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The Philadelphia Music Co-op: Guidelines for Applying

As we grow here at PFS, so does our number of artists in the Co-op. With this growth comes increasing skills and talent, and therefore makes the application process more difficult than it has been in the past, both for the applicant and the folks here making the decisions. While we understand that you are enthusiastic about joining, please understand that not everyone can be accepted into the Co-op at once. However, if you don’t become a member now, we encourage you to apply again in the future and we will be happy to offer our constructive criticism on how we think you can grow into what we are looking for.

We have set some guidelines and offer suggestions to help you determine whether you are ready to apply. If you have any questions or concerns about the process or any of the following, please send an email to dhaney@pfs.org. Thanks and good luck!

Guidelines and suggestions for Co-op Applicants:

  • HAVE ORIGINAL MUSIC
    • It is acceptable to have covers, but you must apply with one original.
      • If you think you have an exceptional version of someone else’s song, consider including it after you have included your original.
      • Part of our mission is to preserve traditional folk music, so if that’s what you are playing, that is acceptable. When we say have originals, we just mean that this is not the platform for cover and tribute bands.
  • HAVE LIVE VIDEO
    • Well-made, artistic music videos and videos from lofts and outdoor spaces are beautiful and we appreciate seeing these, but we need to see how you perform on a stage in front of an audience, as well.
      • Don’t have a live video? Get a show together and have a friend take one! It doesn’t need to be high quality, a phone video can give us just as good of an idea about your performance as a professionally shot video.
  • HAVE SOME SHOWS UNDER YOUR BELT
    • We know a common reason to join the Co-op is to get more and better shows, but we need to see that you are far enough along in your musical career to have played live.
      • If you are new to booking shows, consider hosting or having someone you know host a house show and get some fans and friends to come support you!
  • HAVE CURRENT CONTENT
    • Apply with songs and videos that are no more than two years old.
    • Update your website and social media regularly (Please see below).
  • HAVE ONLINE PRESENCE
    • Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Youtube are the gold standard of an artist’s social media presence. These are free to create, but difficult to maintain.
      • Website hosting can be pricey and the task of building a site can be daunting, but with all the free platforms online today, there’s plenty of places to promote yourself before you’re ready to make the leap to having your own site.
      • Consider scheduling weekly updates to keep content current and your fans connected.

          If you have read all of the above guidelines and are still ready:

Apply for the Co-op

Co-op Events

Current Month

may, 2022

Philadelphia Folksong Society 6156 Ridge Avenue , Philadelphia, PA 19128

1may2:00 pm- 3:30 pmPFS Presents Martin Stage Melee Round 4

Event Details

PFS

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Event Details

PFS Presents Martin Stage Melee Round 4 – 5/1 at 2pm

Sunday, May 1st, 2022
Doors 1:30pm | Music 2pm
$13 Members | $15 Not-Yet-Members | $15 Streaming

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Due to the constantly changing reality surrounding the global health crisis of COVID-19, the FIRST priority of the Society is the health and well-being of our community. After raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for artists through our Digital Concert Venue, we are thrilled to welcome you back to our Roxborough Venue, 6156 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA!

PROOF OF VACCINATION MUST BE SHOWN IN ADVANCE OR AT THE DOOR FOR ALL ATTENDEES, AND MASK WEARING WILL BE STRICTLY ENFORCED AT ALL TIMES.

The Martin Stage Melee is a contest to find YOUR favorite artist in the Philadelphia region. 32 acts will compete in 8 sets of 4 to advance to a final round where one act will receive a coveted headlining slot on the Martin Guitar stage at the 60th Annual Philadelphia Folk Festival August 18-22, 2022. Attendees in person and virtually via the livestream will be able to vote for their favorite to win! Support your favorite act or take a chance on a night of incredible new-to-you artists.

