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.

Double Feature - Miles & Mafale and Karyn Oliver

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Miles & Mafale
Miles and Mafale

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.

 

Video: March
Photo of Karyn Oliver
Karen Oliver

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.

Troubadour Birthday Concert The Troubadour 51st Birthday Show

***  Admission: $15 (members and non-members); 12 and under free with adult.**

Photo of The Troubadour 51st Birthday Show
Troubadour 51st Birthday Show

Troubadour 51st Birthday Show

 

Our in-person admission includes birthday cake.

The Troubadour celebrates the 51st anniversary of its inaugural performance on July 25, 1975 with a show unique to the Folk Project, and one that only an organization such as ours could present.  The Project includes dozens of musicians and singers in its membership; we draw upon our own to comprise the performers in this show.  In early July, all the members who wished to be in the show put their names into a common pool and were combined into randomly selected duos and trios.  Each of those groups has worked up and will present one song on stage for the show.  It’s a celebration not only of our first show, but of our members, and our creed that everyone’s music is of value.  It’s our party, and you’re invited.  Our admission price includes birthday cake, unless you are streaming!

 

Folk Project member-musicians celebrate over a half century of presenting weekly live music, contra dances with astounding bands and many streaming programs.

Triple Feature: Jacob Furr, Pete Mancini, and Trae Sheehan 

 

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Jacob Furr https://jacobfurr.com
Photo of Jacob Furr 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/
Photo of Pete Mancini 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 Joe Pernice, 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
Photo of Trae Sheehan 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.***

Double Feature - Carolann Solebello and Kyle Morgan

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Carolann Solebello
Carolann Solebello

Carolann Solebello is a performing songwriter born and bred in New York City. Well-known to folk audiences as the bass-playing, alto-singing founding member of harmony trio Red Molly, Carolann has spent most of her career as a solo troubadour. She nods to rural folk traditions with her smooth, compelling voice and warm acoustic guitar, yet keeps her boots firmly planted in the urban present with rhythmic precision and sophisticated vocal phrasing. An award-winning songwriter and proud member of AFM Local 1000, Carolann has five solo albums to her credit and is working on a sixth.

Photo of Kyle Morgan
Kyle Morgan

Kyle Morgan is a Brooklyn-based songwriter originally from Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, where he grew up singing with his family at church and home. With influences ranging from the classic roots music of the Carter Family and Hank Williams to more modern artists like Thom Yorke and Rufus Wainwright, Kyle sings songs of spiritual longing, struggle and redemption in an earnest tenor voice. He released three albums in the twenty-teens under the name Starcrossed Losers. In 2022, his debut solo album, Younger at Most Everything, came out on Team Love Records. His latest LP, “Ghost of a Problem,” was released this past May.

 

Video: Woman
Double Feature - Rakish and Ryan Shupe and RubberBand

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Rakish
Rakish

Electrifying contemporary folk duo Rakish fuse virtuosic fiddle and guitar with playful flair.“Explorative and versatile, the duo draws evident inspiration from not just the deep and wide history of Scottish and Irish Celtic composition, but also the precision-focused structures of classical chamber music and a whole array of improvisational styles” [Strings Magazine]. Award winning fiddler Maura Shawn Scanlin teams with acclaimed guitarist Conor Hearn, known for collaborations across the Celtic scene. Recent highlights of their travels together include performances at the Library of Congress, Celtic Colours International Music Festival, Prince Edward Island’s Festival of Small Halls, the Corvallis Celtic Festival, and Official Showcases at Folk Alliance International.

Photo of Ryan Shupe and RubberBand
Ryan Shupe and RubberBand

Acclaimed 5th-generation fiddler Ryan Shupe and his crackerjack, Billboard-charting RubberBand have been wowing audiences for 3 decades with fresh new tunes rooted in bluegrass and influenced by rock, country, folk, hip hop, and jazz. These stellar musicians are known for their hard driving arrangements, hot instrumental solos, tight vocal harmonies, and witty lyrics. From introspective ballads to rapid-fire vocals to sing-alongs, this energetic live show will get your feet tapping and your heart pumping.

Campfire Night at the Troubadour

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Campfire Night at the Troubadour
Campfire Night at the Troubadour
Campfire Night at the Troubadour is a unique treat that features three outstanding performers singing in the middle of the audience without amplification and lit only by warm light of an electric campfire. It has all the romance of a starlit night in the woods, but air conditioned without the mosquitoes. It’s theatre in the round, with all the intimacy of a personal  concert and so close to the music that the music is as natural as music gets: no sound system necessary.
S’mores with marshmallows and hot cocoa will be served at the break.
Join these three incredible musicians in a night of music, stories, and singalongs around the warm glow of an electric campfire.
Contagious energy, sincere enthusiasm, and an eclectic repertoire makes Ken Galipeau a singer and storyteller unlike any other. Drawing from both
time-tested tradition and his own experiences, Ken’s songs will touch your heart and tease your soul. No matter whether he’s playing for world-weary adults, parents or excited kids, Ken knows just what songs are right for his audience.
James Gedeon has captivated audiences nationwide with his warmth, authenticity, and magnetic stage presence. He has opened for America, Kenny Rogers, The Marshall Tucker Band, and Jay Leno, and
shared stages with Billy Joel, Phoebe Snow, and Pat Monahan of Train. Today, James tours nationally with his solo show “Coming Home: The Music of James Taylor”, and with “Three American Troubadours: A Celebration of James Taylor, Carly Simon, Carol King”.
Joe Crookston is a force of nature—an engaging fiddler, slide guitarist, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter who draws audiences into his storytelling world. His concerts blend humor and transcendence, creating what he calls a “Compassionate Story Revolution.” Invited by Gordon Lightfoot to tour as an opener, Joe has headlined major festivals including Kerrville and Philadelphia Folk Fest. A Folk Alliance International “Album of the Year” recipient and Artist-in-Residence, he has collaborated with renowned artists and seen his songs adapted into award-winning films. Based in Ithaca, NY, he tours widely, leaving audiences inspired through vivid tales, masterful musicianship, and a deep belief in stories.

Website: https://www.joecrookston.com/

Video: Rattlesnake Tail

Vet Songs

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Veterans have important stories to tell, and expressing those stories is both instructive for us and healing to them.  Nine veterans revealed their hearts and histories to nine Folk Project songwriters, who put those messages to music. The resulting songs will be performed at Troubadour Concerts on Friday, August 28 in a consequential evening filled with meaning and healing.

 

Proceeds will go to benefit veteran healing programs.

Photo of Vet Songs
Vet Songs
Sam Robbins A Berklee College of Music graduate and The Voice alumnus, Sam Robbins carries the classic 1970s troubadour tradition forward with sophisticated acoustic guitar work and warm, intimate storytelling.
Jesse Ruben Brooklyn singer-songwriter Jesse Ruben has toured with Jewel and Jason Mraz, charting hits and inspiring a global school curriculum with his deeply candid, hope-filled indie-folk anthems.
Barret Ward A consummate multi-instrumentalist and celebrated performing artist, Barret Ward masterfully bridges classic Americana warmth and innovative contemporary folk with intricate sonic arrangements and magnetic, soul-baring vocal delivery.
Michael Arthur A versatile singer-songwriter and visual artist, Michael Arthur is a staple of the acoustic circuit, renowned for capturing life’s beautiful complexities with razor-sharp lyrical wit and effortless grace.
Tina Ross Award-winning folk artist Tina Ross delivers spellbinding live sets, earning top festival honors and widespread radio play for her luminous vocals, pristine guitar arrangements, and deeply evocative songwriting.
Andrew Dunn Featuring a rich tenor voice and cinematic approach to storytelling, seasoned troubadour Andrew Dunn blends classic roots-rock with traditional folk to command stages with a powerful, timeless sound.
Sharon Klein A virtuoso vocalist with classical training, Sharon Klein delivers transcendent musical experiences across iconic concert halls, celebrated for her expansive vocal range, immaculate control, and brilliant, genre-defying arrangements.
Dave Kleiner A legendary fixture of the regional folk scene, veteran craftsman Dave Kleiner masterfully balances laugh-out-loud humor with poignant beauty through intricate wordplay, sharp social commentary, and acoustic guitar.
Christine DeLeon Past winner of the New Jersey Folk Festival Songwriter Competition, Christine DeLeon delivers joyfully infectious performances blending powerhouse operatic vocal control, brilliant wit, and vibrant theatricality.
Double Feature - Greg Greenway and Jenna Nicholls

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Greg Greenway
Greg Greenway

Born in Richmond, VA, Greg Greenway moved to Boston and became a standout voice in its folk music scene. Influenced by Richie Havens and Eric Andersen, he developed a genre-defying, multi-instrumental style blending folk, gospel, rock, blues, jazz, and world music. He has performed at Carnegie Hall and appeared on NPR’s All Things Considered and Mountain Stage, though he cites hearing his song “Driving in Massachusetts” on Car Talk as a personal highlight.

Greenway’s eight-year collaboration with Pat Wictor and Joe Jencks as Brother Sun produced two #1 Folk DJ albums and reached wide audiences. His current project with Reggie Harris, Deeper Than The Skin, explores race and shared history in America. Widely praised, critics hail him as a powerful, genre-crossing artist with exceptional stage presence.

Photo of Jenna Nicholls
Jenna Nicholls

The music of genre-blending singer-songwriter Jenna Nicholls evokes the golden age of the American Songbook, infused with the spirit of Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, and vintage Americana. A multi-instrumentalist with four acclaimed albums to her name, Jenna crafts songs that feel both timeless and fresh, blending rich storytelling, cinematic imagery, and an unmistakable voice.

Her latest release, The Commuter, produced by Grammy-winning producer Larry Campbell, further showcases her gift for reimagining American roots music for modern audiences. A winner of multiple songwriting competitions, Jenna has toured with Ingrid Michaelson, Glen Hansard, Lucius, and Joan as Policewoman, performing at iconic venues including Carnegie Hall and the Beacon Theatre. With every note, Jenna Nicholls invites listeners into a world where old souls speak, hearts break, and stories live on in song.

Photo of
 

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.

