Old Songs Festival 2004

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: WFDU - Ron Olesko
Date: 11 Jul 04 - 09:33 PM

Barbara Benn,

It was nice running into you again too. I will look for April at Eisteddfod. Do you think you are going this year? If so, please send me a note - [e-mail] .

Hope to see you soon!

Ron

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Barbara Shaw
Date: 11 Jul 04 - 07:50 PM

The bride looked truly beautiful and the wedding was charming and unique, as you might expect from a couple like Vicky & Tim. I'll have to ask them first before I post any of their wedding pictures publicly, so that will have to wait awhile. In the meantime, I'm in the process of uploading them (along with over 1000 photos of our motorhome trip across the country, enough to bore even myself) to Yahoo albums, so they will be ready to show soon.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 11 Jul 04 - 06:11 AM

Yes! Pictures, please!
And details- how are the lovely bride and groom?

Allison

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Jeri
Date: 10 Jul 04 - 10:23 PM

I'd love to see pictures! (I owe Vixen the photo I took of the Foxners and the Meixners at Old Songs too.)

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: DonMeixner
Date: 10 Jul 04 - 09:57 PM

:-)

Thanks.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Barbara Shaw
Date: 10 Jul 04 - 09:22 PM

Sounds like it was a great festival and I'm sorry we missed it. We were actually in California on our first cross-country trip at the time. However, we did just get home from Vicky & Tim's WEDDING!!! Don, those rings are BEAUTIFUL and I have a photo to prove it.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: GUEST,BB
Date: 10 Jul 04 - 02:25 PM

To finish up the tidbits of info filtering in on Ron's request about Mary Had a Little Lamb...
Ron, the singer's name is April Grant; she lives around the Northampton area in Mass; she's a devoted ballad singer and gets around to the usual NY/NEngland fests - Mystic, Old Songs, Eistedfodd, and our own Portsmouth Maritime Folk Festival. And this year, she will be a guest at that fest! Though I don't know whether she'll be able to pull off a rendition of MHaLL at that event. Maybe at the Friday night Press Room sing.
Anyway, look for that long red hair wherever you find ballads being sung. You'll run into her again, I'm sure!
And it was nice running into YOU again!
Barbara Benn

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Susan A-R
Date: 29 Jun 04 - 10:42 PM

I came straight back from Old Songs and launched into moving Mom out of the house she's been in for 22 years, into a retirement community. She's in great shape, and it's a terriffic place, but good lord she has a lot of stuff. We were hauling, dividing, deciding and hauling more for two days and there's still more. I'm back at work for three days. then off to the big yard sale Saturday.

I am so glad that I had the Old Songs weekend before hand, although I am seriously sleep deprived. I got to sing a lot, hear some great performers, play a little fiddle, and even dance a bit, Rosie Shipley, the Garbonzos, Johnny Doyle, Priscila Herdman, The Transports, Michael Cooney, This is too much happieness. I even made a detour to the Woodchuck compound for a tune and song or two. Heard and saw, mostly briefly, a number of Catters as well.

Oh, and I sang one I'd written in the Dutch Barn, I'm getting braver about that self composed stuff.

Off to bed.

Susan

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Susan of DT
Date: 29 Jun 04 - 05:57 PM

An abbreviated version of April's "Mary had a Little Lamb" is in the DT as Mary Had a Little Lamb (2). Also check out the other one.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Charlie Baum
Date: 29 Jun 04 - 04:44 PM

The song I heard at Old Songs that won't leave my head was sung by Michael Cooney (to Peter, Paul and Mary's tune for "Stewball Was a Racehorse"):

One-One was a racehorse.
Two-Two was one, too.
When One-One won one race,
Two-Two won one, too

--Charlie Baum

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Charlie Baum
Date: 29 Jun 04 - 04:29 PM

Ron--

I usually associate the "Mary Had a Little Lamb" song with Andy Wllace (who was at Old Songs), who learned that version from the McPeake family of Ireland. (Yes--an American Civil War song whose only source was in Ireland!). And it's already in the digital tradition!

Hugs to everyone who was there, who I saw, and who I didn't see. I spent my time listening to great music in between visiting friends. I even go to sing a little in the Dutch Barn way late at night.

