Ballet Folklórico Fiesta Mexicana, Inc. (Fiesta Mexicana) organized following the loss of founder and longtime Director, Maestro Miguel Caro Zaragoza, to provide continuity of his legacy and many decades of teaching Mexican Folk Dance in the community. Since 2014, Fiesta Mexicana has partnered with the South Broadway Cultural Center, City of Albuquerque, Cultural Services Department, to provide access to cultural awareness and dance education to the community by participating in many of the City sponsored cultural events and providing low cost Youth Folklórico Fiesta Mexicana classes for six weeks during the summer. Fiesta Mexicana’s dance presentations and costumes are unique, creative and incomparable. The costumes are noted for their beautiful and intricate designs. All costumes are Miguel’s creations and were handmade and hand embroidered by Miguel and his sister Beatriz Caro Zaragoza. Fiesta Mexicana’s dance repertoire consists of dances from almost all the states of Mexico and a set of Aztec dances. The dancing consists of intricate footwork and has been described as poetry in motion.

This workshop will enable attendees to perform basic Mexican Folk dance moves. Participants will be taught footwork for dances originating from the northern region of Mexico and discover a brief history about them.

Alma Arango has been dancing since age five. To improve her folkórico technique, she became a student of and later performed with Maestro Miguel Caro and Fiesta Mexicana in 1996. Alma has since taught dance classes at several local public schools, the National Hispanic Cultural Center, and the South Broadway Cultural Center. Today, Alma serves as an instructor and choreographer for Ballet Folklórico Fiesta Mexicana, Inc. (BFFM), which was founded in 2014 following the passing of Maestro Miguel Caro. BFFM is a multi-generational performing dance group in Albuquerque, New Mexico, offering classes for students ages 5 to adult.

Come and learn the basic hand, foot, and body movements that gracefully entwine to tell stories of Hawaii’s history, places, people and traditions… all infused with the spirit of Aloha. Hawaii’s beautiful, joyous cultural dance is suitable for everyone and every age. Native Hawaiian teacher.

The grace and beauty of the hula - Hawaii's art and soul, is alive and well in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Under the direction of Hawaiian native Cindi Kealaulaʻulaʻulaokawaoʻone Heffner, Haʻaheo O Hawaiʻi (which means Proud to Be Hawaiian) provides a wonderful taste of aloha through the hula (dance), oli (chant), and mele (song) of Hawaii. Come and experience the happiness and joy of hula.

Indian classical dancing started around 200 BCE in India. Traditionally performed as an expressive drama-dance form Indian classical dance also has intricate footwork that accompanies the stories. All styles of Indian classical dance are vibrant and expressive. The workshop will explore hand gestures used to communicate the stories, main characters in the dance forms, rhythmic patterns used and simple footwork.

Trupthi Panickor, the Creative Director of Natyakalanjali, is a professionally trained Indian classical dancer in all the south Indian classical dance styles and the traditional theatrical art forms of Kerala, such as Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Mohiniyattam, and Kathakali. Trupthi started dancing at age 4, and has performed across India and the world. She received the Creative Bravos award in 2019 from the Mayor and City of Albuquerque.

If you've watched Pride and Prejudice on TV or seen Sense and Sensibility or Emma at the movies, you have seen English Country dancing. People love English Country dancing because of the hauntingly beautiful music, the grace & elegance as you glide through the moves, and the fleeting connections and flirtations between you, your partner, and the other dancers. Learn these easy but elegant dances, flirt with your partner, channel your inner king or queen, and pretend you are Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy!

The Parson Sisters is a duo based in Albuquerque, NM, specializing in global folk dance music, including Balkan, Irish, contra, and English Country. Comprised of Mirinisa Stewart-Tengco (strings, vocals, percussion) and Clara Byom (keys, clarinets, vocals, electronics), The Parson Sisters have quickly become sought-after dance musicians throughout the Southwest. In a few busy years, they have performed at over 60 events, including FolkMADness, Southwest Pickers Bluegrass and Traditional Music Festival, Albuquerque Folk Festival, Phoenix English Country Tea Dance, Tarab Retreat, dance parties, private events, and four out-of-state tours. From tight vocal harmonies in traditional Macedonian lesnotos to Clara’s charming original tunes to Mirinisa’s exquisite Scandinavian fiddling to psychedelic techno contra, The Parson Sisters provide the most eclectic collection of dance music in the Southwest.

Teaching line and circle dances from Europe, especially the Balkans and the Near East.

Tarjama, which means "Translation" in Arabic, Hebrew and Farsi, plays hot global grooves with clarinet, percussion and strings. Our jams include flamenco, Balkan, and Golden Age of Cairo tunes for your listening and dancing pleasure. Music that moves you!

