Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009

Subject: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: curmudgeon
Date: 17 Aug 09 - 03:04 PM

The Portsmouth Maritime Folk Festival will be taking place on 26 and 27 September in and around the city of Portsmouth New Hampshire.

We have a really fine assortment of performers for all tastes. We are most pleased to have Hilary Ward (My Guru Always Says) coming all the way from England, as well as Andy Kenna, a fine concertina player, singer and songwriter from Liverpool.

We are also very excited at the prospect of what may be the debut of the Finn and Haddie Trio (Barry, Neil, and Ken) And for the lovers of Irish song we will be featuring the great Robbie O'Connell on Saturday night where he will be joined by Jon (Bartiett) and Rika from British Columbia. Rounding off the evening will be the fine harmonies and instrumental dexterity of Castlebay (Guest Julia).

There are a lot more performers, but you'll have to go to the website for now. I will post more details later.

This is a free festival, supported entirely by donations of businesses and individual, some of whom have been exceeding generous. You too can join this elite group of music supporters when you come to the festival.

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Charley Noble
Date: 17 Aug 09 - 05:05 PM

Tom-

It looks like a great line-up, and it's always a good time as well.

Unfortunately Judy and I will be revisiting the Pacific Northwest, she to network with her eagle watching friends and me to do nurture the C. Fox Smith songs in the region where many of them were created. I'll even miss Jon and Rika!

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: SINSULL
Date: 17 Aug 09 - 05:44 PM

aN AMAZING LINE-UP. tOM. cAN i BE IN CHARGE of the tambourine and the tip jar?
SINS, just back from the Big Apple

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Paul_Schurr_PSG_NY
Date: 18 Aug 09 - 12:13 PM

Tom, I am amazed at the line-up this year for the Portsmouth Maritime Fest 2009! I first met Jon Bartlett and Rika Ruebsaat at the annual sea music festival at Mystic Seaport. For those who don't know them, Jon and Rika sing ballads, shanties, and other traditional music from the Northwest. They're both good people and fun to be around. And at the sing-arounds Jon is astounding! With rafter-shaking enthusiasm, he brings out the best in all the singers in the room.   What fun! The Portsmouth singing is going to be right at the top of the good-time scale this year.

Also, I can only hope that we get to see the Finn and Haddie Trio debut. I'm already a fan of Barry and Neil. Neil has written some wonderful "traditional" songs, and Barry brings alive every song he sings. The buzz is that Ken is terrific.

Well, those are the acts at the top of my can't-wait-to-see list right now. And my favorite event happens Friday at the Press Room.

We will have a contingent from the Pickin', Singin' and Gatherin' folk club (Albany, NY) at the festival. Is anyone else camping at Wakeda that weekend? We could circle our wagons there.

Again, Tom: nice work – we can hardly wait…

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: GUEST,Peadar (formerly) of Portsmouth
Date: 18 Aug 09 - 08:49 PM

For those Facebook Mudcatters who want to keep tabs on the festival details as it gets closer, be sure to become 'a fan' of our FB page
.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Peter

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: My guru always said
Date: 19 Aug 09 - 03:03 AM

Well, I'm so excited to be on the list to sing amongst such company!! Looks like I'll be a bit of an anomaly not being a 'proper' maritime singer, but I'll dust off my songs that refer to water anyway *grin*

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Marc Bernier
Date: 19 Aug 09 - 08:01 AM

Great line up. I'm going to try and come up for Sunday.

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: jacqui.c
Date: 19 Aug 09 - 08:48 AM

I saw Barry and Ken at the Scarborough (UK) Seafest and was there when the organiser told them that he considered them to be the best act there. I do know that they have been asked back to the UK for more gigs in the future.

Looks like a great lineup. I'm hoping to make it down for the event.

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 19 Aug 09 - 09:45 AM

And, since we paid our dues last year, the weather most likely should be grand! A fair wind and a following sea...

All the old venues and a few new ones...everyone who has been part of previous festivals seems to want a bigger share this year. They like what we're doing and love having new people into their establishments.

The performers seem to enjoy themselves a lot, too.

Linn

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: GUEST,Peadar (formerly) of Portsmouth
Date: 17 Sep 09 - 12:21 PM

It's been a while since we've shared news about the 10th Anniversary Portsmouth Maritime Folk Festival, but anyone who is interested should know the full performance schedule is hot off the presses!

Also, if you missed it...members of two local groups that will be performing at the PMFF, Mudhook and Great Bay Sailor, were on WUNH Radio this past Sunday to promote the festival. We've posted MP3s of the 45 minute interview and performance on the homepage of the festival website . Check it out if you get a chance.

Looking forward to seeing you all soon.

Pete

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: curmudgeon
Date: 17 Sep 09 - 06:14 PM

Thanks, Peter!

