Mohonk has long been a destination for artists who find inspiration in the unparalleled beauty of its surroundings and the founding family’s dedication to serving mind, body, and spirit. Curated by 4th generation Smiley family member, Maria Guralnik, the Summer Festival of the Arts, provides an opportunity for guests to experience a wide range of outstanding artists and entertainers.

Whether you prefer family entertainment, dance, theater, Broadway, folk, jazz, roots, or classical, the Festival of the Arts offers a dash of creative inspiration to cap off your summer evening at Mohonk.

Program Curator

Maria Guralnik, is a 4th generation Smiley Family member and curator of the Festival of the Arts. She has served as the president of the North American Performing Arts Managers and Agents (NAPAMA), began her career at Columbia Artists Management and received an Arts Management Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts in 1992. Before joining the Purchase College faculty in fall 2009, she served as the general manager and artistic administrator of the Van Cliburn Foundation for 15 years, where she oversaw career development for the winners of the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, including the contracting and servicing of all U.S. engagements and coordination of international tours following each quadrennial competition. Guralnik established her own consulting and management firm, Sky Top Group, in 2009 and is the personal representative for acclaimed concert pianist Frederic Chiu. She also serves on the boards of Mohonk Mountain House and the Vanaver Caravan.

Schedule:

July 5, 2023

9:00pm:  Bon Temps Belles: Wide Open Spaces

A little bit folk, a little bit country and a whole lotta something to make your soul sing. Come join smoky alto Kirby Porterfield and sparkling soprano Mackenzie Silver in this love letter to the great outdoors and longing for something more. Allow yourself to be taken on a journey down an open road, where no dream is too big and true love is just past the horizon. On the water and under the sky, the Bon Temps Belles will fill the air with rich storytelling, luscious harmonies and charm to boot. So kick off your shoes, fill up your cup, and let’s go dancing in the night.

July 6, 2023

9:00pm:  Singer Songwriters of the 70’s

New York-based cabaret artist and entrepreneur Lauren Fox focuses on musical icons of the 70’s including Billy Joel, Jackson Browne, Stevie Nicks, Simon & Garfunkel, Carole King, CSN, Neil Young, and, of course, JONI!!  Scott Chasolen, multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, composer, and keyboardist of the acclaimed Pink Floyd tribute band, The Machine completes this powerhouse duo.

July 7, 2023

9:00pm:  Copilot

Copilot is a Rock-Pop band from Boston, MA that was formed in 2018 with Maggie (vocals), Ry (guitar, vocals), Jake (vocals), Dylan (drums), Bev (bass), & Jack (lead guitar). Coming together from their own respective musical projects, the powerful triage of singers shape the band’s sound. Their blend of harmonies and the unique character of each vocalist allows Copilot to explore a whole spectrum of emotion with their songwriting and create electric live performances.

July 8, 2023

9:00pm:  Soul Purpose

Based in New York’s Hudson Valley, Soul Purpose is a seven-piece band fueled by a shared love of Soul, New Orleans Funk, Swing, and R&B. Lead by saxophonist Dr. Lori Morris, tonight will be an evening delivering visceral rhythm, boisterous energy, and joy to lift your heart.

July 9, 2023

9:00pm:  Passion and Fury

Woody Guthrie, Joe Hill, Phil Ochs, Tracy Chapman, Joan Baez, Pete Seeger, Leadbelly, and more.  Protest, satire, and socially conscious anthems made them household names.  Often overlooked are their songs of love and longing.  David Lutken, Morgan Morse, Maggie Hollinbeck, and Andy Teirstein join formidable forces to bare the private hearts and lives of some of music’s most famous public dissenters.

July 10, 2023

10:30am: Kids in the Parlor

Master folk musicians David Lutken and Andy Teirstein offer a masterclass for young audiences and budding musicians under 12.  Banjo, mandolin, guitar, harmonica, fiddle, dulcimer, accordion, spoons, and jaw harp will be on hand – clapping, dancing, and singing along is highly encouraged.  Come on by and jump right in!

