Laith Al-Saadi
2023-12-14 20:00 - 23:00 (America/Detroit) | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
In 2016, Laith Al-Saadi won America’s hearts and a spot in the Season 10 finale of NBC’s “The Voice.” Now he’s bringing an authentic blend of blues, soul and classic rock to audiences around the nation and the world. Laith Al-Saadi has always had the perfect combination of Midwestern hustle and incredible musical chops—honed at the University of Michigan school of music in his hometown of Ann Arbor, and on stages across the country working with legends like Taj Mahal, Luther Allison, Buddy Guy, Son Seals, Gregg Allman, and B.B. King. “Laith is one of the most diverse talents we have,” said Maroon 5 frontman and “The Voice” coach Adam Levine. “Incredible guitar player, incredible singer.” Audiences have agreed, propelling Laith’s album “REAL” to the top of the blues chart for five weeks and the top 20 album chart for two weeks. Guitar Center has crowned him one of the top four blues guitarists in the United States.

The RFD Boys
2023-12-15 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
It’s hard to believe, because each show is fresh and new, but the RFD Boys have been delighting Michigan audiences since 1969 with their fabulous musicianship and sly, exquisitely timed between-song humor. They’re legends of Michigan bluegrass, but they’re more than that too. With an appearance on the cover of Bluegrass Unlimited, with songs recorded by the likes of the Country Gentlemen, and with performances alongside bluegrass greats like Bill Monroe and Ralph Stanley, the RFD Boys are a part of America’s bluegrass tradition. The RFD Boys are one of southeastern Michigan’s most durable musical ensembles, and their shows capture a deep slice of musical Ann Arbor. Their 50th-anniversary appearance at the Folk Festival was a special moment and introduced many listeners to Dan Roehrig, who joined the band on guitar, mandolin, and bass in mid-2018. Dan grew up listening to Doc Watson, Clarence White, and Tony Rice, and you can hear it in both his singing and guitar playing.

Blackthorn
2023-12-16 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
At it since 1984, Blackthorn offers shows that involve a musical ramble across Ireland. Traditional songs of emigration, ballads, shanties and jigs and reels combine with some of Ireland’s best contemporary songs for a musical experience that is uniquely Irish. Each of the band’s five members plays multiple instruments, including flute, accordion, tin whistle, fiddle, banjo, cittern, bodhran, and more. These instruments complement the lead vocal of Belfast native Richard McMullan and the band’s tight blend of four-part harmony. This band has been bringing a rich tapestry of Celtic music to southeast Michigan and beyond for almost 40 years, and they’re a must-see for those who want to know the deep traditions of Irish music in Michigan. They’re members of the Michigan Irish American Hall of Fame. And, this being December, there may be a holiday tune or two!

Vienna Teng
2023-12-17 19:30 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
“I was in a long-distance relationship with music for many years,” jokes singer-songwriter Vienna Teng. Long-distance, perhaps, but long-running. In 2002, Vienna released her debut album Waking Hour, landing her on NPR’s Weekend Edition, The Late Show with David Letterman, and the top of Amazon’s music charts. Four more albums followed, most recently Aims in 2013, as well as the music for The Fourth Messenger by playwright Tanya Shaffer. Together with Vienna’s captivating live performances and thoughtful online presence, her work has built a devoted following across generations and continents.
Still, other pursuits have always beckoned. Vienna returned to academia in 2010 to study environmental sustainability, which led to a new career working on climate change, energy and waste issues. She also became a bonus parent to her partner’s two kids, and in early 2020 welcomed a newborn addition to the family – just in time for pandemic lockdown.
“I learned a lot about what it means to hold two truths in your head at the same time, as the saying goes,” Vienna says of that period. Out of that idea emerged some of the most intricate and impassioned songwriting she’s ever done: a pair of songs called “We’ve Got You,” about leading and leaning on one’s community. When she performs it on stage – solo, live-looping her voice, keyboards and percussion to layer the two songs together – the audience response is electric.
“We’ve Got You” also marks a new chapter of merging her musical and environmental vocations. In 2022, she launched a “music x climate action” community on Patreon, combining monthly livestream shows with Zoom climate action sessions, and hosting workshops between concerts that participants have described as “life-changing,” “rocket fuel,” and “the perfect antidote to despair.”
The long-distance phase is over. Now it’s time for communion – and moving forward.
Are you ready to do more about climate change, but feel a bit overwhelmed? Wish you knew where to put your limited time & energy? This workshop might be for you:
Drawing on her recent years working in environmental sustainability, Vienna will help you discover what enjoyable, meaningful climate action looks like for you personally, tailored to your unique circumstances, interests, and superpowers. You’ll get to know some fellow music lovers taking their own similar journeys, and you’ll come away with practical first steps to actually make it happen. (Plus there might be a bonus music moment or two.)
The workshop will run for 2 hours and will be capped at 20 participants, to make sure each person gets ample support.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1217-climate-action-workshop-with-vienna-teng-the-ark-tickets-641584324987

