Friends, we’re happy to announce that another run of Music and Dance events is scheduled at John C. Campbell Folk School in the historic venue, Keith House Community Room. It was built with the help of the Brasstown community, and since 1927, people of all ages have been gathering, dancing, singing, playing, and listening to music in this space year-round. We invite you to come and see what it is all about or reconnect with old friends. These programs are an integral part of the Folk School experience, and we hope that you and your family will join us. All are welcome, vaccinations are not required, and masks are optional. 

The Saturday Night Community Dance is back indoors! It has been a long time since we’ve danced on the well-seasoned oak floor and felt the warmth in the walls of generations past. We’re ready to get back to the joy of dancing to live music with our kind callers and dance instructors. Join us as we step back into a favorite Folk School pastime. If it is your first-time trying set dancing, come early for simple walkthroughs and instruction on the easier dances. These century-old traditional dances are taught and will have anyone willing, laughing and moving to the beat.  

For a lower stakes sampling, pop by on Tuesday nights where community members and Folk School students learn the basics. “Community Tuesdays,” feature live music and dance opportunities with varied program details announced weekly. Come solo, with your family, or a friend. There is no pressure to dance, and there are always willing dance partners as folks switch throughout the evening. No special attire is required, though clean hard soled shoes make it easier. Our focus is on traditional music and dance, but watching, jamming, playing games, gathering, crafting, and other pastimes are welcomed and encouraged. A scheduled list of performers is included below. For weekly updates, follow us on social media.  

Our Friday Night Concerts in Keith House feature some of the finest regional and national acts performing eclectic roots music and offer something for everyone. We have standard seating, along with a family-focused social area in the Library and Lower Keith. Concerts are scheduled for most Fridays but check the schedule on our website before you head over.  

The Folk School also sponsors the Community Old-Time Jam every Thursday at the Crown Restaurant. From 7-9 p.m. folks gather around the fire to play acoustic music outside while enjoying a breathtaking view of Brasstown. Beginners are encouraged to join in by playing along with simple chords or picking out the melody with help from others in the circle. The Folk School schedules a rotating cast of musicians who host the sessions; each week is different. Genres can range from Celtic harp and whistle to classic country and bluegrass, all in the same evening! The Crown is located at 135 Emily Lane, a short stroll from the Folk School. In case of inclement weather, the jam will proceed inside Kula Wellness about 20 yards away. For more info about the Jam, please contact music@folkschool.org 

Shape note singings are held on first Mondays in Keith House Community Room from 7-9 p.m. Come sing, learn the shapes, contemplate the poetry, and relish the power of voices raised together in song. These events welcome first-timer and experienced shape note singers to sing from the tune book The Sacred Harp. Experience the beauty of singing 4 parts unaccompanied with the guidance and encouragement of our host Stefani. All shape note singings are free and open to the public. 

All events start at 7 p.m. A donation of $5-10 per adult is suggested for most events, but all are welcome regardless of contribution. Find more details at folkschool.org

The Folk School is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and any funds raised support traditional arts and help with equitable pay for our performers. Want to get involved? We’re always looking for volunteers to help with our events and programs. Give us a call at 1-800-FOLK-SCH (1-800-365-5724) to learn more.