The Old Tone Roots Music Festival in North Hillsdale, New York just had its first three day festival this last weekend. Old Tone is definitely in my picks for best festivals of the region for sure. It is set in the beautiful and pastoral Taconic mountains on a working farm with Scottish highland cattle surrounding much of the festival area.
Their line up had a wide variety of traditional music – lots of bluegrass, some old time, some jug band, some traditional styles of jazz and Cajun. There were individual instrument and band contests. There were also a wide array of workshops, dances, and jams to be had throughout the weekend and acts and activities for the kids as well.
Food vendors (some of whom were local farmers) provided scrumptious culinary delights for purchase along with craft beers and wines for those who enjoy such things. Musicians and music lovers came in from around the country to make and celebrate music as well as creating a really friendly and laid back sense of community. I highly suggest adding this festival to your next year’s “must do” festival list.
Foghorn Stringband with Bruce Molsky and Travis Stuart
Two Man Gentleman Band performs Fancy Beer