--Charlie Baum

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Big Mick
Date: 29 Jun 04 - 10:26 AM

Ain't we a pair, Don???? I just had to finish my set, and you played it off to anxiety. Couple of dumbasses if ever there were. Seriously, my friend, just set back and let these good folks do their work. This is not your Father's heart attack. The technology is so good, and the drugs as well, that IF one is smart enough to listen and follow the instructions, they can come out of it all in better shape than before.

You are in my thoughts and in my prayers. And never forget that you have many friends here.

And BTW, I loved the fact that you made the wedding rings for fellow Mudcatters. What a community we have become. I still want you to make me a Torc, bracelet, and probably an armlet. I guess I better get busy and contact you, eh?

All the very best,

Mick

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Jeri
Date: 29 Jun 04 - 10:10 AM

Jeez, Don! Most people save those things for AFTER the festival!
Seriously, I am REALLY glad you got it checked out, even if you thought it wasn't serious and you felt OK later on. A lot of people wouldn't have. Take care of yourself, please!

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: karen k
Date: 29 Jun 04 - 09:45 AM

Take care Don. I hope the tests go well and everything will be fine.

Old Songs was great. It was wonderful seeing Heather Heywood again. What a voice! The Transports was definitely a highlight of the weekend. I went both days. A surprise for me was Earl White, just great. Saw the Greengrass Cloggers years ago but Earl White was just one of many great musicians and dancers and I didn't remember him. What a treat.

I'm not going to even try to mention everyone I saw since just about everyone there came by Folk-Legacy at one time or another. It was great to see everyone.

Again, it was a wonderful weekend. Vicki and Tim, have a wonderful wedding. I look forward to see the rings from Don. That was an awesome thing to do.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Vixen
Date: 29 Jun 04 - 09:23 AM

Dear Don--I've sent you a PM, but *do* take care of yourself.

Just a couple of things I've remembered since posting yesterday...

We saw KarenK and Dennis and Judy, met Doug from FSGW, and waved hello to several other folks we recognized from FSGW. And I'm sure I've STILL forgotten to mention people we saw and talked to!

I too bought one of Don's bracelets--I've been wearing it since Saturday, and it's the best fit I've ever had. I've gotten a lot of compliments on it too! Just beautiful silver work.

Finally, to those of us with gardens, I improvised a "pepper tea" after reading Jeri's post earlier in this thread, and our garden was still intact when we got home!

Things are starting to get back to normal at our house: Mt. Wash-more is now smaller than Mt. Washing-done.

V

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: kendall
Date: 29 Jun 04 - 08:53 AM

Jeez, Don, I didn't realize you were that taken with Jacqui! And your wife standing right there too!
Seriously, get thee to a doctor right now.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 29 Jun 04 - 08:19 AM

I *really* missed Old Songs - but I did wave as I drove past on Friday - Saturday I was speaking with a fellow performer at Vermont Ren-fest - and SHE had refused to give up old songs - she stopped and attended Friday workshops - which did mean that she got to the campsite after dark and setup in the dark - and was wiped out saturday morning - but she got to go to Old Songs! *pout*

Another treat this weekend was to find out that the entertainment co-ordinator at Vermont is an old friend/roommate of Allison from NexTradition!

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: bbc
Date: 29 Jun 04 - 07:34 AM

Oh, my, Don, get to those tests & take care of yourself! Seems like we're all falling apart. That was a great thing you did for Vixen & Tim. I just wish I'd seen the rings.

best always,

Barbara

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 29 Jun 04 - 06:43 AM

Don!!?? A heart attack??! Sneak that little bit of info into your post, will you?? Take care of yourself, will you please???

Cindy, I don't need to tell you - hugs and support to you both.

Allison

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: karen k
Date: 29 Jun 04 - 03:53 AM

Ron, that was probably April. I can never remember her last name. She lives in the Boston area but I don't know exactly where.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: DonMeixner
Date: 29 Jun 04 - 01:26 AM

Well Cindy's and my memory of this years Old Songs will be special for many reasons. It was great to meet and re-meet so many friends. The nice words said about my jewelry are greatly appreciated.