Over the years, we have been fortunate to play traditional 1840's New Mexico and Southern Colorado Hispanic music. Also, we have been teaching the dances of the 1840's in Colorado and New Mexico (waltzes, polkas, schottisches, redondos, cuadrillas). Our family of elders have given of themselves so that we could continue age-old traditions of music and dance presentation and preservation. The musicians are truly masters of their style, genre and repertoire. In recent years, we have been fortunate to travel internationally on concert tours to Italy, Peru, and Baja California, Mexico.

Lorenzo Trujillo is the director of the Southwest Musicians. He was awarded the 1996 Governor's Award for Excellence in the Arts, acknowledging his work as a folk violinist, guitarist, and vocalist, among his other accomplishments as a musician, ethnic dancer, folklorist, arts administrator, and culture bearer for approximately five decades. He was awarded funding from the National Endowment for the Arts as a performing artist. He was awarded the Hilos Culturales Distinguished Traditional Folk Artist Premio for his lifetime contributions to the traditional Hispanic traditions of Southern Colorado and New Mexico.

Dr. Trujillo has presented thousands of concerts, lecture demonstrations, and has published extensively in the area of traditional music and dance of the Southwest United States over the past 50 years. He has recorded and performed for television, radio and on numerous CDs. He was inducted into the Colorado Chicano Music Hall of Fame and he was presented with the Tesoro Cultural Center's Tesoro de Cro Award.

Members of the Southwest Musicians include William "Billy" Archuleta from Arroyo Hondo, New Mexico. He has both recorded traditional music and was awarded the Hilos Culturales Distinguished Traditional Folk Artist Premio for his lifetime contributions to the traditional Hispanic traditions of Southern Colorado and New Mexico. Larry Edelman is a violinist with the Southwest Musicians. He is a nationally noted fiddler and dance caller of traditional music. He has performed on numerous recordings and throughout the U.S., reflecting a broad spectrum of traditional music of the United States. Also, playing with the group are Scott Mathis and Linda Askew. They come from Albuquerque, New Mexico. Their lifetime of music is reflected in thousands of performances across the United States presenting folk traditions of Americana with a focus on the Southwest. Ben Alires has a lifetime of performance of traditional music having learned from his family in Colonias (Las Vegas), New Mexico. Cathy Skokan has played violin with the Southwest Musicians over the past fifteen years. Dancers: Virginia Ortiz and Ben Guerrero are well known traditional dance performers in New Mexico and Colorado.They are favorites of audiences for their enthusiastic dance drama and quick steps.

The Southwest Musicians began as a family troupe of three generations including his aunt, Eva Nuanez, father, Filbert Trujillo, son Dr. Lorenzo Trujillo, Jr., and The Southwest Dancers directed by his mother, Orie Trujillo. Since 1976, the group performed in numerous venues throughout the Southwest United States. As the older generation retired, new members joined the group to continue the traditions of the 1840's of Southern Colorado and Northern New Mexico. Members have roots in New Mexico and in Southern Colorado. Their performances have included such venues as Crested Butte Music Festival, Old Bent's Fort, The Chicano Music Festival, The Fort, The Spanish Market, Taos City Auditorium, Santa Fe Fiestas, The San Luis Fiestas, Chile Harvest Festival, Denver Civic Theatre, concerts in Rome, Italy, Lima, Peru, and San Felipe, Baja California and many others. The group has released numerous CD’s over these years of old-time dance tunes that were popular in the early period of Colorado and New Mexico. Their music has been handed down through many generations of family musicians who have taught their music by ear and practice.

Drawing from a deep well of musical experience the Boys have a unique string band perspective. Contorting the sound into a New Mexican Wild-grass like nothing else on the scene… Structured around strong lyrical content, powerful melodies, and a musical bond that only a band of true brothers can create.

Tucked in the Mountains of Northern New Mexico the Foggy Memory Boys combine the unique skills of New Mexico State Mandolin Champion and master luthier Jacob Hagerty on mandolin, Andy Yeomans on acoustic guitar and vocals, The Undertaker Uncle Willie Hunton on dobro, singer-songwriter extraordinaire Zephaniah Stringfield on Gretsch guitar and vocals, and Matt Mallwitz on bass fiddle.

To listen to April Verch and Cody Walters is to be immersed in tradition. To watch them perform is to be transported. Be it regional Canadian roots, American old-time, 50’s Country, Scandinavian folk music, or something original that sounds as though it’s been around for a century—the one common thread is their love and reverence for the music and traditions that have been passed down to them.