Tickets are available IN PERSON at the PFS Venue or streaming Online here at folkfest.org

All persons entering the Philadelphia Folksong Society at 6156 Ridge Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19128 must provide proof of vaccination or negative PCR test within 72 hours and wear a face mask per Philadelphia mandate starting April 18th. If the person does not have an appropriate face mask, per CDC guidelines no vented masks or gaiters, PFS will provide one. Inability to adhere to these protocols will lead to a warning then a removal without refund. PFS’ COVID protocols will be reviewed at each board meeting as the pandemic continues.
About the Artists:
Ami Yares
Ami Yares is the offspring of the Jersey suburbs, raised in the echo of the Liberty Bell, only to find his voice on the shores of the Mediterranean. “Yares wields his 12-string guitar as if it were an entire orchestra, backing his vocals with a dense, rich cascade of sound ” (David Foster, AXS). Influenced by the spectrum of American roots music, Ami’s music merges his Jersey upbringing with wisps of Middle Eastern culture. Yares has performed across the world and US. He released his first solo album Begin to Begin Again in 2018 and works on his sophomore release.
Bethlehem and Sad Patrick
Bethlehem and Sad Patrick perform songs of love and other struggles. Combining her soaring vocals and driving percussion with his sparse guitar, they deliver powerful songs about being in and out of love, keeping your head up in the city, struggling to make your way, and seeking peace on the margins. Sad Patrick’s hybrid of folk, blues and jazz playing supports Bethlehem’s “vocussion” – her powerful singing, remarkable improvisations and nuanced melodies riding atop her tarima stomps and body percussion. Their live shows are enthralling, with their on-the-spot interplay and how fully Bethlehem inhabits their songs and captivates a crowd.
Driftwood Soldier
Driftwood Soldier plays gutter-folk music, a proprietary blend of bittersweet ballads, crooked stories, and thumping blue rants on mandolin, bass guitar, and assorted junk foot-percussion described by Bruce Warren of WXPN as “a bluesy version of Nick Cave with a nod to Tom Waits.”
Their second album, Stay Ahead of the Wolf, was produced with Erin McKeown, mixed by Grammy winner Ted Hutt and released in 2019 to kind words from the likes of Billboard, Glide and Americana Highways. Delivered live with a grin, a growl, and a hint of brimstone, don’t miss the chance to hear this beast howl!
Maggie Mae
Maggie Mae is a soulful singer-songwriter based in Philadelphia who fronts an exciting and energetic Folk/Funk group under the same name. She has been described as “poppy, polished, talented, & promising,” by XPN’s The Key’s John Vettese and has become a fixture in the Philadelphia music scene.
Maggie Mae has shared bills with local and national acts including Soulive, The Heavy Pets, Dawg Yawp, Emily Drinker, the Ladles, and more at many of Philly & New Jersey’s premiere music venues. The band has been hard at work in the studio after completing a successful fundraising campaign for their debut album.

Time

(Sunday) 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm EST

Location

Philadelphia Folksong Society

6156 Ridge Avenue , Philadelphia, PA 19128

Organizer

Philadelphia Folksong Society

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118 North 118 N Wayne Ave, Wayne, PA 19087

6may6:00 pmValentina Sounds Trio at 118 North

Event Details

Valentina Sounds Trio at 118

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Event Details

Valentina Sounds Trio at 118 North

Friday, May 6th, 2022 at 6pm

118 N Wayne Ave, Wayne PA

Click Here For More Info

Who is Valentina Sounds?

Italian born, Philadelphia based Valentina Raffaelli (former front of Sunshine Superman/Sparkle Pony) is excited to release her first solo album, “Bring On The Fire.”

“Bring on the Fire” is the story of the end of a long-term relationship told in a relatable, true to life way. The songs portray the array of emotions of hope, sarcasm, determination, compassion and of course anger and sadness felt during a trying time, while still living life among the surrounding world.

Valentina’s music is a fusion of catchy melodies and pop tunes, perfectly blended with a background in jazz vocals and a love for composition.