I am very happy to make a gift of rings to Vickie and Tim. My first set of wedding rings. And made in the field no less. This is the first time I ever took the bench on the road.

I enjoyed my Concertina lesson from Allison and partaking in moments of ironic humor with Jeri. Swapping stories of Old Mutual Friends with Mary (Hollowfox)was atreat. I was able to do an emergency refit of a sailboat for Lamarca. And was pleased for the Skipper as a came by and showed off his date.

Some how I found the time to make some money as well.


The big memory for me will be learning that the panic attack I had on Friday as I finished setting up was actually a very small heart attack. So like Big Mick before me I'm off to the battery of tests and treatments this week. I will keep you posted as I learn more.

Don

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Jeri
Date: 29 Jun 04 - 12:31 AM

Ron, nope - that wasn't you we saw. Damn...another chance missed.

I think I know who you're talking about (woman with long red hair), but I don't know her name. If you manage to get the lyrics, please post them! Bat Goddess knows two verses and the chorus, but I know there are more verses out there somewhere, and I bet Mary knows 'em.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: WFDU - Ron Olesko
Date: 28 Jun 04 - 11:43 PM

By the way, I checked the photos and the woman who sang the song was not the person in the Lamarca photo, but I will message Mary to see if she could share the song. It might be the one I heard.   The woman who sang it had long red hair. Dick Greenhaus asked her if she would like to sing a song and she got up and started "Mary Had A Little Lamb" which got a laugh, until everyone realized the version she was singing was not the children's rhyme we were used to!

I love the sings! Some of the best songs I've found through the Old Songs sings. Someone also sang Gordon Bell's "Windmills" which is a lovely song that I'm surprised more people have not recorded.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: WFDU - Ron Olesko
Date: 28 Jun 04 - 11:33 PM

If you go to my radio station website - www.wfdu.fm, then click on "Traditions" on the left hand side of the page, you will come to our webpage. There is a photo album that features pictures of myself and Bill Hahn, my co-host.   Bill keeps bugging me to update the pictures, but you will get the general idea. My hair is a bit longer, in a ponytail actually, and I have a little goatee-like thing on my chin. (Soul patch?)

We have to set up a time and place to meet next year! Maybe a "Mudcat" jam??

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: bbc
Date: 28 Jun 04 - 10:56 PM

I think we're getting older, Jeri. Bed & shower did seem nice! Maybe Ron can give us a physical description, so we'll know what(who) we missed. How about it, Ron?

bbc

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Jeri
Date: 28 Jun 04 - 09:00 PM

bbc, if that 'large gentleman at the Folk Legacy booth Saturday afternoon" (more like 'evening') was Ron Olesko, I'm gonna SO kick myself! I STILL haven't met Ron!....!!!

Ron, I wasn't at the sing, but I know Mary LaMarca does the song. (see 'lamarca' in Mudcat photos for a mug shot)

There was a large number of DC area folkies there, some 'Catters and some not. It was good to see y'all, even if I didn't get a chance to talk to all of y'all. (I think I just waved at Dennis & Judy Cook.)

Another plug for Don's jewelry.
I bough a bracelet from him a couple of years ago, and it's my favorite bracelet. It's elegant, and comfortable. I can't stand sleeping in jewelry, and more than once, I've awoken to find myself still wearing this bracelet. I bought a pair of earrings, which I don't think I'm allergic to. I wore 'em for a day, and my ears are fairly irritated, but not an allergic type of irritation. More like the sort you get when you haven't worn earrings for a long time and suddenly jam some in there. Ridiculously low price for hand-crafted silver!

It was nice to meet jacqui c, who is every bit as nice in 3D as she seems in Mudcat. I saw her and kendall on Friday night and briefly on Saturday morning, but never again. Every time I went to that little wooded corner, no one was around or awake.

Jacqui, Heather Wood always wears a button around that says "It's alright - I can't remember your name either." I hardly notice if someone can't remember my name, as I can forget a name in mere seconds.

I've had it with tents, specifically the hi-tech piece of crap I've been using for two years. I had a lot of help putting it up and putting it back up, from people I didn't know. Nice people, but the tent has seen its last Old Songs. Someone told me you could rent RVs. I'll check into it, but somehow, I think it might be beyond my budget.

