No doubt about it…Eaglewood is a hidden jewel among summer festivals and more folks would certainly attend if only they knew how remarkable it is.  The 2011 audience survey results provide some insight into what makes Eaglewood special. Following is an excerpt from a report submitted to the Town of Georgina in November 2011.

Summary – 2011 Festival: The three days of blue skies and sunshine contributed to an excellent audience turnout, with between 1,400 and 1,500 total attendance, up considerably from last year.  We attribute much of this increase to the large proportion of new, first time attendees (27.6%).  Despite a downturn in the economy and fewer grant funds from 2010, the festival broke even, meaning all the bills were paid. Our success is due to strong leadership, hard work and commitment by board members, effective marketing initiatives, good weather and keen attendees.

2011 Attendance: Ticket purchases were 22% higher than 2010 with a total audience turnout of approximately 1,200.  Adding to this the large number of volunteers (100), and the number of musical artists and their guests (130) and the vendors and their staff/helpers (50), we estimate overall attendance to be between 1,400 and 1,500 in total. This represents a substantial increase over last year (approx. 30%)
Survey Results: The 76 audience participants surveyed represented 203 total attendees or 2.67 people per party, an indication that many families and groups attended. Of the 76 respondents, 63 (31%) were Georgina residents.  140 (69%) of the 203 represented came from other locations; furthest home location was Vancouver.

- Only 1 (2 in party) answered “no”, that they would not attend again based on their experience so far.

- 9 parties (11.8%) said “maybe” when asked if they would attend again based on their experience so far.

- 66 parties (86.8%) said “yes” when asked if they would attend again based on their experience so far.

- The combined total indicates an overwhelming majority (98.7%) answering “yes” or “maybe” when asked if they would attend again, based on their experience so far.  This indicates a very high satisfaction rating and will hopefully translate into return visits next year.

Eaglewood has created a growing community of like-minded people of all ages, who love getting together on the fourth weekend of August to experience the Eaglewood Folk Festival on the beautiful grounds of the Eaglewood Resort and Nature Park. The reasons for attending are many and varied, but the common thread seems to be the “vibe” and “atmosphere” experienced during the festival – a communion and inclusiveness of ordinary people, regardless of their ability, sharing their love of live music.

Comments from some of the 2011 Survey Forms:
“Amazing!  Family friendly, great vibe, bringing everyone I know next year”

“Relaxing family festival & diverse talent”

“Love it! All aspects of it!”

“It has been a wonderful weekend! Great talent – Great vibe!”

“Great family atmosphere / great music”

“We love this festival”

“I like the camping/community aspects of the festival and the ‘Player’ aspects as well”

“Great music and atmosphere”

“Great music variety in performers, easy going people, natural setting & 24/7 music and camping”

“Low key, great talent, close to Toronto”

“Wonderful performers, great experiences and people!”

“Love the peaceful atmosphere and I appreciate all instruments and the ages that play them”

“I like the format & atmosphere”

“I’m a child of the 60’s and adore folk music!”

“Setting is beautiful, nice variety of music – can’t believe I’ve never been before!”

“It’s my local festival (and Georgina certainly is in need of a folk festival)”

“Love it!  Plan to attend entire weekend next year. Amazing atmosphere & performers”

We are looking forward to another fantastic festival in 2012.  Are you planning to attend?

Positive feedback is still streaming in about the 22^nd Eaglewood Folk Festival, August 26, 27, 28^th. A flood of unsolicited reports from attendees, volunteers, vendors and artists are commenting about what an awesome festival we put on.  If you were there, you knew just how special it was.

Future Eaglewood Audience

I always knew that Eaglewood was different from other music festivals. Now I am convinced that Eaglewood is completely unique.  No wonder so many loyal patrons return to Eaglewood each year. This year, lots of new folks were exposed to our wonderful festival. Old or new, many attendees have eagerly shared their comments.  Here are just a few:

“thank-you again for an amazing experience at your festival. Honestly, in 7 years of doing festivals I have never been in such a well organized laid back environment. From the boys at the gate to the MC…all of it was top notch !!!” First Time Vendor

“…what a wonderful time we had at Eaglewood 2011, and how much we appreciate the hard work, inspiration and dedication necessary to make such a memorable event happen. We’re especially grateful that we could bring our dog; he loved it too. We’ll all be back next year!” New Attendee

“This weekend will live on in people’s memories as a beautiful summer experience for years to come.”Artist

