Vancouver Island MusicFest is presenting the first in a series of folk and roots music workshops and presentations at their new festival space, the MusicFest Roots Review.
It happens this Saturday with acclaimed roots duo Pied Pear with Rick Scott and Joe Mock.
Scott and Mock pioneered independent roots music from 1974 to ’76 with Shari Ulrich in the trio Pied Pumkin. When Ulrich joined the Hometown Band, the Pumkin became Pied Pear. From 1976 to 1982, Scott and Mock toured far and wide playing concerts, dances and festivals.
They represented Canada at the Knoxville World’s Fair. They released three albums. They were rumoured to be the only duo guaranteed to make folks dance.
They both went on to explore other creative interests. Joe Mock now lives in France. They’ve always wanted to get back to playing the vast Pear repertoire which has not been heard in more than three decades.
This Saturday’s concert is the launch of a series of intimate events that will feature first-class folk and roots artists playing, teaching, sharing and workshopping their material in a “coffeehouse” format for local music lovers and the VIMF community.
Doors are at 7:30. Music is at 8 p.m. sharp.
All ages are welcome; kids younger than 12 are free. Registration is $20 at the door.
Seating is limited. To reserve seating, e-mail info@islandmusicfest.com or call 250-871-8463.
The MusicFest Roots Review is located at 2760C Moray Ave., off Kilpatrick behind the Courtenay Bus Depot.
For more information, e-mail info@islandmusicfest.com.
— Vancouver Island MusicFest