Double Feature - Rory Block and Kevin Neidig

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Rory Block
Rory Block

Legendary blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter Rory Block brings to the Troubadour stage her powerful and authentic interpretations of traditional country blues and her own originals. As a teenager she traveled the South to learn directly from blues giants like Skip James, Mississippi John Hurt, Reverend Gary Davis, and Son House, and she has become a blues institution in her own right.  “Her playing is perfect, her singing otherworldly as she wrestles with ghosts, shadows and legends” (New York Times). “Some of the most singular and affecting country blues anyone, man or woman, black or white, old or young, has cut in recent years.” (Rolling Stone)

Photo of Kevin Neidig
Kevin Neidig

Kevin Neidig, a native of Mechanicsburg, PA, is an award-winning Americana singer-songwriter, composer, and multi-instrumentalist.  His numerous awards include 2024 IBMA Flatpicking Champion, 2026 Mid-Atlantic Songwriting Contest (Children’s song, instrumental and folk acoustic categories) 2025 Mid-Atlantic Songwriting Contest (Bluegrass/Country) winner, and 2023 Best Americana Artist by the Central Pennsylvania Hall of Fame, and other top awards for guitar, banjo and vocals. His sound mixes elements of Darrell Scott, Tim O’Brien, Bela Fleck, and other similar artists with a sprinkling of metal and jazz.

Ellis Paul with The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest - Three Winners will perform.

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Featured Act: Ellis Paul
Photo of Ellis Paul
Ellis Paul

 

Ellis Paul doesn’t just write songs; he’s a guitar-carrying reporter who covers the human condition and details the hopes, loves, losses of those he observes, turning their stories into luminous pieces of music that get under your skin and into your bloodstream. And much like the artists who have influenced him, everyone from Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan and Paul Simon to the singer-songwriter who is undoubtedly his greatest inspiration, Woody Guthrie, Paul weaves deeply personal experiences with social issues and renders them as provocative works that are as timely as they are timeless.
Born and raised in Maine, Paul attended Boston College on a track scholarship and in the evenings became a fixture on the city’s open mic circuit. After winning a Boston Acoustic Underground songwriter competition, he caught the ear of folk luminary Bill Morrissey, who produced his indie album Say Something in 1993. This led to a seven album contract with Rounder Records and the 1994 album, Stories. His songs have appeared in several blockbuster films (Me, Myself, and Irene; Shallow Hal, Hall Pass) and have been covered by award winning country artists (Sugarland, Kristian Bush, Jack Ingram).
Through a steady succession of albums of his own – a remarkable 23 releases so far – and a constant touring presence around the world, Paul’s audience has grown into a loyal legion of fans. Along the way, he has picked up an impressive number of awards including the prestigious Kerrville New Folk Award, 15 Boston Music Awards, An Honorary Doctorate from the University of Maine, the 2019 International Acoustic Music Awards Artist of the Year and most recently his album, The Storyteller’s Suitcase, was named the 2019 NERFA Album of the Year.
Opening Act: The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest - Three Winners will perform.
Photo of The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest - Three Winners will perform.
The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest

Announcing The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest

Enter Folk Project’s first annual Songwriting Contest to win a cash prize and the opportunity to play an opening act at the Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series.

Key Dates:

  • July 24, 2026 – Deadlines for entries
  • August 24, 2026 – Winners announced
  • September 25, 2026 – Performance at Troubadour

Prizes: Three winners will each win a $200 cash prize and will get to perform their award-winning songs in the opening set for Ellis Paul at the Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series on Sept. 25, 2026 in Morristown, NJ.

How to enter:

  • Register for the contest at https://folkproject.clappia.com/app/AJC367603
  • Songs must not be subject to any existing publishing contract or exclusive administration deal.
  • You will be pasting a URL link to your songs from any of a number of cloud-based services like Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, DropBox, Samply, SoundCloud or a similar service.
  • Entry fee is $15 per two-song entry, and you may enter as many times as you like.
  • Deadline for submission is July 24, 2026 (11:59 PM ET)
  • You can send questions to [email protected]

Eligibility and Judging: The contest is open to all songwriters, anywhere. It will be judged by professional songwriters on the basis of melody, lyrics, composition and originality.  To the extent possible it will not be judged on production quality, but your recording needs to be good enough to show off what the judges will be looking for.

 

AI Use Policy:  We are seeking songs written by human creators. While AI tools, such as Suno or Udio, may be used to assist with production, all core songwriting elements – including lyrics, melody, and structure – must be the original work of the submitting artist.

 

Any use of AI in the production process must be disclosed at the time of submission. Fully AI generated songs are not eligible for consideration.

 

Other details: You retain all rights to your own work. Should you win, you allow us to use your name and likeness for promotional purposes. If necessary, Folk Project may choose to extend the deadline for entries, but we will not make it any earlier.

 For More Information: Folk Project Song Writing Contest

Co-Bill: Vance Gilbert and Katie Dahl with Rob Hecht

 

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Vance Gilbert https://vancegilbert.com/
If Joni Mitchell and Richie Havens had a love child, with Rodney Dangerfield as the midwife, the results might be something close to the great Vance Gilbert” (Richmond Magazine)… with “the voice of an angel, the wit of a devil, and the guitar playing of a god” (Fort Worth Star-Telegram). This consummate songwriter’s influence can be felt all over the folk and Americana realm, with 14 albums to his credit and appearances from the Newport Folk Festival to Nashville’s Lyman Auditorium to Boston’s Symphony Hall. Vance toured with Shawn Colvin and has been the opener of choice for artists as varied as Arlo Guthrie, Anita Baker, The Milk Carton Kids, Paul Reiser, and George Carlin.
Video link: Zombie Pattycake

Katie Dahl

www.katiedahlmusic.com
Katie Dahl channels her wry wit and wise spirit into what Dar Williams called “The very best kind of songwriting”; she delivers “razor-sharp lyrics with a hearty, soulful voice” (American Songwriter). In live shows that are both courageously honest and devilishly funny, Katie dives deep into questions of land and love, family and body image, grief and joy, navigating the muddy waters between the personal, public, and political with tenderness and dexterity. Katie is the 2025 winner of the prestigious Kerrville New Folk Competition and was named “Most Wanted to Return” at the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival Emerging Artist Showcase.
Video link: Birds on the Banks 
Rob Hecht http://www.robbyhecht.com
There’s a reason Robby Hecht’s songs have been recorded by more than 70 other artists and reached more than 25 million streams. “Intimate and introspective” (USA Today), “Artfully constructed…pitch-perfect,” (The Wall Street Journal), “Songwriting of the highest quality” (The Telegraph). But wait until you hear him live! With a insightful lyricism, memorable melodies, and a voice that carries both strength and tenderness, he takes his audience on a contemplative journey through the landscapes of the heart and mind.
Video link: Only in Your Mind

 

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of
 
Photo of
 

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.***

Photo of Miles & Mafale
Miles and Mafale

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.

 

Video: March
Photo of Karyn Oliver
 

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.

Troubadour Birthday Concert The Troubadour 51st Birthday Show

***  Admission: $15 (members and non-members); 12 and under free with adult.**

Photo of The Troubadour 51st Birthday Show
Troubadour 51st Birthday Show

Troubadour 51st Birthday Show

 

Our in-person admission includes birthday cake.

The Troubadour celebrates the 51st anniversary of its inaugural performance on July 25, 1975 with a show unique to the Folk Project, and one that only an organization such as ours could present.  The Project includes dozens of musicians and singers in its membership; we draw upon our own to comprise the performers in this show.  In early July, all the members who wished to be in the show put their names into a common pool and were combined into randomly selected duos and trios.  Each of those groups has worked up and will present one song on stage for the show.  It’s a celebration not only of our first show, but of our members, and our creed that everyone’s music is of value.  It’s our party, and you’re invited.  Our admission price includes birthday cake, unless you are streaming!

 

Folk Project member-musicians celebrate over a half century of presenting weekly live music, contra dances with astounding bands and many streaming programs.

Triple Feature: Jacob Furr, Pete Mancini, and Trae Sheehan 

 

***********************************************************************************

Jacob Furr https://jacobfurr.com
Photo of Jacob Furr 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/
Photo of Pete Mancini 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 Joe Pernice, 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
Photo of Trae Sheehan 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.***

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Carolann Solebello
Carolann Solebello

Carolann Solebello is a performing songwriter born and bred in New York City. Well-known to folk audiences as the bass-playing, alto-singing founding member of harmony trio Red Molly, Carolann has spent most of her career as a solo troubadour. She nods to rural folk traditions with her smooth, compelling voice and warm acoustic guitar, yet keeps her boots firmly planted in the urban present with rhythmic precision and sophisticated vocal phrasing. An award-winning songwriter and proud member of AFM Local 1000, Carolann has five solo albums to her credit and is working on a sixth.

Photo of Kyle Morgan
 

Kyle Morgan is a Brooklyn-based songwriter originally from Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, where he grew up singing with his family at church and home. With influences ranging from the classic roots music of the Carter Family and Hank Williams to more modern artists like Thom Yorke and Rufus Wainwright, Kyle sings songs of spiritual longing, struggle and redemption in an earnest tenor voice. He released three albums in the twenty-teens under the name Starcrossed Losers. In 2022, his debut solo album, Younger at Most Everything, came out on Team Love Records. His latest LP, “Ghost of a Problem,” was released this past May.

 

Video: Woman

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Rakish
Rakish

Electrifying contemporary folk duo Rakish fuse virtuosic fiddle and guitar with playful flair.“Explorative and versatile, the duo draws evident inspiration from not just the deep and wide history of Scottish and Irish Celtic composition, but also the precision-focused structures of classical chamber music and a whole array of improvisational styles” [Strings Magazine]. Award winning fiddler Maura Shawn Scanlin teams with acclaimed guitarist Conor Hearn, known for collaborations across the Celtic scene. Recent highlights of their travels together include performances at the Library of Congress, Celtic Colours International Music Festival, Prince Edward Island’s Festival of Small Halls, the Corvallis Celtic Festival, and Official Showcases at Folk Alliance International.

Photo of Ryan Shupe and RubberBand
 

Acclaimed 5th-generation fiddler Ryan Shupe and his crackerjack, Billboard-charting RubberBand have been wowing audiences for 3 decades with fresh new tunes rooted in bluegrass and influenced by rock, country, folk, hip hop, and jazz. These stellar musicians are known for their hard driving arrangements, hot instrumental solos, tight vocal harmonies, and witty lyrics. From introspective ballads to rapid-fire vocals to sing-alongs, this energetic live show will get your feet tapping and your heart pumping.