The survey forms yielded comments like “very laid back”, “setting is beautiful, nice variety of music – can’t believe I’ve never been here before!”, “relaxed atmosphere”, “Amazing! Family friendly, good vibe, bringing everyone I know next year.”, “Love it!  All aspects of it!”, “Great music, variety in performers, easy going people, natural setting & 24/7 music at camping”, “I LOVE EAGLEWOOD – BIG FAMILY”

Thanks to everyone who assisted in their own special way to make this such a memorable event. An Eaglewood community spirit was very evident. Individuals, merchants and businesses extended their support in many ways; purchase of memberships and tickets, sponsorships and program advertising, attendance at fundraising concerts, donations of home baking, in-kind contributions, lending of equipment, willingness to billet performers, many hours of volunteer work, offers to promote, eagerness to assist.  This community-spirited support is so appreciated by our not-for-profit volunteer organization.

Yes, Eaglewood is a special festival. Let’s keep the Eaglewood vibe alive and thriving. I invite you to share your comments about your Eaglewood experience.

Denise Sheedy, President

Have something to share about the Eaglewood Folk Festival?  What makes it so special to you? Add your thoughts by clicking the “comment” button below and telling us about your Eaglewood experience.

…why I love this festival…
I am selective in which festivals I attend as time and money make it necessary.  I make a point of coming to Eaglewood every year and have done so for the past 7 or 8 years.   What brought me the first time was the reasonable cost for the weekend package and it’s close vicinity to Barrie (where I lived at the time I first attended).  One reason I keep coming back is that the price is still reasonable and it has not gotten too big (big enough to keep it interesting but not so big that I’m over-whelmed although word does seem to be getting out – alas.)

Comparatively speaking to other festivals I’ve attended, this festival provides a nice mix of familiar artists with new and upcoming.  The variety is always a nice mix.  I think it is great that the stages are far enough apart that there is no overlap of the music.  I love the accoustic stage and it’s setting – very informal and it provides the opportunity for many unknown talents to express themselves in a very warm and supportive environment.  I’ve been coming for a few years now so of course I now find myself seeing many familiar faces and look forward to seeing them.

I absolutely love that we can camp on site and it is nice grounds for doing so – NOT field camping (if you know what I mean).  For those who want to camp in a group, there are those options but still enough space on the grounds that if one wants a little more privacy or quiet, it can be found.  I love that there is always opportunity for us camp fire hacks to jam.  Doesn’t get better than that.

I especially love that the organizers make a point of making the grounds accessible to people with challenges.

Jay ce

Press Release – August 11, 2011

Enthusiasm is mounting for the 22^nd annual Eaglewood Folk Festival taking place in Pefferlaw on the weekend of August 26 to 28, 2011. For lovers of authentic, singer-songwriter music, this outdoor festival is a great Canadian music experience. Nestled into the pine trees of the fully wheelchair accessible Eaglewood Resort, the three day festival is an ideal family destination.

The Eaglewood Folk Festival has a long history of presenting new and exciting Canadian roots music talent – music that has put Canadian artists on the world stage. Performers include Juno winners, platinum album sellers and darlings of the CBC. This year’s line-up features over 20 musical acts including “Canadian Roots Music Legend” Ken Whiteley and “Goddess of the Blues” Rita Chiarelli. Also appearing are Luke Doucet, Melissa McClelland, One Hundred Dollars, Brock Zeman, Alejandra Ribera, David Baxter, Patrick Brealey, Quebec band Belzebuth and many, many more.  The Hogtown Roots All-Stars is a 13 member compilation of well-known Toronto artists, lead by Sean Cotton in their rendition of the Band’s “The Last Waltz”, a high-powered conclusion to the festival on Sunday night.

As new Artistic Director, Tina DesRoches brings passion and enthusiasm to this year’s Eaglewood Folk Festival.  “Attendees will certainly get their money’s worth of great entertainment” comments DesRoches.  New this year are interactive workshops offering ukulele, zen guitar and song writing instruction and a Youth Showcase for young performers to demonstrate their talent, vying for a chance to perform on the main stage.

Eaglewood is a family-friendly event that includes workshops, artisans village, food vendors, open mic, song circles and jamming all weekend long.  Attendees are urged to bring their instruments.  There is a playground, pony rides and Kid’s Town area with crafts and activities all day Saturday and Sunday. Camping for 400 is available on the 90-acre site.

The festival is about 40 minutes northeast of Markham and just minutes from the beaches of Lake Simcoe – a wonderful swimming destination and perfect for daytrippers from the GTA. More information, including advance ticket prices, can be found at www.eaglewoodfolk.com. You can also call 1-888-817-FOLK (3655).

See you at Eaglewood in two weeks!

