I feel fortunate to have been involved in this years festival, and to have the opportunity to work with people I've admired from afar. Bob has proven his ability once again to put on a crowd pleasing show with professionalism and genuine enthusiasm. He included several new tunes in this years set, a real standout being "The Dutchman". I'd sort of forgotten about this tune, but to hear Bob perform it is goosebump city-real good stuff! Then there is the plectrum banjo medley. I play a bit of banjo myself, but I don't even pretend to understand how ten fingers can make so much music. The set lists were a great mix of familiar standards and Bob-penned originals, which made for a toe tapping good time. As usual, Meri was doing the work of three people, making sure everything was running smoothly. She is so dedicated to Bob, and her kindness and generosity were very much appreciated by Julie and myself. Thanks Meri! I had the opportunity to sit in for a tune with The Chilly Winds(Jim Moran, Bruce Blazej, and John Birchler) on both Saturday and Sunday. These guys are the real deal. The late night jam that lasted into Sunday morning stands out as a high point-I still can't believe John B. knows all those old John Stewart songs. Dave Batti. Where do I begin? Dave is simply a prince of a guy. He is a fine musician, a real team player, and an all-around decent human being. I am proud to have worked with him, and I hope I have the chance to do it again. When you out all this together, it makes for a whirlwind weekend. Playing music with my musical idols, hanging out with a group of people who share my love for folk music, and the simple pleasure of reuniting with old friends while making new ones. Thanks again everyone-I'm marking off the days until next year!
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