Campfire Night at the Troubadour

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Campfire Night at the Troubadour
Campfire Night at the Troubadour
Campfire Night at the Troubadour is a unique treat that features three outstanding performers singing in the middle of the audience without amplification and lit only by warm light of an electric campfire. It has all the romance of a starlit night in the woods, but air conditioned without the mosquitoes. It’s theatre in the round, with all the intimacy of a personal  concert and so close to the music that the music is as natural as music gets: no sound system necessary.
S’mores with marshmallows and hot cocoa will be served at the break.
Join these three incredible musicians in a night of music, stories, and singalongs around the warm glow of an electric campfire.
Contagious energy, sincere enthusiasm, and an eclectic repertoire makes Ken Galipeau a singer and storyteller unlike any other. Drawing from both
time-tested tradition and his own experiences, Ken’s songs will touch your heart and tease your soul. No matter whether he’s playing for world-weary adults, parents or excited kids, Ken knows just what songs are right for his audience.
James Gedeon has captivated audiences nationwide with his warmth, authenticity, and magnetic stage presence. He has opened for America, Kenny Rogers, The Marshall Tucker Band, and Jay Leno, and
shared stages with Billy Joel, Phoebe Snow, and Pat Monahan of Train. Today, James tours nationally with his solo show “Coming Home: The Music of James Taylor”, and with “Three American Troubadours: A Celebration of James Taylor, Carly Simon, Carol King”.
Joe Crookston is a force of nature—an engaging fiddler, slide guitarist, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter who draws audiences into his storytelling world. His concerts blend humor and transcendence, creating what he calls a “Compassionate Story Revolution.” Invited by Gordon Lightfoot to tour as an opener, Joe has headlined major festivals including Kerrville and Philadelphia Folk Fest. A Folk Alliance International “Album of the Year” recipient and Artist-in-Residence, he has collaborated with renowned artists and seen his songs adapted into award-winning films. Based in Ithaca, NY, he tours widely, leaving audiences inspired through vivid tales, masterful musicianship, and a deep belief in stories.

Website: https://www.joecrookston.com/

Video: Rattlesnake Tail

Vet Songs

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Veterans have important stories to tell, and expressing those stories is both instructive for us and healing to them.  Nine veterans revealed their hearts and histories to nine Folk Project songwriters, who put those messages to music. The resulting songs will be performed at Troubadour Concerts on Friday, August 28 in a consequential evening filled with meaning and healing.

 

Proceeds will go to benefit veteran healing programs.

Photo of Vet Songs
Vet Songs
Sam Robbins A Berklee College of Music graduate and The Voice alumnus, Sam Robbins carries the classic 1970s troubadour tradition forward with sophisticated acoustic guitar work and warm, intimate storytelling.
Jesse Ruben Brooklyn singer-songwriter Jesse Ruben has toured with Jewel and Jason Mraz, charting hits and inspiring a global school curriculum with his deeply candid, hope-filled indie-folk anthems.
Barret Ward A consummate multi-instrumentalist and celebrated performing artist, Barret Ward masterfully bridges classic Americana warmth and innovative contemporary folk with intricate sonic arrangements and magnetic, soul-baring vocal delivery.
Michael Arthur A versatile singer-songwriter and visual artist, Michael Arthur is a staple of the acoustic circuit, renowned for capturing life’s beautiful complexities with razor-sharp lyrical wit and effortless grace.
Tina Ross Award-winning folk artist Tina Ross delivers spellbinding live sets, earning top festival honors and widespread radio play for her luminous vocals, pristine guitar arrangements, and deeply evocative songwriting.
Andrew Dunn Featuring a rich tenor voice and cinematic approach to storytelling, seasoned troubadour Andrew Dunn blends classic roots-rock with traditional folk to command stages with a powerful, timeless sound.
Sharon Klein A virtuoso vocalist with classical training, Sharon Klein delivers transcendent musical experiences across iconic concert halls, celebrated for her expansive vocal range, immaculate control, and brilliant, genre-defying arrangements.
Dave Kleiner A legendary fixture of the regional folk scene, veteran craftsman Dave Kleiner masterfully balances laugh-out-loud humor with poignant beauty through intricate wordplay, sharp social commentary, and acoustic guitar.
Christine DeLeon Past winner of the New Jersey Folk Festival Songwriter Competition, Christine DeLeon delivers joyfully infectious performances blending powerhouse operatic vocal control, brilliant wit, and vibrant theatricality.

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Greg Greenway
Greg Greenway

Born in Richmond, VA, Greg Greenway moved to Boston and became a standout voice in its folk music scene. Influenced by Richie Havens and Eric Andersen, he developed a genre-defying, multi-instrumental style blending folk, gospel, rock, blues, jazz, and world music. He has performed at Carnegie Hall and appeared on NPR’s All Things Considered and Mountain Stage, though he cites hearing his song “Driving in Massachusetts” on Car Talk as a personal highlight.

Greenway’s eight-year collaboration with Pat Wictor and Joe Jencks as Brother Sun produced two #1 Folk DJ albums and reached wide audiences. His current project with Reggie Harris, Deeper Than The Skin, explores race and shared history in America. Widely praised, critics hail him as a powerful, genre-crossing artist with exceptional stage presence.

Photo of Jenna Nicholls
 

The music of genre-blending singer-songwriter Jenna Nicholls evokes the golden age of the American Songbook, infused with the spirit of Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, and vintage Americana. A multi-instrumentalist with four acclaimed albums to her name, Jenna crafts songs that feel both timeless and fresh, blending rich storytelling, cinematic imagery, and an unmistakable voice.

Her latest release, The Commuter, produced by Grammy-winning producer Larry Campbell, further showcases her gift for reimagining American roots music for modern audiences. A winner of multiple songwriting competitions, Jenna has toured with Ingrid Michaelson, Glen Hansard, Lucius, and Joan as Policewoman, performing at iconic venues including Carnegie Hall and the Beacon Theatre. With every note, Jenna Nicholls invites listeners into a world where old souls speak, hearts break, and stories live on in song.

Photo of
 

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.

Split Bill: Rory Block and Kevin Neidig

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Rory Block
Rory Block

Legendary blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter Rory Block brings to the Troubadour stage her powerful and authentic interpretations of traditional country blues and her own originals. As a teenager she traveled the South to learn directly from blues giants like Skip James, Mississippi John Hurt, Reverend Gary Davis, and Son House, and she has become a blues institution in her own right.  “Her playing is perfect, her singing otherworldly as she wrestles with ghosts, shadows and legends” (New York Times). “Some of the most singular and affecting country blues anyone, man or woman, black or white, old or young, has cut in recent years.” (Rolling Stone)

Photo of Kevin Neidig
 

Kevin Neidig, a native of Mechanicsburg, PA, is an award-winning Americana singer-songwriter, composer, and multi-instrumentalist.  His numerous awards include 2024 IBMA Flatpicking Champion, 2026 Mid-Atlantic Songwriting Contest (Children’s song, instrumental and folk acoustic categories) 2025 Mid-Atlantic Songwriting Contest (Bluegrass/Country) winner, and 2023 Best Americana Artist by the Central Pennsylvania Hall of Fame, and other top awards for guitar, banjo and vocals. His sound mixes elements of Darrell Scott, Tim O’Brien, Bela Fleck, and other similar artists with a sprinkling of metal and jazz.

Ellis Paul with The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest - Three Winners will perform.

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Featured Act: Ellis Paul
Photo of Ellis Paul
Ellis Paul

 

Ellis Paul doesn’t just write songs; he’s a guitar-carrying reporter who covers the human condition and details the hopes, loves, losses of those he observes, turning their stories into luminous pieces of music that get under your skin and into your bloodstream. And much like the artists who have influenced him, everyone from Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan and Paul Simon to the singer-songwriter who is undoubtedly his greatest inspiration, Woody Guthrie, Paul weaves deeply personal experiences with social issues and renders them as provocative works that are as timely as they are timeless.
Born and raised in Maine, Paul attended Boston College on a track scholarship and in the evenings became a fixture on the city’s open mic circuit. After winning a Boston Acoustic Underground songwriter competition, he caught the ear of folk luminary Bill Morrissey, who produced his indie album Say Something in 1993. This led to a seven album contract with Rounder Records and the 1994 album, Stories. His songs have appeared in several blockbuster films (Me, Myself, and Irene; Shallow Hal, Hall Pass) and have been covered by award winning country artists (Sugarland, Kristian Bush, Jack Ingram).
Through a steady succession of albums of his own – a remarkable 23 releases so far – and a constant touring presence around the world, Paul’s audience has grown into a loyal legion of fans. Along the way, he has picked up an impressive number of awards including the prestigious Kerrville New Folk Award, 15 Boston Music Awards, An Honorary Doctorate from the University of Maine, the 2019 International Acoustic Music Awards Artist of the Year and most recently his album, The Storyteller’s Suitcase, was named the 2019 NERFA Album of the Year.
Opening Act: The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest - Three Winners will perform.
Photo of The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest - Three Winners will perform.
 

Announcing The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest

Enter Folk Project’s first annual Songwriting Contest to win a cash prize and the opportunity to play an opening act at the Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series.

Key Dates:

  • July 24, 2026 – Deadlines for entries
  • August 24, 2026 – Winners announced
  • September 25, 2026 – Performance at Troubadour

Prizes: Three winners will each win a $200 cash prize and will get to perform their award-winning songs in the opening set for Ellis Paul at the Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series on Sept. 25, 2026 in Morristown, NJ.

How to enter:

  • Register for the contest at https://folkproject.clappia.com/app/AJC367603
  • Songs must not be subject to any existing publishing contract or exclusive administration deal.
  • You will be pasting a URL link to your songs from any of a number of cloud-based services like Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, DropBox, Samply, SoundCloud or a similar service.
  • Entry fee is $15 per two-song entry, and you may enter as many times as you like.
  • Deadline for submission is July 24, 2026 (11:59 PM ET)
  • You can send questions to [email protected]

Eligibility and Judging: The contest is open to all songwriters, anywhere. It will be judged by professional songwriters on the basis of melody, lyrics, composition and originality.  To the extent possible it will not be judged on production quality, but your recording needs to be good enough to show off what the judges will be looking for.

 

AI Use Policy:  We are seeking songs written by human creators. While AI tools, such as Suno or Udio, may be used to assist with production, all core songwriting elements – including lyrics, melody, and structure – must be the original work of the submitting artist.

