Who knew Jeffery Straker was a comedian on top of being a stellar song writer and musician!! Last night we had it all – a full house (a mix of old and new friends), loads of laughter, top-notch harmonies on the old audience participation bits, an overflowing snack table, heartwarming stories, beautiful songs brilliantly executed…and a smile on every face. Thank-you Jeffery!

Heads up for 3 shows featuring 3 artists whose name begins with the letter “J”, ending in the month of June…….

APRIL: The wonderfully entertaining Jeffery Straker returns to Patchwork on Saturday, April 12. Tickets are $25.

This is turning out to be a sweet year for our good friend and Patchwork alumnus Jeffery Straker. Not only will this be his fourth time gracing our stage, his 10th studio album ‘Great Big Sky’ (launched in grain elevators – see Roots Music article) has been nominated for a 2025 Canadian Folk Music Award (Contemporary Singer of the Year), and HRH King Charles III has become a fan! What’s more …. we’ll let Jeffery share his biggest news during the show…….

Jeffery Straker grew up taking piano lessons in small-town Saskatchewan and has gone on to perform over 100 shows per year across Canada, Europe and Latin America. The rootsy-storytelling of his songs has the power to transport a listener – out onto a lake in Canada’s North or to the main street of a prairie town. A clever lyricist with an energetic piano style, his song writing has drawn critical comparisons to the likes of Harry Chapin, Kris Kristofferson , Murray McLauchlan & Billy Joel, while maintaining a style distinctly his own.

For a sense of his style, check out the video for Sing Your Song or a live performance of Morning Light. For a little insight into his charming personality, take a few minutes and watch Jeffery’s Ted Talk about his song The Wonderful Mrs Bell. Lots of other great stuff on his YouTube channel, including Slings & Arrows which was my finish line song for my first marathon in 2013.

It’s been too long and we are super stoked to welcome back Jeffery on April 12.

MAY: Can’t get any better than this folks: Jessica Rhaye, Bill Preeper & Sandy MacKay on Saturday, May 3. Tickets are $25 here

Preeper Rhaye MacKay is a folk trio comprised of songbird and Canadian Folk Music Nominee, Jessica Rhaye, guitarist Bill Preeper, and multi-instrumentalist Sandy MacKay. They began working together in the folk-rock band The Ramshackle Parade. This trio has developed a Maritime Appalachian Folk sound with a unique mix of acoustic and electric instrumentation. The singers deliver lush 3-part harmonies, weaving and sharing lead and harmony parts for their own compositions, along with simple, yet elegant arrangements. It’s new folk music at its finest, pulling together inspiration from the likes of Woody Guthrie, Ian Tyson, and Bob Dylan. This trio is described as a modern Peter Paul & Mary, creating an intricate vocal blend. Each is an accomplished musician; together they create magic! Sneak peak a few videos here.

WOOD & WIRE is Preeper Rhaye MacKay’s first album as a trio. It’s a collection of new original works and includes a special cover from the Kate and Anna McGarrigle catalogue that helps define their provenance. The album falls on the heals of the members work together with Jessica Rhaye and The Ramshackle Parade on their critically acclaimed albums Just like a Woman – Songs of Bob Dylan (2019), and Sunshine Baby (2023).

JUNE: Jessica Pearson and The East Wind on Saturday, June 7. Tickets (just) $20 here.

Like sirens calling from an ancient shore, the haunting three-part harmonies of Jessica Pearson & The East Wind will bind you in a timeless folkloric spell. Alchemizing roots, classic country, Americana and Celtic soundscapes, the trio spin tales of outlaw heroics, matriarchal power, resistance and resilience, and the unrelenting beauty of becoming who you are.

Jessica Pearson and the East Wind’s live show will first bring you to the edge of your seat, and then to the edge of tears – before spilling over into joy, community, and a sense of sacred, shared power. Backed by the impeccable harmonies of Sam Stone and Malia Rogers alongside clawhammer banjo, mandolin, and tasteful percussion, Jessica’s storytelling and songs centre kindness and vulnerability while imploring audiences toward a better future for all. For a sneak peak, check out this sizzle video. Lots more on their website.

“Impeccable musicianship, great singing and a wide variety of material all served up with with good humour… with Jessica’s warm and genuine personality shining through and creating an instant rapport with the audience.” – Mike Kirrage, Festival Director of Gate to Southwell Music Festival, UK

Don’t be afraid to show up alone; from the minute the first chord plays, you’ll be among friends.

For every show, 100 % of ticket proceeds go directly to the artist(s). As this is a house concert, all shows are BYOB. There will be snacks and soft beverages offered. You are welcome to bring a snack for sharing. You are encouraged to share this event with friends who enjoy listening to live music performed in an intimate setting.

Monique & George