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: My guru always said
Date: 18 Sep 09 - 04:08 AM

Yippeee!! I get to see Finn & Haddie in concert, close up!!!

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: jacqui.c
Date: 18 Sep 09 - 11:04 AM

I'd suggest not too close Hils - you'll be risking your eardrums with the volume that those guys produce. Not to be missed, though.

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Barry Finn
Date: 18 Sep 09 - 11:05 AM

Hillary, it looks as if we'll be right by your side for at least & us by yours, looking foreward to hearing you again. If you want any support we're there.

Barry

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: My guru always said
Date: 18 Sep 09 - 11:46 AM

Really looking forward to it, this is going to be such fun!! Will bring earplugs *grin*

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: My guru always said
Date: 20 Sep 09 - 04:41 AM

I just heard from Barbara that Portsmouth Community Radio played tracks from CD's last night of some of the booked guests, myself included, how wonderful *grin*

The tracks they played are currently listen on the last 24 hour playlist which will rotate soon, so I thought I'd list them here for you:

Thaney - Hilary Ward
The Grand Hotel - Jon & Rika
Goodbye my Lover Goodbye - Finn & Haddie
West Indies Blues - Great Bay Sailor
The Schooner - Bob Webb
The Ranter - Hilary Ward
Dance Gals, Gimme the Banjo - Bob Webb
Devil & The Farmer's Wife - Tom Hall
Rolling & Flowing - Great Bay Sailor
Rollers Bowler - Fun & Handie (think they mean Finn & Haddie)
John Barleycorn - Tom Hall
Dan Dan - Great Bay Sailor
I'm Alone - Bob Webb
Off to Sea Once More - Tom Hall
Paddy West - Tom Hall

Barbara said that this guy has another show, on Monday, 3-5PM East Coast US time, which is prob. 8-10PM (she thinks) UK time. Their website, with a "listen live" option, is:
Portsmouth Community Radio

Well, I'm going to check it out tomorrow night!!

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Marc Bernier
Date: 20 Sep 09 - 08:27 AM

Oh well! I now have a gig next Saturday afternoon. Have a good time folks.

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: SINSULL
Date: 20 Sep 09 - 03:09 PM

That's a sort of shame, Marc. But a gig is good.

I am really looking forward to hearing David Coffin again. His performance at the Portland fest with his daughter was nothing short of wonderful.

I made a tip jar. I hope Tom will let me play with it.

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: RTim
Date: 20 Sep 09 - 06:42 PM

It looks like I will be at the festival this year, so if we meet, please make yourselves know to me all you Mudcatters.

Tim Radford

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Barry Finn
Date: 20 Sep 09 - 06:43 PM

That's called a spitune Mary

Barry

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Barry Finn
Date: 20 Sep 09 - 06:45 PM

I'll know ya & be on the lookout to hear ya Tim. It'll be great to see & hear you again.
Tim, will you be there for the Friday evening session, it starts around 4:00 - 9:00 at the Press Room?

Barry

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: RTim
Date: 20 Sep 09 - 06:51 PM

Hi Barry - That is the intention. I am meeting up with Marty Stock earlier in the day.

Tim

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: GUEST,julia
Date: 20 Sep 09 - 11:30 PM

Hi folks-Fred and I really looking forward to this festival! It has been awhile since we've been around. Got some new songs to try on you- more Maine coastal stories- and can't wait to hear what others have to offer. Should be a blast! People unfamiliar with us can check our website www.castlebay.net

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Barry Finn
Date: 21 Sep 09 - 12:04 AM

Hi Julia, it has been awhile, looking foreward to being your sounding board.

Careful about hanging out with Marty to long Tim, he's been known to start rabble rousing early in the day

Just heard the weekend weather forecast, beatuiful weather for the whole festival, gorgeous


Barry

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: SINSULL
Date: 21 Sep 09 - 08:16 AM

Actually it's a large plastic barrel decorated with dancing sailors and hula girls. If anyone spits in it, they better be ready for a nasty fight. I bite.

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: SINSULL
Date: 22 Sep 09 - 08:22 AM

REFRESH
Count down has started. How is Curmudgeon feeling these days? Up to leading the parade?

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: SussexCarole
Date: 22 Sep 09 - 08:26 AM

Have a great time - wish we could be there again!

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: curmudgeon
Date: 22 Sep 09 - 08:27 PM

I will be leading the parade, albeit semi-silently, unless tomorrow's doctor is a miracle worker.

More good news, Linnea will be joining her father David Coffin.

See you this weekend!

Fair winds - Tom

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 23 Sep 09 - 07:43 AM

Curmudgeon FEELS fine -- he's not "sick" -- he "just" has an early stage cancer.

We're off to Boston in a few minutes to consult with the team at Mass General and find out what the game plan is.

The timing could have been better than the weeks leading up to the festival -- but, then again, is there ever a "good" time for cancer?!?

