Charlottesville, Virginia was voted the best all around city for its size in the nation. There is a regular Celtic music session and an Old Time session locally. There are open mike venues as well. One very fine folk stage venue for professionals is here. And there is another church-affiliated coffeehouse as well. You couldn't sling a cat around here without hitting a bluegrass band. And let's not forget that Mrrzy and BeauDangles are here as well!

A two-hour ride brings you into FSGW territory where there is a great monthly singaround and many other events. Plus there is the Greater Washington D.C. area which is filled with folk venues - one of which is the home of the Seldom Scene. And Richmond is only an hour's drive away. It has a few clubs as well.

Of course I would be remiss were I to not mention that there is a first quality folk artist (he said modestly) who lives on a farm less than two hours away.