Maggie Cocco's Science for Sociopaths
2023-12-18 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
One of Michigan’s international exports, Maggie Cocco returns with a preview of her first analog album, “Like A Moth,” slated for release in 2024. Through “Science for Sociopaths,” Cocco crafts evocative theatrical song cycles that delve into themes of systemic and interpersonal wounds and connection. Boasting awards including Best Music at Auckland Fringe Festival, Maggie Cocco’s Science for Sociopaths is “radiant but raw, presenting beautifully melodic odes of unvarnished truths,” says Jeff Milo of Deep Cutz.
Maggie is joined by Ann Arbor’s own Joanna Sterling. Armed with an arresting voice and a command of melody sharper than Artemis’ arrow, Sterling is captivating hearts with every midwest listening room appearance. Her songs are tales of love and loss, the insights of a practicing psychotherapist, the murmured rituals of a Tarot reader, the triumphant LGBTQ+ anthems of a trans woman emboldening marginalized voices by giving us her own. Her new album, “Queen of Wands,” is available now on all listening platforms.

The Ark's Open Stage
2023-12-20 20:00 - 23:00, 2024-01-10 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Whether you’re looking for your big break, want to perfect your live performance skills, or just want to perform live for the sheer fun of it, Open Stage nights offer supportive audiences and a terrific space. Twelve performers have eight minutes (or two songs) each to do their thing. Sign-up: doors open at 7:30 p.m. At 7:55 we randomly select the names for the first half, and at 8:30 we draw names for the second half. If your name isn’t chosen, bring your raffle ticket with you to the next Open Stage (often the first and third Wednesdays of the month–check our calendar or website, theark.org), and you’ll double your chances.

The Dick Siegel Trio presents Angelo's Restaurant Going Away Party
2023-12-21 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
One of America’s great songwriters, Michigan legend Dick Siegel teams up with longtime compadre guitarist Dave Roof, and upright bassist Charlie Reischl to bring his irresistible and exuberant music to life. Strains of American folk, blues, jazz and r&b weave through Dick’s songs in classics like “Angelo’s” (and since Angelo’s restaurant is closing, you really have to come to this show!) and “What Would Brando Do?” Sometimes there’s a hint of Hank Williams … a bit of Louis Jordan, Bob Dylan … the zaniness of Spike Jones… even a little T.S. Eliot meets the Beatles. It’s all Dick Siegel music – served up hot and fresh.

Crossroads Ceili
2023-12-30 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
The Ark’s annual Crossroads Ceili is a great way to mark the turning of the year. It’s a gathering of local Celtic-oriented singers, instrumentalists, and dancers, all sharing the stage to get your Celtic music year off to a good start. If you’d like to get an idea of the depth of southeastern Michigan’s Celtic music scene, the Ceili is a great place to do it. Fiddler Mick Gavin, the organizer of the Ceili and a frequent performer there, was recently inducted into the Irish Music Hall of Fame. This show frequently has special guest artists direct from Ireland. Watch this space for updated lineup!

