Live Music: Looking Ahead

DECEMBER

David Jacobs-Strain and Bob Beach

Thursday, December 4, 7:30-9:30PM

David Jacobs-Strain and Bob Beach create a musical conversation between intense slide guitar and virtuosic harmonica; together they weave left-coast stories with the emotional abandon of the blues. The show moves from humorous, subversive blues, to delicate balladry, and then swings back to swampy rock and roll.

David & Bob have performed many times at music festivals and taught at camps around the country to include: Philadelphia Folk Festival, Juan de Fuca, Strawberry Festival, Redding Roots, Bear Creek and Kate Wolf.

Dave Chappell

Saturday, December 6, 7-9PM

Dave Chappell, a Washington, DC native, is one of the most sought after and respected musicians in the area.  For the last several years, he has won the Washington Area Music Awards (WAMMIES) for ‘Musician of the Year’, ‘Rock Instrumentalist of the Year’, and ‘Roots Rock Instrumentalist of the Year’.

He has performed with Rock and Roll Hall of Fame legends Jerry Lee Lewis, Sam Moore of Sam & Dave, Percy Sledge, Johnny Johnson, and guitar wizard, Danny Gatton.
WEBSITE

Ahmed Warshanna Presents Ishta!

Sunday, December 7, 3-5PM
Baltimore Rising Jazz Artist Series

Experience modern jazz in an intimate setting with Ahmed Warshanna’s Ishta! in The Loft.

With a sound that bridges post-bop, Afro-Cuban grooves, hip hop, rock, Egyptian classical melodies, and more, Ahmed Warshanna is redefining the modern jazz landscape. A Baltimore-based guitarist, composer, and arranger, he leads the dynamic sextet Ishta!, known for its fiery interplay and genre-defying sound. Whether performing with his band or composing new works, Ahmed consistently transcends musical boundaries while remaining deeply rooted in jazz traditions.
WEBSITE

Chamber Music in Historic Landmarks:
II. In the Shadows (Baritone and Piano)

Sunday, December 14, 2-4PM

Chamber Music in Historic Landmarks:
Four Concerts in Rural Northern Baltimore County
Prepare for four unforgettable afternoons of chamber music set in some of the most picturesque and historic venues in Northern Baltimore County. From the original 19th-century saddlery in Monkton Village to the David Niven Theater at Oldfields School and the rustic charm of the Loft at Manor Mill, each setting offers a uniquely intimate backdrop for a rich musical experience. Across four concerts—The Spark of Sound, In the Shadows, Storms, but Light, and The Quiet Bloom—the series explores themes of transformation, intimacy, and illumination. Curated by pianist Wan-Chi Su and performed by a rotating ensemble of exceptional guest artists, each program invites audiences on a journey through sound, space, and story.

Sunday, December 14: The Loft at Manor Mill
II. In the Shadows (Baritone and Piano)
Performed by Rob McGinness (baritone) and Wan-Chi Su (piano)

Brad Cox and Shelby Blondell

Sunday, December 21, 7-9PM

Brad Cox
Brad Cox is a multifaceted artist from the Baltimore area, recognized for his extensive contributions to music, literature, and podcasting.

As a singer-songwriter and musician, Cox has cultivated a diverse and prolific career, forming and fronting notable musical groups including Skitzo Calypso, Niki Thunders, We Love the Underground, and Veteran Avenue.

His musical journey, which commenced in Los Angeles in 1996, has yielded over 24 albums and EPs, alongside collaborative songwriting and vocal work for numerous regional projects.
WEBSITE

Shelby Blondell
Shelby Blondell is a driven creative force, seamlessly blending artistry, innovation, entrepreneurship, and advocacy to continue supporting her mission to uplift. Shelby began releasing music with her 2013 “Fly” EP and followed up with a self-titled EP in 2014, performing widely throughout MD/DC/VA/PA. Her single “Fun in the Sun” reached the Top 10 on European indie music charts. She’s shared stages with notable acts like Pentatonix, Sabrina Carpenter, Howie Day, Scotty McCreery, Walker Hayes, Ryan Cabrera, and James Authur.
WEBSITE

Mariah Bonner – I’ll Be Home For Christmas

Tuesday, December 23, 7:30-9:30PM

Join singer, recording artist, and all around entertainer Mariah Bonner for an evening of holiday cheer!