9:00pm:  Snowy Mountain Sisters

Join us for a foot-stompin' evening during which you'll hear songs written by some of the greatest Bluegrass artists of all time including Tony Rice, Bill Monroe, The Stanley Brothers and more. Featuring Margaret Mug, Sam Merwin, Hilary Hawke and Jo Brook.

July 11, 2023

9:00pm:  You Don’t Own Me: The Fearless Females of the 60s and 70s

Carole Bufford (BroadwayWorld Award winner) celebrates the great songstresses of the 1960 & 70s including Janis Joplin, Dusty Springfield, Tina Turner, Carole King, Lesley Gore, Dionne Warwick, Shirley Bassey, Nancy Sinatra, Cher, and more. The changing musical and cultural landscape reflected in the bold voices and stirring songs of this fearless generation of women artists mark a time of great change and transition in America and across the pond.  Carole is expertly accompanied by noted guitarist and vocalist Peter Calo.

July 12, 2023

8:30pm:  Walker Family Band

Join Kathy and Jeff Walker as they lead you through an evening of dance. The duo have been playing New England-style dance music for over 40 years. Together, Kathy, Jeff, and their children feature a variety of instruments. Their repertoire spans the Celtic tradition drawing tunes from Ireland, Scotland, Galicia, Cape Breton, & Appalachia, including every kind of dance from energetic jigs, reels, and beautiful waltzes.

July 13, 2023

9:00pm:  Oh, Hudson!

This soulful and spirited multi-arts celebration of the people, history, and eternal legacy of the Hudson River Valley weaves the music of Hudson River folk icon Pete Seeger, traditional river songs, and tales old and new through original poetry and music.   Nationally recognized poet, storyteller, and musician David Gonzalez is joined by master fiddler/composer Gretchen Koehler and jazz pianist/composer Daniel Kelly. Oh Hudson! was commissioned by the Historical Society of New York State to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s exploration of the river that now bears his name.

July 14, 2023

9:00pm:  Gretchen Koehler and Daniel Kelly

Champion fiddler Gretchen Koehler and award-winning jazz pianist Daniel Kelly set fiddle tunes on fire with new grooves. ("Best New Sounds" National Public Radio, Thistle & Shamrock.) This year, the duo will be joined by several special guests, including Gretchen's fiddling sister Rebecca for a dynamic evening of powerhouse fiddling and family fun.

July 15, 2023

9:00pm:  Willa Vincitore and Co

Singer/songwriter Willa Vincitore has been building a fan base across the Hudson Valley for nearly two decades and was inducted into the NY State Blues Hall of Fame in 2018. While her songwriting is an eclectic mix of blues, soul, rock, funk and (occasionally) pop, there’s one thing that ties it all together—that voice.

July 16, 2023

9:00pm:  Helen Sung Jazz Quartet

Known for her dedication to the leading edge of compositional vision and technique, jazz pianist/composer Helen Sung presents JazzPlasticity, a program inspired by her experience as the inaugural artist-in-residence at Columbia University's prestigious Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute. She and her Quartet will perform music inspired by bird song, the rhythmic dance of neurons, and other wonders of our shared humanity.

July 17, 2023

9:00pm:  Wayne Tucker and the Bad Mothas

Wayne Tucker is a trumpeter, composer, arranger, violinist and vocalist based in New York City.  He and his equally talented colleagues (the bad mothas) end Mohonk’s Festival of the Arts with a boat dock jam. Miles Davis and Stevie Wonder will be along for the party!

July 20, 2023

9:00pm:  Cait Jones and the Critters

A regular on the New York cabaret and club circuit, Cait Jones is a storyteller obsessed with the narratives of the Great American Songbook. Rooted in years of Lindy hop she dances vocally through each song, bringing her refined voice and life experience to this beloved repertoire.

