Monday, August 18, 2008

Shoal Bay International Blues Fest '08


I have attended many music festivals over the years, but nothing compares to what we experienced at Shoal Bay this weekend. I did double duty as water taxi and also performer with my sister (fiddle) and Aaron (accordion, guitar, and his amazing crowd pleaser, the saw) as the newly minted Shoal Bay Trio. We began the set watching an osprey diving for perch in the bay and ended with the full moon rising over the mountain tops and illuminating the valley. Combined with an appreciative crowd of 100 people at my first public performance, this weekend was a highlight of the summer.
There were boaters from all over the coast as well as a healthy dose of locals, many of whom had a wide variety of musical talent. Everyone of all levels was encouraged to take part in the music with some really great results. Pictured here are Kelly and Mike from Washington playing with a random boater who unleashed some unbelievable electric guitar. I am already looking forward to next year. Thank you again to Mark and the Shoal Bay family for another staggering display of hospitality and genuine mirth.