WFUV’s John Platt, and reached #1 on the Folk-DJ charts. Wictor currently tours solo and in a variety of duos, and is a music educator of note, teaching workshops on guitar, songwriting, body percussion, and vocal and instrumental improvisation.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
The Black Feathers—Irish and English-born singer-songwriters Ray Hughes and Sian Chandler—are partners in music and in life, known for their haunting harmonies and natural onstage chemistry. Blending Americana, folk, and acoustic indie rock, their songs feel both timeless and contemporary, with expressive guitar work supporting richly layered vocals.
They have toured extensively across the UK, US, and Canada, appearing at festivals including Philadelphia Folk Festival, Falcon Ridge, and Mile of Music, as well as on NPR’s Mountain Stage. Their performances draw listeners in quickly, with an emotional depth and connection that lingers well beyond the final note.
New York Blues Hall of Fame inductee Junior Mack is a vocalist and guitarist whose soulful style is deeply rooted in gospel and blues. A self-taught musician who began playing in 1968, he has shared the stage with artists including The Allman Brothers Band, Warren Haynes, Derek Trucks, and Los Lobos.
A founding member of the Grammy-nominated Heritage Blues Orchestra and longtime frontman for Jaimoe’s Jasssz Band, Mack has also appeared on Broadway in Lackawanna Blues, a Critics’ Pick and Drama Desk Award winner. His performances combine powerful vocals, masterful guitar work, and a commanding, deeply authentic stage presence.
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.
Friday, June 19, 2026 – The Project kicks off every summer with a tribute to Rock with our Folk Project Classic Rock Party.
It’s a play-along, sing-along, and dance-along night at the Troubadour, where Project members sign up to be lead vocalist on stage, fronting our Rock Project All-Star Revue.
It’s a party, with an awesome band! It’s an evening full of music, friends, playing, listening, singing, dancing and rocking together.
**For half of the evening members sign up beforehand to lead a song that you choose, no originals, backed by our spectacular rock band! So, join us and sing your heart out!
**The other half of the evening will be performed by a member who wants to accompany themselves.
**Attendees are encouraged to bring their instruments and play along from the audience.
Lyrics and chords are projected on screen so audience members can sing along or play along from their seats on acoustic instruments. If you attended last year’s rock party, you’ll be back. The music and the spirit are over-the-top fun.
The Rock Project All-Star Revue is composed of the following musicians:
|
Steve Gibb: Award winning guitarist who has played in Broadway shows; Jersey Boys, Dear Evan Hansen, Beautiful – The Carole King Musical and School of Rock – a true internationally renowned musician. We love Steve and the gift of his music. |
|
Doug Hall – Keyboardist/ vocalist is the composer of well over 1,000 music scores for advertising and film, recording with such luminaries as Michael Brecker, Luther Vandross and Will Lee. Now returning to his original passion of playing live music, Doug also enjoys teaching piano and music theory. He can play anything with an incredible flair for fun, finesse and virtuosity. |
|
Todd Dennison – Fun and lighthearted, intense and honest, Todd Dennison carefully and lovingly crafts a masterful collaboration with any musician he is playing with. It is a joy to watch and hear him play. |
|
John Hone: Singer, Songwriter, Guitarist and Drummer who is the Folk Project’s favorite percussionist and a major talent in the field of ass-kicking rhythms. |
Sign Up to Perform
Participants may choose to perform with the band or solo.
Performing with the Band (Classic Rock only)
To sign up to sing with the band, please provide:
- Your classic rock song choice (no original songs)
- The key you’ll be singing in
- A chart (Word document preferred)
- A YouTube link to the version you’d like to perform
Performing Solo
You’re welcome to perform a Classic Rock song on your own
How to Sign Up
To sign up for either option, email:
Tina Ross – [email protected]
or
Alicia Weimer – [email protected]
Take a look at a past year’s fun:
2024 Rock Party Video featuring Jean Scully: Hollywood Nights:
Comedy Song Night at the Troubadour is a spectacular spectacle where frivolity rules, decorum goes out the window, and laughter’s delivered by the barrel. Four national comedic treasures – David Roth, Rob Parvonian, Todd Chapelle and Host of Hilarity Carla Ulbrich – put their clever insights, playful parodies and laugh-out-loud observations to music. Come ready to laugh, sing along, and thoroughly enjoy this entertaining combination of melody and comedy.
***********************************************************************************
| Carla Ulbrich | https://www.carlau.com |
|
Carla Ulbrich is a comical singer-songwriter who is often compared to Tom Lehrer or Weird Al. She has a love of the absurdities of ordinary life, and a way with words. She has performed her clever songs in 34 states and 3 countries. Carla’s 9 CDs have been featured on the BBC, Dr. Demento, Sirius XM Comedy Radio, the USA Network, PBS, and NPR’s Weekend Edition.