50 First Jokes
2024-01-02 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
The tradition that started more than a decade ago at the Bell House in Brooklyn, New York, and now is a much-anticipated event also in Los Angeles and other cities, is coming back to Ann Arbor! Fifty of the area’s up-and-coming and veteran comics come together to tell the first jokes they’ve written for the new year, kicking off the 2024 comedy scene in the most righteous way possible! It’s fast, it’s fresh, and above all it’s funny. It’s also not going to break the bank, so why not check out some Michigan comic voices you may not have known about?

Gemini's 150th Birthday Celebration
2024-01-03 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
You read that right! Gemini, the Michigan duo of San and Laz Slomovits, consists of a pair of twin brothers, and they’re celebrating their 75th birthdays. Gemini is well known and loved for their shows for families. But lately, thanks in part to the budding folk career of San’s daughter Emily —who will be joining them for this show — they’ve reinvigorated their career singing music for adults. They’ll also be joined by their longtime Good Mischief Band, Mike Morrison on drums and Eric Fithian on bass. The brothers play songs by many of the artists who’ve inspired them, including Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan, Tom Paxton, and the Beatles. They also sing their own songs, as well as poetry they’ve set to music. Leave the kids at home with their favorite babysitter and come celebrate and sing with two beloved Michigan musicians!
This show is not aimed specifically at families.

The RFD Boys
2024-01-05 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
It’s hard to believe, because each show is fresh and new, but the RFD Boys have been delighting Michigan audiences since 1969 with their fabulous musicianship and sly, exquisitely timed between-song humor. They’re legends of Michigan bluegrass, but they’re more than that too. With an appearance on the cover of Bluegrass Unlimited, with songs recorded by the likes of the Country Gentlemen, and with performances alongside bluegrass greats like Bill Monroe and Ralph Stanley, the RFD Boys are a part of America’s bluegrass tradition. The RFD Boys one of southeastern Michigan’s most durable musical ensembles, and their shows capture a deep slice of musical Ann Arbor. Their 50th-anniversary appearance at the Folk Festival was a special moment and introduced many listeners to Dan Roehrig, who joined the band on guitar, mandolin, and bass in mid-2018. Dan grew up listening to Doc Watson, Clarence White, and Tony Rice, and you can hear it in both his singing and guitar playing.

The Yellow Room Gang
2024-01-06 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
The Yellow Room is the “brilliantly yellow” living room of Tamulevich’s house on Ann Arbor’s Old West Side, where gang members meet monthly for musical brainstorming and mutual critique. There are eight members of the gang, most or all of whom are on hand for any given show: Annie Capps, Kitty Donohoe, Jan Krist, Michael Hough, David Tamulevich, David Barrett, Jim Bizer, and Matt Watroba. Each an accomplished songwriter and performer in their own right, they create a unique atmosphere of respect and support, friendship and generosity finding new and unexpected ways to explore beyond their previous personal boundaries. Come and be a fly on the wall as the exchange of creative ideas flows freely! “To have any one of these songwriters perform at Trinity House is a real treat,” says promoter Bill Keith. “To have them perform together is unbelievable.” The Yellow Room Gang has been around for more than 15 years now, with all the members coming up with new music all the while.

Neil Woodward Trio
2024-01-07 19:30 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Neil Woodward’s musical performances bring to life the Michigan Experience for Great Lakes audiences and visitors from around the world. Neil’s first time to play at The Ark was 1975. He is recipient of Michigan State University’s Michigan Traditional Arts 2018 Heritage Award for leadership and artistry in folk music. In 2003 the State of Michigan Legislature officially designated Neil “Michigan’s Troubadour” in recognition of his life-long commitment to preservation of Great Lakes folk music and culture. He performs in historical settings (Greenfield Village/Henry Ford and Crossroads Village/Huckleberry Railroad), and modern ones: schools, libraries, parks, festivals, lighthouses, theaters, and homes present Neil’s award-winning instrumental skills and storytelling. Neil Woodward is a Michigan treasure, and if you’ve never seen him before, you should!
Tonight’s concert is a benefit for Sweet Relief Musicians Fund. “This life is a treasure. It is such a blessing to be playing music for a living, sharing stories and songs with people around the world! Yet, we are all one short step away from a world of trouble. Having to miss one gig can be the difference between having the rent covered or having to sleep under a bridge. We need to lend a hand when we are able. I invite you to attend the show, but please make a contribution if you can. Thank you and BIG thanks to Sweet Relief, The Ark, and everyone supporting folks doing this work!” -Neil Woodward

