Roots Music Festival as many of you already know started here at the school house in 2009 as the Bluegrass Festival. It was a collaboration of ideas put together by a handful of people on the island to raise money for our Historical Society. Bluegrass was chosen as the music genre to bring true American Grassroots Music to the island and hopefully draw a crowd. Over the years it has taken on a life of its own. The original idea givers had backed away from actually putting on the show leaving it in the hands of Tony, myself and my crew. In the beginning years we gave money to the Lions Hall from our Festival wanting to give locally and support our local Lions Hall. This money always came out of our own pocket as our little Festival takes a lot of hard work and money to execute. We decided to make a change a few years back and rename the festival to Roots Music which would allow us to invite different genres of music to the stage. The thought being... What are your roots in music? This has opened the door to different musicians to play and for the bands that have been here from the beginning to stay on and play as well. This little Festival could have and maybe should have stopped a long time ago. Anyone with a business head would say quit doing this. However, as in every case money isn't everything! This little Festival has inspired people to pick up instruments they have never played and become musicians. It has forged friendships and business deals. People ask about it all year long which says to me that it is always leaves a lasting Impression. The day is always filled with fun, laughter, friendship and a generally awesome feeling of togetherness with a chill vibe. Good music and Good food usually do that. Let us not forget the amazing live music put on by musicians from all over this great state. It gets even better when they collaborate together. Add to that great food,  local vendors and yard games all in a beautiful setting on the island and you have the makings of a beautiful day.(rain or shine)

So with all that said..... on behalf of Tony, Kristin and Aiden Bane and all of the schoolhouse crew we would like to invite you to join us for another beautiful day!!

Thanks to all who support our little Festival!

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Gates open at 1 p.m. Tickets sold at the door only. You'll enjoy a beautiful ferry ride over to the island $15 roundtrip.

 

      Kristin Bane

      Harsens Island Schoolhouse Grille