|
| Video link: Carla Ulbrich live Demo 2025 | |
| David Roth | https://davidrothmusic.com |
|
David Roth is a singer, songwriter, music educator, and recording artist whose songs have found their way to Carnegie Hall, the United Nations, several Chicken Soup for the Soul books, the Kennedy Center, Peter, Paul, & Mary and Kingston Trio CDs, NASA’s Goddard Space Center (his song “Rocket Science” sailed on the Space Shuttle Atlantis in 2009), the Rise Up Singing and Rise Again (sequel) songbooks, and 15 CDs on the Wind River and Stockfisch (Germany) labels. The Chicago native is also the Executive Director of SummerSongs songwriting camp (NY), the Cape Cod Songwriters Retreats, and host/founder of the Cape’s Full Moon Open Mic (entering its 21st year), providing a forum for community-building and raising money for local non-profits to help neighbors in need. |
| Video link: Practice makes Progress | |
| Rob Paravonian | https://robprocks.com |
|
Rob Paravonian is a standup comedian known the world over for his Pachelbel Rant and viral videos which have been viewed millions of times. With the mind of a comedian and the soul of a musician, Rob Paravonian seamlessly fuses sharp comedy performances with top notch musicianship. Rob has opened for George Carlin and Lily Tomlin and has toured everywhere from Alaska to Afghanistan. His songs and performances have appeared on Comedy Central, VH1, SiriusXM, The Dr. Demento Show, and more. |
| Video link: Beep! Beep! Outta the Way! | |
| Todd Chappelle | http://www.toddchappelle.com |
|
Todd Chappelle is a comedy songwriter who does a mix of funny original songs and parodies. His music is influenced by such artists as Weird Al Yankovic and Tom Lehrer. Todd’s music has been heard on The Dr. Demento Show, CNN Radio, the BBC and Good Day Philadelphia. He is a past winner of the Delmarva Folk Hero contest, and he appeared in the PBS programs “Dela-Where?” (2015), “Dela-Where? 2” (2015), “Dela-Where Else?” (2016) and “Counter Culture” (2019). With a quick wit and a powerful voice, Todd is a dynamic live act who has performed at the New York Funny Songs Festival, the Philadelphia Folk Festival and the Chicago Comedy Rock Festival, along with numerous venues throughout the Northeast. |
| Video link: Go See Alice | |
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Matt Turk and C Lanzbom joined forces to form Deadgrass, a string band jamgrass adventure through Jerry Garcia’s musical world. Bassist Dave Richards, banjo player Kris Bauman and fiddler Kensuke Shoji complete this fine group of seasoned pros exploring the life works of Jerry Garcia on the instruments that first inspired him. Deadgrass celebrates and interprets the music of Jerry Garcia, drawing from Old & in the Way, JGB, Jerry’s Jug Band days and Grateful Dead.
A little more about the band: each member brings a deep well of experience across folk, jazz, rock, and roots traditions, creating a rich, improvisational sound that honors Garcia’s spirit while making it their own.
Matt Turk has performed and recorded with legends including Pete Seeger and Mickey Hart, bringing decades of festival and stage experience.
Grammy-winning guitarist C Lanzbom has collaborated with icons like Bruce Springsteen and runs his own state-of-the-art recording studio.
Dave Richards has played bass on Broadway’s Hamilton and performed with artists like Rosanne Cash.
Kris Bauman is a genre-crossing multi-instrumentalist featured on NPR’s Studio 360 and active across jazz, bluegrass, and beyond.
Kensuke Shoji, originally from Japan, trained at Berklee and brings a blend of bluegrass roots and jazz violin to the band.
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.***
Catherine Miles and Jay Mafale — husband and wife, co-conspirators, storytellers. They are modern folk with a sprinkling of pop-catchiness and theatrical flair. Catherine’s voice is an expressive powerhouse. Jay’s guitar is distinctive and unconventional. Candid and playful onstage, they are known for the plainspoken poetry, clever humor, and unique perspectives of their songs which seek to shift points of view through themes of perseverance and hope. And yes, sometimes they throw in a villain just for fun.
Miles & Mafale’s songwriting has earned them acclaim in venerable listening rooms and festivals nationwide, and recognition as Most Wanted Emerging Artists at Falcon Ridge Folk Festival and three-time Kerrville New Folk finalists.
2020 South Florida Folk Festival Songwriters’ Competition winner Karyn Oliver brings a voice that moves effortlessly between blues, country, and folk, blending soulful grit with lyrical warmth. Often compared to artists like Joan Osborne, Janis Joplin, and Emmylou Harris, Oliver’s sound carries both emotional depth and musical versatility, shaped by the eclectic musical landscape she grew up with in Washington, D.C.
A two-time Kerrville New Folk Finalist, Oliver has built a reputation for thoughtful songwriting and compelling live performances. Her songs explore love, resilience, and the winding paths people take to find themselves again, delivered with vivid storytelling and a voice that can shift from tender to powerful in an instant.
Her recordings have charted on folk and americana radio, and her recent work highlights collaborations with outstanding women musicians in the roots music community. Whether performing solo or with a band, Oliver brings warmth, authenticity, and a deep respect for the craft of songwriting to every stage.