 

Any use of AI in the production process must be disclosed at the time of submission. Fully AI generated songs are not eligible for consideration.

 

Other details: You retain all rights to your own work. Should you win, you allow us to use your name and likeness for promotional purposes. If necessary, Folk Project may choose to extend the deadline for entries, but we will not make it any earlier.

 For More Information: Folk Project Song Writing Contest

Co-Bill: Vance Gilbert and Katie Dahl with Rob Hecht

 

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Vance Gilbert https://vancegilbert.com/
If Joni Mitchell and Richie Havens had a love child, with Rodney Dangerfield as the midwife, the results might be something close to the great Vance Gilbert” (Richmond Magazine)… with “the voice of an angel, the wit of a devil, and the guitar playing of a god” (Fort Worth Star-Telegram). This consummate songwriter’s influence can be felt all over the folk and Americana realm, with 14 albums to his credit and appearances from the Newport Folk Festival to Nashville’s Lyman Auditorium to Boston’s Symphony Hall. Vance toured with Shawn Colvin and has been the opener of choice for artists as varied as Arlo Guthrie, Anita Baker, The Milk Carton Kids, Paul Reiser, and George Carlin.
Video link: Zombie Pattycake

Katie Dahl

www.katiedahlmusic.com
Katie Dahl channels her wry wit and wise spirit into what Dar Williams called “The very best kind of songwriting”; she delivers “razor-sharp lyrics with a hearty, soulful voice” (American Songwriter). In live shows that are both courageously honest and devilishly funny, Katie dives deep into questions of land and love, family and body image, grief and joy, navigating the muddy waters between the personal, public, and political with tenderness and dexterity. Katie is the 2025 winner of the prestigious Kerrville New Folk Competition and was named “Most Wanted to Return” at the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival Emerging Artist Showcase.
Video link: Birds on the Banks 
Rob Hecht http://www.robbyhecht.com
There’s a reason Robby Hecht’s songs have been recorded by more than 70 other artists and reached more than 25 million streams. “Intimate and introspective” (USA Today), “Artfully constructed…pitch-perfect,” (The Wall Street Journal), “Songwriting of the highest quality” (The Telegraph). But wait until you hear him live! With a insightful lyricism, memorable melodies, and a voice that carries both strength and tenderness, he takes his audience on a contemplative journey through the landscapes of the heart and mind.
Video link: Only in Your Mind

 

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of
 
Photo of
 

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.***

Miles and Mafale

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.

 

Video: March
Photo of Karyn Oliver
 

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.

Troubadour Birthday Concert The Troubadour 51st Birthday Show

***  Admission: $15 (members and non-members); 12 and under free with adult.**

Troubadour 51st Birthday Show

Troubadour 51st Birthday Show

 

Our in-person admission includes birthday cake.

The Troubadour celebrates the 51st anniversary of its inaugural performance on July 25, 1975 with a show unique to the Folk Project, and one that only an organization such as ours could present.  The Project includes dozens of musicians and singers in its membership; we draw upon our own to comprise the performers in this show.  In early July, all the members who wished to be in the show put their names into a common pool and were combined into randomly selected duos and trios.  Each of those groups has worked up and will present one song on stage for the show.  It’s a celebration not only of our first show, but of our members, and our creed that everyone’s music is of value.  It’s our party, and you’re invited.  Our admission price includes birthday cake, unless you are streaming!

 

Folk Project member-musicians celebrate over a half century of presenting weekly live music, contra dances with astounding bands and many streaming programs.

Triple Feature: Jacob Furr, Pete Mancini, and Trae Sheehan 

 

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Jacob Furr https://jacobfurr.com
Photo of Jacob Furr 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/
Photo of Pete Mancini 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 Joe Pernice, 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
Photo of Trae Sheehan 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.***

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Carolann Solebello

Carolann Solebello is a performing songwriter born and bred in New York City. Well-known to folk audiences as the bass-playing, alto-singing founding member of harmony trio Red Molly, Carolann has spent most of her career as a solo troubadour. She nods to rural folk traditions with her smooth, compelling voice and warm acoustic guitar, yet keeps her boots firmly planted in the urban present with rhythmic precision and sophisticated vocal phrasing. An award-winning songwriter and proud member of AFM Local 1000, Carolann has five solo albums to her credit and is working on a sixth.

Photo of Kyle Morgan
 

Kyle Morgan is a Brooklyn-based songwriter originally from Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, where he grew up singing with his family at church and home. With influences ranging from the classic roots music of the Carter Family and Hank Williams to more modern artists like Thom Yorke and Rufus Wainwright, Kyle sings songs of spiritual longing, struggle and redemption in an earnest tenor voice. He released three albums in the twenty-teens under the name Starcrossed Losers. In 2022, his debut solo album, Younger at Most Everything, came out on Team Love Records. His latest LP, “Ghost of a Problem,” was released this past May.

 

Video: Woman

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Rakish

Electrifying contemporary folk duo Rakish fuse virtuosic fiddle and guitar with playful flair.“Explorative and versatile, the duo draws evident inspiration from not just the deep and wide history of Scottish and Irish Celtic composition, but also the precision-focused structures of classical chamber music and a whole array of improvisational styles” [Strings Magazine]. Award winning fiddler Maura Shawn Scanlin teams with acclaimed guitarist Conor Hearn, known for collaborations across the Celtic scene. Recent highlights of their travels together include performances at the Library of Congress, Celtic Colours International Music Festival, Prince Edward Island’s Festival of Small Halls, the Corvallis Celtic Festival, and Official Showcases at Folk Alliance International.

Photo of Ryan Shupe and RubberBand
 

Acclaimed 5th-generation fiddler Ryan Shupe and his crackerjack, Billboard-charting RubberBand have been wowing audiences for 3 decades with fresh new tunes rooted in bluegrass and influenced by rock, country, folk, hip hop, and jazz. These stellar musicians are known for their hard driving arrangements, hot instrumental solos, tight vocal harmonies, and witty lyrics. From introspective ballads to rapid-fire vocals to sing-alongs, this energetic live show will get your feet tapping and your heart pumping.

Campfire Night at the Troubadour

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Campfire Night at the Troubadour
Campfire Night at the Troubadour is a unique treat that features three outstanding performers singing in the middle of the audience without amplification and lit only by warm light of an electric campfire. It has all the romance of a starlit night in the woods, but air conditioned without the mosquitoes. It’s theatre in the round, with all the intimacy of a personal  concert and so close to the music that the music is as natural as music gets: no sound system necessary.
S’mores with marshmallows and hot cocoa will be served at the break.
Join these three incredible musicians in a night of music, stories, and singalongs around the warm glow of an electric campfire.
Contagious energy, sincere enthusiasm, and an eclectic repertoire makes Ken Galipeau a singer and storyteller unlike any other. Drawing from both
time-tested tradition and his own experiences, Ken’s songs will touch your heart and tease your soul. No matter whether he’s playing for world-weary adults, parents or excited kids, Ken knows just what songs are right for his audience.
James Gedeon has captivated audiences nationwide with his warmth, authenticity, and magnetic stage presence. He has opened for America, Kenny Rogers, The Marshall Tucker Band, and Jay Leno, and
shared stages with Billy Joel, Phoebe Snow, and Pat Monahan of Train. Today, James tours nationally with his solo show “Coming Home: The Music of James Taylor”, and with “Three American Troubadours: A Celebration of James Taylor, Carly Simon, Carol King”.
Joe Crookston is a force of nature—an engaging fiddler, slide guitarist, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter who draws audiences into his storytelling world. His concerts blend humor and transcendence, creating what he calls a “Compassionate Story Revolution.” Invited by Gordon Lightfoot to tour as an opener, Joe has headlined major festivals including Kerrville and Philadelphia Folk Fest. A Folk Alliance International “Album of the Year” recipient and Artist-in-Residence, he has collaborated with renowned artists and seen his songs adapted into award-winning films. Based in Ithaca, NY, he tours widely, leaving audiences inspired through vivid tales, masterful musicianship, and a deep belief in stories.

Website: https://www.joecrookston.com/

Video: Rattlesnake Tail

Vet Songs

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Veterans have important stories to tell, and expressing those stories is both instructive for us and healing to them.  Nine veterans revealed their hearts and histories to nine Folk Project songwriters, who put those messages to music. The resulting songs will be performed at Troubadour Concerts on Friday, August 28 in a consequential evening filled with meaning and healing.

 

Proceeds will go to benefit veteran healing programs.

Vet Songs
Sam Robbins A Berklee College of Music graduate and The Voice alumnus, Sam Robbins carries the classic 1970s troubadour tradition forward with sophisticated acoustic guitar work and warm, intimate storytelling.
Jesse Ruben Brooklyn singer-songwriter Jesse Ruben has toured with Jewel and Jason Mraz, charting hits and inspiring a global school curriculum with his deeply candid, hope-filled indie-folk anthems.
Barret Ward A consummate multi-instrumentalist and celebrated performing artist, Barret Ward masterfully bridges classic Americana warmth and innovative contemporary folk with intricate sonic arrangements and magnetic, soul-baring vocal delivery.
Michael Arthur A versatile singer-songwriter and visual artist, Michael Arthur is a staple of the acoustic circuit, renowned for capturing life’s beautiful complexities with razor-sharp lyrical wit and effortless grace.
Tina Ross Award-winning folk artist Tina Ross delivers spellbinding live sets, earning top festival honors and widespread radio play for her luminous vocals, pristine guitar arrangements, and deeply evocative songwriting.
Andrew Dunn Featuring a rich tenor voice and cinematic approach to storytelling, seasoned troubadour Andrew Dunn blends classic roots-rock with traditional folk to command stages with a powerful, timeless sound.
Sharon Klein A virtuoso vocalist with classical training, Sharon Klein delivers transcendent musical experiences across iconic concert halls, celebrated for her expansive vocal range, immaculate control, and brilliant, genre-defying arrangements.
Dave Kleiner A legendary fixture of the regional folk scene, veteran craftsman Dave Kleiner masterfully balances laugh-out-loud humor with poignant beauty through intricate wordplay, sharp social commentary, and acoustic guitar.
Christine DeLeon Past winner of the New Jersey Folk Festival Songwriter Competition, Christine DeLeon delivers joyfully infectious performances blending powerhouse operatic vocal control, brilliant wit, and vibrant theatricality.