We'll report in when we get home this afternoon.

Linn

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: My guru always said
Date: 23 Sep 09 - 08:00 AM

Sending positive thoughts for a good plan! See you at the weekend!
Hil & Richard

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: SINSULL
Date: 23 Sep 09 - 08:05 AM

Thanks, Linn. And thanks Tom. I was hoping Linnea would put n an appearance.

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: stallion
Date: 23 Sep 09 - 08:12 AM

wish we were there!

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Jeri
Date: 23 Sep 09 - 08:49 AM

Wish you were here too!

I'm glad to hear Linnea is coming along with David. I love David's singing, and when I first saw her on stage at the 2008 lighthouse festival, I though, "Oh nice... the next generation... pretty girl, I hope she can sing." And then, she blew me and everyone else away. She was young, but she was a Singer; exquisite harmonies and silver bell of a voice, and she's likely only gotten better since then. And probably taller. I can't wait to hear the two of them again.

Linn, I ought to get the fiddle out (for the 4th or 5th time since April of 08) and see if I can still play 'Road to Boston'.

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Barry Finn
Date: 23 Sep 09 - 12:05 PM

working up some set lists, any help or requests?

Barry

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: My guru always said
Date: 23 Sep 09 - 12:13 PM

I'd love to hear you do that one shown on U-tube!!! Maybe not maritime though *sigh*

Note to self - don't forget to pack the earplugs......

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: SINSULL
Date: 23 Sep 09 - 12:50 PM

Yeah, Jeri. My first thought was Elizabeth LaPrelle.


Venezuela, Barry?

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Charley Noble
Date: 23 Sep 09 - 10:41 PM

I'd love to hear Jon Bartlett and Rikka. And I probably can if I listen real hard even from where I am in British Columbia.

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: GUEST,Pamela from Ithaca
Date: 23 Sep 09 - 10:45 PM

I'm feeling lonely for the PMMF and all my friends there.
"Bring 'um Down" for me, OK?
I'll try to make it *next* year.

in harmony, Pamela

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Micca
Date: 24 Sep 09 - 04:42 AM

Yeah, Barry, do the Trinidad to Maracaibo one!! its a beaut! Have a wonderful time you all, Hils and Richard are off this morning to join in, I have another week "in durance vile" before I get over!

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 24 Sep 09 - 10:27 AM

During pre-surgery voice testing yesterday, Tom had to "sing" something -- he chose "Blood Red Roses".

REALLY looking forward to positive things being done to get rid of his cancer and restore his voice.

Linn

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: SINSULL
Date: 24 Sep 09 - 10:57 AM

Not The Old She Crab?

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 25 Sep 09 - 09:30 AM

Kick-off today at the regular weekly Press Room session, 4 pm to 9 pm. Not sure which of the weekend's performers will be in attendance, but the music will be good and, I have a feeling, there will be a lot of sea songs.

Linn

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: My guru always said
Date: 25 Sep 09 - 09:33 AM

Or perhaps songs with a little water in them *grin* We have been allowed to enter the USA, thankfully, and are already attempting to catch up with our sleep. See you at the Press Room!!!

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Barry Finn
Date: 25 Sep 09 - 10:00 AM

I'll be there with Hillary & Richard & 1/3 of Finn & Haddie in tow, the other 1/3 should be there by the time we arrive

Barry

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: SINSULL
Date: 25 Sep 09 - 10:13 AM

Let the games begin!!!!!!!!!!

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: SINSULL
Date: 25 Sep 09 - 01:43 PM

refresh

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: TRUBRIT
Date: 25 Sep 09 - 08:58 PM

sounds like fun -- wish I didn't have to work.....

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 25 Sep 09 - 10:40 PM

What an incredible kick-off session! A lot of the performers were there -- Ken Schatz, Hillary Ward, Jon & Rika, Barry & Neil, Andy Kenna, besides many of the local performers and singers from Albany, New York (Paul Schurr and his "entourage"). The energy was incredible!

After singing a couple songs, I was pretty much a social butterfly -- PR! PR! PR! -- distributing programs, etc. to people who came for the festival and those who just discovered it by accident.

That and going through Tom's diagnosis, treatment schedule, etcet etcet. with old friends and new friends alike.

Now need to wind down and get some sleep before the "REAL" start of the festival tomorrow.

Linn

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: ranger1
Date: 25 Sep 09 - 10:45 PM

Sleep well, my friend. Wish I could join you all this weekend, but alas, I must spend the weekend playing glorified parking attendant for the pre-leafpeep crowds. Why do they call it tourist (and leaf-peep) season if we're not allowed to shoot them?

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: SINSULL
Date: 26 Sep 09 - 09:41 AM

If I can get the guest beds done, a quick clean up and search out all of Alice's latest pecadillos, I will be down for the Press Room session this afternoon. Otherwise I will be there first thing tomorrow.
Whoo Whoo
Mary

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Jeri
Date: 26 Sep 09 - 09:43 AM

I survived last night, and my voice (not to mention my hearing!) came though OK too.