Triple Feature: Jacob Furr, Pete Mancini, and Trae Sheehan
***********************************************************************************
| Jacob Furr | https://jacobfurr.com |
|
Genre-fluid West Texas singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jacob Furr commands rooms with a rich, haunting voice and cinematic songwriting. He has toured the U.S. since 2014 and won the Bluelight Live Songwriting Competition in 2015, Forth Worth Weekly “Best Songwriter” 2015, “Best Folk Artist” 2023. A strong advocate for local, DIY music, he is a founding member of Hear Fort Worth, as well as being major supporter of music programming and entrepreneur incubator, Amplify817. His songs span electric anthems and intimate folk, tracing love, loss, and hard-won healing. Come hear the Fort Worth Sound take flight live. |
| Video link: Take Care | |
| Pete Mancini | https://petemancini.com/ |
|
New York songwriter Pete Mancini “crafts a warm, organic sound bearing deep country roots, but still informed by rock ‘n’ roll.” (NPR) After achieving critical acclaim with his first band Butchers Blind, Pete has toured with Jimmy Webb and opened for Los Lobos, Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms, Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes, Cracker, Rhett Miller, Amy Helm, Larry Campbell & Theresa Williams, and Iain Matthews. He is also a member of The Famous Doctor Scanlon Band, which honors the musical legacy of Travis McKeveny. |
| Video link: Old Television | |
| Trae Sheehan | https://traesheehan.com |
|
Up-and-coming singer-songwriter Trae Sheehan burst out of his native Appalachia and began touring after high school, and has been recording and performing throughout North America ever since. His songs have charted on the Americana Radio and Roots Radio charts, propelled by his smooth voice and heartfelt lyrics. Trae says, “If I can stand on it, it’s a stage,” and from the grandest stages to the humblest street corners, he performs and sings with a passion unmatched. Trae Sheehan is a heart-worn storyteller whose music reflects the landscapes and emotions of a life well-traveled. |
| Video link: Everybody Knows |
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
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.***
Dan Rodriguez is a Minneapolis-based singer-songwriter whose music is rooted in hard work, open roads, and deep love of home. Raised in the suburbs of Detroit, he moved to Minneapolis at 18 to study music and stayed, embracing the snow, the seasons, and the sturdy Midwestern spirit that now shapes his sound.
A whiskey-and-beer-drinking, fishing-and-hunting-loving, motorcycle-riding, good-food-appreciating family man, Rodriguez shares his life with his wife and their two sons, Oak and Alder. That grounded, back-to-basics lifestyle runs through his songwriting, where blue-collar grit meets heartfelt reflection.
Music is his trade and performing is his calling. Whether he’s in the studio crafting songs, out on the road bringing them to audiences, tending backyard chickens, tapping city maples for syrup, or pulling vegetables from his wife’s thriving garden, Rodriguez lives the kind of life he writes about: honest, rooted, and real.
Danielle Miraglia hits the stage with a strong, steady thumb on her old Gibson and an infectious stomp-box rhythm, delivering songs that range from deeply heartfelt to fiercely socially conscious. Her performances are equal parts grit and groove, moving both your heart and your hips.
Her latest release, Bright Shining Stars, debuted at #15 on the Billboard Blues Chart. The Cascade Blues Association praised it as “…tough as rawhide, but smooth as blended whiskey.” Released on the Vizztone Label Group, the album captures the powerful one-woman-band sound Miraglia has honed over years of live performance. This solo acoustic folk-blues recording features guest appearances by Laurence Scudder, Peter Parcek, and Richard “Rosy” Rosenblatt.
Alongside her compelling originals, Miraglia includes select covers from her live repertoire, paying homage to influences such as Big Bill Broonzy, Bob Dylan, and Janis Joplin. The title track, “Bright Shining Stars,” was written by her husband, Tom Bianchi, adding a personal touch to an album that reflects both her roots and her evolution as an artist.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Claudia Schmidt brings her exuberant music and love of humanity back to the Troubadour! With her multi-octave voice, 12 string guitar and mountain dulcimer, she weaves together song, story and spoken word in a one-of-a-kind presentation that will fill your heart and refresh your soul. After more than 50 years of writing and performing, she is as strong as ever, sharing her wonder and amazement at the world and all the creatures, including us, who inhabit it. She recently released her 22nd album, Reimagining, and is working on new material for yet another release in the not-too-distant future. Come and get energized, humorized and harmonized!
Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter Pat Wictor makes his home in many musical worlds. Grounded in rural blues and gospel traditions, Wictor’s lean, poetic songs and expressive guitar playing are seasoned with jazz, pop, improvisational surprise, philosophy and social commentary.
Pat’s most recent CD, FLARE, a meditation on political division in America, was called “brilliant” by WFUV’s John Platt, and reached #1 on the Folk-DJ charts. Wictor currently tours solo and in a variety of duos, and is a music educator of note, teaching workshops on guitar, songwriting, body percussion, and vocal and instrumental improvisation.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
The Black Feathers—Irish and English-born singer-songwriters Ray Hughes and Sian Chandler—are partners in music and in life, known for their haunting harmonies and natural onstage chemistry. Blending Americana, folk, and acoustic indie rock, their songs feel both timeless and contemporary, with expressive guitar work supporting richly layered vocals.
They have toured extensively across the UK, US, and Canada, appearing at festivals including Philadelphia Folk Festival, Falcon Ridge, and Mile of Music, as well as on NPR’s Mountain Stage. Their performances draw listeners in quickly, with an emotional depth and connection that lingers well beyond the final note.