Time

(Friday) 6:00 pm

Location

118 North

118 N Wayne Ave, Wayne, PA 19087

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Philadelphia Folksong Society 6156 Ridge Avenue , Philadelphia, PA 19128

6may8:00 pm- 9:30 pmPFS Presents Martin Stage Melee Round 5

Event Details

PFS

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Event Details

PFS Presents Martin Stage Melee Round 5 – 5/6 at 8pm

Friday, May 6th, 2022
Doors 7:30pm | Music 8pm
$13 Members | $15 Not-Yet-Members | $15 Streaming

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Due to the constantly changing reality surrounding the global health crisis of COVID-19, the FIRST priority of the Society is the health and well-being of our community. After raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for artists through our Digital Concert Venue, we are thrilled to welcome you back to our Roxborough Venue, 6156 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA!

PROOF OF VACCINATION MUST BE SHOWN IN ADVANCE OR AT THE DOOR FOR ALL ATTENDEES, AND MASK WEARING WILL BE STRICTLY ENFORCED AT ALL TIMES.

The Martin Stage Melee is a contest to find YOUR favorite artist in the Philadelphia region. 32 acts will compete in 8 sets of 4 to advance to a final round where one act will receive a coveted headlining slot on the Martin Guitar stage at the 60th Annual Philadelphia Folk Festival August 18-22, 2022. Attendees in person and virtually via the livestream will be able to vote for their favorite to win! Support your favorite act or take a chance on a night of incredible new-to-you artists.

Tickets are available IN PERSON at the PFS Venue or streaming Online here at folkfest.org

All persons entering the Philadelphia Folksong Society at 6156 Ridge Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19128 must provide proof of vaccination or negative PCR test within 72 hours and wear a face mask per Philadelphia mandate starting April 18th. If the person does not have an appropriate face mask, per CDC guidelines no vented masks or gaiters, PFS will provide one. Inability to adhere to these protocols will lead to a warning then a removal without refund. PFS’ COVID protocols will be reviewed at each board meeting as the pandemic continues.
About the Artists:
AC SAPPHIRE
AC Sapphire’s songs capture her love for Joshua Tree and Philadelphia where she spilts her time. There is a sense of movement to her songwriting and storytelling. The Mojave is a desolate dreamscape, a vista of mind-bending scenery that seems to transform with every sand-swept step. There’s something exquisitely wild about it, tinged with a hint of danger. On the surface it can appear sparse—even foreboding—but a deeper examination proves it teaming with all the tragedy and transcendence of life. The same can be said for the music of AC Sapphire. And yet, her east coast roots keeps her grounded.
ANDREA NARDELLO
Nardello’s fans describe her as relatable, passionate, soulful, and unapologetically real. A modern torch bearer for the powerful, independent female folk singer. Janis Ian meets Janice Joplin! Nardello’s refined accessibility draws from folk, rock & pop. She can tug at your heartstrings with her softer tunes and get you dancing on your feet with her upbeat songs and powerful voice. Nardello won a contest and had the opportunity to sing with Brandi Carlile at Carlile’s all women’s festival in Mexico and was then named a top “Emerging Artist To Know” by NPR. Nardello is working hard on new music for a 2022 release!
JEFF MAMETT
Jeff Mamett is a storyteller influenced by writers like Guy Clark and John Prine. After years as a sideman, recording and touring with various artists, he began writing and singing his own songs. His album, “Carry Me Back”, was critically acclaimed. Jeff’s music has been described as “a cattle drive down the plains with a cowboy poet” and “…he paints vivid worlds…”. With his warm, baritone voice and laid back manner, his shows are intimate and entertaining.
PAUL SAINT JOHN & THE NIGHTHAWKS
Part Rock, Part Folk, Wholly Sensational – Paul Saint John and the Nighthawks. Forming in 2020, Philadelphia based Scottish Singer Songwriter – Paul Saint John was joined by the Nighthawks, comprising Bryan Quigley on Bass Guitar, Brian Turner on Drums/vocals, and multi-Instrumentalist Chris Palmer. The band released two EPs in 2020 – Whistles and Bells, and Green Lights. In 2021, after releasing a few singles in the summer, the band released its debut album – Sometimes Never Late. 2022 brings the band back into the studio for more recordings, with plans to releasing some singles over the coming year.