What BG said, plus Tim Radford who is amazing. Fill up on coffee and back for more today.

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 26 Sep 09 - 11:18 PM

Just home from the first day of the festival -- didn't go to the performers party at Dave Hallowell's cuz it's a long drive home, not enough time to sleep and then turn around and get back to Portsmouth tomorrow morning for the performers' brunch and briefing (and handing out of the remaining name tags).

This afternoon's open sing at The Press Room was pretty amazing and the concert tonight was standing room only. It's a treat to hear Jon & Rika, Fred and Julia of Castlebay just get better every time I hear them, and Robbie O'Connell was delighted to have a singing crowd that knew the choruses (or learned 'em quickly).

Too much fun...

G'night.
Linn

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: stallion
Date: 27 Sep 09 - 03:00 AM

My O My really wish we were there it sounds brill.....we really miss you guys.. i so hate to miss a good party....anyway....party in the UK next year...or maybe 2011... i want to block of the street and have a street party for my 60th (if i make it) the nieghbours are all up for it, you are all invited! Keep the info coming, I want to know all the details, a big hello to all and especially Ken & Barry & Jacqui who visited us in July, Jo (t'other arf) says come back soon! A big up for Tom and Kendal and who knows we might be able to afford another trip in the next decade, maybe when the UK enters the euro zone!
Pete

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: SINSULL
Date: 27 Sep 09 - 11:42 AM

Headed out in the rain. Hope there is an indoor venue. Maybe Noah's ark.
SINS

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Charley Noble
Date: 27 Sep 09 - 01:20 PM

Keep it rolling!

Cheerily,
Charley Noble, in Victoria, BC

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 27 Sep 09 - 08:00 PM

Lots of indoor venues -- plus, it didn't really start misting heavily until after the shanty blast finale. (Under the canopy/overhang at the federal building across from The Press Room was a brilliant location for the shanty blast! Better than Market Square.)

WONDERFUL festival! It just gets better every year, but we'll make sure it never gets too big.

I'm very very tired; will post more...maybe tomorrow after work.

Besides... I desperately need to PEE! (And I'm not coming back downstairs.)

G'night!
Linn

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Jeri
Date: 27 Sep 09 - 08:21 PM

Translation: Peeing upstairs, computer downstairs.

Yeah, I'm tired too. Heard some wonderful music that I wish could have lasted forever. It wound up with a shanty blast with all the performers all lined up and everyone else around them. It turned into a big circle, several layers deep, and MAN, it was like being in the middle of a room built out of harmony.

I hope someone posts about the concert last night. I missed it. I didn't have the cash on me (didn't know I'd need it), but mostly just needed to get the heck out.

I hadn't heard Robbie O'Connell before, and I thoroughly enjoyed him this afternoon.

MGAS was a big hit. She has a voice like cool water in a parched, burning desert, and I found it impossible to not to want to close my eyes and just let it cover me, no matter what the song.

What a great weekend!

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: RTim
Date: 27 Sep 09 - 08:24 PM

Back home on Cape Cod after a very enjoyable weekend, where I met lots of wonderful people, Thank you all for making me feel welcome.
Sorry if I didn't get to say goodbye to everyone, but I had to leave before the end.

Tim Radford

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Charley Noble
Date: 28 Sep 09 - 02:39 AM

Those of us from away hunger for more details!

Cheerily,
Charley Noble, winding up things in Victoria, BC

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: SINSULL
Date: 28 Sep 09 - 08:05 AM

Three Sheets to the Wind were in top form and had the audience drowning out shouts from the kitchen as the poor guy tried to get orders picked up. There are so many talented people in that group. Always a treat to hear Rose and Colin in close harmony.

I caught Finn and Haddie. Now that they are three will they change their name? Between Ken and Barry the audience had no choice but to sing along.

John and Rika offered a treasure of songs from the Northwest. Stirs His Coffee With His Thumb - never heard anyone do that live before. I bought two of their CDs trying to get a recording of a haunting song they did about a tug sunk while hauling lumber. Finally had to ask Jon to send me lyrics.

Hillary has a beautiful voice that seems so effortless. Like Jeri I found myself closing my eyes and letting the music just flow over me. She will be doing a mini-concert at the Getaway. Don't miss it.

Richard is in trouble - he did not sing Lady Of Autumn for the non-Getaway folks. HARUMPH! He spent last night chasing my cats around trying to get pictures. Ed actually posed glaring into the lens with a very annoyed "Get out of my face" look.

David Coffin joined Great Bay Sailor at RiRa's as the final "act". WOW! Every singer and every song was spot on. The audience ate it up and (under threats) sang long and loud with beautiful harmonies.