Albert Lee
2024-01-08 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
British guitar legend Albert Lee, regarded by many as one of the world’s finest guitar players, with a career spanning more than 50 years, needs no introduction for country, blues and rock fans. Widely hailed for his fingerstyle and hybrid picking technique, Albert Lee helped to redefine country guitar for a whole generation of players with his song “Country Boy.” Albert’s many career highlights include two Grammy wins, five years in the Eric Clapton band (at Clapton’s request Albert played the Crossroads Festival with Eric at Madison Square Garden) and stints with the Rolling Stones’ Bill Wyman, The Crickets, the Everly Brothers, Joe Cocker, Emmylou Harris, Rodney Crowell and many more. Take it from Emmylou, who says, “When Saint Peter asks me to chronicle my time down here on earth, I’ll be able to say—with pride if that’s allowed—that for a while I played rhythm guitar in a band with Albert Lee.” Come by and pick up a copy of Albert’s new album, “Gypsy Man: A Tribute to Buddy Holly.”

Save The Speakeasy Benefit Concert
2024-01-09 19:30 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
In 2022, Johnny Williams’ home — above his well-known and highly regarded house concert venue, Johnny’s Speakeasy — suffered a devastating fire. Johnny paid for a premium homeowner’s replacement policy for nearly 30 years, but after 18+ months his insurance company continues to delay fair payment on his claim. A denial of fair payment will shutter this historic Ann Arbor musical institution and force Johnny Williams, a pillar of our community, to move away. As of now, the insurance company stopped paying for temporary housing so Johnny has been forced to move up north near family. This benefit concert features a lineup of some of the finest artists from across Michigan performing in support and solidarity with the grassroots, community driven campaign to Save the Speakeasy and Bring Johnny Home! All proceeds will go to a community created legal fund to help Johnny attain a fair settlement so that he can return to Ann Arbor, rebuild his home, and reopen the beloved Speakeasy.
Livestream the show here: https://www.facebook.com/events/2348396778883858/
Please note early start time.
Lineup:
Chris Buhalis
Judy Banker Band
Al Bettis
Dave Boutette & Kristi Davis
Annie & Rod Capps Band
Rochelle Clark
Shari Kane & Dave Steele
Billy King and San & Emily Slomovits
Misty Lyn & the Big Beautiful
Peter Madcat Ruth
The Sidemen
The Dick Siegel Trio
Rollie Tussing Trio
The Whiskey Charmers
Wilson Thicket

Corey Harris & Cedric Watson "True Blues"
2024-01-11 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Featuring two of the most fascinating voices in modern Delta blues,—Corey Harris and Cedric Watson—”True Blues” is a very special show. Corey is a MacArthur Grant recipient, and Cedric is one of Louisiana’s foremost purveyors of Creole music and culture. True Blues chronicles the extraordinary living culture of the blues in an evening of music and conversation. Guitarist, vocalist, songwriter, bandleader, and MacArthur fellow Corey Harris has carved out his own niche in the blues tradition. He has performed, recorded, and toured with many of the top names in music such as B.B. King, Taj Mahal, Buddy Guy, R.L.Burnside, The Dave Matthews Band, Tracy Chapman, and Wilco, among others, and was a featured artist and narrator of the Martin Scorcese 2003 film “Feel Like Going Home,” which traced the evolution of blues from West Africa to the southern U.S. Corey shares the stage with one of the brightest young talents to emerge in Cajun, creole and zydeco (Louisiana French) music over the last decade, Cedric Watson—a four-time Grammy-nominated fiddler, singer, accordionist, and songwriter with seemingly unlimited potential.

