Main-Stage Performances

All these performances are free, open to the public, require no reservations, and are held on the Main Stage of the University of Alaska Anchorage’s Wendy Williamson Auditorium at 2533 Providence Drive.

There are currently over 120 15-minute main-stage performances scheduled for the 2026 Anchorage Folk Festival.

Schedules are subject to change.

 

 

Friday January 23

starting at 7 pm

Thunderbird Ukulele 7:00 pm

This world-class ukulele ensemble from Bettye Davis East High School performs fun arrangements of pop songs using only different kinds of ukuleles—drums don’t count 😉 Kiel Schweizer directs a group of ukulele players from Bettye Davis East High School

Katie Scoggin 7:15 pm

Katie is a singer-songwriter who has been performing at local venues since she was 11 years old. She released her debut album Eleven in 2018. She describes her music as acoustic/folk that draws on personal experience, surroundings, and reflection. Katie Scoggin – vocals, guitar

The reel teetotalers 7:30 pm

Local musicians who love traditional Irish music! We dabble in music not as the high-minded but as a flock of ducks dabble for breadcrumbs in shallow muddy waters! Covenant Faithfulness, Maya McDonald, Lisa Maloney, Avigail Curry

Alaska Guitar Quartet 7:45 pm

This classical guitar quartet brings together four accomplished musicians to explore a vibrant mix of musical styles. From classical masterpieces to contemporary arrangements, their performances highlight the expressive range and rhythmic vitality of the classical guitar. Armin Abdihodzic, Mischa Shimek, Daniel Nielson Ley, and Alexander Soboleff – classical guitars

The Lulettes 8:00 pm

The Lulettes met while providing their songwriting expertise to women and men in prisons speaking to their children through song. All accomplished musicians and songwriters in their own right, they continue to perform and delight audiences throughout Anchorage. Hilary Morgan – guitar/vocals; Kippy Lanz – percussion, vocals; Dolores Catherino – bass, vocals; Suzanne Little – guitar, vocals; Tai Trujillo – guitar, vocals; Tamara Bustamante – piano, vocals

Rowan and Belle 8:15 pm

Rowan, a classically trained vocalist/pianist with a fondness for eastern musical styles; Belle, a self-taught songwriter imbued with activism; a versatile duo, making tasteful forays into the worlds of jazz, Americana, and international music traditions. Rowan – piano, vocals, erhu; Belle – upright bass, vocals. Subject to change.

Bluestockings 8:30 pm

Fine harmonies and favorite songs that we like to share Marianne See – guitar; Shonti Elder – fiddle; Suzanne Little – bass; Karl Wilhelmi – mandolin

Folks Tales 8:45 pm

Dedicated to preserving accoustic music and the oral tradition one song and story at a time. We have been bringing you back home since 2001. Dennis Cleary – guitar; Lindsay Lamar Schwietzer – fiddle; Leif Sawyer – double bass; Wayne Mitchell – washboard; Shane Mitchell – vocals; Erin Mitchell – vocals; Kristen Mumm – vocals

Henhouse Prowlers

Jon Goldfine – bass; Jake Howard – mandolin; Ben Wright – banjo; Chris Dollar – guitar

 

 

Saturday January 24

1–5 pm

Ms Miriah’s Band 1:00 pm

Kids playing folk tunes. Miriah Phelps and students on fiddle and guitar

Anna Joy 1:15 pm

Anna Joy is a goth-adjacent party-princess who works in a busy medical clinic by day and is a Folk Punk singer-songwriter by night. A mother of five, she puts her heart and soul into everything she does, whether it’s writing a searing anthem or tucking her kids in at night. Follow her (and her mandolin, Florence) on IG for performance dates @nightingaleak or on YouTube @gothadjacentpartyprincess.