New York Blues Hall of Fame inductee Junior Mack is a vocalist and guitarist whose soulful style is deeply rooted in gospel and blues. A self-taught musician who began playing in 1968, he has shared the stage with artists including The Allman Brothers Band, Warren Haynes, Derek Trucks, and Los Lobos.
A founding member of the Grammy-nominated Heritage Blues Orchestra and longtime frontman for Jaimoe’s Jasssz Band, Mack has also appeared on Broadway in Lackawanna Blues, a Critics’ Pick and Drama Desk Award winner. His performances combine powerful vocals, masterful guitar work, and a commanding, deeply authentic stage presence.
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.
Friday, June 19, 2026 – The Project kicks off every summer with a tribute to Rock with our Folk Project Classic Rock Party.
It’s a play-along, sing-along, and dance-along night at the Troubadour, where Project members sign up to be lead vocalist on stage, fronting our Rock Project All-Star Revue.
It’s a party, with an awesome band! It’s an evening full of music, friends, playing, listening, singing, dancing and rocking together.
**For half of the evening members sign up beforehand to lead a song that you choose, no originals, backed by our spectacular rock band! So, join us and sing your heart out!
**The other half of the evening will be performed by a member who wants to accompany themselves.
**Attendees are encouraged to bring their instruments and play along from the audience.
Lyrics and chords are projected on screen so audience members can sing along or play along from their seats on acoustic instruments. If you attended last year’s rock party, you’ll be back. The music and the spirit are over-the-top fun.
The Rock Project All-Star Revue is composed of the following musicians:
|
Steve Gibb: Award winning guitarist who has played in Broadway shows; Jersey Boys, Dear Evan Hansen, Beautiful – The Carole King Musical and School of Rock – a true internationally renowned musician. We love Steve and the gift of his music. |
|
Doug Hall – Keyboardist/ vocalist is the composer of well over 1,000 music scores for advertising and film, recording with such luminaries as Michael Brecker, Luther Vandross and Will Lee. Now returning to his original passion of playing live music, Doug also enjoys teaching piano and music theory. He can play anything with an incredible flair for fun, finesse and virtuosity. |
|
Todd Dennison – Fun and lighthearted, intense and honest, Todd Dennison carefully and lovingly crafts a masterful collaboration with any musician he is playing with. It is a joy to watch and hear him play. |
|
John Hone: Singer, Songwriter, Guitarist and Drummer who is the Folk Project’s favorite percussionist and a major talent in the field of ass-kicking rhythms. |
Sign Up to Perform
Participants may choose to perform with the band or solo.
Performing with the Band (Classic Rock only)
To sign up to sing with the band, please provide:
- Your classic rock song choice (no original songs)
- The key you’ll be singing in
- A chart (Word document preferred)
- A YouTube link to the version you’d like to perform
Performing Solo
You’re welcome to perform a Classic Rock song on your own
How to Sign Up
To sign up for either option, email:
Tina Ross – [email protected]
or
Alicia Weimer – [email protected]
Take a look at a past year’s fun:
2024 Rock Party Video featuring Jean Scully: Hollywood Nights:
Comedy Song Night at the Troubadour is a spectacular spectacle where frivolity rules, decorum goes out the window, and laughter’s delivered by the barrel. Four national comedic treasures – David Roth, Rob Parvonian, Todd Chapelle and Host of Hilarity Carla Ulbrich – put their clever insights, playful parodies and laugh-out-loud observations to music. Come ready to laugh, sing along, and thoroughly enjoy this entertaining combination of melody and comedy.
***********************************************************************************
| Carla Ulbrich | https://www.carlau.com |
|
Carla Ulbrich is a comical singer-songwriter who is often compared to Tom Lehrer or Weird Al. She has a love of the absurdities of ordinary life, and a way with words. She has performed her clever songs in 34 states and 3 countries. Carla’s 9 CDs have been featured on the BBC, Dr. Demento, Sirius XM Comedy Radio, the USA Network, PBS, and NPR’s Weekend Edition.
