Jessica Pearson and The East Wind bring harmonies to the house on June 7 + a surprise show added

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.

Join us on Saturday, June 7. Tickets (just) $20 here.

“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.

SURPRISE SHOW: While we were at the ECMAs in St. John’s we kept running into our good friends Jordan and Kirsten from Quote the Raven.  They mentioned, in passing, that they would be driving up to Ontario in mid-June and that a show or two en route would be nice…..we couldn’t agree more!  So we are bringing Quote the Raven in to play a show on Wednesday, June 11.  Because it is a school night we will start at 7:30 pm so that you can be home in time for a normal bedtime.  Tickets are $25 here.

Quote the Raven, consisting of Jordan Coaker and Kirsten Rodden-Clarke have been performing together for over a decade. The pair got their start in the small bars and pubs around St. John’s and in the past few years have rapidly grown to a household name around Canada and are steadily growing their clout on an international level. The dynamic duo have a harmonious blend that’s incomparable; it’s like the blending of two voices into one, while their Americana meets east coast songwriting and stage dynamic are irresistibly charming. The duo have performed at major festivals around the Country, including the Vancouver Island, Vancouver, Mission, Canmore, Bear Creek and Lunenburg Folk Festivals. They are recipients of the 2019, 2021, and 2022 MusicNL Group of the Year. Their sophomore album titled Can’t Hold the Light won the 2022 ECMA for Contemporary Roots album of the year and has been nominated for two Canadian Folk Music Awards. And they recently picked up a 2025 ECMA for Roots Release of the Year for their single ‘Already Gone‘. We simply love this duo and you will too!

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

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Maritime Appalachian Folk with Jessica Rhaye, Bill Preeper & Sandy MacKay – May 3

It 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).

Jessica Pearson and The East Wind join us here 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

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The “J” Series…….

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

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Sweet Spring Shows Coming This Way

Despite the fact that spring does not officially start until March 20 AND Shubenacadie Sam predicted 6 more weeks of winter, I’m calling it: our March show on the 15th is going to kick start spring 2025. Join us!

Saturday, March 15: Mat Hughes and Julia Cunningham. Tickets are $25 here.

Mat Hughes is a tickler of ivories, a hummer of melodies, a writer of rhapsodies and a sprinkler of cheddar cheese. We’ll not expect that of him on March 15 but having seen him tickle the ivories and hum along to an earlier show here with Daniel James McFadyen, we know that our audience is in for a treat……Not to mention his partner in this show, Julia Cunningham. We were lucky enough to get seats to Julia’s sold out EP release show at the Carleton this fall and man! those tracks are solid!!

To see a bit of Mat tickling those ivories, check out this video from the Carleton or his video for Overture . If that does not convince you to buy tickets, watch Julia’s (adorable) video of Dive Deep. This will be one of those shows where (soon) you’ll look back and say “Wow I saw them at a house concert!”

NEW SHOW ADDED Saturday, April 12: Jeffery Straker. Tickets are $25 here

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’ 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.

Saturday, May 4: Jessica Rhaye, Bill Preeper & Sandy MacKay. 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.

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

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Shows well into spring starting with Stephen Fearing

“A master of the finely-turned phrase and the perfectly-pitched line.”
Maverick Magazine

Legendary singer-songwriter, Stephen Fearing, is performing a rare intimate concert at Patchwork House Concerts on Sunday, February 16 (the morrow is a provincial holiday for most). No surprise to us that this one sold out rapidly and we have started a waiting list. You can read more about Stephen below.

But have no fear, other fabulous shows are waiting in the wings:

Mat Hughes & Julia Cunningham will share the stage on Saturday, March 15. Tickets are $25 and available here.

Mat Hughes is a tickler of ivories, a hummer of melodies, a writer of rhapsodies and a sprinkler of cheddar cheese. We’ll not expect that of him on March 15 but having seen him tickle the ivories and hum along to an earlier show here with Daniel James McFadyen, we know that our audience is in for a treat……Not to mention his partner in this show is Julia Cunningham. We were lucky enough to get seats to Julia’s sold out EP release show at the Carleton this fall and man! those tracks are solid!! To see a bit of Mat tickling those ivories, check out this video from the Carleton or his video for Overture . If that does not convince you to buy tickets, watch Julia’s (adorable) video of Dive Deep.

Saturday, May 3 we will present Jessica Rhaye, Bill Preeper & Sandy MacKay. Tickets are $25 and available 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.

More about Stephen Fearing: Stephen Fearing has been named one of the finest songwriters in Canada and has built a national – and international – audience for his music, doing it old school through countless performances at intimate venues and on the concert stages of festivals and theatres across Canada, the US, the UK, and Europe. Fearing has released ten albums as a solo artist, featuring a who’s who of musical guests (Bruce Cockburn, Margo Timmons, Rose Cousins, Richard Thompson, Shawn Colvin, and Sarah McLachlan).

In 1996 he co-founded Blackie and the Rodeo Kings with Colin Linden and Tom Wilson. More than 22 years later, with nine albums and a JUNO award to their credit, the band has become one of the most respected names in North American roots-rock. In 1998, Stephen Fearing met Andy White backstage at the Winnipeg Folk Festival and a fast friendship was formed. As the duo Fearing & White they have released two critically-acclaimed albums and toured throughout Canada and the UK. More recently, Fearing has been collaborating with the Danish backing band and folk music pioneers, The Sentimentals. In 2023, they releasef their joint album Vejpoesi recorded in Frederikshavn, Denmark and Hamilton. MC Hansen, also with The Sentimentals, will be joining Stephen at Patchwork.

Like the guests on his albums, the many awards and nominations that have come his way over the years speak to the respect he has earned among his peers, presenters, and critics. His abiding love for his craft and ability to delight audiences are further reflected in multiple JUNO and Canadian Folk Music Awards nominations and awards and an ever-expanding touring circuit throughout North America, the UK, and Europe. For his album Every Soul’s a Sailor he was awarded the 2017 Worldwide Album of the Year by Blues & Roots Radio and named 2017 Contemporary Singer of the Year at the Canadian Folk Music Awards.

Like all of our house concerts, 100 % of the door will go directly to the artists. We provide the stage, chairs and hopefully a room filled with eager listeners. Snacks and soft drinks will be offered; otherwise it is BYOB. Bringing music-loving-friends and visiting family members is strongly encouraged.

Monique & George

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