The Sooke River Bluegrass Festival takes place over the Father's Day weekend.

The Sooke River Bluegrass Festival takes place over the Father's Day weekend.

13th Sooke River Bluegrass Festival set for June 19-21

Bands from as fr away as Boston will perform on Father's Day weekend

This year the Sooke River Bluegrass festival is proud to present two bands all the way from Boston, Massachusetts.

The Lonely Heartstring Band is now one of the hottest new bands in New England.Originally the band was formed to play exclusively Beatles songs at a bluegrass wedding. Since the Beatles days, the band has moved on combining instrumental virtuosity, three-part harmonies, and a deep understanding of traditional bluegrass and Appalachian music. This acoustic quintet plays original acoustic music, traditional bluegrass and, as the name suggests, a swath of Beatles covers.

The talented members are George Clements (guitar/vocals); Patrick McGonigle (fiddle/vocals); Gabe Hirshfeld (banjo); Matt Witler (mandolin); and Charles Clements (bass/vocals).

Mile Twelve is a fresh and innovative new voice in contemporary bluegrass music. They are fast gaining recognition for their outstanding performances in New England bluegrass and folk circles. Combining a love for traditional bluegrass with songwriting skills honed at renowned music schools, they present a refined and powerful musical directive. With influences from folk, jazz, old-time and bluegrass music, the band’s original songs are a timely continuation of the bluegrass string band tradition.The band features Evan Murphy (lead vocals/guitar); Bronwyn Keith-Hynes (fiddle); Catherine (BB) Bowness (banjo); and Nate Sabat (bass).

Mile Twelve’s youthful energy and mature musicianship result in captivating and memorable performances.

Check out the website for the complete list of performers. This family-friendly festival is held at the Sooke River Campground, and features an impressive line up of skilled acoustic musicians.

Weekend passes are available now for only $50 at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1433132. Day passes are also available.

Camping passes need to be booked separately at http://www.sookecommunity.com/camping/.

For more information about the Sooke River Bluegrass Festival please check out the website at http://www.sookebluegrass.com/festival/ or phone Phil Shaver at 250-812-8144.

Book Friday, June 19 to Sunday June 21, at the scenic Sooke River Campground.

Sooke News Mirror