You’ll be treated to a selection of classic melodies like I’ll Be Home For Christmas, beloved hymns such as O, Holy Night, and Silent Night, and more contemporary holiday tunes like Hard Candy Christmas, River, and more.

Mariah will be accompanied by Sean Lane on piano, Seth Kibel on clarinet, saxophone and flute, and Bob Abbott on upright bass.
WEBSITE

JANUARY 2026

Whiskey Feathers

Saturday, January 10, 7-9PM

Whiskey Feathers is a Baltimore-based band blending rock, Americana, and livetronica into a sound that is immersive, emotional, and ever-evolving. Their reflective lyrics, layered instrumentation, and dreamlike energy move both hearts and hips. With a blend of grit, groove, and emotional punch, they showcase their dynamic stage presence, tight musicianship, and crowd-ready sound that define their live performances. Perfect for festivals and stages that crave authenticity and fire.
WEBSITE

High and Wides

Friday, January 16, 7-9PM

“The Apostles of Hillbilly Boogie” – Washington Post

The High & Wides play string band music from an alternate timeline, one where Bill Monroe’s “Rocky Road Blues” made him an international superstar and the rock’n’roll revolution was led by fiddlers and banjo players. With roots in urban Baltimore and the rural Delmarva peninsula, they draw on bluegrass backgrounds and weave in influences from new wave to old time to make music that defies boundaries while evoking the era when country, bluegrass, western swing, and early rock’n’roll mingled freely.
WEBSITES

Swinging Through the Decades: Cinema Songs of the 20th Century with Janet Paulsen

Saturday, January 17, 7-9PM

“Swinging Through the Decades: Cinema Songs of the 20th Century” features jazz vocalist Janet Paulsen bringing to life classic movie songs from the 1930s through the 1990s. With engaging backstories, fresh arrangements, and a visual journey of film images, the evening promises to be both entertaining and memorable. A familiar favorite at Manor Mill since its early days, Janet is delighted to return, joined by her music director and accompanist Anthony Pocetti and a swinging band.
WEBSITE

Letitia VanSant

Friday, January 23, 7-9PM

After singing around campfires, fingerpicking on front porches, and performing everywhere from concert halls to tiny basements, Letitia VanSant and David McKindley-Ward are releasing the sounds of their acoustic collaboration.

David grew up steeped in folk, traditional, and protest music from all over the world. In recent years he has made a name for himself as a guitarist and singer of traditional Irish music, while still nurturing his roots in country and Americana.

Letitia’s shy childhood poems about fairies were put to music after she taught herself to play guitar on a beat-up Yamaha unearthed from an attic. Her art slowly matured into introspective indie folk ballads and Americana-rock anthems that have earned the favor of music lovers in her hometown Baltimore and beyond. “…her gentle singsong may strike you as sweet, but listen a little closer, and you’ll realize she is spitting fire,” says Paste Magazine.
WEBSITE

Kevin Brewster Jazz Band

Saturday, January 24, 7-9PM
Baltimore Rising Jazz Artist Series

Come experience Kevin Brewster’s Black Renaissance live as they debut the Trials and Tribulation Suite—an original composition reflecting a personal journey through struggle, growth, and faith. Blending original works and select covers, the band creates an atmosphere rooted in storytelling and spiritual connection. The performance is a testament to resilience and a celebration of God’s presence through life’s highs and lows.

Originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, Kevin Brewster is a saxophonist, composer, and educator whose musical journey is deeply rooted in the vibrant traditions of Gospel music. His repertoire is a fusion of contemporary, straight-ahead, gospel, and R&B that herald a new era/bring a new vision for jazz characterized by authenticity, resilience, and unwavering faith.
WEBSITE

Ken and Brad Kolodner Quartet

Saturday, January 31, 4:30-6:30PM & 7:30-9:30PM

Regarded as one of the most influential hammered dulcimer players in the U.S., Baltimore’s Ken Kolodner has joined forces with his son, Brad Kolodner, one of the finest practitioners of the claw hammer banjo, to perform tight and musical arrangements of original and traditional old-time music. They round off the quartet with sensational bassist, Alex Lacquement, and talented, multi-instrumentalist, Rachel Eddy.