Husband and wife duo April Verch & Cody Walters is a true partnership of kindred musical spirits, each a world-class musician in their own right. Combining their unique backgrounds from Verch’s native Ottawa Valley and Walters’ heartland roots in Kansas, their music showcases endless creativity and versatility—transitioning effortlessly from traditional Ottawa Valley step dancing and fiddle tunes, to old-time fiddle-banjo duets with tight-knit vocal harmonies, to innovative sandpaper foot percussion, all contrasted against Verch’s sweet soprano voice.

Verch and Walters began playing together in 2007 when Walters joined the April Verch Band as their bassist. Initially formed as a pickup band centered around Verch’s own fiddle and dance stylings in 2000, the band grew and blossomed into an established trio of world-class musicians, spanning several musical traditions and backgrounds, yet all united in their mission to share the music they love. Together they have traveled to four continents, performed in fourteen countries, and played everywhere from tiny pubs and dusty festival workshops all the way to legendary stages such as the Kennedy Center and the Ryman Auditorium. In 2018—fittingly amidst their ever-busy tour schedule—April and Cody were married.

With the release of their debut duo album Passages and Partings (March 24, 2023,) the collection of 16 songs and tunes adds a new tributary to their musical cannon, and one that Verch and Walters feel, is really starting to blossom. The duo’s diverse repertoire and unbridled passion come to life on stage with a presence that is versatile, robust, and masterfully executed. Audiences remark at their sincerity in sharing stories between tunes. Verch’s delicate voice, energetic footwork, sand paper foot percussion and stunning playing (sometimes combined all at once!) are jaw-dropping. Walters’ melodic banjo stylings, solid rhythm guitar accompaniment and tasteful vocal harmonies are at once understated and brilliant, dueting with Verch’s skills in glorious harmony. Their ability to preserve the authentic folk traditions of the past and reintroduce them into the musical landscape of the present is a testament to their masterful musicianship and widespread appeal.

Even now, after more than two decades leading her own band and with 14 albums in her name (two of which were nominated for JUNO Awards, among other honors), and 3 albums with other collaborations, there is nothing that fulfills Verch or gives her more joy than playing and sharing her music with the world. “It’s like the reward for everything else,” she says. Together, she and Walters are exemplary tradition-bearing performers: never forgetting the roots of the music, that connection to the people out there in the audience or on the dance floor, to the community sparked by a good song. “It’s about joining together to celebrate everyday life, through music. We’re all in this together.” And so together they press onward: diving deep into musical tradition, bringing people together and forging connections, and sharing their insight and genuine love for the music they play so well.

The Duke City Swampcoolers (DCS) are a bluegrass band from Albuquerque, New Mexico otherwise known as the "Duke City". The band has been playing for more than twenty years. The Swampcoolers named themselves after the trustworthy old evaporative air coolers that everyone uses in their homes in the dry desert southwest. Those things run day and night trying to cool the house down and they do have breakdowns which can also be a high-speed bluegrass barn burner. The band consists of an eclectic mix of professional people including among others a doctor, a former teacher, a pharmacist, a master historic home restorer, and a fellow who does something nuclear. The band officially formed in 2003. Members of the band currently include Anthony Smith on guitar, Bill DuFault on mandolin, Jon Bryan on banjo and ukulele, Kevin Cooper on bass, Grey Howell on the fiddle, and Gerry Szostak on dobro. CD’s include “It Ain’t the Years”, “Drained and Unplugged”, and “Cooler Heads Prevail”. They are currently working on a fourth project. Most of the songs on the discs are originals. Musical influences range from swing to blues to folk to hard driving old time bluegrass. Over the years, the band has played in many regional festivals and local venues. They have also played at large private events in Albuquerque and other locales.

The North Valley Tune Tanglers perform a spicy mix of tunes and songs from old Appalachia to New Mexico and beyond. The trio brings together many years of musical experience, and is based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Liz Stevens and Michael Gallagher started the band as an outgrowth of their work with the Sandia Hots, a popular Albuquerque band that was on the scene from the late 1990s to 2010. Liz Stevens (fiddle, vocals, percussion), played fiddle and sang with a trio in western North Carolina in the 1980s. She honed her dance fiddling style around Denver in the 1990s. Michael Gallagher (5-string and tenor banjos, fiddle, button accordion, guitar, vocals) developed his chops playing around the Mid-Atlantic states while living in Philadelphia in the 1970s and 80s. Mike and Liz have traveled widely in Mexico and grew to love the tight vocal harmonies of the traditional music there. Skip Wrightson (guitar, resonator guitar, percussion, vocals) is the Tanglers newest member. He hails from the South and has been influenced musically by bluegrass, blues and old time music from that region. He has played guitar since high school and picked up the resonator guitar (dobro) since living in New Mexico.