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Greg Greenway

Born in Richmond, VA, Greg Greenway moved to Boston and became a standout voice in its folk music scene. Influenced by Richie Havens and Eric Andersen, he developed a genre-defying, multi-instrumental style blending folk, gospel, rock, blues, jazz, and world music. He has performed at Carnegie Hall and appeared on NPR’s All Things Considered and Mountain Stage, though he cites hearing his song “Driving in Massachusetts” on Car Talk as a personal highlight.

Greenway’s eight-year collaboration with Pat Wictor and Joe Jencks as Brother Sun produced two #1 Folk DJ albums and reached wide audiences. His current project with Reggie Harris, Deeper Than The Skin, explores race and shared history in America. Widely praised, critics hail him as a powerful, genre-crossing artist with exceptional stage presence.

Photo of Jenna Nicholls
 

The music of genre-blending singer-songwriter Jenna Nicholls evokes the golden age of the American Songbook, infused with the spirit of Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, and vintage Americana. A multi-instrumentalist with four acclaimed albums to her name, Jenna crafts songs that feel both timeless and fresh, blending rich storytelling, cinematic imagery, and an unmistakable voice.

Her latest release, The Commuter, produced by Grammy-winning producer Larry Campbell, further showcases her gift for reimagining American roots music for modern audiences. A winner of multiple songwriting competitions, Jenna has toured with Ingrid Michaelson, Glen Hansard, Lucius, and Joan as Policewoman, performing at iconic venues including Carnegie Hall and the Beacon Theatre. With every note, Jenna Nicholls invites listeners into a world where old souls speak, hearts break, and stories live on in song.

 

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.

Split Bill: Rory Block and Kevin Neidig

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Rory Block

Legendary blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter Rory Block brings to the Troubadour stage her powerful and authentic interpretations of traditional country blues and her own originals. As a teenager she traveled the South to learn directly from blues giants like Skip James, Mississippi John Hurt, Reverend Gary Davis, and Son House, and she has become a blues institution in her own right.  “Her playing is perfect, her singing otherworldly as she wrestles with ghosts, shadows and legends” (New York Times). “Some of the most singular and affecting country blues anyone, man or woman, black or white, old or young, has cut in recent years.” (Rolling Stone)

Photo of Kevin Neidig
 

Kevin Neidig, a native of Mechanicsburg, PA, is an award-winning Americana singer-songwriter, composer, and multi-instrumentalist.  His numerous awards include 2024 IBMA Flatpicking Champion, 2026 Mid-Atlantic Songwriting Contest (Children’s song, instrumental and folk acoustic categories) 2025 Mid-Atlantic Songwriting Contest (Bluegrass/Country) winner, and 2023 Best Americana Artist by the Central Pennsylvania Hall of Fame, and other top awards for guitar, banjo and vocals. His sound mixes elements of Darrell Scott, Tim O’Brien, Bela Fleck, and other similar artists with a sprinkling of metal and jazz.

Ellis Paul with The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest - Three Winners will perform.

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Featured Act: Ellis Paul
Ellis Paul

 

Ellis Paul doesn’t just write songs; he’s a guitar-carrying reporter who covers the human condition and details the hopes, loves, losses of those he observes, turning their stories into luminous pieces of music that get under your skin and into your bloodstream. And much like the artists who have influenced him, everyone from Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan and Paul Simon to the singer-songwriter who is undoubtedly his greatest inspiration, Woody Guthrie, Paul weaves deeply personal experiences with social issues and renders them as provocative works that are as timely as they are timeless.
Born and raised in Maine, Paul attended Boston College on a track scholarship and in the evenings became a fixture on the city’s open mic circuit. After winning a Boston Acoustic Underground songwriter competition, he caught the ear of folk luminary Bill Morrissey, who produced his indie album Say Something in 1993. This led to a seven album contract with Rounder Records and the 1994 album, Stories. His songs have appeared in several blockbuster films (Me, Myself, and Irene; Shallow Hal, Hall Pass) and have been covered by award winning country artists (Sugarland, Kristian Bush, Jack Ingram).
Through a steady succession of albums of his own – a remarkable 23 releases so far – and a constant touring presence around the world, Paul’s audience has grown into a loyal legion of fans. Along the way, he has picked up an impressive number of awards including the prestigious Kerrville New Folk Award, 15 Boston Music Awards, An Honorary Doctorate from the University of Maine, the 2019 International Acoustic Music Awards Artist of the Year and most recently his album, The Storyteller’s Suitcase, was named the 2019 NERFA Album of the Year.
Opening Act: The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest - Three Winners will perform.
Photo of The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest - Three Winners will perform.
 

Announcing The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest

Enter Folk Project’s first annual Songwriting Contest to win a cash prize and the opportunity to play an opening act at the Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series.

Key Dates:

  • July 24, 2026 – Deadlines for entries
  • August 24, 2026 – Winners announced
  • September 25, 2026 – Performance at Troubadour

Prizes: Three winners will each win a $200 cash prize and will get to perform their award-winning songs in the opening set for Ellis Paul at the Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series on Sept. 25, 2026 in Morristown, NJ.

How to enter:

  • Register for the contest at https://folkproject.clappia.com/app/AJC367603
  • Songs must not be subject to any existing publishing contract or exclusive administration deal.
  • You will be pasting a URL link to your songs from any of a number of cloud-based services like Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, DropBox, Samply, SoundCloud or a similar service.
  • Entry fee is $15 per two-song entry, and you may enter as many times as you like.
  • Deadline for submission is July 24, 2026 (11:59 PM ET)
  • You can send questions to [email protected]

Eligibility and Judging: The contest is open to all songwriters, anywhere. It will be judged by professional songwriters on the basis of melody, lyrics, composition and originality.  To the extent possible it will not be judged on production quality, but your recording needs to be good enough to show off what the judges will be looking for.

 

AI Use Policy:  We are seeking songs written by human creators. While AI tools, such as Suno or Udio, may be used to assist with production, all core songwriting elements – including lyrics, melody, and structure – must be the original work of the submitting artist.

 

Any use of AI in the production process must be disclosed at the time of submission. Fully AI generated songs are not eligible for consideration.

 

Other details: You retain all rights to your own work. Should you win, you allow us to use your name and likeness for promotional purposes. If necessary, Folk Project may choose to extend the deadline for entries, but we will not make it any earlier.

 For More Information: Folk Project Song Writing Contest

Co-Bill: Vance Gilbert and Katie Dahl with Rob Hecht

 

***********************************************************************************

 

 

Vance Gilbert https://vancegilbert.com/
If Joni Mitchell and Richie Havens had a love child, with Rodney Dangerfield as the midwife, the results might be something close to the great Vance Gilbert” (Richmond Magazine)… with “the voice of an angel, the wit of a devil, and the guitar playing of a god” (Fort Worth Star-Telegram). This consummate songwriter’s influence can be felt all over the folk and Americana realm, with 14 albums to his credit and appearances from the Newport Folk Festival to Nashville’s Lyman Auditorium to Boston’s Symphony Hall. Vance toured with Shawn Colvin and has been the opener of choice for artists as varied as Arlo Guthrie, Anita Baker, The Milk Carton Kids, Paul Reiser, and George Carlin.
Video link: Zombie Pattycake

Katie Dahl

www.katiedahlmusic.com
Katie Dahl channels her wry wit and wise spirit into what Dar Williams called “The very best kind of songwriting”; she delivers “razor-sharp lyrics with a hearty, soulful voice” (American Songwriter). In live shows that are both courageously honest and devilishly funny, Katie dives deep into questions of land and love, family and body image, grief and joy, navigating the muddy waters between the personal, public, and political with tenderness and dexterity. Katie is the 2025 winner of the prestigious Kerrville New Folk Competition and was named “Most Wanted to Return” at the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival Emerging Artist Showcase.
Video link: Birds on the Banks 
Rob Hecht http://www.robbyhecht.com
There’s a reason Robby Hecht’s songs have been recorded by more than 70 other artists and reached more than 25 million streams. “Intimate and introspective” (USA Today), “Artfully constructed…pitch-perfect,” (The Wall Street Journal), “Songwriting of the highest quality” (The Telegraph). But wait until you hear him live! With a insightful lyricism, memorable melodies, and a voice that carries both strength and tenderness, he takes his audience on a contemplative journey through the landscapes of the heart and mind.
Video link: Only in Your Mind

 

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of
 
 

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.***

Photo of Miles & Mafale
Miles and Mafale

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.

 

Video: March
Photo of Karyn Oliver
 

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.

Troubadour Birthday Concert The Troubadour 51st Birthday Show

***  Admission: $15 (members and non-members); 12 and under free with adult.**

Photo of The Troubadour 51st Birthday Show
Troubadour 51st Birthday Show

Troubadour 51st Birthday Show

 

Our in-person admission includes birthday cake.

The Troubadour celebrates the 51st anniversary of its inaugural performance on July 25, 1975 with a show unique to the Folk Project, and one that only an organization such as ours could present.  The Project includes dozens of musicians and singers in its membership; we draw upon our own to comprise the performers in this show.  In early July, all the members who wished to be in the show put their names into a common pool and were combined into randomly selected duos and trios.  Each of those groups has worked up and will present one song on stage for the show.  It’s a celebration not only of our first show, but of our members, and our creed that everyone’s music is of value.  It’s our party, and you’re invited.  Our admission price includes birthday cake, unless you are streaming!

 

Folk Project member-musicians celebrate over a half century of presenting weekly live music, contra dances with astounding bands and many streaming programs.

Triple Feature: Jacob Furr, Pete Mancini, and Trae Sheehan 

 

***********************************************************************************

Jacob Furr https://jacobfurr.com
Photo of Jacob Furr 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/
Photo of Pete Mancini 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 Joe Pernice, 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
Photo of Trae Sheehan 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.***

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Carolann Solebello
Carolann Solebello

Carolann Solebello is a performing songwriter born and bred in New York City. Well-known to folk audiences as the bass-playing, alto-singing founding member of harmony trio Red Molly, Carolann has spent most of her career as a solo troubadour. She nods to rural folk traditions with her smooth, compelling voice and warm acoustic guitar, yet keeps her boots firmly planted in the urban present with rhythmic precision and sophisticated vocal phrasing. An award-winning songwriter and proud member of AFM Local 1000, Carolann has five solo albums to her credit and is working on a sixth.

