Guildford Festival 2014

The Ninth Guildford Banjo Jamboree, in the tiny town of Guildford in Central Victoria, is almost upon us. We are sure that this year’s Jamboree will be as enjoyable as the last eight, with loads of talented artists in concerts, workshops and the dance, and with jam sessions going night and day. The Jamboree aims to be a friendly, enjoyable and informative gathering of musicians and music lovers and we trust that all readers who are attending will stand by that ethos and ensure that everyone has a wonderful weekend. I know it is the highlight of the year, both for local people and for the many folks who travel from far and wide.

Of course the Jamboree could not possibly happen in our little village without the generosity of the performers, MCs, dance musos and callers, sound crew, local businesses and organisations, committee of volunteers, and the volunteers who come to the party and offer some time to sit on doors or sell tickets or merchandise, or help with the 1001 other tasks necessary for the Jamboree to function.

If you are coming from afar and would like to volunteer, please contact us via any of the contacts at the end of the newsletter.

Old favourites such as the afternoon concerts, the four chalkboard concerts, the open-age and youth Pick-Off awards, the Saturday lunchtime Big Tree Parade and Photo, the Maree Murrell Memorial Saturdee Night Dance, the Sunday morning Gospel Singalong, the Instrument Makers Display at London House and Glen Bale’s Big Banjo will still be featured. Our special logo this year features and honours the Big Banjo. Final artwork came from the wonderful Irene Fitness, but a number of folks contributed ideas and time, including quite a deal of work from Ashley and Louisa Tracey.

The Robbie Watts Pick-Off and the Ron de Graauw Youth Award during the Saturday afternoon concert will again see some fierce banjo pickin’ competition. Those interested in entering can do so at the Jamboree’s registration desk. Entrants must be Jamboree wristband holders.

The Saturday afternoon concert in the Public Hall will feature: The Black Swans of Trespass, Red Dog, the Geelong Banjo Pickers, the Pick-Off awards, Appalachian Heaven, A new incarnation of Heel-Toe Express, The Kastlemaine Klezmer Kollective and Faux Grass. The Sunday afternoon in the hotel beer garden will feature: Zeptepi, Rose Turtle Ertler, Tequila Mockingbirds, Archer and the Long Gone Daddies, High and Lonesome, Sitting Ducks and the Cider House String Band. There will be four “chalkboard” concerts – Friday night, Saturday afternoon, Saturday night and Sunday afternoon. Register for these at reception at the Public Hall during the Jamboree if you wish to perform. Chalkboard performers must be Jamboree wristband holders. Most “chalkboard” concerts will commence with a band set. Friday night: Pennyweight; Saturday afternoon: The Marvilles; Saturday night: Lonesome Still; Sunday afternoon: Jan Wositzky.

Saturday and Sunday morning workshops will be offered in many styles of banjo playing, from Bluegrass to Jazz, from Celtic to Klezmer!