I missed a lot of good stuff (because I just don't do 'planning'), but the stuff I did in order to miss it was worth it. I took a guitar and a fiddle, and didn't play either of them the whole time. I DID ask to borrow georgeward's fiddle during the slow jam. He was the workshop leader, and had a concertina and a whistle with him as well as the fiddle. Later on, he told me it had once been Larry Older's, and had had an interesting journey before it got to him, but either George didn't finish the story or I don't remember it.

'Twas a good festival, but it was also good to get home to the luxuries of soap, hot water, a shower, and my own bed.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Celtaddict
Date: 28 Jun 04 - 10:30 AM

Thanks for sharing tales with those of us who couldn't get there. One of these years!

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: bbc
Date: 28 Jun 04 - 10:19 AM

Well, I'm home, too, & a little let down, as usual, even though my school year is over & I have some free time ahead. This was, perhaps, my best Old Songs. I stayed at my son's apartment, approx. 25 min. from the fairground, so none of the rain affected me. I had dinner & spend evenings w/ him. I even got to shower during the weekend! Most of the weather was cool & breezy--really lovely! No heatstroke or sunburn this year! For the 1st time, I was able to arrive for the 3-5 pm Friday classes. I went to Shape Note Singing w/ Peter & Mary Alice Amidon. I've been to a couple of workshops on Shape Note in the past, but this weekend, between the class & 2 singing sessions, I think I'm finally getting the hang of it. What a powerful, satisfying sound it is! Leaves you w/ a sense that you've been somewhere & done something! I found out that there are shape note gatherings 45 min. & an hour from my new home. I may be able to take part in one tomorrow evening! At the Sunday shape note singing, there was a memorial session. Those who passed on during this previous year were named & a song was sung in their memory. Rick Fielding came so strongly to mind & I was remembering his rendition of Shelly Posen's "Fa, Sol, La" on his "This One's the Dreamer" recording. I was also remembering Animaterra's Byron.   I cried through the entire song.

In addition to Shape Note, I went to SATB choral singing w/ Peter Amidon & Tony Barrand & had a wonderful time. I also participated in the Sunday afternoon gospel sing. Peter & Mary Ellen led it, w/ 4 other participants. Each had his/her/their own style, but each contributed wonderfully to the whole. It was a great example of the spontaneously-made harmony that makes Old Songs so special! I had the pleasure of hearing Priscilla Herdman 3 times—Main Stage Friday pm, Family Stage on Sunday, & in a rather interesting session titled "Chorus Songs" sandwiched on-stage between Mike Agranoff & Michael Cooney. For me, the musical highlight of the weekend was joining others in song. It's been ages since I've sung & it felt wonderful! I also had the pleasure of having conversations w/ Priscilla Herdman (whose local area I now live in), Lui Collins (who just happened to be attending the weekend), Cindy Mangsen & Steve Gillette (I would have loved to see their show, but was involved in a 2 ½ hr conversation w/ a friend I rarely have the chance to see), & Peter & Mary Alice Amidon (truly gracious folks)!

The people aspect was as important as the music to my enjoyment of the weekend. To see, hug, & converse w/ folks I care about, but see 1-3 times a year or less, was truly satisfying! I will probably leave names out, too, & I apologize, but here's my try: jeri, George Stevens & Mary Lamarca, Susan A-R, Hollowfox (sorry we didn't get a chance to chat!), kendall & jacqui c (Both looked like the cat who'd swallowed the canary; pleased to see you looking so happy!), Allan C (blessings on your journey!), Animaterra (love you!), Sandy & Caroline Paton (who've become my best of friends through Mudcat), karen k, Charlie Baum (great to see you!), dick greenhaus & Susan of DT (always a pleasure!), Dennis & Judy Cook (who I've known & loved in 2 lives), Midchuck & Mizchuck, Vixen & Reynard (hugs). Oh, Allan did one of those phone surprises on me, too. He hands the phone to me & who's on the other end but Tinker! Last but not least, I met Don Meixner & his wonderful wife, Cynthia. Don had a booth & was selling his sterling silver jewelry. I hadn't worn any jewelry in years, except the stone & shells things I make. Don teased me into going over to look at his wares Saturday afternoon. Being contrary, I only found 1 bracelet that spoke to me & it was not my size. Not to be deterred, Don said he'd try to make one up for me in my size during the weekend. I checked w/ him Sunday afternoon & he had it ready. I put it on & within a couple of hours, I was back to buy a second bracelet! The fit, the styling, & the way they make my wrists & hands look hooked me! Watch out for that man! I stayed too long at the booth & came away w/ a pair of earrings & a polishing cloth, as well! Part of the equation was that I radically changed my hairstyle, mid-weekend, & that Allan C was encouraging me to spend my money. I have a secret suspicion that he & Don have an arrangement! J Anyway, I love Don's work & it was a true pleasure to meet him & Cynthia. Don, I'm wearing both bracelets & the earrings right now!