Photo of Kyle Morgan
 

Kyle Morgan is a Brooklyn-based songwriter originally from Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, where he grew up singing with his family at church and home. With influences ranging from the classic roots music of the Carter Family and Hank Williams to more modern artists like Thom Yorke and Rufus Wainwright, Kyle sings songs of spiritual longing, struggle and redemption in an earnest tenor voice. He released three albums in the twenty-teens under the name Starcrossed Losers. In 2022, his debut solo album, Younger at Most Everything, came out on Team Love Records. His latest LP, “Ghost of a Problem,” was released this past May.

 

Video: Woman

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Rakish
Rakish

Electrifying contemporary folk duo Rakish fuse virtuosic fiddle and guitar with playful flair.“Explorative and versatile, the duo draws evident inspiration from not just the deep and wide history of Scottish and Irish Celtic composition, but also the precision-focused structures of classical chamber music and a whole array of improvisational styles” [Strings Magazine]. Award winning fiddler Maura Shawn Scanlin teams with acclaimed guitarist Conor Hearn, known for collaborations across the Celtic scene. Recent highlights of their travels together include performances at the Library of Congress, Celtic Colours International Music Festival, Prince Edward Island’s Festival of Small Halls, the Corvallis Celtic Festival, and Official Showcases at Folk Alliance International.

Photo of Ryan Shupe and RubberBand
 

Acclaimed 5th-generation fiddler Ryan Shupe and his crackerjack, Billboard-charting RubberBand have been wowing audiences for 3 decades with fresh new tunes rooted in bluegrass and influenced by rock, country, folk, hip hop, and jazz. These stellar musicians are known for their hard driving arrangements, hot instrumental solos, tight vocal harmonies, and witty lyrics. From introspective ballads to rapid-fire vocals to sing-alongs, this energetic live show will get your feet tapping and your heart pumping.

Campfire Night at the Troubadour

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Campfire Night at the Troubadour
Campfire Night at the Troubadour
Campfire Night at the Troubadour is a unique treat that features three outstanding performers singing in the middle of the audience without amplification and lit only by warm light of an electric campfire. It has all the romance of a starlit night in the woods, but air conditioned without the mosquitoes. It’s theatre in the round, with all the intimacy of a personal  concert and so close to the music that the music is as natural as music gets: no sound system necessary.
S’mores with marshmallows and hot cocoa will be served at the break.
Join these three incredible musicians in a night of music, stories, and singalongs around the warm glow of an electric campfire.
Contagious energy, sincere enthusiasm, and an eclectic repertoire makes Ken Galipeau a singer and storyteller unlike any other. Drawing from both
time-tested tradition and his own experiences, Ken’s songs will touch your heart and tease your soul. No matter whether he’s playing for world-weary adults, parents or excited kids, Ken knows just what songs are right for his audience.
James Gedeon has captivated audiences nationwide with his warmth, authenticity, and magnetic stage presence. He has opened for America, Kenny Rogers, The Marshall Tucker Band, and Jay Leno, and
shared stages with Billy Joel, Phoebe Snow, and Pat Monahan of Train. Today, James tours nationally with his solo show “Coming Home: The Music of James Taylor”, and with “Three American Troubadours: A Celebration of James Taylor, Carly Simon, Carol King”.
Joe Crookston is a force of nature—an engaging fiddler, slide guitarist, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter who draws audiences into his storytelling world. His concerts blend humor and transcendence, creating what he calls a “Compassionate Story Revolution.” Invited by Gordon Lightfoot to tour as an opener, Joe has headlined major festivals including Kerrville and Philadelphia Folk Fest. A Folk Alliance International “Album of the Year” recipient and Artist-in-Residence, he has collaborated with renowned artists and seen his songs adapted into award-winning films. Based in Ithaca, NY, he tours widely, leaving audiences inspired through vivid tales, masterful musicianship, and a deep belief in stories.

Website: https://www.joecrookston.com/

Video: Rattlesnake Tail

Vet Songs

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Veterans have important stories to tell, and expressing those stories is both instructive for us and healing to them.  Nine veterans revealed their hearts and histories to nine Folk Project songwriters, who put those messages to music. The resulting songs will be performed at Troubadour Concerts on Friday, August 28 in a consequential evening filled with meaning and healing.

 

Proceeds will go to benefit veteran healing programs.

Photo of Vet Songs
Vet Songs
Sam Robbins A Berklee College of Music graduate and The Voice alumnus, Sam Robbins carries the classic 1970s troubadour tradition forward with sophisticated acoustic guitar work and warm, intimate storytelling.
Jesse Ruben Brooklyn singer-songwriter Jesse Ruben has toured with Jewel and Jason Mraz, charting hits and inspiring a global school curriculum with his deeply candid, hope-filled indie-folk anthems.
Barret Ward A consummate multi-instrumentalist and celebrated performing artist, Barret Ward masterfully bridges classic Americana warmth and innovative contemporary folk with intricate sonic arrangements and magnetic, soul-baring vocal delivery.
Michael Arthur A versatile singer-songwriter and visual artist, Michael Arthur is a staple of the acoustic circuit, renowned for capturing life’s beautiful complexities with razor-sharp lyrical wit and effortless grace.
Tina Ross Award-winning folk artist Tina Ross delivers spellbinding live sets, earning top festival honors and widespread radio play for her luminous vocals, pristine guitar arrangements, and deeply evocative songwriting.
Andrew Dunn Featuring a rich tenor voice and cinematic approach to storytelling, seasoned troubadour Andrew Dunn blends classic roots-rock with traditional folk to command stages with a powerful, timeless sound.
Sharon Klein A virtuoso vocalist with classical training, Sharon Klein delivers transcendent musical experiences across iconic concert halls, celebrated for her expansive vocal range, immaculate control, and brilliant, genre-defying arrangements.
Dave Kleiner A legendary fixture of the regional folk scene, veteran craftsman Dave Kleiner masterfully balances laugh-out-loud humor with poignant beauty through intricate wordplay, sharp social commentary, and acoustic guitar.
Christine DeLeon Past winner of the New Jersey Folk Festival Songwriter Competition, Christine DeLeon delivers joyfully infectious performances blending powerhouse operatic vocal control, brilliant wit, and vibrant theatricality.

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Greg Greenway
Greg Greenway

Born in Richmond, VA, Greg Greenway moved to Boston and became a standout voice in its folk music scene. Influenced by Richie Havens and Eric Andersen, he developed a genre-defying, multi-instrumental style blending folk, gospel, rock, blues, jazz, and world music. He has performed at Carnegie Hall and appeared on NPR’s All Things Considered and Mountain Stage, though he cites hearing his song “Driving in Massachusetts” on Car Talk as a personal highlight.

Greenway’s eight-year collaboration with Pat Wictor and Joe Jencks as Brother Sun produced two #1 Folk DJ albums and reached wide audiences. His current project with Reggie Harris, Deeper Than The Skin, explores race and shared history in America. Widely praised, critics hail him as a powerful, genre-crossing artist with exceptional stage presence.

Photo of Jenna Nicholls
 

The music of genre-blending singer-songwriter Jenna Nicholls evokes the golden age of the American Songbook, infused with the spirit of Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, and vintage Americana. A multi-instrumentalist with four acclaimed albums to her name, Jenna crafts songs that feel both timeless and fresh, blending rich storytelling, cinematic imagery, and an unmistakable voice.

Her latest release, The Commuter, produced by Grammy-winning producer Larry Campbell, further showcases her gift for reimagining American roots music for modern audiences. A winner of multiple songwriting competitions, Jenna has toured with Ingrid Michaelson, Glen Hansard, Lucius, and Joan as Policewoman, performing at iconic venues including Carnegie Hall and the Beacon Theatre. With every note, Jenna Nicholls invites listeners into a world where old souls speak, hearts break, and stories live on in song.

Photo of
 

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.

Split Bill: Rory Block and Kevin Neidig

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Rory Block
Rory Block

Legendary blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter Rory Block brings to the Troubadour stage her powerful and authentic interpretations of traditional country blues and her own originals. As a teenager she traveled the South to learn directly from blues giants like Skip James, Mississippi John Hurt, Reverend Gary Davis, and Son House, and she has become a blues institution in her own right.  “Her playing is perfect, her singing otherworldly as she wrestles with ghosts, shadows and legends” (New York Times). “Some of the most singular and affecting country blues anyone, man or woman, black or white, old or young, has cut in recent years.” (Rolling Stone)

Photo of Kevin Neidig
 

Kevin Neidig, a native of Mechanicsburg, PA, is an award-winning Americana singer-songwriter, composer, and multi-instrumentalist.  His numerous awards include 2024 IBMA Flatpicking Champion, 2026 Mid-Atlantic Songwriting Contest (Children’s song, instrumental and folk acoustic categories) 2025 Mid-Atlantic Songwriting Contest (Bluegrass/Country) winner, and 2023 Best Americana Artist by the Central Pennsylvania Hall of Fame, and other top awards for guitar, banjo and vocals. His sound mixes elements of Darrell Scott, Tim O’Brien, Bela Fleck, and other similar artists with a sprinkling of metal and jazz.

Ellis Paul with The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest - Three Winners will perform.

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Featured Act: Ellis Paul
Photo of Ellis Paul
Ellis Paul

 

Ellis Paul doesn’t just write songs; he’s a guitar-carrying reporter who covers the human condition and details the hopes, loves, losses of those he observes, turning their stories into luminous pieces of music that get under your skin and into your bloodstream. And much like the artists who have influenced him, everyone from Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan and Paul Simon to the singer-songwriter who is undoubtedly his greatest inspiration, Woody Guthrie, Paul weaves deeply personal experiences with social issues and renders them as provocative works that are as timely as they are timeless.
Born and raised in Maine, Paul attended Boston College on a track scholarship and in the evenings became a fixture on the city’s open mic circuit. After winning a Boston Acoustic Underground songwriter competition, he caught the ear of folk luminary Bill Morrissey, who produced his indie album Say Something in 1993. This led to a seven album contract with Rounder Records and the 1994 album, Stories. His songs have appeared in several blockbuster films (Me, Myself, and Irene; Shallow Hal, Hall Pass) and have been covered by award winning country artists (Sugarland, Kristian Bush, Jack Ingram).
Through a steady succession of albums of his own – a remarkable 23 releases so far – and a constant touring presence around the world, Paul’s audience has grown into a loyal legion of fans. Along the way, he has picked up an impressive number of awards including the prestigious Kerrville New Folk Award, 15 Boston Music Awards, An Honorary Doctorate from the University of Maine, the 2019 International Acoustic Music Awards Artist of the Year and most recently his album, The Storyteller’s Suitcase, was named the 2019 NERFA Album of the Year.
Opening Act: The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest - Three Winners will perform.
Photo of The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest - Three Winners will perform.
 