Time

(Friday) 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm EST

Location

Philadelphia Folksong Society

6156 Ridge Avenue , Philadelphia, PA 19128

Organizer

Philadelphia Folksong Society

Learn More

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Philadelphia Folksong Society 6156 Ridge Avenue , Philadelphia, PA 19128

8may2:00 pm- 4:00 pmPFS Presents Martin Stage Melee Round 6

Event Details

PFS

more

Event Details

PFS Presents Martin Stage Melee Round 6 – 5/8 at 2pm

Sunday, May 8th, 2022
Doors 1:30pm | Music 2pm
$13 Members | $15 Not-Yet-Members | $15 Streaming

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Due to the constantly changing reality surrounding the global health crisis of COVID-19, the FIRST priority of the Society is the health and well-being of our community. After raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for artists through our Digital Concert Venue, we are thrilled to welcome you back to our Roxborough Venue, 6156 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA!

PROOF OF VACCINATION MUST BE SHOWN IN ADVANCE OR AT THE DOOR FOR ALL ATTENDEES, AND MASK WEARING WILL BE STRICTLY ENFORCED AT ALL TIMES.

The Martin Stage Melee is a contest to find YOUR favorite artist in the Philadelphia region. 32 acts will compete in 8 sets of 4 to advance to a final round where one act will receive a coveted headlining slot on the Martin Guitar stage at the 60th Annual Philadelphia Folk Festival August 18-22, 2022. Attendees in person and virtually via the livestream will be able to vote for their favorite to win! Support your favorite act or take a chance on a night of incredible new-to-you artists.

Tickets are available IN PERSON at the PFS Venue or streaming Online here at folkfest.org

All persons entering the Philadelphia Folksong Society at 6156 Ridge Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19128 must provide proof of vaccination or negative PCR test within 72 hours and wear a face mask per Philadelphia mandate starting April 18th. If the person does not have an appropriate face mask, per CDC guidelines no vented masks or gaiters, PFS will provide one. Inability to adhere to these protocols will lead to a warning then a removal without refund. PFS’ COVID protocols will be reviewed at each board meeting as the pandemic continues.
About the Artists:
CHELSEA REED AND THE FAIR WEATHER FIVE
Chelsea Reed and the Fair Weather Five is a swing and blues band based in Philadelphia, PA. Whether festival stage or listening room, they bring the soul and energy of the dance floor to any show with original compositions and fresh interpretations of long forgotten songs. They have shared the stage with trumpeter Terell Stafford and trombonist Wycliffe Gordon, who is featured on their 2017 release Spreadin’ Rhythm Around. Their 2020 release, Carolina Lullaby, showcases original songs steeped in jazz, blues, and folk traditions where Reed’s soaring vocals and swing musicality shine.
EMILY DRINKER
Emily Drinker is an award-winning singer-songwriter from Philadelphia who makes heads turn with her soulful 3-part harmonies through live looping. She blends folk, pop, and rock with a high-energy backing band consisting of her best friends, with whom she has traveled the world while performing on luxury cruise ships. Emily has been featured by NPR Music, played regional festivals including Firefly, Musikfest, and her beloved Philly Folk Fest, and toured in the US and Colombia. In 2020/2021, she hosted a livestream series called Every Cent Concerts to support local artists during the pandemic. New album coming 4/21/22!
THE HOPPIN BOXCARS
Out of the foothills of Montgomery County comes a-rumblin-sound, the sound of a freight train coming down the tracks. A rag-tag-band of bearded hoboes are Hoppin Boxcars to get to their next gig. Come follow them as they weave their way beyond the tracks as they tell you the stories of our adventures. Us HoBoes will take you on a sonic ride through our tales that will leave you wanting more. The Hoppin Boxcars head down those proverbial-tracks with a full-head-of-steam, swaying-from-side-to side, but-right-on-time, delivering well thought out, foot stompin, Click-It-Tee-Clack songs, that leave our fans frothing for more.
MATTHEW GORDON & SILVERSHADE SCENERY
Award-winning songwriting, sensitive yet funky playing, with a heart in folk and a soul in funk-rock, this band brings an original, creative and intimate spirit that will alternately move you to smile, think deeply, dance, and/or nod your head in recognition of an exposed feeling or vivid mental image. Matthew Gordon & Silvershade Scenery make subtle poetical points with maximum connection from the heart to each individual audience heart.