Regrets: I saw 2 guys in Mudcat teeshirts & didn't have a chance to talk w/ them. One was a large gentleman at the Folk Legacy booth Saturday afternoon, I think. The other was in the dance hall on Sunday. He was in a set getting ready to dance & I didn't want to interrupt. Perhaps we'll meet in the future. People who've come to Old Songs in past years & were unable to, this year, for one reason or another—Dharmabum, MMario, Naemanson, Barry Finn, bill/sables—you were missed! It is always a regret when the Old Songs weekend ends. After a few days of hugging, conversing, listening to & participating in really fine music, it's tough to tear oneself away & get back to real life. Maybe I can do some shape note singing in between; maybe I can try to attend the D.C. Get-Away this year; maybe I'll need to wait until NOMAD & Old Songs come around again. I hope I'll see many of you before too long!

love,

bbc

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Vixen
Date: 28 Jun 04 - 10:04 AM

I don't know where to begin! We had a great time, rain and wind included!

For us, Old Songs is about friends and music. We briefly saw bbc, Susan and Dick, Sandy and Caroline, George and Mary, Kendall and Jacqui; and I'm sure I've left out several others. We got to spend a bit of time with Geri, who took our pictures with the Meixners (more about that later). We saw AllanC several times, but didn't get to spend much time with him—we were supposed to get together for breakfast on Sunday morning, but at 6:45 am we weren't sure which RV was his and didn't think it was a good idea to just knock on doors until we found him. We got to spend a lot of time with Animaterra and Maggie—a real pleasure to get to know them. We looked for Barbara and Frank, but must have missed them.

Musically, the weekend had two parts: Performances and Instruments. We got to hear Breton twice—just amazing. The bass clarinet in PhØnix was very memorable. We didn't do many workshops on Saturday afternoon because we stayed at the tent to keep things from blowing away. We also didn't get into any late-night jams because we were just too laid back to stay up late—we were asleep by midnight both nights. In the instrument department, *I* was restrained, and merely bought a Ralph Sweet pennywhistle that I had been dreaming about since last year. Reynaud (aka Tim) not only bought one of David's Dulcimers that *he'd* been dreaming about (and saving for!) since last year, but in the Instrument Swap he also got a concertina and a packet of whistles and narrowly missed acquiring a lovely banjo. (He set it down to think, and pftht! It was gone!)

The experience in the craft area that Allison alluded to, however, was very, very special and the highlight of our weekend. We met Don and Cynthia Meixner on Friday, and we were both very impressed with Don's beautiful silverwork. On Saturday night, while we were watching, Don made our wedding bands which he then GAVE to us. Words just can't describe our surprise and gratitude and delight. Our rings are indeed exceedingly special. As Tim says, music brought us together, and our wedding rings are now an intrinsically musical part of our relationship. Don and Cynthia, we can't thank you enough!

All in all, it was a memorable, fun, and wonderful festival.

NOW, Which Mudcat won a Taylor *this* year????

V

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: WFDU - Ron Olesko
Date: 28 Jun 04 - 09:51 AM

What an amazing weekend. I'm still a relative "rookie" at Old Songs, this was only my 4th. It may be because it is still fresh in my mind, but I think this was the best one yet for me. Musically it was superb. "The Transports" was very inspiring. A terrific "cast" and while I have heard the original, it was a whole different experience to see the piece performed. I picked up the box set and it was my soundtrack for most of the ride home.