Announcing The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest

Enter Folk Project’s first annual Songwriting Contest to win a cash prize and the opportunity to play an opening act at the Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series.

Key Dates:

  • July 24, 2026 – Deadlines for entries
  • August 24, 2026 – Winners announced
  • September 25, 2026 – Performance at Troubadour

Prizes: Three winners will each win a $200 cash prize and will get to perform their award-winning songs in the opening set for Ellis Paul at the Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series on Sept. 25, 2026 in Morristown, NJ.

How to enter:

  • Register for the contest at https://folkproject.clappia.com/app/AJC367603
  • Songs must not be subject to any existing publishing contract or exclusive administration deal.
  • You will be pasting a URL link to your songs from any of a number of cloud-based services like Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, DropBox, Samply, SoundCloud or a similar service.
  • Entry fee is $15 per two-song entry, and you may enter as many times as you like.
  • Deadline for submission is July 24, 2026 (11:59 PM ET)
  • You can send questions to [email protected]

Eligibility and Judging: The contest is open to all songwriters, anywhere. It will be judged by professional songwriters on the basis of melody, lyrics, composition and originality.  To the extent possible it will not be judged on production quality, but your recording needs to be good enough to show off what the judges will be looking for.

 

AI Use Policy:  We are seeking songs written by human creators. While AI tools, such as Suno or Udio, may be used to assist with production, all core songwriting elements – including lyrics, melody, and structure – must be the original work of the submitting artist.

 

Any use of AI in the production process must be disclosed at the time of submission. Fully AI generated songs are not eligible for consideration.

 

Other details: You retain all rights to your own work. Should you win, you allow us to use your name and likeness for promotional purposes. If necessary, Folk Project may choose to extend the deadline for entries, but we will not make it any earlier.

 For More Information: Folk Project Song Writing Contest

Co-Bill: Vance Gilbert and Katie Dahl with Rob Hecht

 

***********************************************************************************

 

 

Vance Gilbert https://vancegilbert.com/
If Joni Mitchell and Richie Havens had a love child, with Rodney Dangerfield as the midwife, the results might be something close to the great Vance Gilbert” (Richmond Magazine)… with “the voice of an angel, the wit of a devil, and the guitar playing of a god” (Fort Worth Star-Telegram). This consummate songwriter’s influence can be felt all over the folk and Americana realm, with 14 albums to his credit and appearances from the Newport Folk Festival to Nashville’s Lyman Auditorium to Boston’s Symphony Hall. Vance toured with Shawn Colvin and has been the opener of choice for artists as varied as Arlo Guthrie, Anita Baker, The Milk Carton Kids, Paul Reiser, and George Carlin.
Video link: Zombie Pattycake

Katie Dahl

www.katiedahlmusic.com
Katie Dahl channels her wry wit and wise spirit into what Dar Williams called “The very best kind of songwriting”; she delivers “razor-sharp lyrics with a hearty, soulful voice” (American Songwriter). In live shows that are both courageously honest and devilishly funny, Katie dives deep into questions of land and love, family and body image, grief and joy, navigating the muddy waters between the personal, public, and political with tenderness and dexterity. Katie is the 2025 winner of the prestigious Kerrville New Folk Competition and was named “Most Wanted to Return” at the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival Emerging Artist Showcase.
Video link: Birds on the Banks 
Rob Hecht http://www.robbyhecht.com
There’s a reason Robby Hecht’s songs have been recorded by more than 70 other artists and reached more than 25 million streams. “Intimate and introspective” (USA Today), “Artfully constructed…pitch-perfect,” (The Wall Street Journal), “Songwriting of the highest quality” (The Telegraph). But wait until you hear him live! With a insightful lyricism, memorable melodies, and a voice that carries both strength and tenderness, he takes his audience on a contemplative journey through the landscapes of the heart and mind.
Video link: Only in Your Mind

 

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of
 
Photo of
 

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.***

Photo of Miles & Mafale
Miles and Mafale

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.

 

Video: March
Photo of Karyn Oliver
 

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.

Troubadour Birthday Concert The Troubadour 51st Birthday Show

***  Admission: $15 (members and non-members); 12 and under free with adult.**

Photo of The Troubadour 51st Birthday Show
Troubadour 51st Birthday Show

Troubadour 51st Birthday Show

 

Our in-person admission includes birthday cake.

The Troubadour celebrates the 51st anniversary of its inaugural performance on July 25, 1975 with a show unique to the Folk Project, and one that only an organization such as ours could present.  The Project includes dozens of musicians and singers in its membership; we draw upon our own to comprise the performers in this show.  In early July, all the members who wished to be in the show put their names into a common pool and were combined into randomly selected duos and trios.  Each of those groups has worked up and will present one song on stage for the show.  It’s a celebration not only of our first show, but of our members, and our creed that everyone’s music is of value.  It’s our party, and you’re invited.  Our admission price includes birthday cake, unless you are streaming!

 

Folk Project member-musicians celebrate over a half century of presenting weekly live music, contra dances with astounding bands and many streaming programs.

Triple Feature: Jacob Furr, Pete Mancini, and Trae Sheehan 

 

***********************************************************************************

Jacob Furr https://jacobfurr.com
Photo of Jacob Furr 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/
Photo of Pete Mancini 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 Joe Pernice, 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
Photo of Trae Sheehan 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.***

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Carolann Solebello
Carolann Solebello

Carolann Solebello is a performing songwriter born and bred in New York City. Well-known to folk audiences as the bass-playing, alto-singing founding member of harmony trio Red Molly, Carolann has spent most of her career as a solo troubadour. She nods to rural folk traditions with her smooth, compelling voice and warm acoustic guitar, yet keeps her boots firmly planted in the urban present with rhythmic precision and sophisticated vocal phrasing. An award-winning songwriter and proud member of AFM Local 1000, Carolann has five solo albums to her credit and is working on a sixth.

Photo of Kyle Morgan
 

Kyle Morgan is a Brooklyn-based songwriter originally from Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, where he grew up singing with his family at church and home. With influences ranging from the classic roots music of the Carter Family and Hank Williams to more modern artists like Thom Yorke and Rufus Wainwright, Kyle sings songs of spiritual longing, struggle and redemption in an earnest tenor voice. He released three albums in the twenty-teens under the name Starcrossed Losers. In 2022, his debut solo album, Younger at Most Everything, came out on Team Love Records. His latest LP, “Ghost of a Problem,” was released this past May.

 

Video: Woman

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Rakish
Rakish

Electrifying contemporary folk duo Rakish fuse virtuosic fiddle and guitar with playful flair.“Explorative and versatile, the duo draws evident inspiration from not just the deep and wide history of Scottish and Irish Celtic composition, but also the precision-focused structures of classical chamber music and a whole array of improvisational styles” [Strings Magazine]. Award winning fiddler Maura Shawn Scanlin teams with acclaimed guitarist Conor Hearn, known for collaborations across the Celtic scene. Recent highlights of their travels together include performances at the Library of Congress, Celtic Colours International Music Festival, Prince Edward Island’s Festival of Small Halls, the Corvallis Celtic Festival, and Official Showcases at Folk Alliance International.

Photo of Ryan Shupe and RubberBand
 

Acclaimed 5th-generation fiddler Ryan Shupe and his crackerjack, Billboard-charting RubberBand have been wowing audiences for 3 decades with fresh new tunes rooted in bluegrass and influenced by rock, country, folk, hip hop, and jazz. These stellar musicians are known for their hard driving arrangements, hot instrumental solos, tight vocal harmonies, and witty lyrics. From introspective ballads to rapid-fire vocals to sing-alongs, this energetic live show will get your feet tapping and your heart pumping.

Campfire Night at the Troubadour

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Campfire Night at the Troubadour
Campfire Night at the Troubadour
Campfire Night at the Troubadour is a unique treat that features three outstanding performers singing in the middle of the audience without amplification and lit only by warm light of an electric campfire. It has all the romance of a starlit night in the woods, but air conditioned without the mosquitoes. It’s theatre in the round, with all the intimacy of a personal  concert and so close to the music that the music is as natural as music gets: no sound system necessary.
S’mores with marshmallows and hot cocoa will be served at the break.
Join these three incredible musicians in a night of music, stories, and singalongs around the warm glow of an electric campfire.
Contagious energy, sincere enthusiasm, and an eclectic repertoire makes Ken Galipeau a singer and storyteller unlike any other. Drawing from both
time-tested tradition and his own experiences, Ken’s songs will touch your heart and tease your soul. No matter whether he’s playing for world-weary adults, parents or excited kids, Ken knows just what songs are right for his audience.
James Gedeon has captivated audiences nationwide with his warmth, authenticity, and magnetic stage presence. He has opened for America, Kenny Rogers, The Marshall Tucker Band, and Jay Leno, and
shared stages with Billy Joel, Phoebe Snow, and Pat Monahan of Train. Today, James tours nationally with his solo show “Coming Home: The Music of James Taylor”, and with “Three American Troubadours: A Celebration of James Taylor, Carly Simon, Carol King”.
Joe Crookston is a force of nature—an engaging fiddler, slide guitarist, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter who draws audiences into his storytelling world. His concerts blend humor and transcendence, creating what he calls a “Compassionate Story Revolution.” Invited by Gordon Lightfoot to tour as an opener, Joe has headlined major festivals including Kerrville and Philadelphia Folk Fest. A Folk Alliance International “Album of the Year” recipient and Artist-in-Residence, he has collaborated with renowned artists and seen his songs adapted into award-winning films. Based in Ithaca, NY, he tours widely, leaving audiences inspired through vivid tales, masterful musicianship, and a deep belief in stories.

Website: https://www.joecrookston.com/

Video: Rattlesnake Tail

Vet Songs

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Veterans have important stories to tell, and expressing those stories is both instructive for us and healing to them.  Nine veterans revealed their hearts and histories to nine Folk Project songwriters, who put those messages to music. The resulting songs will be performed at Troubadour Concerts on Friday, August 28 in a consequential evening filled with meaning and healing.

 

Proceeds will go to benefit veteran healing programs.

