The unique annual showcase of Michigan music unfurls at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons on Feb. 22. Get the lowdown at Local Spins.
Embracing Community: Ben Traverse, upper left, and Rebekah Jon, right, are performing this year. (GIFF Photo/Mike Libby)
Considering the brutal Michigan winter thus far, an indoor festival seems only apropos.
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And if anything embodies Traverse City’s Great Indoor Folk Festival, it’s the community that organizes it and the special camaraderie that the event represents.
So says singer-songwriter Ben Traverse, who’ll perform for the fourth time at the unusual festival taking place at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons on Feb. 22.
“What really makes this event stand out is the community involvement. Northern Michigan College students are deeply involved in the organization, production and execution of the event – from booking to running sound to artist advances,” said Traverse, a northern Michigan native currently residing in Grand Rapids.
“They do a bang-up job. It’s one of the best-organized events I play at. It’s really amazing to see an event that is putting so much practical, real-world experience into the hands of these students.”
Of course, the live music on display has made it a favorite for attendees since it was founded in 2009 by the Northern Michigan Songwriters in the Round group.
This year’s festival taking place in the corridors of The Village at Grand Traverse Commons’ Mercato and other nearby spaces — such as Left Foot Charley, Higher Grounds and Barrel Room — boasts performances by nearly 100 Michigan musicians and singers performing over several hours.
Nick Veine: He’s returning for this year’s Indoor Folk Fest. (Courtesy Photo)
The festival runs from noon to 5:30 p.m. Feb. 22 with a mix of more than four dozen returning regional favorites and emerging artists performing in eight different locations.
The free, family-friendly event showcases sets of “live folk and acoustic music” as well as an open-mic stage at Cuppa Joe coffee house.
“We are excited to welcome newcomers and local favorites, creating a rich variety of local acoustic musicians, excited to share their songs and stories,” said organizer and performer Patrick Niemisto. “The festival is an all-volunteer event, with donations accepted to cover associated expenses.”
Traverse City pop-rock artist Rebekah Jon will play the festival for the first time this year, but she’s well aware of its reputation of riveting performances taking place around every corner. She’ll play the Stella’s End Stage at 4:30 p.m. on Feb. 22.
“It stands out because of the way it shines a lot on community. So many talented and unique artists are on the bill, and to be able to play at The Commons is so special,” she said.
“It’s become an event a lot of folks look forward to, both performers and patrons. I’m most excited to hype up my other friends who are also performing, as well be introduced to new music I may not normally have the opportunity to go see.”
Jon, who releases a new single on Valentine’s Day, said she’ll be “leaning more into my acoustic roots and performing stripped-back versions of originals, and covering some of my favorite folk songs.”
Traverse, who’s scheduled for the Fred Kramer Solo Stage at 4:30 p.m. that Sunday, plans to perform “sea shanties and local folk songs folks have come to expect, with an original or two thrown in. There may even be a special guest if the schedule allows.”
Other acts on the bill include Traveling Foleys, Nick Veine, Michael Libby, Lynn Callihan, Jim Crockett, Runaway Mule, Song of the Lakes and many more. Get more information and a schedule online at greatindoorfolkfest.org.
GREAT INDOOR FOLK FESTIVAL: The Stage Map
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