Bruce Molsky is simply amazing. It was great to see Sparky & Rhonda Rucker again, they get better each time. Sparky really can work a large crowd! I loved Pat Humphries and Sandy O. - Emma's Revolution as they are now calling themselves. Powerful music. Margot Leverett & The Klezmer Mountain boys really knocked me out. I had heard their CD and thought it was okay, but seeming them live was a whole new experience. I could listen to Dave Webber and Anni Fentiman all day! So many others - Michael Cooney, Mike Agranoff, the Breton's, Archie Edward's Barbershop, Priscilla Herdman, Big Trout Radio - I loved them all!   I really had no disapointments all weekend!

I'm hoping that someone can help me locate a song I heard at one of the post-concert sings. On Saturday night there was a woman who sang a version of "Mary Had A Little Lamb" that I had not heard before. It sounded as if it dated back to the Civil War but I would love to find out more about the version. Does anyone know who the singer was? (It was probably a Mudcatter who I don't know!)

Once again, I'm sorry I did not meet more Mudcatters. Perhaps we can arrange a get together next year? For those of us who don't camp, it is sometimes tough to find Mudcatters, unless they are wearing their shirts.

I've marked my calendar for next year.

Ron

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: jacqui.c
Date: 28 Jun 04 - 07:40 AM

This was my first Old Songs but certainly won't be my last. I was made to feel so welcome by all the people we met that it did feel like being part of a big family reunion.

Many thanks to the Woodchucks for all their hospitality, although it's going to take time to recover from the limericks and puns that we were subjected to over the weekend by Peter, in particular.

Having flown in from the UK on Thursday I was still feeling the effects and needed more sleep than I would have liked, which did preclude getting to the late night sessions. Maybe another year we can make them.

Animaterra - I was disappointed not to have bumped into you this time - but will be around again for sure. I'm coming back for the Geteway, all things being equal - if you're going maybe we can arrange to meet up, rather than rely on chance?

Finally, to all the 'Catters I met - if I don't recognise you when next we meet it will be because I was introduced to so many lovely people that my aging brain doesn't retain the necessary information for recognition too well!

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Midchuck
Date: 28 Jun 04 - 07:17 AM

Kendall and Jaqui (those two win the prize of Most Elusive Catters of the weekend).....I barely breezed by various Woodchucks (I should know better than to say, "I'll catch up with them later...")

Kris and I and Kendall and Jacqui and Peg all ended up in the camping slots Kendall somehow got us, at the very back corner of the RV area, even though we had no RVs. It was lovely. There was shade. There was fresh water right at the site. The porta-potties were nearby, and woods even nearer. There was some bad wind in the open fields the first night, and tents and canopies got blown over, but the trees and the RVs broke it up to a pleasant breeze where we were. Rained like nobody's business Friday night, but our tent was up to it, and K. and J. were in the van. Peg wasn't so lucky, but we got her wrung out in the morning. And there were almost no bugs! Too cool and breezy for them.

Trouble was, it was so pleasant, we didn't leave camp as much as we should have. And Bigchuck only came for a day trip Saturday. And with the cool weather, we kept getting sleepy early on. Or maybe it's just old age. But there wasn't any late night jamming for us this year.

It was quite a different experience from any prior Old Songs, for me at least. But just as fun, and I'm not as wiped out as on prior Monday mornings.

Peter.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 28 Jun 04 - 07:04 AM

It's over. I cried as I left. Old Songs is like the best kind of family reunion! I had a wonderful time, and cemented some friendships on a much deeper level.

Seeing the Transports, with an amazing cast (click) , was the musical highlight of my weekend. Holding my own for almost half the time at the slow jam, after 6 months of playing the concertina, bookended the weekend gracefully. Sacred Harp hurt too much, Breton dancing was way fun, Priscilla Herdman's voice is richer and lovelier than ever, the Great Groove Band (comprised of festival kids, my daughter included) moved me and gave me hope. I can't possibly list all the great music. The biggest disappointment for me was that for various reasons I was so sleep deprived when I got there that I never made it to the Dutch Barn for late-night singing- I was asleep by midnight both nights!