In addition to covers of early country music and the occasional original song, each Tune Tanglers show includes Southwestern and Mexican selections. They often end their performances with an old familiar sing-along. The Tanglers have performed at festivals, town concerts, ski lodges, coffee houses, assisted living facilities, and brew pubs. During the Covid era, they performed virtually from their living room in the North Valley.

The Celtic peoples spread far and wide across the Western world, bringing their music with them. From Ireland, Scotland, England, and Wales, the Canadian Maritimes, American Folk traditions, and even Galicia, our music includes it all. We came together because of our shared love of the Mandolin and Mandolin family instruments, but have branched out to include a variety of folk instruments--we've managed 30 in one concert before!

Maryna Krut (pronounced "kroot"), presented in partnership with AMP Concerts, is a Ukrainian singer and virtuoso of the bandura, a stringed instrument unique to Ukraine that looks and sounds like a hybrid of lute and harp. She is an assured performing artist; her compelling, soulful performances evoke both folk traditions and modern sensibilities, with pop and jazz flourishes. A Eurovision finalist, she often represents Ukraine at official events and performs for soldiers in the current war zone, and she has appeared at the Edinburgh International Culture Summit, Andalucia Big Festival, Montreal Ukrainian Festival, and on other international stages.

The bandura's harpsichord-like sound is both delicate and assertive. Maryna's instrument has an astonishing 64 strings stretched over a single piece of wood, with 13 bass strings stretched along a short, fretless neck, and the remaining treble strings stretched across a large soundboard. She plays the bass set with her left hand, while the right plays across the prodigious treble array. In addition to being a masterful instrumentalist, Maryna's striking, powerful voice soars in an acoustic setting, whether with a string quartet or solo.

Early bandurists were male balladeers who travelled from village to village; early in her career, says Maryna, "I dyed my hair pink, painted my nails black, wore leather jackets and started to play the bandura in a more modern, jazzy and funky way" (Vogue Australia). Now she's stretching her style back toward the bandura's folk roots. "[Her music] represents the DNA of Ukrainian culture, in all its styles, classic and very modern" (Ouest France).

To listen to April Verch and Cody Walters is to be immersed in tradition. To watch them perform is to be transported. Be it regional Canadian roots, American old-time, 50’s Country, Scandinavian folk music, or something original that sounds as though it’s been around for a century—the one common thread is their love and reverence for the music and traditions that have been passed down to them.

Husband and wife duo April Verch & Cody Walters is a true partnership of kindred musical spirits, each a world-class musician in their own right. Combining their unique backgrounds from Verch’s native Ottawa Valley and Walters’ heartland roots in Kansas, their music showcases endless creativity and versatility—transitioning effortlessly from traditional Ottawa Valley step dancing and fiddle tunes, to old-time fiddle-banjo duets with tight-knit vocal harmonies, to innovative sandpaper foot percussion, all contrasted against Verch’s sweet soprano voice.

Verch and Walters began playing together in 2007 when Walters joined the April Verch Band as their bassist. Initially formed as a pickup band centered around Verch’s own fiddle and dance stylings in 2000, the band grew and blossomed into an established trio of world-class musicians, spanning several musical traditions and backgrounds, yet all united in their mission to share the music they love. Together they have traveled to four continents, performed in fourteen countries, and played everywhere from tiny pubs and dusty festival workshops all the way to legendary stages such as the Kennedy Center and the Ryman Auditorium. In 2018—fittingly amidst their ever-busy tour schedule—April and Cody were married.

With the release of their debut duo album Passages and Partings (March 24, 2023,) the collection of 16 songs and tunes adds a new tributary to their musical cannon, and one that Verch and Walters feel, is really starting to blossom. The duo’s diverse repertoire and unbridled passion come to life on stage with a presence that is versatile, robust, and masterfully executed. Audiences remark at their sincerity in sharing stories between tunes. Verch’s delicate voice, energetic footwork, sand paper foot percussion and stunning playing (sometimes combined all at once!) are jaw-dropping. Walters’ melodic banjo stylings, solid rhythm guitar accompaniment and tasteful vocal harmonies are at once understated and brilliant, dueting with Verch’s skills in glorious harmony. Their ability to preserve the authentic folk traditions of the past and reintroduce them into the musical landscape of the present is a testament to their masterful musicianship and widespread appeal.

Even now, after more than two decades leading her own band and with 14 albums in her name (two of which were nominated for JUNO Awards, among other honors), and 3 albums with other collaborations, there is nothing that fulfills Verch or gives her more joy than playing and sharing her music with the world. “It’s like the reward for everything else,” she says. Together, she and Walters are exemplary tradition-bearing performers: never forgetting the roots of the music, that connection to the people out there in the audience or on the dance floor, to the community sparked by a good song. “It’s about joining together to celebrate everyday life, through music. We’re all in this together.” And so together they press onward: diving deep into musical tradition, bringing people together and forging connections, and sharing their insight and genuine love for the music they play so well.