|
| Video link: Carla Ulbrich live Demo 2025 | |
| David Roth | https://davidrothmusic.com |
|
David Roth is a singer, songwriter, music educator, and recording artist whose songs have found their way to Carnegie Hall, the United Nations, several Chicken Soup for the Soul books, the Kennedy Center, Peter, Paul, & Mary and Kingston Trio CDs, NASA’s Goddard Space Center (his song “Rocket Science” sailed on the Space Shuttle Atlantis in 2009), the Rise Up Singing and Rise Again (sequel) songbooks, and 15 CDs on the Wind River and Stockfisch (Germany) labels. The Chicago native is also the Executive Director of SummerSongs songwriting camp (NY), the Cape Cod Songwriters Retreats, and host/founder of the Cape’s Full Moon Open Mic (entering its 21st year), providing a forum for community-building and raising money for local non-profits to help neighbors in need. |
| Video link: Practice makes Progress | |
| Rob Paravonian | https://robprocks.com |
|
Rob Paravonian is a standup comedian known the world over for his Pachelbel Rant and viral videos which have been viewed millions of times. With the mind of a comedian and the soul of a musician, Rob Paravonian seamlessly fuses sharp comedy performances with top notch musicianship. Rob has opened for George Carlin and Lily Tomlin and has toured everywhere from Alaska to Afghanistan. His songs and performances have appeared on Comedy Central, VH1, SiriusXM, The Dr. Demento Show, and more. |
| Video link: Beep! Beep! Outta the Way! | |
| Todd Chappelle | http://www.toddchappelle.com |
|
Todd Chappelle is a comedy songwriter who does a mix of funny original songs and parodies. His music is influenced by such artists as Weird Al Yankovic and Tom Lehrer. Todd’s music has been heard on The Dr. Demento Show, CNN Radio, the BBC and Good Day Philadelphia. He is a past winner of the Delmarva Folk Hero contest, and he appeared in the PBS programs “Dela-Where?” (2015), “Dela-Where? 2” (2015), “Dela-Where Else?” (2016) and “Counter Culture” (2019). With a quick wit and a powerful voice, Todd is a dynamic live act who has performed at the New York Funny Songs Festival, the Philadelphia Folk Festival and the Chicago Comedy Rock Festival, along with numerous venues throughout the Northeast. |
| Video link: Go See Alice | |
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Matt Turk and C Lanzbom joined forces to form Deadgrass, a string band jamgrass adventure through Jerry Garcia’s musical world. Bassist Dave Richards, banjo player Kris Bauman and fiddler Kensuke Shoji complete this fine group of seasoned pros exploring the life works of Jerry Garcia on the instruments that first inspired him. Deadgrass celebrates and interprets the music of Jerry Garcia, drawing from Old & in the Way, JGB, Jerry’s Jug Band days and Grateful Dead.
A little more about the band: each member brings a deep well of experience across folk, jazz, rock, and roots traditions, creating a rich, improvisational sound that honors Garcia’s spirit while making it their own.
Matt Turk has performed and recorded with legends including Pete Seeger and Mickey Hart, bringing decades of festival and stage experience.
Grammy-winning guitarist C Lanzbom has collaborated with icons like Bruce Springsteen and runs his own state-of-the-art recording studio.
Dave Richards has played bass on Broadway’s Hamilton and performed with artists like Rosanne Cash.
Kris Bauman is a genre-crossing multi-instrumentalist featured on NPR’s Studio 360 and active across jazz, bluegrass, and beyond.
Kensuke Shoji, originally from Japan, trained at Berklee and brings a blend of bluegrass roots and jazz violin to the band.
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.***
Catherine Miles and Jay Mafale — husband and wife, co-conspirators, storytellers. They are modern folk with a sprinkling of pop-catchiness and theatrical flair. Catherine’s voice is an expressive powerhouse. Jay’s guitar is distinctive and unconventional. Candid and playful onstage, they are known for the plainspoken poetry, clever humor, and unique perspectives of their songs which seek to shift points of view through themes of perseverance and hope. And yes, sometimes they throw in a villain just for fun.
Miles & Mafale’s songwriting has earned them acclaim in venerable listening rooms and festivals nationwide, and recognition as Most Wanted Emerging Artists at Falcon Ridge Folk Festival and three-time Kerrville New Folk finalists.
2020 South Florida Folk Festival Songwriters’ Competition winner Karyn Oliver brings a voice that moves effortlessly between blues, country, and folk, blending soulful grit with lyrical warmth. Often compared to artists like Joan Osborne, Janis Joplin, and Emmylou Harris, Oliver’s sound carries both emotional depth and musical versatility, shaped by the eclectic musical landscape she grew up with in Washington, D.C.
A two-time Kerrville New Folk Finalist, Oliver has built a reputation for thoughtful songwriting and compelling live performances. Her songs explore love, resilience, and the winding paths people take to find themselves again, delivered with vivid storytelling and a voice that can shift from tender to powerful in an instant.
Her recordings have charted on folk and americana radio, and her recent work highlights collaborations with outstanding women musicians in the roots music community. Whether performing solo or with a band, Oliver brings warmth, authenticity, and a deep respect for the craft of songwriting to every stage.
Triple Feature: Jacob Furr, Pete Mancini, and Trae Sheehan
***********************************************************************************
| Jacob Furr | https://jacobfurr.com |
|
Genre-fluid West Texas singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jacob Furr commands rooms with a rich, haunting voice and cinematic songwriting. He has toured the U.S. since 2014 and won the Bluelight Live Songwriting Competition in 2015, Forth Worth Weekly “Best Songwriter” 2015, “Best Folk Artist” 2023. A strong advocate for local, DIY music, he is a founding member of Hear Fort Worth, as well as being major supporter of music programming and entrepreneur incubator, Amplify817. His songs span electric anthems and intimate folk, tracing love, loss, and hard-won healing. Come hear the Fort Worth Sound take flight live. |
| Video link: Take Care | |
| Pete Mancini | https://petemancini.com/ |
|
New York songwriter Pete Mancini “crafts a warm, organic sound bearing deep country roots, but still informed by rock ‘n’ roll.” (NPR) After achieving critical acclaim with his first band Butchers Blind, Pete has toured with Jimmy Webb and opened for Los Lobos, Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms, Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes, Cracker, Rhett Miller, Amy Helm, Larry Campbell & Theresa Williams, and Iain Matthews. He is also a member of The Famous Doctor Scanlon Band, which honors the musical legacy of Travis McKeveny. |
| Video link: Old Television | |
| Trae Sheehan | https://traesheehan.com |
|
Up-and-coming singer-songwriter Trae Sheehan burst out of his native Appalachia and began touring after high school, and has been recording and performing throughout North America ever since. His songs have charted on the Americana Radio and Roots Radio charts, propelled by his smooth voice and heartfelt lyrics. Trae says, “If I can stand on it, it’s a stage,” and from the grandest stages to the humblest street corners, he performs and sings with a passion unmatched. Trae Sheehan is a heart-worn storyteller whose music reflects the landscapes and emotions of a life well-traveled. |
| Video link: Everybody Knows |
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
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.***
Dan Rodriguez is a Minneapolis-based singer-songwriter whose music is rooted in hard work, open roads, and deep love of home. Raised in the suburbs of Detroit, he moved to Minneapolis at 18 to study music and stayed, embracing the snow, the seasons, and the sturdy Midwestern spirit that now shapes his sound.