Anna Joy – vocals and mandolin

Paul Sangl 1:30 pm

This will be Paul’s sixth time playing and singing at the Anchorage Folk Festival. He writes and performs his own original songs, drawing from many different influences and experiences. His 2024 album Palms and Pete’s is available as a real CD or on almost any streaming platform, (Spotify, Apple Music, etc.). Paul will also be performing during Folk Week with Gregor Rakoski as GRAMPS at Organic Oasis on Monday the 26th at 6:00, then at Sleepy Dog Coffee Company on Tuesday the 27th as GRAMPS from 5:00 to 7:00. www.icefroggie.com Paul Sangl – guitar

We Might Panik 1:45 pm

From Palmer, Scott and Becky have been singing together since 2018 as an acoustic duo. Scott Oviatt – guitar, mandolin, vocals; Becky Oviatt – vocals

db pedersen 2:00 pm

db pedersen returns to AFF with tales from the Driftless region of Wisconsin. Accompanied by his menagerie of voices, he’ll recall a tale or two from Taliesin. db pedersen – voice, bass, drone, flute

Arlene Slocum 2:15 pm

Folk songs of Alaskan life Arlene Slocum

Alaska Sound Celebration Chorus 2:30 pm

We are a portion of the award-winning Alaska Sound Celebration Chorus of Sweet Adelines International singing a cappella. Melodee Risi – Director

Terry Kelly 2:45 pm

Terry is a singer/songwriter performing folk/pop songs about life in Alaska. Think George Harrison, John Prine, and Elliot Smith sharing a cabin on the Iditarod Trail. Terry Kelly – guitar and vocals

Dawn Berg 3:00 pm

Singing songs of love, solidarity, and humor by songwriters I’ve met or admired. Watch for Velcro, Oreos, pangolins, foxes, or hares to make an appearance! Dawn Berg – a capella voice

Dave Gerard 3:15 pm

Acoustic guitar and singing, Celtic, country, bluegrass, reggae, and ’70s pop tunes. Using one of my handmade guitars. Dave Gerard – guitar

Summer Star 3:30 pm

Summer Star’s intimate songs blend expressive guitar and unguarded lyrics, offering reflections on love, healing, and the beauty of being human. Summer Star Engler – guitar, vocals

Bill Falsey 3:45 pm

Bill is a guitar and piano player who is happy to share a few cover songs. Bill Falsey – guitar, piano, vocals

Pamela Pope and the Martyn Family 4:00 pm

Three generations of friends and family that like to sing. Martyn kids’ first time on AFF stage. Pam Pope – voice and guitar; Julie, Reagan, Solstice, and Avie Martyn – voice (and there may be 1 or 2 violins)

Outer Bend 4:15 pm

A trio of friends with overlapping influences and bended-together guitar and vocal approaches explore Americana, Blues, and Folk for fun, personal entertainment, and sharing! Patrick Curtis – guitar, harmonica, vocals; Matt Emerson – guitar, vocals; Jim Reeves – guitar, vocals

Vinter.Baer 4:30 pm

@Vinter.Baer is an Anchorage-based artist who calls on his Rust Belt roots to ground his music in the blues and folk traditions. With an upbeat guitar and rich lyrics, his music captures both the pain and beauty of life’s journey. Nate Bishop – guitar, vocals

Mary Walker & the Takonis 4:45 pm

Will perform a Koyukon Athabaskan song, a country song, and a contemporary song. Mary Walker – vocals/rhythm guitar; Jerry John – lead guitar; Frank Hunter – bass

 

 

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7–11 pm

terry re.e.d 7:00 pm

terry re.e.d is a singer/songwriter who has lived in Alaska for 20 years teaching in public schools across the state. Writing his own material since the age of 12 and jumping on stage ever chance that was available. Blending Rock, Soul, Americana, and Roots music. terry re.e.d – artist, guitar, tenor mandola, harmonica, mandolin

Lulu & Suzy 7:15 pm

A pair of Valley girls with a combined century of stage performances under their belts, teaming up to prove that some things just get better with age. Lulu Small (aka the Diva of Delirium) – guitar, vocals; Suzy Crosby (aka the Harmony Junkie) – guitar, vocals

John Cook 7:30 pm

Singer songwriter, known for fingerstyle guitar, open tunings, and an alternative folk/blues songwriting style. Also leading a fingerstyle guitar workshop. John Cook – guitar and vocals

Fiona and the Beans 7:45 pm

Fiona and musical (and life partner) Logan are back—this time with a baby Bean…and some new tunes! Fiona Rose – guitar and vocals; Logan Bean – upright bass, vocals; Baby Callan – vocals (probably)

Moon Ladder 8:00 pm

Moon Ladder is an instrumental trio bringing warmth, swing, and intimacy to every room we play. With original songs, and a shared love of the jazz tradition, we create a sound that feels both vintage and alive in the moment. Forest Wilson – guitar; Kevin Taylor – guitar; Silas Hoffman – bass