The Portsmouth Festival just gets better and better every year. The audiences come in expecting to participate. They love the music and the friendly atmosphere. The line up of performers is nothing short of amazing. I can not begin to imagine the last minute glitches that occur behind the scenes. But it always goes off seamlessly. Both the performers and the audiences really enjoy themselves.

Congratulation to Linn, Tom, Barbara and all who make this possible. Once again - a phenomenal event. thank you.

One complaint - why do you always choos a rainy weekend????? I know CELLAR!

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 28 Sep 09 - 08:44 AM

Thought we'd paid our dues in the rain department last year when it poured ALL weekend. This year the weather Saturday was grand and on Sunday it was cloudy but didn't really get damp until after the shanty blast. And for the ten year history, we've actually had very little rain.

Jeri, what's that about not having the cash? The concert was FREE -- like every event at the festival. (Well, then there's the CD buying...)

And it's Hilary -- HILARY -- one "L"!!! I'm still apologizing for giving her and extra one (for free) on her name tag. Alas, except for later standing next to her at the shanty blast, I didn't get to hear her sing at all! (Got to hear a song from Richard, though.)

Gotta go -- gainful employment calls.

Linn

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Barry Finn
Date: 28 Sep 09 - 03:03 PM

It was a great festival, best yet. I know alot of work went into this behind the scenes. Tom, Linn, Barbara (many hats, I think she does a bit of everything)) & Brue + the many others on the commitee, the many voluteers, the local supporters & sponsers, all who make this a FREE festivals & not to skip on the many performers who pretty much donate their skills, talent & time. This was truely a festival of camaraderie with audience & performer where one pretty much blended with the other, very much for the most part a participatory finishing off with an open air shanty blastwith every one shoulder to shoulder. It was great to ( and says so muchabout the festival itself) to have some great singers from afar. From England Hilary Ward who was just a peach & a very lovely singer with a great delivery fror onot only moving the songs but for very moving songs & then a wonderful hidden gem in Andy Kenna from the old school in Liverpool & one of the few whose's left who can deliver that unique style of singing. Then there's Rika & Jon from Vancover, BC, salwarts of the Northwest for their scholarship, research, collections & by all means their ufatiguing ability to roust the house to their feet.
As far as having fun the rain did nothing to damper the festival, it was a great time at least for the 3 of us (Finn & Haddie) just not long enough. It was spread out in a great way, intown but not so far apart that one who can't travel by feet alone, like myself had difficulty. Some of the venues held in pubs where the rowdy singing level was great for roof raising, as with 3 Sheets to the Wind had going on & where it wasn't just the festivals goers joining in but those at the bar drinking & those at tables eating also joining in (where it's sometimes a comptition to sing over the din of the regular patrons), to the quite venues where you could hear a pin drop if it weren't for the singers themselves. Then with the shanty sessions, the Friday unofficial opening of the festival was crowed but unbeatable, very much a joining in of festival goes & performers a great way to start off the blending atmosphere of mixing everyone together so that all would be shoulder to shoulder ear to mouth with each other, it's a shame that the Saturfay shanty sing was so crowded & understaffed that I saw a few singers not even bother to try & fight their way to a unavailabe fool spot & turn out the door & find another place to dine. A stwo singers were walking out my wife & singing partner & his wife turned to join them & leave me & Ken to wait for drinks & no food but I have to sya side from that the singing was penomenal. Maybe next year the committee will consider a larger venuse more accomadating with more than 1 umhappy
wait staff to attend to the hungry, thirsty crowd & paying crowd(sorry, my one & only staunch complaint, this was not a mistake it also happened last year). The last minute rain dodge bring the open air Market Sq venue indoor to the Ri Ra was a brilliant move, thanks to who ever managed that. We performed at the Ri Ra & the crowd in my opinion was better than it would've been had it been outside , even in good weather. It was a sit or stand as you please, drinks & food were available, the sound as far I i was concerned both as a performer & a listener was pretty good (far better that it would'vve been out side) it was still very much opened & available to passers-bye & hopefully it generated an unexpected cash flow for the venue (who was pleasantly staffed to handle the crowd), enough that they'd be happy to become a participating festival venue next year, maybe even a thought that they'd be a nice Saturday shanty venue.
Anyway, there you go Charlie. One more thing one of the best singing treats of the weekend was at Dave's party, festival geor Tim Radford (of England but as of lately from Woods Hole, Cape Cod) singing a Wassail song, it has to be one of the best, no the best, singing of a Wassail song that I have ever heard, in my entire life (& he was one of the singers that left the Press Room Saturday to get a bite
to eat elsewhere). Great to have seen & heard you sing again Tim, nice seeing you at the festival. So it was truely a wonderful abit small not so local festival festival that is slowly growing yr by yr. ino what will someday become a template for others.