July 21, 2023

9:00pm:  Boreal

A fresh voice in the burgeoning Hudson Valley music scene, Boreal brings authenticity to its celebration of Bossa Nova celebrating the work of Tom Jobim, Vinicius de Moraes and other famed Brazilian composers. Featuring Mariana Song on lead vocals and Gil Oliveira on percussion (both Brazilian natives), joined by Timothy Hill on guitar, Steve Gorn on bamboo flutes and Gabriel Dresdale on cello.

July 22, 2023

9:00pm:  BOMBZR

BOMBZR is a groovin' supergroup on the rise in the NYC music scene. With influences like Earth Wind and Fire, Stevie Wonder, and Michael Brecker, BOMBZR’s tight arrangements create a smooth blend of funk and soul while incorporating jazz roots. They bring musical diversity through original songs, catchy melodic hooks, and tasty improvisation to satisfy a wide variety of music lovers. Come see for yourself!

July 23, 2023

9:00pm:  Four Strong Winds: A Tribute to Ian & Sylvia

The Canadian duo Ian and Sylvia played an outsized role in the folk music revival of the 1950’s and 60’s which spanned the globe uniting cultures and communities through music. David Lutken and the original members of The Seat Of The Pants Band celebrate the brilliant songwriting of Ian Tyson (1933 — 2023) and the distinctive voice of Sylvia Fricker through artful renditions of folk standards such as “Four Strong Winds”, “Someday Soon”, “Darcy Farrow” and many more.

July 24, 2023

5:00pm:  Music Without Borders

Jazz pianist Pete Malinverni and classical violinist Juliet Kurtzman present a recital of music that explores and celebrates the many intersections between the (seemingly) disparate genres of Classical, Jazz, and Tango!

9:00pm:  The Mammals

The Mammals effortlessly span the musical horizons of Americana, from soulfully harmonized indie-folk ballads to revved up fiddle and banjo-driven foot stompers. Rooted in the Hudson Valley where they host a thriving community folk festival (The Hoot), the band’s founders Mike Merenda and Ruth Ungar write songs to heal hearts and rouse minds.

July 25, 2023

10:30am: Trout Fishing in America: Songwriting Workshop

Trout Fishing in America is the Grammy-nominated songwriting duo of Keith Grimwood and Ezra Idlet. The Trouts will offer a kid's songwriting workshop - for all to enjoy!

July 25, 2023

9:00pm:  Trout Fishing in America

Trout Fishing in America is the Grammy-nominated songwriting duo of Keith Grimwood and Ezra Idlet. For 45 years, their vibrant, percussive sound and dynamic stage presence has cultivated a multi-generational fan base at performing arts centers, clubs, and music festivals all around the country. The Trouts will also offer a kids songwriting workshop while they are at Mohonk!

July 26, 2023

9:00pm:  Dylan Doyle Band

Southern-born, Northern raised, Dylan Doyle has been steeped in everything from Bob Dylan, Wes Montgomery and Bill Withers to John Prine, Jimi Hendrix, and The Band.  From this comes a unique musical interpretation that lies somewhere within the delta of Roots, Rock, Blues, and Jazz, giving him a style that defies classification.

July 27, 2023

9:00pm:  The Chivalrous Crickets

The Chivalrous Crickets explore the roots and branches of Celtic and American folk music with a focus on boldly reimagined standards and original songs with traditional influence. Members weave their backgrounds in Irish, Scottish, Old Time, pop, and ancient music practices together to create an exhilarating blend of thrumming instrumental timbers and rich vocal harmonies.