The Ken and Brad Kolodner Quartet is bringing their exceptional sound to Manor Mill for a special doubleheader. Catch their early show at 4:30 PM, their evening performance at 7:30 PM, or treat yourself to both for a truly unforgettable musical journey!
WEBSITE

February 2026

Kathleen Parks

Saturday, February 7, 7-9PM

Kathleen Parks is a fiddler, singer, and songwriter who brings joyful and creative energy to the stage and studio. For the last 10 years, she has been heavily involved in touring and recording with her Americana/Jamgrass band Twisted Pine, where she sings, writes, and fiddles. On her debut solo album, her captivating songs lean more toward Pop, Folk, and classic Jazz, while her virtuosic fiddle blends and reimagines traditional and modern musical styles with boundless groove and playful improvisational spirit. Her deep grounding in Celtic and American roots music combines with her love for pop songwriting, soulful vocals, and groove-based improvisation, making every KP performance unexpected yet familiar: a musical journey from beginning to end.
WEBSITE

Chamber Music in Historic Landmarks:
III. Storms, but Light (Piano Quartet)

Saturday, February 8, 2-4PM

Chamber Music in HIstoric Landmarks:
Four Concerts in Rural Northern Baltimore County
Prepare for four unforgettable afternoons of chamber music set in some of the most picturesque and historic venues in Northern Baltimore County. From the original 19th-century saddlery in Monkton Village to the David Niven Theater at Oldfields School and the rustic charm of the Loft at Manor Mill, each setting offers a uniquely intimate backdrop for a rich musical experience. Across four concerts—The Spark of Sound, In the Shadows, Storms, but Light, and The Quiet Bloom—the series explores themes of transformation, intimacy, and illumination. Curated by pianist Wan-Chi Su and performed by a rotating ensemble of exceptional guest artists, each program invites audiences on a journey through sound, space, and story.

Sunday, February 8: The David Niven Theater at Oldfields School
III. Storms, but Light (Piano Quartet)
Performed by Zino Bogacheck (violin), Natasha Bogacheck (viola), Joseph Goloff (cello) and Wan-Chi Su (piano)

Corey Arceneaux and The Zydeco Hot Peppers

Friday, February 13, 7-9PM

While many accordion players exist, few can express emotions through the piano accordion like Corey. His creative and versatile style makes him hard to categorize. For over 30 years, Corey has led Corey Arceneaux and the Zydeco Hot Peppers, performing regularly and proudly being a member of the Recording Academy. With a rich musical heritage back over 85 plus years to his great-grandfather Ferdinand Arceneaux, a Creole accordionist, Corey a fourth-generation accordionist carries on the legacy of one of zydeco’s first families, following in the footsteps of his late great-uncle, Fernest Arceneaux. With the Zydeco Hot Peppers, Corey has performed both internationally and domestically, captivating audiences with energetic shows. He is also an award-winning simulcasting commercial radio personality, promoting zydeco, southern soul, and Creole culture for 34 years.
WEBSITE

Andrew Stewart and Katherine Merryman

Saturday, February 14, 7:30-9:30PM

Andrew Stewart and Katherine Merryman return to Manor Mill with a multi-genre, Cupid-approved performance perfect for Valentine’s Day.