A whiskey-and-beer-drinking, fishing-and-hunting-loving, motorcycle-riding, good-food-appreciating family man, Rodriguez shares his life with his wife and their two sons, Oak and Alder. That grounded, back-to-basics lifestyle runs through his songwriting, where blue-collar grit meets heartfelt reflection.
Music is his trade and performing is his calling. Whether he’s in the studio crafting songs, out on the road bringing them to audiences, tending backyard chickens, tapping city maples for syrup, or pulling vegetables from his wife’s thriving garden, Rodriguez lives the kind of life he writes about: honest, rooted, and real.
Danielle Miraglia hits the stage with a strong, steady thumb on her old Gibson and an infectious stomp-box rhythm, delivering songs that range from deeply heartfelt to fiercely socially conscious. Her performances are equal parts grit and groove, moving both your heart and your hips.
Her latest release, Bright Shining Stars, debuted at #15 on the Billboard Blues Chart. The Cascade Blues Association praised it as “…tough as rawhide, but smooth as blended whiskey.” Released on the Vizztone Label Group, the album captures the powerful one-woman-band sound Miraglia has honed over years of live performance. This solo acoustic folk-blues recording features guest appearances by Laurence Scudder, Peter Parcek, and Richard “Rosy” Rosenblatt.
Alongside her compelling originals, Miraglia includes select covers from her live repertoire, paying homage to influences such as Big Bill Broonzy, Bob Dylan, and Janis Joplin. The title track, “Bright Shining Stars,” was written by her husband, Tom Bianchi, adding a personal touch to an album that reflects both her roots and her evolution as an artist.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Claudia Schmidt brings her exuberant music and love of humanity back to the Troubadour! With her multi-octave voice, 12 string guitar and mountain dulcimer, she weaves together song, story and spoken word in a one-of-a-kind presentation that will fill your heart and refresh your soul. After more than 50 years of writing and performing, she is as strong as ever, sharing her wonder and amazement at the world and all the creatures, including us, who inhabit it. She recently released her 22nd album, Reimagining, and is working on new material for yet another release in the not-too-distant future. Come and get energized, humorized and harmonized!
Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter Pat Wictor makes his home in many musical worlds. Grounded in rural blues and gospel traditions, Wictor’s lean, poetic songs and expressive guitar playing are seasoned with jazz, pop, improvisational surprise, philosophy and social commentary.
Pat’s most recent CD, FLARE, a meditation on political division in America, was called “brilliant” by WFUV’s John Platt, and reached #1 on the Folk-DJ charts. Wictor currently tours solo and in a variety of duos, and is a music educator of note, teaching workshops on guitar, songwriting, body percussion, and vocal and instrumental improvisation.
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
The Black Feathers—Irish and English-born singer-songwriters Ray Hughes and Sian Chandler—are partners in music and in life, known for their haunting harmonies and natural onstage chemistry. Blending Americana, folk, and acoustic indie rock, their songs feel both timeless and contemporary, with expressive guitar work supporting richly layered vocals.
They have toured extensively across the UK, US, and Canada, appearing at festivals including Philadelphia Folk Festival, Falcon Ridge, and Mile of Music, as well as on NPR’s Mountain Stage. Their performances draw listeners in quickly, with an emotional depth and connection that lingers well beyond the final note.
New York Blues Hall of Fame inductee Junior Mack is a vocalist and guitarist whose soulful style is deeply rooted in gospel and blues. A self-taught musician who began playing in 1968, he has shared the stage with artists including The Allman Brothers Band, Warren Haynes, Derek Trucks, and Los Lobos.
A founding member of the Grammy-nominated Heritage Blues Orchestra and longtime frontman for Jaimoe’s Jasssz Band, Mack has also appeared on Broadway in Lackawanna Blues, a Critics’ Pick and Drama Desk Award winner. His performances combine powerful vocals, masterful guitar work, and a commanding, deeply authentic stage presence.
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.
Friday, June 19, 2026 – The Project kicks off every summer with a tribute to Rock with our Folk Project Classic Rock Party.
