Young Tradition Weekend

May 13 Contradance at Shelburne Town Hall, 8-11pm

May 14 Contest and Showcase at Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, 11-3pm

May 14 Concert and Reception at Main Street Landing Performing Arts Center, 6-8pm

Every year during the 2nd weekend of May, Young Tradition Weekend showcases young performers of traditional music and dance. The weekend celebrates the talents of young musicians and dancers as well as the traditions that they perpetuate. Mentors, teachers, family and friends become the audience and young folks take center stage.

The centerpiece of the weekend for many is a contest that welcomes acoustic performers who play, sing or dance for an audience which then selects the best act in each of several categories. Contestants compete for about $2,000 in prizes and form strong connections with others in the traditional music and dance community. Winners of past contests include many performers who have gone on to perform throughout the region and make their own mark on traditional music and dance. Previous winners include Mayfly, Tristan Henderson and Hazen Metro, Windborne and Les Freres Belanger. The contest is always an impressive set of diverse and talented performers, and a good time is had by all. Following the contest there will be an awards reception and a concert featuring Cricket Blue (Laura Heaberlin and Taylor Smith), Eric George and Addie Herbert.

For a full weekend schedule see http://youngtraditionvermont.org/2012/06/young-tradition-weekend-2/