Jonny J and some Whiskey Fish 8:15 pm

Edgy Folk with a bone to pick—honest storytelling with grit. Jonathan Hutchinson – guitar, vocals; Joel Bran – bass, vocals; Nelson Crone – percussion

Steve Durr 8:30 pm

Acoustic-based alternative folk singer songwriter specializing in Alaskan themes. Steve Durr

Mountain Waxwings 8:45 pm

Soaring bluegrass harmonies from these Matanuska Valley girls. Suzy Crosby – guitar, vocals; Melanie Keenan – fiddle, vocals; Jessica Campbell – vocals

The Squash Blossoms 9:00 pm

Three gals who love to play and sing harmonies together. Our list of original songs is growing, and we like folksy Americana covers as well. Peggy Finnegan – guitar; Amy Hayes – mandolin; Jessica Speed – bass

Landbridge Tollbooth 9:15 pm

Alaska’s far-northwest old-time band. Come and listen for good energy, vocal harmonies, and a good old time! Jim Dory – banjo; Carol Gales – accordion; Anahma Shannon – fiddle; Tyler Rhodes – guitar; Laura Davis Collins – bass

Jubilee 9:30 pm

Fiddle tunes, flute tunes, concertina tunes, hammered dulcimer tunes, with guitar backup. Elsa Aegerter – flute; Denise Martin – hammered dulcimer / concertina; Shonti Elder – fiddle; Jim Kerr – guitar

Isaiah Unzicker 9:45 pm

A collection of original songs inspired by historic English and Irish folk tunes, as well as artists such as Fleet Foxes, Bert Jansch, Sufjan Stevens. Isaiah Unzicker – voice, guitar, piano

Rosie Rush 10:00 pm

Vocal and guitar indie folk/ new folk singer songwriter Rosie Rush – vocals and guitar

Phoenix 10:15 pm

The American folk pop duo Phoenix consists of award-winning songwriters Tim and Kathy Crosby—who have been performing together for well over two decades. They have performed together from Las Vegas to Nashville, in venues large and small. Being compared to the likes of Willie Nelson, Gillian Welch, and David Rawlings, Mary Travers, and June Carter Cash, Phoenix rises in the joy of a sound that highlights the multi-instrumental talents of both musicians while focusing on a variety of vocal styles and abilities. Tim Crosby – acoustic guitar, banjo, fiddle, mandolin, Hawaiian guitar, lead and harmony vocals; Kathy Crosby – acoustic guitar, bass, ukulele, lead and harmony vocals

 

 

Sunday January 25

1–5 pm

Down from Lazy Mountain 1:00 pm

This is our seventh year as a husband-and-wife duo. We like duets and vocal harmony and love songs that tell a story. Mike Hansen – guitar; Betty Hansen – mandolin and percussion

Gary Stedman 1:15 pm

I play an eclectic mix of classic rock, country, and blues. Gary Stedman

KG on the sax 1:30 pm

Various tunes on a saxophone. Kathy Goins – saxophone

The Good Ol’ Good Ones 1:45 pm

Traditional Celtic: Scottish/Irish tunes and songs. Charlie Rogge – tin whistle; Patrick Flaherty – banjo/mandolin; Covenant Faithfulness – bodhrán/guitar

Christina Napoleon 2:00 pm

Honest and melodic originals. Christina Napoleon – guitar

Steve Waldron 2:15 pm

I play guitar and sing, mostly music from the ’60s and ’70s (my youth). I’m into folk, folk rock, country, country rock, blues, etc., and my musical influences include Townes Van Zant, Dylan, Jackson Browne, John Prine, Joni Mitchell, and many more. I also write songs and might throw in one or two originals this year. Steve Waldron – guitar

Wings to Fly 2:30 pm

Trio of high-flying harmonies. Shonti Elder – fiddle, vocal; Elsa Aegerter – guitar, vocal; Karl Wilhelmi – mandolin, vocal

Pt Mackenzie 2:45 pm

Father-daughter harmonies for stage or campfire. Dean Paulson – vocals, guitar; Sophie Paulson – vocals, guitar; Sadie Paulson – vocals