A suggestion to the commitee, I know of a good number of out-of-towners (including my one of my singing partners) that stayed at various hotels, motels rooming houses. Maybe looking at one place that would discount & be opened to becoming a venue for additional festival bookings could be researched, it might also be an alt to housing some performers in the future.

Barry

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: GUEST,guest
Date: 28 Sep 09 - 04:35 PM

I can't think of enough good things to say about the festival! From our perspective, as performers, the event was well organized - any problems that might have occurred were handled quietly and efficiently so that the events ran smoothly in spite of the weather.

It was wonderful to hobnob with all the great singers who were part of the festival. There was a great sense of comaraderie and mutual support amongst them all.

Hats off to Tom, Linn, Barbara and all the others who put this together for the tenth year.

Fred Gosbee

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: stallion
Date: 28 Sep 09 - 06:21 PM

cheers Barry, maybe Portsmouth instead of Mystic mmmmmmmmmmmmm dunno sounds just brill

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Barry Finn
Date: 28 Sep 09 - 09:05 PM

Stallion, come for both, you're always welcome here. We finally got "Come Down You Bunch of Roses" down but could've used your backing, it was terrific

Barry

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Charley Noble
Date: 29 Sep 09 - 12:05 AM

Barry-

Very nicely summed up. Almost makes me feel I was there instead of three thousand miles away!

Cheerily,
Charley Noble, in Buckley, Washington

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Barry Finn
Date: 29 Sep 09 - 02:11 AM

I just put up some pictures, of the Friday nite session at the Press Room, on my facebook page
Here's a link to my facebook photos

Barry

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: stallion
Date: 29 Sep 09 - 02:40 AM

Thanks for sharing the Photo's Barry, good to see the woods hole wooky out enjoying himself again, get Tims cd it's a corker. Are you guys coming over next year?
Pete

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Barry Finn
Date: 29 Sep 09 - 02:57 AM

We hope to Peter, looking at the very last weekend of August & maybe the 1st half of September, I'll pm you

Barry

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: curmudgeon
Date: 29 Sep 09 - 02:52 PM

Where to begin? My head is still full of all the wonderfuls singing and camaradarie of the weekend.

One of the advantages, if it can truly be called such, of my not being able to sing, was the more time available to others. Special thanks to Chris Maden for taking up the slack for me at the Warner House, and to Linn for converting our usual duet at the Athenaeum to an exceptionally fine solo performance.

One of the many great highlights of the weekend was Andy Kenna, Liverpool singer, concertinast, tradition bearer and consummate performer. Since he and his wife were coming over for a visit, he looked around to see what might be going on and stumbled upon our website. After a couple of emails and CD exchange, we most fortuitously signed him up.

And now, for those who didn't get to see him, thanks to Dave Hallowell, here's   Andy Kenna at The Rusty Hammer.

We were fortunate to have a lot of this year's festival videotaped. Stand by for more.

I'll be back - Tom

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: GUEST,Peadar (formerly) of Portsmouth
Date: 29 Sep 09 - 04:43 PM

Great weekend, as always. This year not only featured tremendous singers, but genuinely nice people who were happy to be a part of the 10th anniversary. An absolute pleasure to meet and talk with Tim Radford, Robbie O'Connell, Andy Kenna, Jon & Rika...everyone! Just a wonderful time all around.

BTW, if anyone has photos from this year's festival and you happen to be on Facebook, it would be great if you could share your favorites on the festival's Facebook page . I know there are lots of people who would love to relive the weekend.

Already looking forward to the starting the next 10 years.

Peter

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: curmudgeon
Date: 29 Sep 09 - 07:57 PM

Found: Case of CDs on Saturday at the Press Room, underneath the table where Tim and Marty (and others) had been sitting. The selection could be that of many of the regulars. Please PM if it's yours - Tom

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 30 Sep 09 - 08:26 AM

Listened to Hilary Ward's CD both ways of my commute yesterday -- what a lovely voice!

Alas, the only time during the festival that I got to hear her was after my bit in the shanty blast when I stood between Sinsull and Hils. She, too, has GOT to come back! I want to hear her and sing with her -- (hmmm...maybe on our quarterdeck with a few margaritas).

Linn
(A bit stretched this week, but still riding the warm, high wave of the weekend's music.)

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: SINSULL
Date: 30 Sep 09 - 08:58 AM

Hilary's CDs are wonderful but do not give you the quality of a live performance. She will have to return so Linn can experience it.

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 01 Oct 09 - 10:42 AM

Didn't really get to hear Tim Radford at all, either -- last Friday night I was a bit of a social butterfly around The Press Room, doing more talking than singing, updating people both on Tom's health and the festival -- PR! PR! PR!

Didn't get to hear Jon & Rika or Robbie O'Connell except during the concert or David Coffin except when he was warming up Sunday morning at Oppenheimer.

