PORT GAMBLE – The Port Gamble Maritime Music Festival, now in its tenth year, will offer five hours of free live music from noon to 5 p.m. on Aug. 8. Some of the Northwest’s best performers will bring songs of the sea to this historic mill town, in a natural amphitheater by the waters of Gamble Bay. The music, a blend of modern and traditional sounds, appeals to all ages with its upbeat tempos, dramatic lyrics, and haunting refrains.
This year’s lineup of musicians will bring a variety of sounds to the ears of festival-goers. Local favorites William Pint and Felicia Dale will return to Port Gamble with more songs from their wide repertoire. These internationally- known performers never fail to keep their audience entertained with their well-crafted vocal harmonies and diverse instruments. The Whateverly Brothers share the fun of maritime music with their listeners. Their spontaneity arises from well-rehearsed and carefully arranged material, performed with energy and musical expertise. J.W. Sparrow uses his songs to tell stories of people and places, ships and trains, everyday people and extraordinary lives. His dramatic vocals and expressive guitar keep audiences enthralled. Kessler and Perasso are a new group, combining songs well-known in the Northwest with fresh material from the Northeast coast. Their voices blend to create something very special. Spanaway Bay are perennial favorites at the festival, and bring a warm, humorous connection that unites the festival with a cozy, down-home feel. They will act as announcers as well as performing some of their hilarious songs.
The winners of the Robert Kotta Memorial Songwriting Contest will present their songs. This year’s contest theme is ‘Voyages’.
The festival site is a grassy lawn with sunny spots and shady trees, overlooking Port Gamble Bay. The cafe in the Port Gamble General Store next door serves delicious food and ice cream to take outside. Visitors can sit at a picnic table or bring their own chair or blanket. Children may color pictures of boats and marine life in a free activity area. Free parking is available along Rainier Avenue NE next to the amphitheater. In case of inclement weather, the rain stage will be the historic Port Gamble Theatre across the street.
The festival is free, although donations will be collected to help pay the musicians. The non-profit organization Maritime Folknet, organizer of the event, will sell music CDs recorded by the festival performers. Sponsors include CenturyLink and the city of Port Gamble. Pilgrim Media Services will provide professional sound, well-balanced and not too loud or too quiet.
The town of Port Gamble is a National Historic Landmark, with tree-lined streets and clapboard buildings. Come in the morning to visit its museums and shops, and stay for a full afternoon of varied and delightful free music.
Learn more at http://www.portgamblemaritimemusic.com.