PRESS RELEASE – JULY 28, 2011

The Eaglewood Folk Festival announces a strategy that supports all local businesses.  Festival attendees are being asked to enter a draw to win a grand prize valued at over $200. All they have to do is to shop locally during the three day event, including the preceding day – August 25th. On the back of every receipt from purchases made at any Georgina business, they record their name, town and phone number, and drop it into the large drum on site at the festival.  Any legitimate receipt for any product is eligible. The draw takes place on Sunday, August 28th on the main stage where the winning receipt will be announced.

“The object of the draw is twofold”, according to Eaglewood Folk Festival President, Pefferlaw resident and business-owner Denise Sheedy.  “The festival organizers want to encourage event attendees to buy local…to purchase their food and other festival requirements during their visit to Georgina. We also want to show support to our local community that supports the festival, whose financial help and in-kind donations we rely on for the successful functioning of our event.”

The draw is open to every festival goer and there is no limit to the number of receipts any one person can submit.  Every festival attendee can be involved and it costs nothing to participate. It also costs the merchants of Georgina nothing to reap the rewards of hundreds of festival goers shopping locally. Eligible receipts must show dates of August 25, 26, 27 or 28th, and be entered into the on-site draw drum.   The owner of the winning receipt does not have to be present. “This is a first time grassroots effort”, says Sheedy. “It will be gratifying to see the big drum filled with receipts and know that local businesses are benefiting.”

The Eaglewood Folk Festival is a not-for-profit organization run by volunteers that produces an annual three day music festival at the Eaglewood Resort and Nature Park, 9715 Morning Glory Rd, Pefferlaw, ON.   In its 22nd year on August 26 – 28, 2011, the family-friendly event features diverse and original folk/roots music on three stages, interactive workshops, children’s program, food vendors and artisan village.

For more information about the festival and the “Shop Local Draw”, and to see how you can support the Eaglewood Folk Festival, please visit the website www.eaglewoodfolk.com or contact Denise Sheedy at 905- 722-9569.

 Eaglewood Presents

  Old School Country meets New School Cool

  Saturday, July 24th, 2011!

 The Dakota Tavern, 249 Ossington Ave, Toronto

 6:30pm – 10pm

 $10

 Leon Knight and the Neon Lights will take to you the time of Buck Owens, George Jones,  Loretta Lynn, Hank  Williams and more of your ol’timey  favorites. They’ll also throw  in a few original tunes which will have you asking… “who wrote that?  Isn’t that an old Ray Price tune or no wait… perhaps Roger Miller…”  

Then we’ll bring in Marshall Dane from ‘Marshall Dane and the Law’.  He’ll be playing his own rockin’ country hits.  Marshall has been opening for the likes of Alan Jackson, Blue Rodeo, Gord Downey… he is a true entertainer thru and thru! 

Then we’ll see what happens when we fuse the ol’timey goodness with the new school cool!  A night not to be missed!  Definitely wear your dancing shoes – cause at the Dakota – it’s not only alright to get up and shake some tail - it’s expected!

Another treat has  just been added to this show  ~ David Newland will serve as our charming Ukulele-playing host for the evening. 

Oh, and by coming out you’ll also be supporting Eaglewood Folk Festival.  You will also be able to purchase tickets and pick up our awesome $5 /off weekend pass coupons.

See you there!

                          New Artists Added to Eaglewood’s Lineup  &                    Early Bird Ticket Deadline Extended – July 15th!!

I am thrilled to announce that Rita Chiarelli, Kae Sun, Daniel Sky Band and Marky Weinstock have been added to Eaglewood’s lineup!

I’ve updated the Eaglewood Radio Player with more songs – take a listen or check out their websites!

I’m on draft four of the schedule.   I’ll be posting the main stage schedule soon and the full weekend program fill follow soon after that.

I spent last Saturday at Music in the Streets in Keswick and was blown away by how many young and talented musicians there are in the area.  It was a really great event and I’m happy to say we’ll be inviting some of the performers we heard to play the Youth Showcase on Saturday at Eaglewood. 

I’ve secured a Sunday early morning meditation and Yoga session with Paola di Paolo from Four Directions Yoga (Keswick).  It will take place at the main stage so bring your cushion and your mat and some comfy clothes.

Also, there will be some inspiring interactive workshops with our performers and an open stage where you can perform your heart out, not to mention the random jam sessions – so be sure to also bring your instruments and your best singing voice.

If you have not purchased your tickets yet – what are you waiting for?  This is such a great deal and the lineup just keeps getting better and better. 

Be well.  See you Soon.