Driven by a passion for exploring the colors and complexities of Irish music, The Consequences are a new Irish traditional band founded by Lexie Boatright (concertina & harp), Jake James (fiddle), Cara Wildman (bodhrán & dance), and Ryan Ward (piano & piano accordion). Award-winning soloists in their own right, the quartet comes together to create a dynamic and enthralling sound with a combination of traditional and original tunes.

Colectivo de Son Jarocho is a free and accessible music education project for communities of all ages and ethnicities interested in the histories and practices of Son Jarocho. Son Jarocho is a musical genre that has roots in Veracruz, Mexico and is shaped by Spanish, Indigenous, and African traditions. In Albuquerque, Colectivo de Son Jarocho, a collective of students, faculty, and community members emerging from the Department of Chicana/o Studies at the University of New Mexico have invited jaraneros to share community knowledges on Son Jarocho and is led by internationally renown Son Jarocho musician Laura Rebolloso.

Driven by a passion for exploring the colors and complexities of Irish music, The Consequences are a new Irish traditional band founded by Lexie Boatright (concertina & harp), Jake James (fiddle), Cara Wildman (bodhrán & dance), and Ryan Ward (piano & piano accordion). Award-winning soloists in their own right, the quartet comes together to create a dynamic and enthralling sound with a combination of traditional and original tunes.

ABQ Skeleton Crew is a 7 member band which features luscious harmonies and an eclectic repertoire of tunes. We draw from old to modern folk traditions, with a sprinkling of folksy pop songs, pop/classic rock with a growing number of originals added to the mix. From Istanbul (not Constantinople) to John Ryans Polka, we offer a wide range of instrumental combinations and vocal harmonic arrangements....we are all singers! Come kick up your heels and soothe your soul with "the Crew".

Members of the band are:

• Claire Gentry - keyboard, accordian, melodian, vocals
• Chris Carlson - fiddle, vocals
• Kaye Summerhays - ukelele, percussion, vocals
• Tim Mac Alpine - bass, percussion, vocals
• Leah Burkhardt - guitar, mandolin, percussion, vocals
• Josh Benjamin - guitar, resonator, vocals
• Carolyn Ansell - ukelele, banjo, dulcimer, vocals

Drawing from a deep well of musical experience the Boys have a unique string band perspective. Contorting the sound into a New Mexican Wild-grass like nothing else on the scene… Structured around strong lyrical content, powerful melodies, and a musical bond that only a band of true brothers can create.

Tucked in the Mountains of Northern New Mexico the Foggy Memory Boys combine the unique skills of New Mexico State Mandolin Champion and master luthier Jacob Hagerty on mandolin, Andy Yeomans on acoustic guitar and vocals, The Undertaker Uncle Willie Hunton on dobro, singer-songwriter extraordinaire Zephaniah Stringfield on Gretsch guitar and vocals, and Matt Mallwitz on bass fiddle.

We were all saddened by the passing of Jeanie McLerie this year. Ken Keppeler will gather some past and present Bayou Seco members and students and family to honor Jeanie in the tribute performance.

Bayou Seco, featuring Ken Keppeler and Jeanie McLerie, has been entertaining New Mexico and many parts of the world since 1980. Recipients of the 2017 NM Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts, Keppeler and McLerie have learned from a number of revered traditional musicians in New Mexico, Louisiana and Arizona (thus, Bayou Seco).

Bayou Seco's brand of Southwestern Chilegumbo - Cajun two-steps, waltzes, polkas and rancheras, chotis's, meringues and huapangos, and, perhaps a broom dance, is cross- cultural, multi-lingual and transcends labels and pigeon holes. Bayou Seco's roots are in the south and southwest, but their branches reach far across the world.

Syd is an American singer and song writer of traditional western music. He is the author and recording artist of the Official State Cowboy Song of New Mexico and has been recognized as The Academy of Western Artists National Male Vocalist of the Year. Twice. One of his recent CD’s, Sunset on the Rio Grande Revisited won the highly coveted Wrangler Award from the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum for “Outstanding Traditional Western CD”. Later on in 2019 Syd was the recipient of the prestigious Presidents Award from The International Western Music Association for his contribution to Western music, and he also took home his 10th New Mexico Music Industry Award. Quite a year! His previous release. Always a Cowboy in My Dreams was honored with both “Best Country CD” & “Best Song” amidst 5 nominations at the New Mexico Music Awards. The Western Music Association, Academy of Western Artists and The New Mexico Music Industry have combined to nominate him for more than 40 awards over the past 20 years. “Vocalist of the Year,” “Country Song of the Year,” “Best Album,” Best Band,” Most Humorous Song,” and “Best Song” are some of the categories in which he was victorious.