Photo of Vet Songs
Vet Songs
Sam Robbins A Berklee College of Music graduate and The Voice alumnus, Sam Robbins carries the classic 1970s troubadour tradition forward with sophisticated acoustic guitar work and warm, intimate storytelling.
Jesse Ruben Brooklyn singer-songwriter Jesse Ruben has toured with Jewel and Jason Mraz, charting hits and inspiring a global school curriculum with his deeply candid, hope-filled indie-folk anthems.
Barret Ward A consummate multi-instrumentalist and celebrated performing artist, Barret Ward masterfully bridges classic Americana warmth and innovative contemporary folk with intricate sonic arrangements and magnetic, soul-baring vocal delivery.
Michael Arthur A versatile singer-songwriter and visual artist, Michael Arthur is a staple of the acoustic circuit, renowned for capturing life’s beautiful complexities with razor-sharp lyrical wit and effortless grace.
Tina Ross Award-winning folk artist Tina Ross delivers spellbinding live sets, earning top festival honors and widespread radio play for her luminous vocals, pristine guitar arrangements, and deeply evocative songwriting.
Andrew Dunn Featuring a rich tenor voice and cinematic approach to storytelling, seasoned troubadour Andrew Dunn blends classic roots-rock with traditional folk to command stages with a powerful, timeless sound.
Sharon Klein A virtuoso vocalist with classical training, Sharon Klein delivers transcendent musical experiences across iconic concert halls, celebrated for her expansive vocal range, immaculate control, and brilliant, genre-defying arrangements.
Dave Kleiner A legendary fixture of the regional folk scene, veteran craftsman Dave Kleiner masterfully balances laugh-out-loud humor with poignant beauty through intricate wordplay, sharp social commentary, and acoustic guitar.
Christine DeLeon Past winner of the New Jersey Folk Festival Songwriter Competition, Christine DeLeon delivers joyfully infectious performances blending powerhouse operatic vocal control, brilliant wit, and vibrant theatricality.

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Greg Greenway
Greg Greenway

Born in Richmond, VA, Greg Greenway moved to Boston and became a standout voice in its folk music scene. Influenced by Richie Havens and Eric Andersen, he developed a genre-defying, multi-instrumental style blending folk, gospel, rock, blues, jazz, and world music. He has performed at Carnegie Hall and appeared on NPR’s All Things Considered and Mountain Stage, though he cites hearing his song “Driving in Massachusetts” on Car Talk as a personal highlight.

Greenway’s eight-year collaboration with Pat Wictor and Joe Jencks as Brother Sun produced two #1 Folk DJ albums and reached wide audiences. His current project with Reggie Harris, Deeper Than The Skin, explores race and shared history in America. Widely praised, critics hail him as a powerful, genre-crossing artist with exceptional stage presence.

Photo of Jenna Nicholls
 

The music of genre-blending singer-songwriter Jenna Nicholls evokes the golden age of the American Songbook, infused with the spirit of Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, and vintage Americana. A multi-instrumentalist with four acclaimed albums to her name, Jenna crafts songs that feel both timeless and fresh, blending rich storytelling, cinematic imagery, and an unmistakable voice.

Her latest release, The Commuter, produced by Grammy-winning producer Larry Campbell, further showcases her gift for reimagining American roots music for modern audiences. A winner of multiple songwriting competitions, Jenna has toured with Ingrid Michaelson, Glen Hansard, Lucius, and Joan as Policewoman, performing at iconic venues including Carnegie Hall and the Beacon Theatre. With every note, Jenna Nicholls invites listeners into a world where old souls speak, hearts break, and stories live on in song.

Photo of
 

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.

Split Bill: Rory Block and Kevin Neidig

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of Rory Block
Rory Block

Legendary blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter Rory Block brings to the Troubadour stage her powerful and authentic interpretations of traditional country blues and her own originals. As a teenager she traveled the South to learn directly from blues giants like Skip James, Mississippi John Hurt, Reverend Gary Davis, and Son House, and she has become a blues institution in her own right.  “Her playing is perfect, her singing otherworldly as she wrestles with ghosts, shadows and legends” (New York Times). “Some of the most singular and affecting country blues anyone, man or woman, black or white, old or young, has cut in recent years.” (Rolling Stone)

Photo of Kevin Neidig
 

Kevin Neidig, a native of Mechanicsburg, PA, is an award-winning Americana singer-songwriter, composer, and multi-instrumentalist.  His numerous awards include 2024 IBMA Flatpicking Champion, 2026 Mid-Atlantic Songwriting Contest (Children’s song, instrumental and folk acoustic categories) 2025 Mid-Atlantic Songwriting Contest (Bluegrass/Country) winner, and 2023 Best Americana Artist by the Central Pennsylvania Hall of Fame, and other top awards for guitar, banjo and vocals. His sound mixes elements of Darrell Scott, Tim O’Brien, Bela Fleck, and other similar artists with a sprinkling of metal and jazz.

Ellis Paul with The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest - Three Winners will perform.

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Featured Act: Ellis Paul
Photo of Ellis Paul
Ellis Paul

 

Ellis Paul doesn’t just write songs; he’s a guitar-carrying reporter who covers the human condition and details the hopes, loves, losses of those he observes, turning their stories into luminous pieces of music that get under your skin and into your bloodstream. And much like the artists who have influenced him, everyone from Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan and Paul Simon to the singer-songwriter who is undoubtedly his greatest inspiration, Woody Guthrie, Paul weaves deeply personal experiences with social issues and renders them as provocative works that are as timely as they are timeless.
Born and raised in Maine, Paul attended Boston College on a track scholarship and in the evenings became a fixture on the city’s open mic circuit. After winning a Boston Acoustic Underground songwriter competition, he caught the ear of folk luminary Bill Morrissey, who produced his indie album Say Something in 1993. This led to a seven album contract with Rounder Records and the 1994 album, Stories. His songs have appeared in several blockbuster films (Me, Myself, and Irene; Shallow Hal, Hall Pass) and have been covered by award winning country artists (Sugarland, Kristian Bush, Jack Ingram).
Through a steady succession of albums of his own – a remarkable 23 releases so far – and a constant touring presence around the world, Paul’s audience has grown into a loyal legion of fans. Along the way, he has picked up an impressive number of awards including the prestigious Kerrville New Folk Award, 15 Boston Music Awards, An Honorary Doctorate from the University of Maine, the 2019 International Acoustic Music Awards Artist of the Year and most recently his album, The Storyteller’s Suitcase, was named the 2019 NERFA Album of the Year.
Opening Act: The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest - Three Winners will perform.
Photo of The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest - Three Winners will perform.
 

Announcing The Folk Project’s 2026 Songwriting Contest

Enter Folk Project’s first annual Songwriting Contest to win a cash prize and the opportunity to play an opening act at the Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series.

Key Dates:

  • July 24, 2026 – Deadlines for entries
  • August 24, 2026 – Winners announced
  • September 25, 2026 – Performance at Troubadour

Prizes: Three winners will each win a $200 cash prize and will get to perform their award-winning songs in the opening set for Ellis Paul at the Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series on Sept. 25, 2026 in Morristown, NJ.

How to enter:

  • Register for the contest at https://folkproject.clappia.com/app/AJC367603
  • Songs must not be subject to any existing publishing contract or exclusive administration deal.
  • You will be pasting a URL link to your songs from any of a number of cloud-based services like Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, DropBox, Samply, SoundCloud or a similar service.
  • Entry fee is $15 per two-song entry, and you may enter as many times as you like.
  • Deadline for submission is July 24, 2026 (11:59 PM ET)
  • You can send questions to [email protected]

Eligibility and Judging: The contest is open to all songwriters, anywhere. It will be judged by professional songwriters on the basis of melody, lyrics, composition and originality.  To the extent possible it will not be judged on production quality, but your recording needs to be good enough to show off what the judges will be looking for.

 

AI Use Policy:  We are seeking songs written by human creators. While AI tools, such as Suno or Udio, may be used to assist with production, all core songwriting elements – including lyrics, melody, and structure – must be the original work of the submitting artist.

 

Any use of AI in the production process must be disclosed at the time of submission. Fully AI generated songs are not eligible for consideration.

 

Other details: You retain all rights to your own work. Should you win, you allow us to use your name and likeness for promotional purposes. If necessary, Folk Project may choose to extend the deadline for entries, but we will not make it any earlier.

 For More Information: Folk Project Song Writing Contest

Co-Bill: Vance Gilbert and Katie Dahl with Rob Hecht

 

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Vance Gilbert https://vancegilbert.com/
If Joni Mitchell and Richie Havens had a love child, with Rodney Dangerfield as the midwife, the results might be something close to the great Vance Gilbert” (Richmond Magazine)… with “the voice of an angel, the wit of a devil, and the guitar playing of a god” (Fort Worth Star-Telegram). This consummate songwriter’s influence can be felt all over the folk and Americana realm, with 14 albums to his credit and appearances from the Newport Folk Festival to Nashville’s Lyman Auditorium to Boston’s Symphony Hall. Vance toured with Shawn Colvin and has been the opener of choice for artists as varied as Arlo Guthrie, Anita Baker, The Milk Carton Kids, Paul Reiser, and George Carlin.
Video link: Zombie Pattycake

Katie Dahl

www.katiedahlmusic.com
Katie Dahl channels her wry wit and wise spirit into what Dar Williams called “The very best kind of songwriting”; she delivers “razor-sharp lyrics with a hearty, soulful voice” (American Songwriter). In live shows that are both courageously honest and devilishly funny, Katie dives deep into questions of land and love, family and body image, grief and joy, navigating the muddy waters between the personal, public, and political with tenderness and dexterity. Katie is the 2025 winner of the prestigious Kerrville New Folk Competition and was named “Most Wanted to Return” at the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival Emerging Artist Showcase.
Video link: Birds on the Banks 
Rob Hecht http://www.robbyhecht.com
There’s a reason Robby Hecht’s songs have been recorded by more than 70 other artists and reached more than 25 million streams. “Intimate and introspective” (USA Today), “Artfully constructed…pitch-perfect,” (The Wall Street Journal), “Songwriting of the highest quality” (The Telegraph). But wait until you hear him live! With a insightful lyricism, memorable melodies, and a voice that carries both strength and tenderness, he takes his audience on a contemplative journey through the landscapes of the heart and mind.
Video link: Only in Your Mind

 

***  Admission: $20/$15 (FP members); 12 and under free with adult.***

Photo of
 
Photo of
 

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.