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2004 ArtServe Michigan
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Keeping that sentiment alive in Petoskey, Michigan is The Blissfest Music Organization, a non-profit educational and performing arts group since 1981. Originally begun 30 years ago as a fundraising folk music revival, Blissfest launched its efforts in a farmer’s potato field in Bliss. Local artists, folk musicians, dancers and film buffs have continued to promote and preserve the cause in an eclectic celebration of the arts each year. The diversity of innovation as well as the heritage of traditional and ethnic music, dance, oral history and crafts comprises their focus, with a solid support of emerging singer/songwriters in the process. “It’s rewarding to know that our efforts to preserve and promote diversity through cultural heritage, roots music and dance has been recognized,” said Blissfest Executive Director James Gillespie. ”We are inspired to continue building and nurturing this community to ensure a future where the Folk Arts can continue to evolve.” Blissfest maintains more than 250 life-time members with an additional 400 annual members. The festival was moved to a permanent location in Readmond Township near Cross Village in 1988 where a farm facility was purchased then expanded to house the growing crowds. Group camping and the country environment lend an atmosphere conducive to learning instrumentation, perfecting painting or indulging in impromptu sing-alongs. Activities for all ages abound during the event, which is attended by art enthusiasts throughout the Midwest. A variety of music-oriented and story-telling programs are also sponsored year-round by Blissfest. Tellebration features a national evening of sharing history through oral presentations. The Harbor Celtic Festival devotes attention to Irish films, dance and an “Instrumental Petting Zoo” that invites hands-on expertise in folk instruments. In addition to educational programming, Blissfest provides promising performers scholarships and grants.
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The
late Louis “Satcho” Armstrong said: “All music is folk music. I ain’t
never heard no horse sing a song.”