Earlier this century the US Department of State named him Cultural Ambassador for his work entertaining the secret service departments of 26 foreign countries in the Diplomatic Security Antiterrorism Assistance Program. Syd was recently named official ambassador to Guitars for Vets, an organization that provides therapy by giving acoustic guitars and lessons to returning veterans suffering from PTSD. He and his band, The Swing Riders, have been seen on television commercials and billboards throughout the west as spokesmen for the Powerball Lottery Campaign. Other media appearances have been on The Travel Channel, CMT, RFD-TV, MTV, New Mexico True, PBS Colores, and more. His original compositions have been used in numerous film productions ranging from documentaries and television broadcasts to the Universal Studios motion picture “Paul” where he can also be seen as an actor in the film. Whether solo, duo, or with his Swing Rider trio, Syd provides a highly talented, thoroughly funny, good time cowboy show out to save vintage western music one two-step at a time!

Hailed by The Boston Globe as a "premier exponent of Chamamé", Brazil-based Argentine composer, accordionist, and researcher Alejandro Brittes explores his chamamé heritage, an ancestral rhythm connecting us with the Earth and the Universe through music and dance, which was born of the encounter between the ritual musicality and cosmovision of the Indigenous Guaraní and Baroque music within the context of the Jesuit missions in a cultural microregion encompassing Argentina, central and southern Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay which extends through the watersheds and fresh water sources in these nations, as described in Brittes´ book A Origem do Chamamé. Chamamé is declared as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

Following the success of his 2023 U.S. East Coast tour — being featured at Library of Congress - Alejandro Brittes returns in 2024, this time to the West, performing at festivals, universities, historical sites, libraries, museums, etc., giving trilingual lecture-demonstrations, and engaging in musical collaborations with diverse border Roots Music masters.

The trio of Alejandro Brittes is composed of André Ely on the 7-stringed Brazilian guitar, Carlos de Césaro on electric bass/contrabass, and Alejandro Brittes on González system button accordion. The trio resides in the capital of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil — Porto Alegre — a region that has been affected by the recent catastrophic flooding that has been making international news. In this tour Brittes is calling attention to the relation of chamamé with rivers, seeing that rivers have served as inspiration for some of the most beautiful chamamé compositions, and symbolize the coming together of cultures and borders, that now due to the catastrophe in Rio Grande do Sul, are uniting everyone in solidarity and teaching us that we are all equal, now more than ever.

From August to October 2024 Alejandro Brittes will be featured at venues such as: San José Jazz Festival (CA), Music In Corrales (NM), Tucson Meet Yourself (AZ), Stanford Live (CA), Cotati Accordion Festival (CA), etc. and will also perform at historical sites such as the Sonoma Mission (CA), San Miguel Chapel (NM). This tour will be a bridge and exchange between the rich multicultural heritage of California and the Southwest and that of southern South America, regions with shared legacies of Indigenous cultures, Missions, colonialism and conflict, borders, cultural mixture, etc.

On this tour, Brittes is collaborating with the Brazil California Chamber of Commerce in obtaining financial support for Santa Barbara, CA-based non-profit, Direct Relief, in delivering medical and other aid to the flood-affected regions of Rio Grande do Sul. Brittes will also promote a donation campaign to help the artistic sector of Rio Grande do Sul which is acutely affected by the floods and cancelling of events and performances. The campaign S.O.S Música do RS is aimed at human and cultural reconstruction

This 2024 tour is a realization of the Ministério da Cultura Brasil - Governo Federal - União with sponsorship of Arroz Prato Fino, through the Lei de Incentivo à Cultura - Rouanet.

The Kipsies - Together in Song

By Davy Haynes

Imagine living room conversations with your friends become melodies. The times you’ve cried and laughed with your community are audible in the instruments and lyrics. That’s what the newest record from Albuquerque-based quintet The Kipsies sounds like. After twelve years of playing together, this band has seen it all and found a way to pour both joy and struggle into their art.