July 28, 2023

9:00pm:  Big Valley Bluegrass

From Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania’s bluegrass hotbed, Big Valley Bluegrass is strongly rooted in the tradition while inspired by today’s top bands. The band’s Mohonk debut will feature Nashville-tested originals and covers of songs from legends like Bill Monroe, George Jones, Bob Dylan, Ricky Skaggs, Johnny Cash, and Tony Rice as well as contemporary bluegrass songs from The SteelDrivers to Blue Highway. Join Bill Parker, Alison Gillespie, Keith Kester, and Paul Spriet for spirited songs and foot-stomping instrumentals from the Boat Dock.

July 29, 2023

9:00pm:  The Classics

The Classics are a power trio playing all of your favorite funk, soul, and reggae jams from the 70’s until now. All members have an extensive background in jazz, which allows them to create unique arrangements and revitalize songs while paying homage to the original artists. Prepare to be inspired by this rhythmically tight and full-sounding band

July 30, 2023

9:00pm:  “Lay it Down” with Ben Hope and Eric Anthony

Built around the generation-spanning music of the Everly Brothers and the artists they admired, Lay it Down offers a dynamic concert and evening of storytelling that will transport you back in time to the early days of Rock and Roll. Brought to thrilling life by Ben Hope and Eric Anthony, among Broadway’s best!

July 31, 2023

9:00pm:  Sons of Mystro

Get ready for a musical journey like no other with Sons of Mystro. Violin-playing brothers Malcolm and Umoja, with DJ Venimis fuse classical, pop, and world music instrumentals and vocals creating a heart-pumping mix that will leave you spellbound and asking for more!

August 1, 2023

9:00pm: Frank Vignola Trio

Well known to Birdland regulars, this trio of jazz virtuosos performs restyled tunes from the standard repertoire. Featuring acclaimed guitarist Frank Vignola with Vinny Raniolo (guitar) and Gary Mazzaroppi (bassist).

August 2, 2023

8:30pm: John Kirk and Trish Miller

Join professional dance callers and musicians John Kirk & Trish Miller for an evening of family fun. Singles and couples, experienced and newcomers are all invited to dance the night away under the stars. Live music is the key to making this an especially energetic and timeless activity. Both John and Trish call dances and play the tunes on fiddle, guitar, banjo, and mandolin. No partner or previous experience is necessary!

August 3, 2023

9:00pm: Raina Sokolov-Gonzalez

This Brooklyn-based rising singer/songwriter’s soulful sound infuses Jazz and R&B with emotional depth and a fresh edge. With over 1 million streams on Spotify and a budding global audience, Raina has packed rooms at the Brooklyn Bowl, SOB’s MoMA PS1 among others.

August 4, 2023

9:00pm: Stoop Kidz Brass Band

Stoop Kidz Brass Band was formed in the summer of 2020 as an opportunity for the band members to get together and make music in a safe way. It has blossomed into a beautiful weekly performance that brings joy to the performers and their neighbors in Brooklyn. The band is looking forward to bringing some Funk back to Mohonk!

August 5, 2023

9:00pm: Karl Allweier & Co

Performing a mix of traditional and modern electric blues, Karl Allweier and Company includes some of the area’s finest musicians: Doug Abramson on bass, Roger LaRochelle on drums, and Ron Knittle on saxophone.

August 6, 2023

9:00pm: The Vanaver Caravan Celebrates Pete and Woody

An integral and beloved part of the Hudson Valley arts community, the Vanaver Caravan promotes peace and our shared humanity. The company's Mohonk program celebrates two American folk heroes, Woody Guthrie, and Pete Seeger, through a riveting and spirit-full evening of music and dance.

August 7, 2023

9:00pm: The Pre-Fabs

Slick your hair back, put on your poodle skirt, and get ready for a sock hop! This quartet of hip “Daddy-O’s” brings the origins of Rock ‘n’ Roll to life with classic favorites and deep cuts from the 1950s.

August 8, 2023

9:00pm: Cassatt Quartet

Named for famed American Impressionist artist Mary Cassatt, this New York-based all-female quartet has performed at top concert venues throughout North America, Europe, and the Far East. Their Mohonk parlor program features light classical and romantic music composed and arranged for classical strings.