Time

(Sunday) 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm EST

Location

Philadelphia Folksong Society

6156 Ridge Avenue , Philadelphia, PA 19128

Organizer

Philadelphia Folksong Society

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18may12:00 pmMara Levine with Gathering Time at the Downtown Music Series

Event Details

Mara Levine with Gathering Time

Event Details

Mara Levine with Gathering Time at the Downtown Music Series

Downtown Music series – Live Grace Episcopal Church 33 Church St. White Plains, NY 10601

Co-Bill with Mara and Gathering Time. Free Concert from 12 noon – 1 pm, indoors, the hall seats 250 Those attending the concert must show proof of vaccination (two inoculations required) and wear masks during the program. Mara’s website https://www.maralevine.com

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

 

Time

(Wednesday) 12:00 pm

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Edison Arts Society The Edison Municipal Complex , 100 Municipal Blvd 3rd Floor, ( tile mural entrance) Edison, NJ 08817

18may7:30 pmMara Levine with Gathering Time at Edison Arts Society

Event Details

Mara Levine with Gathering Time

Event Details

Mara Levine with Gathering Time at Edison Arts Society

Mara Levine with Gathering Time at Edison Arts Society – Physical, Shine only Outdoor Gazebo, Papaianni Park Across the street from 100 Municipal Boulevard, Edison NJ 08817 Follow the Sculptural Garden signs. The Gazebo is quite large and you’ll see it as you enter the park. Free Event.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

 

Time

(Wednesday) 7:30 pm EST

Location

Edison Arts Society

The Edison Municipal Complex , 100 Municipal Blvd 3rd Floor, ( tile mural entrance) Edison, NJ 08817

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21may4:00 pmLessick & Lincoln at CubiZm Cafe

Event Details

Lessick & Lincoln at CubiZm

Event Details

Lessick & Lincoln at CubiZm Cafe

Saturday, May 21st at 4pm

CubiZm Cafe– Live and In Person in Lafayette Hill. Contact lincolnsongs@aol.com if interested in attending.

Outdoor in-person, limited seating, RSVP required, Free

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

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Philadelphia Folksong Society | 6156 Ridge Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19128   (215) 247-1300    © 2017 All Rights Reserved          
  • Our
    Organization
    • PFS History, Mission & Vision
    • PFS Team
    • Our Organization
    • PFS Online Store
    • PFS Coloring Pages
    • Financial Statements
    • Employment Opportunities
    • About our Home
    • Venue Rentals
    • Contact PFS
  • Philadelphia
    Folk School
    • Early Childhood Music Education
    • Youth Instrument Classes
    • Adult Instrument Classes
    • Voice Classes
    • Folk Dance
    • Professional Development Workshops
  • Concerts &
    Events
    • 6/10 – Ralph Stanley II & The Clinch Mountain Boys
    • 6/11 – Jake Blount
    • Open Mic at PFS
  • Odyssey of
    American Music
    • Odyssey Program Request
  • Philadelphia
    Music Co-op
    • Co-op Artists
    • Book Co-op Artists
    • Co-op Guidelines
    • Learn More / Apply
  • Philadelphia
    Folk Festival
    • 60th Annual IN PERSON Tickets
    • 60th Annual Digital Tickets
    • FAQs
    • 60th Annual Lineup
    • 60th Annual Schedule
    • 60th Annual Volunteering
      • Volunteer Code of Conduct
    • 2022 Craft Vendor Application
    • 2022 Food Vendor Application
    • 60th T-Shirt Design Contest
    • 2022 PFF Sponsor & Advertising Opportunities
    • Philadelphia Folk Festival Book
    • Contact Philadelphia Folk Festival
  • Music
    Getaways
    • Spring Thing
    • Fall Fling
  • Join
    PFS
Philadelphia Folksong Society