John McEuen & The Circle Band
2024-01-12 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
The Life I’ve Picked
An Evening with John McEuen and The Circle Band:
John takes the audience on his trip with the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, one that led to the incredible multi-platinum Will the Circle be Unbroken album which he initiated in 1972. John captured the band over the years on 8mm film, and with his brother’s (William E. McEuen, manager/producer) video and stills, we see the unseen backstory of this iconic musician, album, and band. Exactly what did happen at the magic sessions that created the landmark Will the Circle Be Unbroken album? Possibly the most popular and famous Americana/Blue Grass album ever recorded, and how John started it in Colorado, is told with the music and video on stage. “These previously unseen shots, on a huge screen, are incredible. It’s like being there!” John says, “We play songs that relate to what is on the screen”.
Joined by another NGDB co-founder and “Circle” veteran (bass, mandolin) Les Thompson, John brings his guitar, banjo, fiddle, and mandolin along with their favorite Dirt Band and Circle songs to the audience. With them will be Danny Knicely (guitar, mandolin and great vocals) bringing his incredible mastery to this show, singing some of the songs with his Virginia voice. And, Bryan McDowell, also a ‘Winfield winner’, with his vocals, guitar and mandolin. John tells the stories behind the songs, collaborating with such notables as Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Maybelle Carter, Bob Dylan, and life-long friend Steve Martin.
For The Ark John has invited The Stranded Hoboes to do a cameo performance with him and join in a few ‘Circle’ songs. This bluegrass group (made up with Wounded Warriors), and will also play “Bluegrass Banjo Boy” with John, a tune he recorded with them last year.
McEuen’s renown countless jams include street performers to Phish, Earl Scruggs, Levon Helm, Leon Russell… and even Sesame Street with a herd of goats and a cow! Arguably, McEuen’s most important legacy may be his initiation of what Rolling Stone called “The most important record to come out of Nashville” and 2004 ZAGAT survey called “the most important record in country music” – Will the Circle Be Unbroken
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A co-founding member of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band (1966), John McEuen has continually performed since 1963 – 11,500 concerts and 300 television shows throughout more than 4 million miles – both with the band and as a solo performer. He has been honored solo by the Folk Alliance Organization Best in the West Award. Beyond performing, John has a rich history of creating, producing and preserving original and traditional folk and acoustic music… and, taking it to new audiences.
McEuen has made over 40 albums (6 solo) that have earned five platinum and five gold recognition awards, multiple Grammy Awards and nominations, CMA and ACM awards, Emmy nominations, IBMA record of the year award, and performed on another 25 albums as guest artist. He’s also produced more than 300 concerts – the first in 1965 in Long Beach Calif., with Bob Dylan.
John’s production of Steve Martin – The Crow won the 2010 Best Bluegrass Album Grammy. The Music of the Wild West CD- produced by McEuen, was honored with the Western Heritage Award. A Grammy nomination for String Wizards II preceded the Uncle Dave Macon Award – for excellence in preservation and performance of historic music; John’s popular Sirius/XM Acoustic Traveller show, now in its 17th year on The Bridge. John produced the documentary film The Dillards – A Night In the Ozarks, capturing his early mentors at their best.

Steppin' In It
2024-01-14 19:30 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Toting a stack of vintage instruments and a sound that brings listeners back to the days of old-time radio, Lansing’s Steppin’ In It pounds out its own distinct combination of old-time country, swing and blues. This band is a consistent favorite all over Michigan and beyond—in the words of England’s Rock and Reel magazine, they’re “possessed with a consistently delightful spirit of musical adventure that, as well as bringing elements of old-time, country, cajun, blues and various roots styles to the table, manages to instill everything they do with an attractive and accessible cool.” Join us for the band that just about started it all for Michigan roots music. Songwriter Zak Bunce (who happens to be the brother of Ark favorite Rachael Davis) opens.