It’s a play-along, sing-along, and dance-along night at the Troubadour, where Project members sign up to be lead vocalist on stage, fronting our Rock Project All-Star Revue.
It’s a party, with an awesome band! It’s an evening full of music, friends, playing, listening, singing, dancing and rocking together.
**For half of the evening members sign up beforehand to lead a song that you choose, no originals, backed by our spectacular rock band! So, join us and sing your heart out!
**The other half of the evening will be performed by a member who wants to accompany themselves.
**Attendees are encouraged to bring their instruments and play along from the audience.
Lyrics and chords are projected on screen so audience members can sing along or play along from their seats on acoustic instruments. If you attended last year’s rock party, you’ll be back. The music and the spirit are over-the-top fun.
The Rock Project All-Star Revue is composed of the following musicians:
|
Steve Gibb: Award winning guitarist who has played in Broadway shows; Jersey Boys, Dear Evan Hansen, Beautiful – The Carole King Musical and School of Rock – a true internationally renowned musician. We love Steve and the gift of his music. |
|
Doug Hall – Keyboardist/ vocalist is the composer of well over 1,000 music scores for advertising and film, recording with such luminaries as Michael Brecker, Luther Vandross and Will Lee. Now returning to his original passion of playing live music, Doug also enjoys teaching piano and music theory. He can play anything with an incredible flair for fun, finesse and virtuosity. |
|
Todd Dennison – Fun and lighthearted, intense and honest, Todd Dennison carefully and lovingly crafts a masterful collaboration with any musician he is playing with. It is a joy to watch and hear him play. |
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John Hone: Singer, Songwriter, Guitarist and Drummer who is the Folk Project’s favorite percussionist and a major talent in the field of ass-kicking rhythms. |
Sign Up to Perform
Participants may choose to perform with the band or solo.
Performing with the Band (Classic Rock only)
To sign up to sing with the band, please provide:
- Your classic rock song choice (no original songs)
- The key you’ll be singing in
- A chart (Word document preferred)
- A YouTube link to the version you’d like to perform
Performing Solo
You’re welcome to perform a Classic Rock song on your own
How to Sign Up
To sign up for either option, email:
Tina Ross – [email protected]
or
Alicia Weimer – [email protected]
Take a look at a past year’s fun:
2024 Rock Party Video featuring Jean Scully: Hollywood Nights:
Comedy Song Night at the Troubadour is a spectacular spectacle where frivolity rules, decorum goes out the window, and laughter’s delivered by the barrel. Four national comedic treasures – David Roth, Rob Parvonian, Todd Chapelle and Host of Hilarity Carla Ulbrich – put their clever insights, playful parodies and laugh-out-loud observations to music. Come ready to laugh, sing along, and thoroughly enjoy this entertaining combination of melody and comedy.
***********************************************************************************
| Carla Ulbrich | https://www.carlau.com |
|
Carla Ulbrich is a comical singer-songwriter who is often compared to Tom Lehrer or Weird Al. She has a love of the absurdities of ordinary life, and a way with words. She has performed her clever songs in 34 states and 3 countries. Carla’s 9 CDs have been featured on the BBC, Dr. Demento, Sirius XM Comedy Radio, the USA Network, PBS, and NPR’s Weekend Edition.
|
| Video link: Carla Ulbrich live Demo 2025 | |
| David Roth | https://davidrothmusic.com |
|
David Roth is a singer, songwriter, music educator, and recording artist whose songs have found their way to Carnegie Hall, the United Nations, several Chicken Soup for the Soul books, the Kennedy Center, Peter, Paul, & Mary and Kingston Trio CDs, NASA’s Goddard Space Center (his song “Rocket Science” sailed on the Space Shuttle Atlantis in 2009), the Rise Up Singing and Rise Again (sequel) songbooks, and 15 CDs on the Wind River and Stockfisch (Germany) labels. The Chicago native is also the Executive Director of SummerSongs songwriting camp (NY), the Cape Cod Songwriters Retreats, and host/founder of the Cape’s Full Moon Open Mic (entering its 21st year), providing a forum for community-building and raising money for local non-profits to help neighbors in need. |
| Video link: Practice makes Progress | |
| Rob Paravonian | https://robprocks.com |
|
Rob Paravonian is a standup comedian known the world over for his Pachelbel Rant and viral videos which have been viewed millions of times. With the mind of a comedian and the soul of a musician, Rob Paravonian seamlessly fuses sharp comedy performances with top notch musicianship. Rob has opened for George Carlin and Lily Tomlin and has toured everywhere from Alaska to Afghanistan. His songs and performances have appeared on Comedy Central, VH1, SiriusXM, The Dr. Demento Show, and more. |
| Video link: Beep! Beep! Outta the Way! | |
| Todd Chappelle | http://www.toddchappelle.com |
|
Todd Chappelle is a comedy songwriter who does a mix of funny original songs and parodies. His music is influenced by such artists as Weird Al Yankovic and Tom Lehrer. Todd’s music has been heard on The Dr. Demento Show, CNN Radio, the BBC and Good Day Philadelphia. He is a past winner of the Delmarva Folk Hero contest, and he appeared in the PBS programs “Dela-Where?” (2015), “Dela-Where? 2” (2015), “Dela-Where Else?” (2016) and “Counter Culture” (2019). With a quick wit and a powerful voice, Todd is a dynamic live act who has performed at the New York Funny Songs Festival, the Philadelphia Folk Festival and the Chicago Comedy Rock Festival, along with numerous venues throughout the Northeast. |
| Video link: Go See Alice | |
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***
Matt Turk and C Lanzbom joined forces to form Deadgrass, a string band jamgrass adventure through Jerry Garcia’s musical world. Bassist Dave Richards, banjo player Kris Bauman and fiddler Kensuke Shoji complete this fine group of seasoned pros exploring the life works of Jerry Garcia on the instruments that first inspired him. Deadgrass celebrates and interprets the music of Jerry Garcia, drawing from Old & in the Way, JGB, Jerry’s Jug Band days and Grateful Dead.