The Twistys 3:00 pm

A diverse group of musicians who enjoy harmonizing to classic tunes and creating “music with a twist” for all ages. Tim Tucker – vocal and guitar; Natalie Tucker – vocal; Joan Unger – vocal and mandolin; Felicia Cassel – vocal; Erica Ivy – vocal

jasalt 3:15 pm

Julia Salt, who uses the stage name jasalt, is a singer-songwriter originally from Florida and has lived in Anchorage three years. Songwriting and finding her different musical styles has been one the most healing modalities in her life. Some of these original songs are a part of a larger album called From Applauded to a Problem that you can find online. Julia Salt – piano/keyboard

Cladouhos Family Band 3:30 pm

Back for our third folk fest happily sharing our family love of music. Joel Cladouhos, Greta Cladouhos, Tova Cladouhos, Della Cladouhos

Ruby Rakes 3:45 pm

Pickin’ dadgrass. Mike Doyle – guitar; Charlie Hampton – banjo; Chad Koker – mandolin; Ryan McLaughlin – fiddle; Sashi Parameswaran – guitar; Eric Stuart – bass

Arctic Diamonds 4:00 pm

We love to share music from our hearts. Lyn Franks – guitar; Kris Nesteby – guitar

Sam Thorne 4:15 pm

Acoustic covers of folk songs by a West High School junior. Sam Thorne – acoustic guitar, vocals

Patrick McCormick 4:30 pm

Part of the whistling swan dynasty; what else do you need to know? Patrick McCormick

Alaska City Folk Arts 4:45 pm

Have been performing in some form since the very first festival. Attendees and/or teachers of any past camps or sessions

 

 

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starting at 7 pm

Anchorage Mandolin Orchestra 7:00 pm

We’re an orchestra. Armin Abdihodžić – conductor; 20 orchestra members playing mandolins, mandolas, octave mandolins, mandocello, guitar, bass

The Apple and the Tree 7:15 pm

Mary and Miles have been playing together for 33 years. We sometimes go by the name of New York City Boys.Mary Schallert and Miles Allen and Friends

Hannah Yoter 7:30 pm

Homegrown Alaskan gal, recovering her love of music Hannah Yoter

Robin Hopper 7:45 pm

Award winning songwriter from Chugiak. Robin Hopper – guitar and vocals

Jin Ave 8:00 pm

Jin Ave is a multigenre band with folk leanings. They write and perform original songs. Their second album, Light Emitting Molecules, is due Spring 2026. Levi Adams – vocals, guitar, harmonica; Chris Dalton – bass, trumpet; Joe Sheppard – percussion; Mike Simpson – guitar, banjo, uke

Marty Raney 8:15 pm

As a longtime Alaskan, mountain guide, contractor, musician, and host of Discovery’s Homestead Rescue (along with his son, Matt, and daughter, Misty), Marty and Matt will perform an eclectic mix of Alaskana music both written and produced by Marty from his music albums: If That Bus Could Talk… and Strummit from the Summit. Marty Raney – vocals, guitar; Matt Raney – vocals, mandolin

LuLu Small 8:30 pm

LuLu is known as Alaska’s First Lady of Entertainment and the Diva of Delirium for over 47 years, with a five-octave vocal range that sometimes scares people! Also featured yearly at the state fair and various other performances locally. LuLu Small – acoustic/electric guitar

Henhouse Prowlers

Jon Goldfine – bass; Jake Howard – mandolin; Ben Wright – banjo; Chris Dollar – guitar

 

 

Friday January 30

starting at 7 pm

Laughing Molly 7:00 pm

Mostly Irish with a touch of Appalachia. Terri McCoy – whistles, bodhrán, shruti box, vocals; Peggy Monaghan – guitar and vocals; Brooke Wood – cello, mandolin, fiddle, and vocals

Midnight Sun Zombies 7:15 pm

It was 20 years ago today that the Zombies were first heard to play. They’ve been going in and out of style, but they’re guaranteed to raise a smile. We hope you enjoy our acoustic renditions of old time, classic pop, and newgrass. Todd Kelsey – guitar/banjo; Tim Gould – gass guitar; Nino Muniz – guitar; Brett Jokela – mandolin

Cole Creek Revival 7:30 pm

A trio trialing a set of folk tunes with carefully crafted harmonies and graceful guitar melodies. Jonathan Schick and Nicole Swenson on rhythm guitar and vocals with Bryan Jipping creating magic as lead noodle guitarist