G. Love & Special Sauce 30th Anniversary Tour
2024-01-17 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Born Garrett Dutton in Philadelphia, PA, G. Love grew up equally enthralled with folk, blues, and rap, devouring everything from Lead Belly and Run D.M.C. to John Hammond and the Beastie Boys. After migrating to Boston, he and his band, Special Sauce, broke out in 1994 with their Gold-selling self-titled debut, which earned widespread critical acclaim for its bold vision and adventurous production. Over the next twenty-five years, G. Love would go on to release seven more similarly lauded studio studios albums with Special Sauce (plus four solo albums on his own), solidifying his place in music history as a genre-bending pioneer with a sound The New York Times described as “a new and urgent hybrid” and NPR called a “musical melting pot.” G. Love’s magnetic stage presence, meanwhile, made him a fixture on festival lineups from Bonnaroo to Lollapalooza, and his relentless appetite for tour and collaboration landed him on the road and in the studio with artists as diverse as Lucinda Williams, Dave Matthews, The Avett Brothers, Jack Johnson, and DJ Logic. G. Love celebrates his 30th anniversary with his latest album, “The Juice,” co-written and co-produced with blues great Keb’ Mo’.
G. Love is excited to offer the Pre-Show VIP option. G. Love’s Pre-Show Pop Off is an ALL REQUEST storytellers solo acoustic performance by G. Love and a one of a kind merch package. The pre-show pop off also includes early entry, a Q&A and photo opportunity with G. Love, and early access to the merch booth. Your VIP Pre-Show Pop off ticket includes a general admission ticket into the show.
G. Love’s Pre-Show Pop Off VIP Ticket Includes:

An ALL REQUEST storyteller acoustic performance by G. Love
Q&A session with G. Love
Photo with G. Love
VIP Laminate
Exclusive 30th Anniversary Poster
Early access to the merch booth

*THIS VIP UPGRADE INCLUDES A TICKET TO THE SHOW. You must have a Pre-Show Pop Off ticket in order to redeem the VIP package elements and be let into the event. Tickets to the show must be presented at the time of entry to the Pre-Show Pop Off.

Folk Fest Warm Up: On a Winter's Night
2024-01-18 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Folk Fest Warm-up: On A Winter’s Night brings together four veteran singer-songwriters – all longtime friends of The Ark and the Ann Arbor Folk Festival – who are among the brightest stars of the singer/songwriter movement over the past three decades. Join us in the cozy, intimate space of The Ark’s Ford Listening Room for an in-the-round performance with Ark favorites John Gorka, Patty Larkin, Lucy Kaplansky, and Cliff Eberhardt. In 1994 Christine Lavin gathered these top singer-songwriters together, along with other folk and Americana artists to showcase music of the Winter Season on the now-classic “On A Winter’s Night” CD, followed by several years of touring collaborations. These artists have released dozens of recordings and toured steadily through the decades, with fond memories of their touring days together. The winter season is again celebrated by these unique and popular performers, back together by popular demand.
As we get ready to roll out the full details of the 47th Ann Arbor Folk Festival next month, we’re excited to announce that Bank of Ann Arbor will once again join The Ark as Folk Fest 2024’s Presenting Sponsor. “Each year, the Ann Arbor Folk Festival surprises us with its exceptional lineup of performers,” says Tim Marshall, president and CEO of Bank of Ann Arbor. “This year is no exception. Once again, we’re proud and excited to be the presenting sponsor of one of our country’s great musical events, here in one of America’s culturally rich towns. Great musicians are always welcome and appreciated in Ann Arbor.