Tina

The Lineup is posted.  Check it out!

Click on the Images for links to Performer’s websites.
You can listen to a mix of 2011 performers here as well – more songs to come

Thanks to all who sent in submissions to perform at Eaglewood this year.  I’m just adding some finishing touches to our lineup and then I’ll start on the schedule.   It was so much fun listening to all of the submissions.  I have selected some of my all time favorite musicians as well as some new (to me) artists that I discovered through the Sonic Bids and Ontario Council of Folk Festivals process.   I’m really excited about how it’s all coming together. I hope you are too!

Have you purchased your Early Bird Tickets yet?                               Remember deadline for savings is June 30th!  

Seriously, where else can you go for $45 and get to experience a full weekend of  Great Music, Fresh Air, Good Vibes,  Family Fun, Interactive Workshops, Guided Nature Hikes, Yoga and Meditation  all in a beautiful natural setting.

Be sure to look for an Eaglewood Board Member at one of the following events and receive a coupon for an extra $5 of f of your weekend pass.  

Here is Where You Can Find Us:

       Tonight  (Friday June 3^rd) at the Dakota Tavern for David Baxter’s gig

       Sunday, June 5^th – Good Times Café in New Market – 2pm – BlueGrass fun

       Saturday, June 25^th – Keswick’s Music in the Street – all day

      Join our Facebook Group for updates of where we’ll be handing them out:  Join

Looking forward to seeing you out there!

Eaglewood supports music in the community!  Join us Saturday, May 7th, 2011  -  Avening Hall for Justin Rutledge  & The Beauties

Tickets are $20 and can be purchased ONLINE HERE or by calling Sara at 705-466-9906

Every ticket is a winner but one ticket holder will also get two  free weekend passes to the Eaglewood Folk Festival!

The Avening Hall is a great example of community coming together to make music magic happen.  It’s located in the hamlet of Avening, about an hour north of Toronto on Airport Road  (near Creemore).   Avening Hall and its promoters, the Friends of  the Mad River, have hosted some of Canada’s finest indie-folk musicians including  Neko Case, Sarah Harmer, Elliott Brood, Fred Eaglesmith, Luther Wright and the Wrongs, the Silver Hearts,  James McKenty and the Spades, Mathew Barber, Jenny Whiteley, Carolyn Mark, NQ Arbuckly and Willie P. Bennet among others…

Let’s help keep music alive in our communities!   All you have to do is enjoy the show!

]]> http://www.eaglewoodfolk.com/2011/05/334/feed/ 0 http://www.eaglewoodfolk.com/2011/04/enriching-your-festival-experience/ http://www.eaglewoodfolk.com/2011/04/enriching-your-festival-experience/#comments Tue, 05 Apr 2011 18:12:18 +0000 sheedy http://www.eaglewoodfolk.com/?p=312

Mark your calendar for the 2011 Eaglewood Folk Festival – August 26, 27, 28.  Great things are developing this year for the festival, thanks to an infusion of new life at the core. We have hired Tina DesRoches to serve as volunteer Artistic Director, have built a strong new board comprised of 10 local residents, and are forging new relationships with other local organizations.  Our overall intention for the festival is to develop a fuller program of entertainment and activities to create a more engaging and memorable event experience for all involved.

Tina’s artistic focus is on seeking out and hiring brilliant and entertaining artists as well as programming new interactive workshops to educate and engage audiences of all ages and abilities.  She is building an artistic line-up of talented and diverse musicians from across Canada, as well as one international artist.  Stay tuned for Tina’s upcoming announcements.

Workshops are being programmed allowing performers and audience members to participate in instructional sessions focusing on musicianship and skill-building.  There will be lots of opportunities to join in so be sure to bring your instrument.  Also, the “greening” of the Eaglewood Folk Festival will highlight environmental awareness and hands-on education workshops conducted by experts.

For the young and young-at-heart, you will see a youth showcase, open mic and jamming sessions as well as bands performing energetic and exciting music geared to new generation (18-30) audiences. Our popular children’s program will operate Saturday and Sunday, with the parade scheduled for mid-afternoon on Sunday.

Yes, a lot of planning is going into enriching your festival experience. But don’t worry…the prices are not changing and the feel-good intimacy will always remain at the heart of the festival.

Please support the festival by purchasing Memberships @ $30 or $100 (Kin sponsor); see details by clicking here. Also, buy your festival tickets now…Early Bird Weekend Passes are only $45 and are on sale now – click here. As well, more volunteers are needed – click here.

Stay tuned for more news coming soon!

Denise Sheedy
President, Eaglewood Folk Festival