Red Cap and the Empty Nesters 7:45 pm

Mike Richardson Sr. plays Celtic music with his sons and daughters-in-law, but with the grandchildren all in (or out!) of college it’s gonna be a much smaller group than in past years. The boys may have to go back to playing more than one instrument at a time, like they used to…. Mike Sr. – fiddle; Mike Jr. – bodhrán; Ben – guitar; Diann – banjo ukulele; Chris – mandolin; Anna Breuninger – bass fiddle

HarpDaddy Trio 8:00 pm

HarpDaddy is going back to his basic roots bringing creative songwriting, searing harmonica licks, and a bit of soul. Darren Smith AKA HarpDaddy; others still in the works…; typical for me but I’ll bring a fun upbeat set

Rogues & Wenches 8:15 pm

Meet Rogues & Wenches, your favorite crew of “Irish Pub Balladeers” hailing from the vibrant shores of Anchorage! This spirited band of six musicians will whisk you away on a melodic journey through the heart of tradition with their acoustic instruments and lively harmonies. They masterfully blend traditional Irish and Scottish songs, rousing sea shanties, and cheeky pirate tunes, all sprinkled with a delightful twist of humor. Whether you’re tapping your feet at a local pub or lounging at home, Rogues & Wenches guarantee an evening of vast enjoyment and spirited entertainment. Raise a pint and get ready to join the revelry—because this Irish pub band has a small, but enchanting, piratical problem! Hunter Woofter is our percussionist, who plays the bodhrán, djembe, cajón, and bones and also serves as a lead vocalist. Devin Frey plays acoustic guitar, is a lead vocalist, and is our singer-songwriter. Harrison Jennings is an accomplished mandolin and violin player and sings backup. Elena Gonzales is a lead vocalist who also sings vocal harmonies and plays the tambourine. Erin Wells is a lead vocalist, provides vocal harmonies and musical arrangements, and plays a silver transverse flute. Lucia Tappero sings backup and plays the accordion.

Lou Nathanson 8:30 pm

I’ve ridden all my sarongs for this year’s Hang Courage Fake Feast of Vali using autocorrect! Lou Nathanson – guitar, vocals; Kat Moore – keys, vocals; Dan Booth – bass; TBD – fiddle

B Sharps 8:45 pm

Fun music, good times, fun people! Ezzy Allwright – cello; Eric Rodgers – fiddle, mando; Matt Fabion – guitar; Ian Wahl – mando; Harrison Jennings – fiddle, mando

The Faux Paws

Musically impossible to describe, they don’t even fit into today’s often hyphenated music scene. No fan, industry expert, nor member of the band can seem to sum up their sound in any kind of marketable way. Is it bluegrass? Not usually. Old-time? Occasionally. Is it Celtic? Can’t quite say that. Is it Folk? Americana? Jazz? Singer-songwriter? None of the above, but members of the Paws have deep ties to all of these traditions and blend their elements effortlessly to serve whatever musical idea is being presented. Chris Miller; Andrew VanNorstrand; Noah VanNorstrand

 

 

Saturday January 31

1–5 pm

Anchorage Waldorf School Orchestra 1:00 pm

The Anchorage Waldorf School Orchestra Program will perform a handful of their favorite orchestral arrangements. Led by the Anchorage Waldorf School’s orchestra and choir director, Amanda Kerr. The Anchorage Waldorf School is the only non-for-profit school in Anchorage with an Elementary Orchestra program for grades 4 and up. Ms. Kerr and current and past students from the Anchorage Waldorf School Orchestra

Turnagain Blues 1:15 pm

Turnagain Blues focuses on playing acoustic blues that originated in the first half of the twentieth century, with an occasional original blues or folk song. They have been performing at the festival since 2016. Sarah McCabe – vocals and bass; Bill Ostrand – guitars

Hatton Greer 1:30 pm

Local musician and songwriter seeking 15 minutes of fame Hatton Greer – guitar and (maybe) octave mandolin

North Stars 1:45 pm

Anya and Tessa are 8th graders who began making music at ages 4 and 5. A year ago, they combined their musical talents and began to perform a mix of jazz, blues, folk, country, classic rock, and musical theater. The North Stars will perform both covers and original music, with both Tessa and Anya on vocals, piano, and guitar. Tessa Karaganis – piano, electric guitar, vocals; Anya McLaughlin – vocals, acoustic guitar, piano

Three Fish in a Tree 2:00 pm

Family band fun, from serious to silly. Devin Frey – guitar, vocals; Kluonie Frey – vocal; Bill Frey – vocal; Shonti Elder – fiddle, vocal