A bit of this, a bit of that,
Some whimsy and drama,
But no bella donna,
A light touch of Broadway,
And to top off the soiree,
Sous the Clair de Lune,
Meine Liebe ist grün,
We welcome you and your sweetheart, too!
ANDREW’S WEBSITE
KATHERINE’S WEBSITE

Cyrus Mackey

Sunday, February 15, 3-5PM
Baltimore Rising Jazz Artist Series

Cyrus Mackey is an American Trumpeter, Composer, and Producer who grew up in Chicago and is currently working on his Master’s in Arts at Peabody Institute in Baltimore. As a teenager, he attended the Chicago High School for the Arts and later transferred to Dillard Center for the Arts, where his school won first place in the Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition in 2018. In his final year of high school, Cyrus was able to tour multiple European countries with Carnegie Hall’s National Youth Jazz Orchestra in 2018, its inaugural year.
WEBSITE

Chris Kasper

Friday, February 27, 7-9PM

Chris Kasper is an American songwriter who is currently based in the Philadelphia area. He’s been active in the local and national scene for the last 20 years. Over that time, he has released seven records and toured with acts like Amos Lee and The Wood Brothers. His music traverses the americana, blues, folk and rock spectrums, blurring the lines between genres. Kasper's evolution into a no-nonsense songwriter is heard throughout his latest album, Sunlight In An Empty Room, with nods to songwriters of the 70s like Bobby Charles, Lowell George, and Neil Young. 
WEBSITE

Amy Speace

Saturday, February 28, 7-9PM

Heralded by Rolling Stone, Billboard Magazine and The New York Times and featured on NPR’s “All Things Considered”, Amy Speace was discovered by Judy Collins, who signed her to her record label and has recorded her songs. She’s the 2020 winner of the AMA UK’s International Song of the Year. Her newest record, “The American Dream,” was released October 18th and became the #1 record and the title track was named #1 song in the FAI Radio Charts for its first month out. Her song, “The Weight of the World” was named the #4 record of last decade by WFUV, NYC. As well, her song, “The Sea and the Shore” was named as one of the 100 best folk songs of the era.
WEBSITE

March 2026

Lily Neill

Sunday, March 1, 3-5PM

“One of the most challenging and provocative musicians of her time – Lily Neill’s daredevil approach works wonders.” – Irish Music Magazine

Lily Neill has captivated audiences around the world with the dynamism and breadth of her performances, and her infectious passion for the harp. Her versatility and command as a solo performer has seen her amass an impressive number of awards, and recognition from everyone from presidents and world leaders, to legendary Irish band, “The Chieftains”. Lily’s debut album, “Without Words”, was given a pre-nomination nod by the U.S. GRAMMY committee and was followed by “The Habit of a Foreign Sky”. Her latest album, “Tales and Golden Histories”, with Vesa Norilo, was hailed, “…a glittering, riveting and epic symphony” by At the Barrier and was included in their Best of 2023 list.
WEBSITE

Gallagher’s Frolics

Friday, March 13, 7-9PM

Gallagher’s Frolics combines the talents of four veteran musicians who share a deep love and respect for traditional Irish music. The group features Terry O’Neill on fiddle and mandolin, Eric “Seamus” Sloan on flute and whistle, Norm Myers on bodhran and bones, and the irrepressible Drew Vervan on guitar and vocals. The group performs traditional tunes and songs, along with original material penned by Drew and Terry. Drew is a standout vocalist whose style has been honed over many years performing in genres ranging from folk to rock. Terry’s fiddling is influenced by his study of revered musicians of the past hundred years, from Michael Coleman to Denis Murphy. “Seamus” Sloan has channeled years of classical training into his signature flute style that combines expressive nuance with impeccable technique, when, combined with Terry’s fiddling, creates a powerful sound.  Norm Myers ties it all together with his steady hand on bodhran and bones.
WEBSITE

Hildaland

Saturday, March 14, 7:30-9:30PM

Scottish fiddler Louise Bichan and American mandolinist Ethan Setiawan present a collaboration and meeting of their musical worlds in Hildaland. A path steeped in the fiddle traditions of their respective sides of the Atlantic, the journey taken wends through Scottish and American oldtime inspired music woven with contemporary compositions.
WEBSITE

Emily Perkins

Sunday, March 29, 3-5PM
Baltimore Rising Jazz Artist Series

Emily Perkins is a dynamic vocalist and multi-instrumentalist based in Washington D.C. With a style rooted in tradition and shaped by modern influences, she brings warmth, intention, and storytelling to the stage.