I've got to learn Rika's herring roe song.

Linn

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: curmudgeon
Date: 01 Oct 09 - 04:53 PM

Here's another gem from Dave Hallowell, Mudhook at the Moffat-Ladd House singing "The Kangaroo." It's more remarkable as Dave is part of the group (left to right, Alan, Dave, Mike, Peadar)

No one has yet claimed the aforementioned CDs.

Stay tuned - Tom

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: GUEST,BB
Date: 01 Oct 09 - 06:38 PM

Tom - I understood that Tim & Marty couldn't get into the PR on Saturday... was the CD case found Friday, perhaps?? Or am I way off??

"Found: Case of CDs on Saturday at the Press Room, underneath the table where Tim and Marty (and others) had been sitting."

I'm trying to recall who was at what table. I may actually succeed, to some degree!
~Barbara

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: curmudgeon
Date: 01 Oct 09 - 07:02 PM

Quite right, Barb, it WAS Friday; days tend to meld into each other sometimes.

Thanks for the advisory - Tom

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Jeri
Date: 01 Oct 09 - 07:15 PM

Others who were sitting there for a while at least were Paul (Schurr) and Rose & Colin. Also, a woman (didn't get her name) who always goes to Old Songs (BB knows).

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 01 Oct 09 - 09:05 PM

It was FRIDAY night -- early -- and Tim and Marty were sitting there. I'm not sure where the Schurr entourage was seated Friday night and Rose and Colin weren't there Friday. It was there on the floor right from very early in the session; I thought it might be Dave Hallowell's since it was close to his gear.

Linn

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Jeri
Date: 01 Oct 09 - 09:14 PM

OK, now I KNOW I had a good time!

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: GUEST,Vicki Kelsey
Date: 02 Oct 09 - 12:30 AM

Yes, I was at the table with Paul and Charlene and my husband Bill, all from the Pick'n' and Sing'n' Gather'n', and saw the CD case at the end of the evening. It didn't belong to any of us. I was trying to find the owner myself and ended up leaving it with Linn when no one knew whose it was.
                                  Vicki

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Barry Finn
Date: 02 Oct 09 - 12:40 AM

I will contact Tim & Matrty via facebook and ask

Barry

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Barry Finn
Date: 02 Oct 09 - 01:01 AM

Messages sent to bth, if they get back to me, I'll let you know tomorrow nite. Ask me cuz I may forget

BB, they (Marty & Tim) could get into the Saturday session at the Press Room but they wanted to eat & drink & that was why they went elsewhere

Barry

am I pushing a point???

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Barry Finn
Date: 02 Oct 09 - 02:26 PM

Heard from Marty & Tiim, the CD's aren't their's

Barry
Jon & Rika did bring in a box of CD's but I don't know if they left with them
I posted a message on the Getaway thread to ask seeing as I'll be at the getaway by Sunday morning (with Tinker in tow)

Barry

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 02 Oct 09 - 07:46 PM

Mystery solved -- the case is Marty's. He hadn't yet missed it.

Linn

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: TRUBRIT
Date: 06 Oct 09 - 11:31 PM

very few 'U tubes' to watch -- I wanted to see Finn & Haddie mark 3

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Glostaman
Date: 10 Oct 09 - 03:49 PM

It was great to perform at the festival as part of Three Sheets to the Wind. Thanks for having us up there again. It's always a wonderful time! Wish I could have made it up there for Friday and Saturday too. Best wishes to Tom for a successful operation and a speedy recovery --Tim Perkins

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Bupkes
Date: 11 Oct 09 - 02:30 PM

Now that my voice is back, I can type again. (?ÑLike when you lose your eyeglasses, many other things become impossible.) I was touched by my friends' persistence in getting back that CD case to me, which I hadn't even realized I'd misplaced for a whole week.

This was my first Portsmouth Maritime Festival, and the warmth of all and the quality of singing were truly fine. And you were all so receptive to my friend and inspiration Tim Radford, whom I was proud to introduce to you; I hope to have him and his wife Jan Elliott visit again later this winter. The words and some notes about the songs on Tim's first album, Home from Home, are posted on its web site.

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Richard Atkins
Date: 11 Oct 09 - 09:06 PM

Barry work still in process for your DVD and thank you again for your welcome

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: TRUBRIT
Date: 11 Oct 09 - 09:31 PM

Good news - want to see that!

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 11 Oct 09 - 09:31 PM

I'm trying to listen to the music accrued during and post festival.

Tim Radford's CD is brill! Nice repertoire, lovely singing, tasteful accompaniment. (Can't miss John Roberts' concertina work.)

Hilary's is also a wonderful CD to listen to and I've been enjoying it a lot. (Would like to hear more of Richard, too.)