A little more about the band: each member brings a deep well of experience across folk, jazz, rock, and roots traditions, creating a rich, improvisational sound that honors Garcia’s spirit while making it their own.
Matt Turk has performed and recorded with legends including Pete Seeger and Mickey Hart, bringing decades of festival and stage experience.
Grammy-winning guitarist C Lanzbom has collaborated with icons like Bruce Springsteen and runs his own state-of-the-art recording studio.
Dave Richards has played bass on Broadway’s Hamilton and performed with artists like Rosanne Cash.
Kris Bauman is a genre-crossing multi-instrumentalist featured on NPR’s Studio 360 and active across jazz, bluegrass, and beyond.
Kensuke Shoji, originally from Japan, trained at Berklee and brings a blend of bluegrass roots and jazz violin to the band.
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.***
Catherine Miles and Jay Mafale — husband and wife, co-conspirators, storytellers. They are modern folk with a sprinkling of pop-catchiness and theatrical flair. Catherine’s voice is an expressive powerhouse. Jay’s guitar is distinctive and unconventional. Candid and playful onstage, they are known for the plainspoken poetry, clever humor, and unique perspectives of their songs which seek to shift points of view through themes of perseverance and hope. And yes, sometimes they throw in a villain just for fun.
Miles & Mafale’s songwriting has earned them acclaim in venerable listening rooms and festivals nationwide, and recognition as Most Wanted Emerging Artists at Falcon Ridge Folk Festival and three-time Kerrville New Folk finalists.
2020 South Florida Folk Festival Songwriters’ Competition winner Karyn Oliver brings a voice that moves effortlessly between blues, country, and folk, blending soulful grit with lyrical warmth. Often compared to artists like Joan Osborne, Janis Joplin, and Emmylou Harris, Oliver’s sound carries both emotional depth and musical versatility, shaped by the eclectic musical landscape she grew up with in Washington, D.C.
A two-time Kerrville New Folk Finalist, Oliver has built a reputation for thoughtful songwriting and compelling live performances. Her songs explore love, resilience, and the winding paths people take to find themselves again, delivered with vivid storytelling and a voice that can shift from tender to powerful in an instant.
Her recordings have charted on folk and americana radio, and her recent work highlights collaborations with outstanding women musicians in the roots music community. Whether performing solo or with a band, Oliver brings warmth, authenticity, and a deep respect for the craft of songwriting to every stage.
Triple Feature: Jacob Furr, Pete Mancini, and Trae Sheehan
***********************************************************************************
| Jacob Furr | https://jacobfurr.com |
|
Genre-fluid West Texas singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jacob Furr commands rooms with a rich, haunting voice and cinematic songwriting. He has toured the U.S. since 2014 and won the Bluelight Live Songwriting Competition in 2015, Forth Worth Weekly “Best Songwriter” 2015, “Best Folk Artist” 2023. A strong advocate for local, DIY music, he is a founding member of Hear Fort Worth, as well as being major supporter of music programming and entrepreneur incubator, Amplify817. His songs span electric anthems and intimate folk, tracing love, loss, and hard-won healing. Come hear the Fort Worth Sound take flight live. |
| Video link: Take Care | |
| Pete Mancini | https://petemancini.com/ |
|
New York songwriter Pete Mancini “crafts a warm, organic sound bearing deep country roots, but still informed by rock ‘n’ roll.” (NPR) After achieving critical acclaim with his first band Butchers Blind, Pete has toured with Jimmy Webb and opened for Los Lobos, Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms, Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes, Cracker, Rhett Miller, Amy Helm, Larry Campbell & Theresa Williams, and Iain Matthews. He is also a member of The Famous Doctor Scanlon Band, which honors the musical legacy of Travis McKeveny. |
| Video link: Old Television | |
| Trae Sheehan | https://traesheehan.com |
|
Up-and-coming singer-songwriter Trae Sheehan burst out of his native Appalachia and began touring after high school, and has been recording and performing throughout North America ever since. His songs have charted on the Americana Radio and Roots Radio charts, propelled by his smooth voice and heartfelt lyrics. Trae says, “If I can stand on it, it’s a stage,” and from the grandest stages to the humblest street corners, he performs and sings with a passion unmatched. Trae Sheehan is a heart-worn storyteller whose music reflects the landscapes and emotions of a life well-traveled. |
| Video link: Everybody Knows |
*** Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***