FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE UNTIL JUNE 10, 2005


PEOPLE'S CHOICE CONCERT AT THE FOLK FACTORY

FRIDAY, JUNE 10, 2005 at 8:00 PMOn Friday, June 10, The Folk Factory will present its annual People's Choice Concert with performers chosen by audience voting at four monthly Open Stages: The Saint Mad Trio, Drew Calvin, Becky Davidson, Ryan Williams, and Rusty & Jan.Doors open at 7:30; show begins at 8:00 pm. Admission is by requested donation of $7 to $15 (sliding scale), half price for no or low wage, with children under 12 admitted free.The Folk Factory coffeehouse is located at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Restoration in Mount Airy, at 6900 Stenton Avenue (the corner of Stenton Avenue and Gorgas Lane).

The members of the Saint Mad Trio bring a wealth of combined musical experience to their quirky brand of pop. Rich vocal textures, unusual harmonies, and compassionate, thought-provoking lyrics are hallmarks of their original tunes and arrangements of familiar standards. The trio, Molly Mahoney - vocals & keyboard, Martha Michael - vocals & trumpet, and Jim Harris - vocals & guitar, met in the choir at St. Madeleine Sophie Church in Mount Airy, where Molly was musical director for many years. Three years ago, they began writing songs together and playing at various venues and charitable events in the Philadelphia area. They are currently working on their first CD.

Becky Davidson started playing guitar in the 60's and was heavily influenced by the folk singers and social issues of that time. A political activist for many years, songs of struggle and justice are always part of her repertoire, along with any ballad with a beautiful melody and an interesting story. We welcome Becky back for her second year as a winner of the People’s Choice competition.

Whether jamming with fellow folkies at Spring Thing or moving audiences with inspired original songs, Drew Calvin is a joy to listen to. His music has earned praise from Mary Chapin Carpenter, Robin and Linda Williams, Jimmie Dale Gilmore, and Tom Prasada-Rao. Drew was a 2003 winner of the Performing Songwriter contest at Wildflower Festival in Texas, and a past three-time People’s Choice winner at the Folk Factory. His artistry springs from a life lived all over the world in every conceivable life-condition (except rich and famous) and over three decades learning music and poetry.

New Jersey native Ryan Williams has been actively writing songs ever since teaching himself guitar eight years ago. His music consists of a blend of relevant, introspective, sometimes humorous lyrics and memorable melodies that span and blend several genres of music. He is currently working on his debut EP, which he plans to release independently in the late summer. Ryan is also an amateur photographer, and has been known to 'trod the boards' of theatre from time to time appearing in such notable works as “Our Town” and “A Midsummer Night's Dream.”

For four years Rusty & Jan have provided a different slant on folk music with the use of guitar and flute. They combine Rusty’s 30 plus years as a singer songwriter and Jan’s extensive classical preparation, resulting in “a fusion of acoustic familiarity with a classic twist.” Their music ranges from originals to selective covers as well as classical and special projects. While their influences come from traditional & pop music they express themselves in a unique style not usually heard in music today taking the folk / lead guitar formula and reinventing it with Jan’s flute. The result is a vocal, guitar, and woodwind interaction that creates a magical interpretation that should not be missed. Rusty and Jan were also selected for the People’s Choice concert in 2003.

The Folk Factory, based at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Restoration in Mount Airy, is a forum for people interested in music of all kinds and progressive social change. Facilitated announcements of progressive events (marches, boycotts, etc.) can be made before the start of each event.The Folk Factory is an organizational affiliate of the People's Music Network for Songs of Freedom and Struggle, co-founded by Charlie King and Pete Seeger. Regular concerts are normally on the second Friday of most months, and an Open Stage/Open Circle is held on the fourth Thursday of most months.For more information visit www.folkfactory.org or call (215) 886-3482.