Lois Fedele and Karl Wilhelmi 2:15 pm

Lois Fedele sings original songs she has written and recorded; Karl Wilhelmi accompanies her on guitar Lois Fedele – vocal; Karl Wilhelmi – guitar

Grayson and Kevin Band 2:30 pm

Suzuki guitar Grayson Roberts – guitar; Kevin Kassidy – guitar

Alaska Main Squeeze 2:45 pm

We are a fun-loving group that performs a variety of folk, country, Cajun, waltzes, and polka, of course!! Jason Ott, John McCleary, Jill Williams, Joyce Haugstad, Donnie Foss, Gary Stevens

Jed Whitaker and friends 3:00 pm

Musical Outlaw, who in another life has hung out with Kris Kristofferson, Waylin Jennings, Willie Nelson, and other riffraff in some of the best dive bars in America. Jed will play some family-friendly tunes. Jed Whitaker

Evie and Nino 3:15 pm

Melodic acoustic originals highlighted with soaring vocals and innovative guitar lines. Evie Bear and Nino Muniz

Griffin & Reed Guitar 3:30 pm

Three guys playing music together, students of Kevin Cassity Playful Arts Studio Griffin Fencil – guitar; Reed Wirschem – guitar; Tommy Baldessari – keyboards

Aurora Kreiner 3:45 pm

Aurora Kreiner (14) started writing songs at the age of 11 and won 3rd best song in the Country Music Hall of Fame “Journey of a Song” contest when she was 13. Aurora loves writing songs and sharing her music with the world. Aurora Kreiner – vocals and guitar

The Plumb Bobs 4:00 pm

We’re plumb but not square. Miriah Phelps – fiddle; Jay Mullen – guitar

Chugiak Eagle River Jam Band (CERJB) 4:15 pm

We meet in the lobby of the Chugiak Senior Center every Monday from 6pm – 8pm. We welcome anyone who would like to play or sing to join us. Mostly ukuleles, a group of people that just love to play music together.

Chris Thompson & Friends 4:30 pm

We perform Chris Thompson’s original songs of love, changing times, and poignant reminders of the frailty of life’s journey. These are tunefully honed by a band skilled in bringing these songs to life in a pleasing manner. Chris Thompson – guitar and vocals; Rebecca Bingham – vocals; Rolfe Buzzell – harmonica and banjo; Harrison Jennings – mandolin and fiddle

Alaska Suzuki Violin Students 4:45 pm

We are a group of Suzuki violin students from the Anchorage area who perform pieces from memory with an adult leader. Led by Karyn Grove-Bruce and Anchorage Suzuki Teachers

 

 

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7–11 pm

Bayou Glacée 7:00 pm

We play and sing Cajun music from southern Louisiana in French. Bill Allen – guitar; Beverly Grogan – fiddle; Suzanne Little – bass; Ellen Partch – triangle; Eric Stice – fiddle; Celine Vaillancourt – accordion

Tim Samuelson 7:15 pm

Tim plays fingerstyle guitar with a Travis-picking groove that tips its hat to Chet Atkins, Jerry Reed, and Elizabeth Cotten. Expect thumb-driven bass lines, melody on top, and a few surprises in between. Terry mixes instrumental fireworks with warm, easygoing vocals. It’s rootsy, rhythmic, and a whole lot of fun. Tim Samuelson – guitar, vocals

The Anchorage Midnight Sons Chorus 7:30 pm

The Midnight Sons are Anchorage’s men’s acapella chorus. A chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society, the Midnight Sons were chartered in 1967 and have performed across Alaska and the northwest. Rehearsals are held weekly year-round. The Midnight Sons are a low-voice acapella chorus, singing in the barbershop style. About 16 members.