The Mudcatters:
Vixen and Renaud are simply two of the finest people I have had the pleasure to get to know in a long time. It was a joy to talk with them, recieve their love and friendship, talk concertinas, and I'll let Vixen tell about a particular highlight that took place in the craft area, as it's their story!

Hollowfox, Jeri, bbc, Peg, KarenK, Sandy and Caroline, Anglo, Don Meixner, Charlie Baum, Dick and Susan, Susan A-R, Kendall and Jaqui (those two win the prize of Most Elusive Catters of the weekend) and the amazing Allan C- at one point I passed him as he was talking on his cell phone, which he shoved at me. It was Katlaughing! So I can count Kat among the friends encountered at Old Songs!
Let's see, I know I'm going to leave someone out. Please forgive me if I do- I'm still sleep-deprived!
I never saw Ron Olesko- darn! I barely breezed by various Woodchucks (I should know better than to say, "I'll catch up with them later...")
I had a wonderful conversation with George Ward.

This year, my annus horribilis, I experienced Old Songs more deeply than ever before. I recieved bountiful hugs, healing, insight, and came to some personal conclusions that only distance and a little detachment can bring.

Now I have to get through another year before another Old Songs. But I'm grateful for the friendships, the insights, and as always, the music!

Allison

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Jeri
Date: 25 Jun 04 - 09:31 AM

Ron, I may actually meet you this year! I'll be the somewhat chubby middle-aged woman with shortish messy hair wearing either 1)a t-shirt and jeans, or 2) folkie mu-mu (tie died dress). (Providing I actually remember to pack my clothes.) There's the OTHER half of the audience. I'll be wearing a confused and lost expression (wotthehell workshop am I going to?) for most of the weekend.

I'm mostly packed. I'd like to leave early enough to get there for the guitar workshop, but it takes about 4.5 hours to get there, and I have to set the tent up, and it doesn't look like I'm gonna make it. At least not for the whole workshop.

The Devil will strap on his skates
All the little pigs will fly 'way,
And I won't get to Old Songs
Before 3PM on Friday

See y'all this afternoon.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: WFDU - Ron Olesko
Date: 25 Jun 04 - 12:00 AM

Just finished packing. I have to admit that I am not a camper. I am staying at a hotel.   I have to have my morning shower or the day is ruined - for everyone!!! :)

I am anxious to see The Transports performed.   I hope to meet a lot of Mudcatters this year. I am the overweight guy with glasses and the ponytail (I've probably described have the audience here) who will be wearing a hat that says "The Grove" most of the weekend. If I can find my Mudcat shirt, I wear that, but I think it is buried at the bottom of my closet.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Susan A-R
Date: 24 Jun 04 - 11:20 PM

Mostly packed, and hoping to arrive around 5 tomorrow afternoon.   I plan to sleep as late as possible tomorrow to "stock up" so I can stay awake for the important stuff.

YESSSS!!

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Desert Dancer
Date: 24 Jun 04 - 09:01 PM

WITH ENVY!

~ Becky in Tucson

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: bbc
Date: 24 Jun 04 - 05:45 PM

I may actually arrive at the beginning of the weekend this year, for the 1st time! Although tomorrow is the last day of school, it is teaching training that ends at 1 pm & we are free to leave afterward. Also, I'm just an hour from Albany now. Yay!!!

bbc

P.S.--Looks like possible rain Friday pm, but ok after that.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Allan C.
Date: 24 Jun 04 - 05:15 PM

I'll probably have some extra sleeping room in my trailer if anyone has a need. I don't know which space I'll be in, but look for the pull-behind with Texas plates and with TERRY (brand name) emblazoned upon it.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: kendall
Date: 24 Jun 04 - 02:24 PM

pre minstrel tension...It's going to be a long weekend. (Trying to top that one) LOL

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: GUEST,MMario - creeping the thread way off course.
Date: 24 Jun 04 - 02:17 PM

I'm not - but my character is...

Owain Cramp has *always* wanted to be a minstrel - so at the age of 12 he was apprenticed.

