Festival to host free concerts at park

On Thursday, August 6, Austin songwriter "Matt the Electrician" will perform, and on Saturday, August 22, Keith Greeninger will bring his easygoing California folk to downtown Sisters.

These shows, supported by The Roundhouse Foundation, provide an opportunity for Sisters Folk Festival to give back to the community that supports its programs so well.

"I believe the opportunity to present world-class songwriters for free, and two of our audience favorites over the years, is a step in saying thank you - for another sold-out festival and capping an outstanding year for the organization," said Creative Director Brad Tisdel.

"Matt came to the festival in 2011 and was one of the best-selling artists in the history of our event. It's an indication that people connect to his music. It's honest, well-crafted, fun and quirky. He's carved his own niche in the music world, and we've been anticipating working with Matt again," says Tisdel.

As a singer-songwriter, Greeninger paints intricate portraits of the human condition with powerful melodic images; deep, engaging guitar rhythms and husky, heart-wrenching vocals. His masterfully crafted tunes and powerful presence have earned him top songwriting awards at the prestigious Telluride Bluegrass Festival, The Kerrville Folk Festival, and The Napa Valley Folk Festival. Greeninger has toured the national folk and Americana circuit extensively for over two decades.

Keith is friend to many, having taught at the Americana Song Academy, worked with students in Sisters for over a decade, and performed at many festivals, including last year in Sisters with Little Feat's Bill Payne and the rhythm section from the Bonnie Raitt band.

"Keith is part of the Sisters Folk Festival family, and although he won't be playing the festival this year, we welcome him back home." Tisdel said.

Portland's Anna Tivel will open the show. She has played the Sisters Folk Festival for the past two years, as both a solo act and as part of the Shook Twins band.

The venue at Fir Street Park will be a free venue on Saturday and Sunday of the 20th Anniversary Sisters Folk Festival, September 11-13. With performances starting at noon on both days, the community will be able to see Americana Project students and alumni, and some of the festival's headlining talent on that stage.