August 9, 2023

9:00pm: Sunny Side

Sunny Side is a jazz band based out of New Orleans, Louisiana. They are heavily influenced by the music of Louis Armstrong, Sidney Bechet, Fats Waller, Cab Calloway, and many other early jazz legends. You can see this band playing regularly in venues around New Orleans.

August 10, 2023

9:00pm: Craic on Broadway

Craic is pronounced “crack” and, in Irish, means a good or fun experience.  Join multi-talented actor-musicians Maggie Hollinbeck, Alex Nee, and Erica Spyres for an evening of foot-stomping and tear-jerking Irish tunes from the Broadway stage. Featuring songs from Once, Finian's Rainbow, A Man of No Importance, and more, you are assured a crackin’ good time!

August 11, 2023

9:00pm: Black to Gold

This powerhouse six-person acappella group from New York City performs hit songs from the past and present as you’ve never heard them before! Their first album, Wide Awake, was recently honored with a Contemporary A Cappella Recording Award for Best Debut Album. Join Black to Gold for an evening of vocal magic and pure fun!

August 12, 2023

9:00pm: Evie Joy

Performing a comedic genre she dubs “ukulele rap”, Evie Joy infuses lyrics, music, and comedy into a captivating show. This Manhattan multi-instrumentalist uses her ukulele Ed, a keyboard, a bass, multiple percussive instruments, and a loop pedal to build vocal/instrumental arrangements in live performances.

August 13, 2023

9:00pm: Shakespeare in Jazz

Pianist/composer Daniel Kelly transforms text from Shakespeare's dramatic masterpieces into fresh and dynamic jazz songs. Experience the power of Shakespeare's timeless words in an entertaining cabaret setting. Featuring vocalist and GRAMMY-nominee Nicole Zuraitis with Gregory Jones (bass) and Bram Kincheloe (drums).

August 14, 2023

9:00pm: Nicole Zuraitis Band

A Grammy-nominated musician and vocal chameleon, Nicole Zuraitis headlines iconic NYC jazz clubs like Dizzy’s Club at Lincoln Center, Birdland, the Blue Note, and the Carlyle. With a “heart as big as her remarkable voice,” (Jazz Police) Nicole’s effervescent personality and boundless enthusiasm for sharing the joy of music keep her audiences enthralled.

August 15, 2023

9:00pm: Daisy Jopling

Classical/rock violinist Daisy Jopling has toured the world with her band and recorded nine albums. In November 2022, Daisy performed at the Great Pyramids of Giza in Cairo, the first international violinist invited to do so. Daisy's Mohonk debut celebrates summer love with a program ranging from famous love songs to her own original music, featuring pianist Jeff Miller in collaboration with internationally renowned dancer Elisa Toro Franky.

August 16, 2023

8:30pm: Eric Hollman

Join professional dance caller Eric Hollman for a great night of traditional and family-friendly American contra, square, and circle dances to a live fiddle band! No experience is necessary, and fun for all ages!

August 17, 2023

9:00pm: Miss Maybell & The Jazz Age Artistes

Featured on NPR, this in-demand NYC-based combo gives new life to Jazz and Blues songs created over 100 years ago! The group is composed of some of Manhattan’s best Vintage Jazz players including Charlie Judkins on piano, Brian Nalepka on bass and Tuba, Andy Stein on Violin, and Miss Maybell on Voice, Washboard, Banjo and Guitar

August 18, 2023

9:00pm: Sweet Megg

This New York-born, Nashville-based singer performs a range of material steeped in the American traditions of jazz, blues, and country. Her vocals reveal a vast variety of influences, ranging from Billie Holiday to Patsy Cline & from Edith Piaf to Karen Dalton.

Date: July 5, 2023 - August 18, 2023

Location: Mohonk Mountain House - 1000 Mountain Rest Road, New Paltz, NY 12561

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