Unfortunately Owain suffers from test anxiety and for 37 years has managed to flunk his apprenticeship exams - thus he stand before you today...

don't hit me, please!

nothing but the Pre-Minstrel Cramp.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Midchuck
Date: 24 Jun 04 - 02:12 PM

Mario, are you bothered at all by pre-minstrel tension?

Peter.

Leaving within the hour.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 24 Jun 04 - 01:49 PM

I was just thinking that...yes, I take NY9/VT7 across from Albany -

I'd have time to stop at Old Songs and at least say 'Hi!" to early arrivals - *except*

I have to arrange my camping AND do faire checkin friday afternoon - hopefully also check with some of the other musicians and make sure we don't have too much overlap in repetoire (thanks to the mudcat I don't think that will be a problem) and check out possible venues - though I am to be a "wandering minstrel" if there are some spots I can do a mini-show or two it helps the tips!!!!

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 24 Jun 04 - 01:43 PM

MMario, we may pass each other on the way to our destinations! Do you take Route 9?

I am bringing a Tent Mahal this year, with room for two cots and plenty to spare! And a screen porch! And a canopy on the other side!

My basement floor is covered with gear, my kitchen counter with dry foodstuffs; it'll be up and out the door bright and early in the mornig. Hopefully my site won't be filled by someone else as it was last year- I'm taking up a lot more space this time!

Ican'twaitIcan'twaitIcan'twaitIcan'twaitIcan'twait!

See you SOON!

Allison

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Jeri
Date: 24 Jun 04 - 01:37 PM

Thread creep: Habanero tea...I purchase the powdered pepper from a local heath food store*, put it in a bowl, possibly with mashed up garlic, pour in some hot water and let it sit for a while. I strain it and put it in spray bottles and go nuts. It does wash off, but all it will likely take to deter them for quite a while is one good chomp. On the other hand, I made a paste of the stuff - oil and pepper - and painted it on a part of the roof a squirrel had been chewing once. Now THAT stuff hangs around for a while and may actually enter the wood. The squirrel gave up (probably with a lot of loud complaining) and has never chewed on my house again.

* It's used for a load of stuff, such as eyewash and gargle. I saw a TV program once that showed doctors using the hot stuff in it (capacin, or something similar) to treat arthritis. Apparently, the body reacts as if it's being injured, even when you can't feel any pain (the people with arthritis received a local anesthetic), and one result is that blood flow increases.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: GUEST,MMario
Date: 24 Jun 04 - 12:59 PM

I'll wave at the exit as I pass by tomorrow morning...

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Vixen
Date: 24 Jun 04 - 12:50 PM

Habanero Tea???

We've been clothespinning those little fabric softener sheets that go in the dryer all over the garden to keep the deer out of the hostas and everything else. It's worked so far...we'll replace them tonight.

Thanks for the reminder--

See ya there!

V

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Jeri
Date: 24 Jun 04 - 12:25 PM

Speaking of staying up, I have a tent which may have a slight erectile dysfunction. Last year, it lasted from Fri afternoon until Sun morning, when I was gonna take it down anyway. This year, it looks like it may be raining when I get there, so life could get interesting.

It starts TOMORROW!
Gotta put the tent and sleeping crap in the car today. Gotta do laundry. Gotta get my pickin' nails filled, pack the back pack, spray the hostas with habanero tea so the deer or woodchucks or whatever don't eat 'em like they did last year, gotta maybe stick new strings on the fiddle, gotta bring my songbook and see if I still remember any songs, flurry, flurry, etc. When I get done with this stuff, maybe I'll sit down and write a 'to do' list.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: Midchuck
Date: 21 Jun 04 - 08:06 PM

Who never sleeps? Moi? I sleep when the opportunity presents itself. At Old Songs I sometimes get to doing music, or waiting for Kendall to tell an even bigger lie, and forget to...but even there, I can't stay up and jam into the wee hours like I used to. Now the wee hours means the hours when I wake up and need to wee...

P.

Subject: RE: OLD SONGS 2004
From: kendall
Date: 21 Jun 04 - 04:34 PM

That won't work with this one; he never sleeps.