Rabbit Creek Ramblers 7:45 pm

Born and raised here in AK, we are all proud to call this place our home. Mainly raised on songs about trains…we credit scenes like this to keep our Anchorage music scene thriving. Thank you, Folk Fest 2026! Ari Endestad – mandolin, violin; Zach Bassett – mandolin, guitar; Spencer DeBerard – bass; Eli Hermanson – guitar

Mike & Matt 8:00 pm

Father-son duo cutting loose a few original songs. Family harmony, tight picking, and possibly matching shirts. Michael Faubion – guitar; Matt Faubion – guitar

The Double Dippers 8:15 pm

The Double Dippers are made up of members from former folk-fest acts Three Little Birds, Megan & Nigel, and The Newlybirds. They play folk-ish versions of songs you know and an original or two every so often. This is their first time playing together at Anchorage Folk Festival. Megan Webb – guitar and vocals; Amanda Cash – vocals; Cy Two-Elk – guitar, mandolin, vocals; Emily Madsen – violin; Nigel Kibodeaux – bass

most definitely not the legs of jake 8:30 pm

an iteration of flying parts in formation George – guitar; Peter – fiddle; Jason – fiddle; Jeff – bbbbass; Johnse – banjo

The Hot Club of Nunaka 8:45 pm

We will play three later compositions of the renowned Roma guitarist Django Reinhardt. They range from a lively major-keyed song to a darker complex harmonically structured tune to a captivating modal instrumental. Adam Bartlett – guitar; Eric Rodgers – violin; Karl Pasch – clarinet; Nathan Levine – bass

The Roland Roberts Band

Founded around a bonfire in Palmer, Alaska, in 2019, the Roland Roberts Band has gained a following with their mix of storytelling, electric improvisation, and high-energy live shows. Their albums All About the Timing and So It Goes earned high regards around the world and landed them on several grassroots national tours stretching from the snowy roads of Alaska to dusty highways of the Southwest. With haunting harmonies, in-your-face guitar licks, and sometimes lengthy experimental jams, The Roland Roberts Band captures the wild spirit of the frontier—no matter where they roam. Roland Roberts – guitar; Matt Faubion – guitar, mandolin; Garrett Monroe – bass; Matthew “Wally” Wallace – drums/percussion

 

 

Sunday February 1

1–5 pm

Guido’s Paddleboat Jam 1:00 pm

A happy group of people who love to get together and play and sing. We invite anyone who would like to join us to meet at Guido’s Pizza on International Airport Rd every Tuesday at 7pm.

Folk Medicine 1:15 pm

Folk Medicine is a group of dads, friends, and neighbors that formed under the spotlight of the Anchorage Folk Festival in 2018. Love, grace, and harmony beam out as explicit themes, but, more implicitly, the importance of community, togetherness, and friendship shine brightly on these songs. Kindness, empathy, compassion, and steadfastness are illuminated moreover. Garrett Burtner, Roger Fox, Peter Host, Adam Mackie, and David Souza

Sweet Pow! 1:30 pm

Singing songs and having a good ol’ time, just livin’ that Alaskan life sublime. Joe Schumacher- cajón, baritone ukulele, harmonica, vocals

The Old Overholt 1:45 pm

An irreverent mix original music and manic insight. Alasun Shrekengost -vocals, percussion; Patrick Carrico – vocals, guitar

TED 2:00 pm

TED mixes the sounds of blues rhythms with that classic old soul feeling when he sings. He makes you want to listen to his words. Ted Alder – vocals, guitar; Drew Anderson – beatbox (if available)

Lauren Scantlebury 2:15 pm

Lauren Scantlebury is a singer-songwriter born and raised in Bristol Bay and Anchorage. She performs original folk music. Through her songs she shares stories of love, loss, hope, and peace. Lauren Scantlebury – guitar, vocals

Turbo and the Butterfly 2:30 pm

We are an Alaskan harmonizing musical duo who perform acoustic folk/rock fusion original music. Scott Lewis – guitar, vocals; Michelle Sharp – vocals

Constant Structure 2:45 pm

Jazz combo playing standards and originals charts, as well as a bit of this and that too. Briana Glasinov – vocals; Brigid Donahue – saxophone; JD Sterling: – guitar; Heidi Herbert-Lovern – bass; Clint McBride – drums

Witty Youngman 3:00 pm

Witty (she/they) is a two-spirit musician based in Anchorage, Alaska. They use their voice to speak on indigenous issues, participating in events and celebrating indigeneity around Alaska throughout the year. They use music to approach topics with a beautiful auditory experience matched with thoughtful and poetic lyrics. Witty Youngman – guitar

Rousted by Bulls 3:15 pm

Rousted By Bulls plays a mix of covers and originals in an Americana/folk style. Having started on open-mic stages around Anchorage, they have been playing together with the current lineup for a few years. Jason – guitar, vocals; Dave – bass, vocals; Donnie – cajón, vocals; Jerry – lead guitar