Out of the ashes of their previous group Breaking Blue, The Kipsies gathered as long-time friends and collaborators to try something new. They’ve played at major festivals like the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, and enjoyed intimate stages in hippie towns in Colorado. It’s rare to find a folk band that lists Opeth as an influence over Woody Guthrie or Joni Mitchell. But, The Kipsies are not your average folk band. The band makes modern music on traditional instruments. Though they’re from Albuquerque, the instruments that fill the songs on Breathe In Deep are from all over the world. Using the cajon from Peru, the harmonium from India, and clawhammer banjo style originating in Africa, the band composes songs that walk the fine line between technical skill and passion. Guided by Randy Martin’s banjo stylings and Cassie Roger’s heartfelt vocals, the band crafted intricate, full arrangements for Breathe in Deep with amazing performances from multi-instrumentalist Ezra Montoya, bassist Shawn Berkompas, and drummer Isaac Sanderville.

Their newest record, Breathe in Deep, captures the group’s balance of head and heart perhaps more than any of their previous work. Sanderville recalls, “Our other recording experience relied on producers. This was the first time we had total mastery of how we recorded, and we threw the kitchen sink at these songs.” Recorded in Martin’s attic studio, the band was able to compose, arrange, and record with a newfound freedom. That freedom allowed Rogers to explore personal struggles lyrically, such as the long struggle of having children on the song “In Time.” From the harmonies at the front of “If You Could” to the pounding drums on “Crimson,” the band shows their ability to create intimate emotional spaces in their music. It’s almost as if they’re inviting listeners into their personal stories.

Breathe In Deep sounds like a group of friends making the best music they possibly can. It has all the weight and depth of people who are there for each other, finding an outlet for the highs and lows of life in Martin’s attic studio. They’ve shared stages across the USA and internationally, but they’ve also spent countless hours talking, sharing, and picking stringed instruments. In this day and age of keeping up appearances, The Kipsies are turning our ears towards what really matters: each other. As the band continues to bring their music to new cities and new people, there’s no doubt they’ll keep growing together as musicians and friends.

We hope you never say, “I can’t sing”. If you sing along with the radio in the car or sing in the shower, apparently you like to sing. We’re glad to give you a place to sing with others. The songs are mostly familiar, and we will bring lyrics for the few words you can’t remember From 10:30 in the morning to 6:00 at night, you can find other people to sing with culminating in the Big Sing-along at 5:00. From their hourly sing-alongs at the NW corner of the Festival, Bill will bring a couple of John Prine songs, Cleve some Celtic, Beth a few train songs, Dick and Lynn and pop songs of the 60s, Dan some classic country and cowboy songs. Sharon leads a songwriter circle and will bring whatever she wants. Sing with us.

The Albuquerque Mandolin Orchestra has been playing the instruments of the mandolin family in ensemble since 2012. Principal instruments include mandolin, mandola, bouzouki, cittern, mandocello and mandobass. The group, comprised mostly of Albuquerque and Santa Fe musicians, plays a wide range of music arranged for mandolin orchestra from renaissance and baroque to classical to contemporary compositions, i.e., Byrd and Vivaldi to McCartney. We have a special interest in the music of the mandolin orchestra’s hey day from about 1880 to 1920, originating in Italy but spreading infectiously world wide.

La Rondalla de Albuquerque was founded in the late nineties in Albuquerque, New Mexico to preserve and promote the rancheras, boleros, and cumbias that have accompanied birthdays, weddings, anniversaries and community fiestas down through the ages. We make music from New Mexico through Latin America come alive via harp, guitar, guitarron, jarana, vihuela and voice.

The ATC Stringband is a student group from the Academy for Technology & Classics, a public charter school in Santa Fe. ATC offers a unique music class called "Acoustic Americana" in which students play and study traditional folk music from all over the U.S. including old-Time, bluegrass, blues, Cajun, and New Mexican music. Students sing and play fiddle, banjo, guitar, mandolin, and bass.

Saoirse (“Freedom” in Irish) was founded in 2004 in Albuquerque NM by members of a previous band, “Gallowglass” and other Celtic musicians. From its inception, Saoirse promoted and performed a wide range of Celtic music, including many contemporary works, from a variety of Celtic cultures. Taking their cue from modern European Celtic Bands, like Dervish, Solas, Kìla, Old Blind Dogs, and Nuar Na Lubre, they decided not to be limited by the Traditional Irish/Scottish musical forms so common to American Celtic performers. Saoirse called this cross cultural and inclusive approach “Celtic Eclectic”, and gave that name to their first CD, which was released in 2007. They recorded a second, more polished CD, “Rigs”, in 2012.

