Princeton Folk Music Society opens its 2016 – 2017 season with Debra Cowan and John Roberts playing Folk Music for Real Folks.
Their concerts are a celebration of folk traditions—ripping yarns, sparse tunes and the joy of singing along making a concert an intimate performance.
Roberts, an English emigre, has been singing traditional music since the 1960s, and can select songs from a large repertoire of sea shanties, broadside ballads, pub tunes and British traditional songs. He accompanies his songs on concertina or banjo. When he tells a story, he has a twinkle in his eye that makes you think the story might be true.
Cowan’s nightingale voice complements and contrasts with Roberts’ rich baritone. Her tones are strong and clear. But she can also belt out a song like Ray Davies’ “Alcohol.” She plays guitar, but often sings unaccompanied. Her voice is enough. In her hands, old-time love songs, sea shanties and ballads are given a feminist twist.
To hear Roberts and Cowan perform visit their website.
Their performance will take place on Friday, Sept. 16 at Christ Congregation Church, 50 Walnut Lane, Princeton. Admission at the door: $20 ($15 members, $10 students and $5 children). Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the show starts at 8:15 p.m. Ample free parking.
For more information call 609-799-0944, email info@princetonfolk.org or visit www.princetonfolk.org.