The Rough Draughts 3:30 pm

Easy-listening classic rock music. Josh Frommer, Mike Klopfer, Jay Sarate, Kyle Klopfer

Alaska Jumping Flea Society 3:45 pm

A happy group of people who love to get together and play and sing. We invite anyone who would like to join us to meet at Guido’s Pizza on International Airport Road every Friday at 7pm. All-ukulele group

Meredith Roberts 4:00 pm

Meredith blends the warmth of Americana and the storytelling heart of folk with an airy, reflective tone. Her music feels organic and human, built on gentle acoustic textures, heartfelt melodies, and lyrics that carry a sense of place and growth. Meredith Roberts – vocals, guitar, dulcimer

sixteen.five 4:15 pm

sixteen.five is a family band with roots in Kenny Lake, Alaska. Comprised of siblings and significant others, they bring the joy of kinship and connection to their music. Whether playing their uniquely jazzy covers or insightful original music, sixteen.five seeks to share the joy and grow their community, one tune at a time. Rebekah Donohue – saxophone; Joe Donohue – guitar, vocals; Caleb Helkenn – bass; Scott Fritz – percussion; Amy Helkenn – vocals, keys

Bonfire Quartet 4:30 pm

We are a barbershop quartet. We all belong to Alaska Sound Celebration Sweet Adelines chorus here in Anchorage. Liesl Davenport – tenor; Stacy Miller, lead; Joclyn Reilly – baritone; Janet Henry – bass

Vik & the Vapor Rubs 4:45 pm

Vik & the Vapor Rubs brings high-energy Americana and Blues original and cover music. Vikram Chaobal – lead singer, guitar; Murray Caplinger – bass; Mike Merrill – saxophone; Larry Gonzales – drums

 

 

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starting at 7 pm

Hand Brake 7:00 pm

Hand Brake is a new band with rock, blues, jazz, and funk influences. We each contribute in the writing of our original songs. We love to play and never get nervous (lol). Alec Brown – bass, vocals; Stuart Rieke – guitar, vocals; Bonnie Parker – drums, vocals

Peter Chan the Weatherman with Cellist Brett Lindsay 7:15 pm

Enjoy an intimate set of original songs through the musical alchemy of an introspective meteorologist and accomplished symphony cellist. Peter Chan – guitar, vocals; Brett Lindsay – cello

Ashtyn Barbaree 7:30 pm

From the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas, Americana artist Ashtyn Barbaree shares songs woven with warmth, honesty, and a voice both ethereal and grounding. Named Americana Artist of the Year at the 2025 Arkansas Country Music Awards, she bridges folk, country, and indie sounds with heartfelt sincerity. Ashtyn Barbaree – acoustic guitar, vocals

Big Chimney Barn Dance 7:45 pm

Alaskan old-time string band. Their new album, Morning Blues, rips apart conventional boundaries and emerges with a fresh batch of songs that powerfully capture the joy of their live performances. Loves to play square dances! Danny Consenstein – fiddle; Amanda Kerr – fiddle; Nate Williamson – guitar; Jay Marvin – banjo; Rachel Overby – bass; Pete Hamre – mandolin

Casey Smith Project 8:00 pm

Singer-songwriter from Fairbanks, AK. Original songs soulful indie rock. Casey Smith

Formerly Rude Mechanicals 8:15 pm

Acoustic band playing original songs. Jeff Silverman – guitar, vocals; Bob Clark – guitar, vocals; Karl Wilhelmi – mandolin, vocals; Suzanne Little – bass, vocals

The Forest That Never Sleeps 8:30 pm

As a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, songwriter, and poet, The Forest That Never Sleeps transports her audience with infectious enthusiasm and raw emotion. From rhapsodic piano lines to gentle fingerpicked strings, her dynamic performances leave her audiences feeling connected to the human experience. Kat Moore – piano, acoustic guitar, vocals

The Faux Paws

Musically impossible to describe, they don’t even fit into today’s often hyphenated music scene. No fan, industry expert, nor member of the band can seem to sum up their sound in any kind of marketable way. Is it bluegrass? Not usually. Old-time? Occasionally. Is it Celtic? Can’t quite say that. Is it Folk? Americana? Jazz? Singer-songwriter? None of the above, but members of the Paws have deep ties to all of these traditions and blend their elements effortlessly to serve whatever musical idea is being presented. Chris Miller; Andrew VanNorstrand; Noah VanNorstrand