Only one original band member remains after all these years, John Brinduse, who plays guitar exclusively in Dropped D tuning. He is the Old Man of the group. Lisa Nichols, flute and saxophone, joined the band prior to the “Celtic Eclectic” CD. Lead vocalist Claire Brown is Lisa’s daughter and sang the encore song with Saoirse at the “Celtic Eclectic” CD release concert in 2007 when she was 14. By the time she became an adult, the female lead vocal position had become available, and she fit right into the role. She also sometimes plays clarinet and guitar. Tessa Frias, Claire’s wife, plays cello and occasionally banjo ukulele. Saoirse’s newest and youngest member is Lucy Wang, who plays (and teaches) a mighty fiddle, and is a full time student at UNM’s Music Department. While playing some instrumentals, the band’s primary focus is on singing. All members do at least backup vocals, and many lead their own special songs. Songs are sung in English, Irish Gaelic, Gallego (Galician), and French…so far!

Saoirse has been a regular presence at the Albuquerque Folk Festival, the Rio Grande Valley Celtic Festival, and the Albuquerque Renaissance Faire, as well as having played the Edgewood Celtic Festival and the Wildlife West Music Festival. They have performed in concert at South Broadway Cultural Center, The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, National Hispanic Cultural Center, The Albuquerque Museum, Solid Grounds Coffee House, several Albuquerque Senior Centers, the UNM Hospital’s Arts-In-Medicine program, and numerous pubs and clubs in the Albuquerque area. With their traditional and modern repertoire from Scotland, Ireland, Wales, Brittany, Galicia, Atlantic Canada, and New England, Saoirse remains “New Mexico’s Premier Celtic Eclectic Band”.

With introspective songwriting, distinct vocals and skillful musicianship, Levi Dean and the Mesa Rats create a progressive blend of americana, blues and alt-country that is rooted in tradition, yet contemporary. Levi Dean has recorded five albums, completed three U.S tours and one tour in the UK. His new project, Levi Dean and the Mesa Rats, is scheduled to release their debut album in the coming months.

Wandering the Burren explores the traditional music of Ireland, Scotland, the Isle of Man, Brittany, and Spain. Its six members include Rebecca Keeshan and Harlow Pinson on whistle and flute and sometimes banjo; Barbara Herrington on fiddle; and Doug Cowen playing concertina, flute, and bodhran; all bolstered by Mike Maulsby’s inspired guitar chords.

Dulcimers: Sweet Sounds of History! Mountain Dulcimers have earned a place in our American musical heritage. For the emigrants living on the American frontier, life was a struggle. They earned the name ‘hillbillies’ because they couldn’t afford the more expensive flatland and settled in the Appalachian mountains. Community was everything; it was necessary for their survival. Musical traditions ran deep in these communities and as decades passed these neighbors began to meld their cultures into the sound that is now considered traditional Appalachian music. These unique musical and cultural elements had lyrical themes of survival, love, and heartbreak. Settlers built simple, fretted instruments from whatever wood was available. The American mountain dulcimer was born. Like many instruments, the dulcimer has evolved to allow many styles of playing. If you can imagine it, you can create it! Sandia Mountain Dulcimers has a passion for Mountain Dulcimers. Led by Irma Reeder, their mission is to promote and preserve this versatile instrument which is largely unfamiliar in the Southwest.

Apple Mountain Scottish Session plays traditional Scottish music. Any instrument typically played with this music (fiddle, guitar, harp, pipes, flute, mandolin, accordion, bouzouki, etc.) is welcome to join us the second Sunday of every month. We also perform at local festivals. Players of all levels are welcome; we provide sheet music for all of our tunes. For information about meeting time and place, contact Kris Johnson, krisjohns@gmail.com, or talk with us at the Folk Festival.

Apple Mountain Strings & Things (AMS&T) is a not-for-profit organization formed in 1996 to promote folk music and fun! Bimonthly Club meetings provide a safe, casual environment in which beginning players can enjoy making music with others and hone their skills, and where players at all skill levels can enjoy well-loved folk tunes with new friends. Players of all ages on any acoustic instrument may join the Club and non-members are welcome to play along, too. Anyone who wants just to visit and listen is also welcome. Instruments have included mountain dulcimer, hammered dulcimer, folk harp, fiddle, cello, guitar, banjo, mandolin, bowed psaltery, bodhran, flute, recorder, and harmonica, plus the occasional spoons, kazoo, wash tub bass, bells and triangle! In addition to our regular Club meetings, we often perform at local nursing homes, community centers, schools and festivals. We meet on the first and third Saturday of each month, 3:00-4:30 PM, in the Adult Education Wing of the Heights Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

The Albuquerque Accordion Club was founded in 2001. Our primary function is to provide a regular forum where accordion players of all skill levels can play for and with like-minded people in a supportive, non-competitive atmosphere.

We meet on 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. at Bear Canyon Senior Center. On 2nd Thursdays we begin with solos/duets/trios from all who want to play, then move on to full ensemble tunes. 4th Thursdays are devoted entirely to full ensemble music.