A Circle of Music

The Ferry Beach Circle of Music is a special time and place to make music and to share and learn musical skills. We fill the beach with music all week from morning to late evening in our workshops, ensembles, spontaneous get-togethers, song-swap sessions, a coffee house, and the traditional Talent/Variety show, not to mention our music-related lawn sale we call “Sharps and Flats.” Workshops or “tracks” could include voice, guitar, harmonica, keyboard, banjo, autoharp, recorder, concertina, tin whistle, hammer dulcimer, mandolin, music theory, songwriting, and others created by participants with something to share. While folk music has been the core of the Circle since its beginning, we have broadened its definition to explore other musical genres like choral, blues, and jazz. Each year, the music varies depending on the interests of the conferees. Additional instructors come from within the conference itself. Come join the circle! 

The Circle of Music is truly unique at Ferry Beach. Our conference takes much of its shape after the conferees arrive. We are a diverse group made up of folks who want to make music and have a great time. The spirit of the Circle arises directly from that joy and from the talents of each individual present. Come, share a wonderful week with us, and remember to bring your instruments, special songs, and tunes to share! Families with children and youth are encouraged to attend, whether the kids participate in the music or join our excellent children’s programming.

Coordinators: Frets Halligan and Keith Penniman have created joyful music at the Beach for many years. They have participated in other conferences as “Musician of the Week,”  as supporting musician and as conferees.