Django Reinhardt Birthday Celebration
2024-01-19 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Join Djangophonique, guitar prodigy Henry Acker (Rhythm Future Quartet), and violin virtuoso Grant Flick in celebration of Django Reinhardt’s legacy of music that is still alive and evolving 114 years after he was born.
Djangophonique is an award winning project that delivers the infectious joy, and expressive freedom that is at the heart of Django Reinhardt’s jazz manouche. With respect for the tradition and a fearless creativity that bends the conventions of the style, Djangophonique is keeping the Hot Club revival alive and well. The result is a sound that’s unmistakable to fans of the music, and alluring to the uninitiated—a sound that can bring the lively energy of a Parisian dance hall to the quietest listening room or captivate a buzzing festival audience with the aching nostalgia of a shimmering ballad.
Djangophonique has been described as “…the cleanest, most genuine manouche jazz that can be heard in Michigan” (Local Spins). Led by guitar player Andrew Brown, a true disciple of the style, the project has cultivated a community of musicians who channel the tenacious agility that the music demands. In 2022 the group released their first studio album, “Introducing Djangophonique,” which featured Tyler Rindo on Clarinet and Jorian Olk-Szost on double-bass and won Best Jazz Album, Traditions Award, as well as earning them Artist Of The Year at the WYCE Jammies. In 2023 guitarist Nicholas Martin joined the ensemble on rhythm guitar and the group began a new chapter with the addition of vocalist Katie Smith, who’s soulful approach channels the mystery and appeal of an unplaceable era. With a second studio album and a full concert schedule in the works for 2024, Djangophonique is poised to forge a connection with an expansive audience through the resonance of their artistry.

Heywood Banks
2024-01-20 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Heywood Banks is simply one of a kind, almost impossible to describe, with a style his very own. Equal parts genius and buffoon, this songwriter-comic-singer-poet-musician has become a cult hero and a pop icon, with a show that appeals to college students, stoners, businessmen, yuppies, rednecks, punks, kids or your grandmother. Heywood intersperses his humorous observations of life with twisted, inventive, bizarre songs, sung and played in a variety of styles, from folk, to country to rock to pop, and way beyond. You have to be pretty sharp to get Heywood at his deepest level (he demands a high level of pop culture literacy), but you can also enjoy him just for his vocal style impersonations, expert musicianship and just plain silliness. Heywood has appeared on A&E’s Evening at the Improv, MTV’s 1/2 Hour Comedy Hour, CNN’s Hollywood Minute, Caroline’s Comedy Hour, Entertainment Tonight, Showtime Comedy Club Network, and the Dr. Demento Show,” and is a frequent guest on the national Bob and Tom radio show.

Midwest Gypsy Swing Fest on-the-road
2024-01-21 19:30 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Featuring Harmonious Wail & Leila Duclos
Ann Arbor’s vital Hot Club swing scene is matched by the one in Madison, where Wisconsin’s Midwest Gypsy Swing Fest is held twice a year. Now these Madison sounds are coming to Michigan! That festival was founded by Harmonious Wail, which takes audiences on a ride from Parisian cafes to the deepest blues of the Memphis Delta, to the heartfelt folk scenes across every-town-America. Harmonious Wail is joined by guitarist and singer Leila Duclos, direct from France! The daughter of famed French jazz guitarist Cyril Duclos, Leila comes to Michigan with a new album, “Fille de feu” (Daughter of Fire). There’s going to be plenty of hot stuff on this Django-style jazz bill.

Aleksi Campagne
2024-01-23 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Aleksi Campagne is uniquely qualified to offer a contemporary, indie-folk take on the time-honored fiddle-singing tradition. When playing live, Aleksi floors audiences by singing while bowing his violin and leading his four-piece band. His original music blends folk song writing with an edgy, multi-layered sound resulting from his unique combination of voice, violin and looping-effect pedals. He’s not just a folksinger with a guitar! Although he’s coming to The Ark with his first full-length album, “For the Giving,” Aleksi Campagne is not new to the stage. At five years old, he began performing alongside his mother, Canadian folk icon Connie Kaldor. At 19 he moved to Paris to study under jazz violin legend Didier Lockwood. At 21, Aleksi became the only student to have ever been accepted into the classical violin, the jazz violin and the jazz voice performance programs at McGill University. And, by 25, Aleksi had graced the lineups of some of Canada’ most beloved folk festivals—including the Mariposa Folk Festival, the Regina Folk Festival, and the Northern Lights Festival, among others.

