August definitely has some of the bigger music events in the area, as street festivals and folk festivals add to the already busy month of music. Here’s just a snapshot of some of the great musical happenings to check out in Peterborough, the Kawarthas, and beyond.
Rick Fines at Head Lake Park in Haliburton on August 2
When it comes to local blues musicians, you’d be hard pressed to find one as talented, dedicated, and kind as Rick Fines. The Peterborough born and bred guitarist, singer, and songwriter is a local icon having recorded and performed for several decades.
On Tuesday, August 2nd, Rick will take the stage at Head Lake Park (23 York St., Haliburton). Presented by The Rotary Club of Haliburton, the show starts at 7 p.m. and admission is by donation.
“Richmond Woman Blues” – Rick Fines
Fiesta Peterborough Summer Street Festival in downtown Peterborough on August 4
The New Canadians Centre and more present the first Fiesta Peterborough Summer Street Festival on Thursday, August 4th from 4 to 10 p.m. on Hunter St. between George and Water.
In the past, a similar event took place with a Caribbean theme. This year, the event is a little different featuring Latino culture, food, music and dance — but still with great food and music.
Performers include Mistura Fina, Eleye, Rumba Salsa Dance Crew, and much more. Great local food and family fun for everyone. The event is free to attend!
Bobby Watson Birthday Bash at the Market Hall in Peterborough on August 7
Another great Peterborough musician is Bobby Watson. Tasty guitar work and a whole lot of soul have defined his career.
SLAB Productions is presenting a big birthday bash for Bobby at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146) on Sunday, August 7th at 7:30 p.m.
Featured performers include Juno-nominated Jackson Delta Electric (Rick Fines, Gary Peeples, and Al Black) who will be joined by Andy Pryde, and The Session Hounds (Andrew Affleck, John Crown, James McKenty, and Steve O’Connor).
Proceeds for the night go to the Peterborough Musicians Benevolent Association, a local organization supporting musicians during times of need.
Tickets are $30 or $45 for cabaret seating. Tickets are available at the Market Hall Box Office or online at www.markethall.org.
Jackson Delta at the Market Hall
Bill Durst at Holiday Inn in Peterborough on August 12
If you like rippin’ guitar and a tight band, then check out multiple award winner and hard traveller Bill Durst at the Riverside Grill & Gazebo at Holiday Inn Peterborough Waterfront (150 George St., Peterborough, 705-743-1144) on Friday, August 12th. The show is from 6 to 10 p.m.
A beautiful view, rockin’ tunes, and cold beverages. That’s a big part of what summer is all about. Cover is $10.
“Your Love” – Bill Durst
The Hootenanny On Hunter Street in Peterborough on August 13
The Hootenanny On Hunter Street continues to be something to look forward to each and every summer. Music all day, vendors with all sorts of arts, crafts and food, and the satisfaction of a pedestrian-only Hunter Street.
This year the Hoot happens on Saturday, August 13th beginning at noon, and as always it will be on Hunter between George and Aylmer Streets and is free to attend.
The music is always stellar and this year is definitely no different with a mix of local and big touring acts. Canadian rock heroes Sloan will headline this year and will be joined by Melissa Payne and her band, the soul sounds of Slips and the High Fives, Tarantino soundtrack big band Jack Rabbit Slims, the one-man-band awesomeness of Bloodshot Bill, New Grease Revival, Bluegrass Menagerie, alt-country band Diamond Dave and the Smoke Eaters — and opening up the event will be the lovely and talented Kate Suhr.
This is going to be a heck of a day!
“If It Feels Good Do It” – Sloan
“Bring Me Back” – Melissa Payne
Sarah Burton at Elmhirst’s Resort in Keene on August 16
Elmhirst’s Resort continues to be a great place to watch music as their summer-long series of music on the boardwalk happens every Tuesday throughout the summer.
On Tuesday, August 16th, alt-rock/roots/country/folk singer-songwriter Sarah Burton will be performing. Sarah’s music has been described as “acoustic, rock, bluesy, torch, indie jive, country psychedelic, soul-baring beautiful”.
The show will begin at 7 p.m. and there is no cover. Food and beverages are available for purchase.
Note: Trish Robb was originally scheduled to perform on this date.
Sarah Burton
Peterborough Folk Festival at Showplace and Nicholls Oval in Peterborough from August 19 to 21
The Peterborough Folk Festival weekend is always a special time in Peterborough. It signals the home stretch of summer and features a wide swathe of musical talent over three days. Taking place from August 19th to 21st, the Folk Fest is celebrating its 27th year.
On Friday, August 19th at 8 p.m., Juno Award winner Bahamas will be the feature act for the gala concert, which takes place this year at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-7469). Opening the show will be Nick Procyshyn, the Peterborough Folk Festival’s Emerging Artist for 2016
The gala concert is the only part of the weekend with a cost. Tickets for the gala are $30 (plus fees) and are available at the Showplace Box Office or online at www.showplace.org.
“Lost In The Light” – Bahamas
The rest of the festival takes place at Nicholls Oval, is free, and features a long list of great acts.
Saturday, August 20th will feature Born Ruffians, Yukon Blonde, Reuben and the Dark, Cris Derksen, Express and Co., Tim Moxam, New Grease Revival, Lonely Parade, The Kents, Charlotte Cornfield, Catfish Willie, Evangeline Gentle, Kunle, Megan Bonnell and more.
“Needles” – Born Ruffians
“POW_WOW_WOW_” – Cris Derksen
Music begins around 11 a.m. and continues until about 11 p.m.
There will be an after-party at the Pig’s Ear Tavern (144 Brock St., Peterborough, 705-745-7255) featuring Steelburner (members of Burning Hell and United Steelworkers of Montreal) and Mayhemingways. Cost to get in is $3.
Sunday, August 21st has more great music as Dan Mangan, Royal Wood, The Slackers, Fred Penner, My Son the Hurricane, Craig Cardiff, Missy Knott, James McKenty, Kate Suhr, Dub Trinity, and more take the stage.
My Son The Hurricane
“Good To Be Young” – Royal Wood
Carolyn Mark at The Garnet in Peterborouigh
The “Queen of Vancouver Island” Carolyn Mark returns to Peterborough on Friday, August 26th to play The Garnet (231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-0107).
Carolyn is a great songwriter and performer who has worked with the likes of Neko Case, NQ Arbuckle, and Geoff Berner over the years. Her quirky sense of humour and musical prowess shine through in her songs and have earned her many fans across Canada.
Tickets are at the door and the show will begin around 10 p.m.
“Not a Doll” – Carolyn Mark & Her New Best Friends