Haven't had a chance yet to listen to the Jon & Rika CDs I acquired -- I hope I remember to put them in the car tomorrow morning. Of course, the song I REALLY want to learn from Rika (the 16 Tons song) hasn't yet been recorded. Sigh.

Linn

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: My guru always said
Date: 12 Oct 09 - 03:32 PM

Well, we got home last Wednesday after our wonderful whirlwind tour and are starting to catch up with things. I really wanted to post as soon as we got back, but between unpacking, laundry, making a fuss of our Cat and jet-lag, we didn't get a chance before we left for Banbury Festival on Friday. My apologies to everyone for the delay *sigh*

Huge thanks to everyone at PMFF for the opportunity to sing at the Festival, the wonderful welcome you gave us and all your very kind words. What a fantastic festival you've created, we really enjoyed the whole weekend! It was great to be able to sing so many songs and I was so glad that Richard managed to sing some too. Your encouragement has meant so much to him, I just hope that he'll continue to sing out over here in the UK.

Thanks too, to Barry, Sinsull and jacqui for looking after us so well, we knew we were in very good hands and you proved that in trumps!!! We were very glad to be able to get along to Dave Goulder's house concert too, what a lovely evening, thanks TruBrit!

It would be lovely to get across the pond again sometime, meanwhile sending you love & virtual hugs {{{{PMFF}}}}

Hil & Richard xxx

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: SINSULL
Date: 12 Oct 09 - 03:41 PM

This one, Linn?

Sixteen Stone

chorus

She weighs 16 stone and what do you get,
A whole lotta woman and that's a fact,
Take a close look and you'll agree,
There's no sharp corners on a woman like me.


You can't cuddle up to a bag of bones,
If her ribs stick out, leave her well alone
I've a big soft welcome for a man in need
I'm surely built for comfort if not for speed.

If you've seen more meat on a greasy spoon
She won't keep you warm, get rid of her soon,
So come on guys if you're down in the dumps,
Better get your arms around a woman that's plump.

The magazines say be skin and bone
But big girls never have to sleep alone,
We don't disappear when we turn on our side
And there's plenty of suspension for a bumpy ride!

If you see me coming, better step aside,
A lot of men didn't, a lot of men died,
Some give you desire, others a thrill
And if the tall ones don't get you, This short one will!

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: GUEST,Bat Goddess
Date: 12 Oct 09 - 04:53 PM

No, Mary -- "Sixteen Tons of Herring Roe".

Linn

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Jon Bartlett
Date: 12 Oct 09 - 07:38 PM

This One:

Chorus
YOU POP SIXTEEN TON AND WHAT DO YOU GET?
A WHOLE LOT STINKIER AND DEEPER IN DEBT
HONEY DON'T YOU CALL ME 'CAUSE I CAN'T GO
I SMELL TOO MUCH LIKE HERRING ROE.

1. Well, I got up one morning when the sun didn't shine
    I picked up my apron and I walked to the line
    I popped sixteen tons of grade A roe
    And the floor lady says, " You're going too slow."

2. When you see me comin', better step aside
    A lot of men didn't and a lot of men died
    I got a back of iron and a nose of steel
    And if the smell don't get you then nothin' will.

3. Well, you get on the bus, about seven o'clock,
    Another day coming working down on the dock,
    You can't find a seat 'cause the crowds are thick,
    At the next bus stop, you can take your pick.

4. Well it's Saturday night and we just got paid
    We're going downtown and we're gonna get laid
    So Ladner Hotel here we come
    And if you don't breath deeply, we can have some fun.

5. Some people day that fish is fine
    But a herring when it's sitting there, soaked up in brine
    Is slippery and slimy through and through
    And the blood and the guts splatter all over you.

by Kim Zander, Karen Dean and others with revisions by Rika Ruebsaat.

Jon Bartlett

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: TRUBRIT
Date: 12 Oct 09 - 08:34 PM

Hils - it was a pleasure to have you here and I, too, thought Richard's voice was wonderful (and yours of course.....).....

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 06:47 PM

Thanks, Jon!

The book information for Rika is --

"As The Sailor Loves The Sea" by Ballard Hadman
"Ballard Hadman went to Alaska to visit-stayed to marry a fisherman and raise a family. This is the vivid diverting story of her adventures in that frontier land."

(Trade paper available online at http://www.yukonbooks.com/shop/customer/product.php?productid=4770 )

My copy is from 1951 -- She was a Western US artist who went to Alaska (near Ketchikan) during the Depression to live and fish with her brothers -- she met and married a fisherman and stayed. Definitely an interesting and unusual life bringing up a child and working with her husband on the water and wild coast far away by plane from medical facilities. Delightful reading.

Linn

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Leadfingers
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 02:47 PM

If its still the weekend befotre Getaway next year , I may well get to you !

Subject: RE: Portsmouth (NH) Maritime Fest 2009
From: Leadfingers
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 02:47 PM

And 100