47th Ann Arbor Folk Fest
2024-01-26 19:00 - 23:00 | Hill Auditorium, 825 N University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI, 48108, United States
The Ark and Bank of Ann Arbor are excited to announce the lineup for the Ann Arbor Folk Fest which returns to a two-night format in Hill Auditorium for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic. The festival is The Ark’s largest annual fundraiser and delivers the full spectrum of “Ark music,” presenting a taste of what’s happening on the leading edge of acoustic music while delving into the very heart of folk and roots traditions. Friday night’s lineup features Old Crow Medicine Show, Devon Gilfillian, Bailen, Darren Kiely, Sons of Mystro, and MC Jeff Daniels.

47th Ann Arbor Folk Fest
2024-01-27 19:00 - 23:00 | Hill Auditorium, 825 N University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI, 48108, United States
The Ark and Bank of Ann Arbor are excited to announce the lineup for the Ann Arbor Folk Fest which returns to a two-night format in Hill Auditorium for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic. The festival is The Ark’s largest annual fundraiser and delivers the full spectrum of “Ark music,” presenting a taste of what’s happening on the leading edge of acoustic music while delving into the very heart of folk and roots traditions. Saturday night’s lineup features Emmylou Harris, Michigan Rattlers, Steve Poltz, Lizzie No, The Sea The Sea, and MC Jeff Daniels.

Kevin Burt & Big Medicine
2024-01-30 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Iowa bluesman Kevin Burt and his band, Big Medicine, make their Ark debut with a new release, “Thank You, Brother Bill: A Tribute to Bill Withers:: (Gulf Coast Records). “Kevin Burt has been a force for years and is finally getting the International recognition he so deeply deserves,” says Gulf Coast Records founder Mike Zito. Kevin and Bill Withers have a connection deeper than their voices. A song by Bill Withers, says Kevin, “instantly attaches itself to my soul.” The late Bill Withers “told me in a roughly two-hour conversation we had many things that (pardon the pun) lean on today. One of those nuggets of insight was to ‘tell the stories that make me feel most vulnerable, that’s what people connect with.’ His story relates to my story. His songs relate to different points in time in my life like no other as an artist. I hope to someday have an impact on someone else’s world the way Mr. Withers has had an impact on mine. … I hope that I did the songs justice. Big love, Brother Bill Withers, and big love to you all.”

The Ark's Open Stage
2024-01-31 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Whether you’re looking for your big break, want to perfect your live performance skills, or just want to perform live for the sheer fun of it, Open Stage nights offer supportive audiences and a terrific space. Twelve performers have eight minutes (or two songs) each to do their thing. Sign-up: doors open at 7:30 p.m. At 7:55 we randomly select the names for the first half, and at 8:30 we draw names for the second half. If your name isn’t chosen, bring your raffle ticket with you to the next Open Stage and you’ll double your chances.

Kruger Brothers
2024-02-01 20:00 - 23:00 | The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
Some call it jazz. It has classical elements. Some call it bluegrass. Certainly the music of The Kruger Brothers (or, for the umlaut-inclined, The Krüger Brothers) is all of that and more. Experience what happens when these innovative and soulful world-class virtuosos put on one-of-a-kind performance that audiences find breathtaking and unforgettable. When you listen to the music of The Kruger Brothers, you can’t help but be amazed by the sheer depth of their artistry. Originally from Europe, now living in North Carolina, they were first introduced to American audiences in 1997, quickly gaining the attention of fans and the music industry alike. Drawing on a rich cultural palette, theirs is a music that celebrates the best of what music can be: exciting, engaging, intelligent, and delightful. Brother Jens Kruger is a recent recipient of the Steve Martin Bluegrass Prize.