Emily’s first serious endeavor was the piano. By high school, she was performing professionally as an accompanist, appearing in theaters, community ensembles, and chamber groups throughout Southwest Michigan. She turned her focus to developing her voice shortly after college, immersing herself in the jazz communities of El Paso, Chicago, and New York City where she gained experience as both a soloist and ensemble singer. These experiences deepened her commitment to the genre and shaped her artistic identity as a vocalist moving forward.

april 2026

Anana Kaye

Friday, April 10, 7-9PM

Originally from the Republic of Georgia and now making waves in the heart of Nashville’s indie scene, Anana Kaye has captivated audiences across the globe with her distinctive sound, evocative lyrics, and spellbinding stage presence. Drawing comparisons to Nick Cave, Tom Waits, and Kate Bush, her music is a journey through love, loss, and the beautifully strange moments in between—blending alt-rock, folk-noir and storytelling with the haunting influences of her Georgian heritage.
WEBSITE

Chamber Music in Historic Landmarks:
IV. The Quiet Bloom (Piano Trio)

Sunday, April 11, 2-4PM

Chamber Music in Historic Landmarks:
Four Concerts in Rural Northern Baltimore County
Prepare for four unforgettable afternoons of chamber music set in some of the most picturesque and historic venues in Northern Baltimore County. From the original 19th-century saddlery in Monkton Village to the David Niven Theater at Oldfields School and the rustic charm of the Loft at Manor Mill, each setting offers a uniquely intimate backdrop for a rich musical experience. Across four concerts—The Spark of Sound, In the Shadows, Storms, but Light, and The Quiet Bloom—the series explores themes of transformation, intimacy, and illumination. Curated by pianist Wan-Chi Su and performed by a rotating ensemble of exceptional guest artists, each program invites audiences on a journey through sound, space, and story.

April 11, Private Residence (original Monkton Village stable)
IV. The Quiet Bloom (Piano Trio)
Performed by Li-Mei Liang (violin), Joseph Gotoff (cello) and Wan-Chi Su (piano)

Brett Newski

Friday, April 17, 7-9PM

“Newski writes great songs and sings em like a champ. He could entertain Russian mob members in a Siberian prison and still come out on top. He’s that good.” -Steve Poltz

Alt-Americana songwriter Brett Newski has been described as a “collision of highway 61 Bob Dylan & 90s alternative.” Newski initially gained attention touring in South Africa before building a career on the American songwriter circuit. He coined the term “ameriCONa” to describe his scrappy, outsider take on Americana rock n roll.
WEBSITE

Pat Byrne

Friday, April 24, 7-9PM

“When you combine the transcendent poetry of Bob Dylan with the gritty, real-world rock-n-roll storytelling Bruce Springsteen made so famous, and add a dash of the political activism embodied by Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger, you’ll have Irish singer-songwriter Pat Byrne.”
-Folk Alley at 30A Songwriters Festival
WEBSITE

May 2026

Heather Pierson Duo

Thursday, May 14, 7-9PM

"Heather is like two great acts in one, sliding from sweet acoustic Appalachian old-timey vibe with Patty Griffinesque lyrics to brassy New Orleans blues piano with a bone thrown to Bessie Smith."
DC Bloom | Lone Star Music Magazine

Heather Pierson is a singer/songwriter, pianist, song leader, and performer with a passion for cultivating joy, both onstage and off.  With a toe in each of the realms of New Orleans jazz, blues, and folk, her multi-genre songwriting places her in a category all her own, one honed by decades of diligent practice and curious exploration.  Heather’s live performances feature her bell-tone vocals, ease at the piano, and are infused with happiness, honest self-reflection, and a genuine desire to connect and share from the heart. Heather and partner Shawn Nadeau on bass and harmony vocals, tour the US with their well-crafted lively performances.  The trio’s latest studio recording, Back To The Light,  released September, 2024.
WEBSITE

Feather + Flask

Friday, May 15, 7-9PM

Feather + Flask is a four piece folk groove band from Maryland. Heavily influenced by the indie and psychedelic jam band scenes, the genre bending quartet blends ethereal harmonies, soulful lyrics, and explorative jams for a truly unique listening experience. From intimate campfires to festival stages, the band connects to the audience with intentional frequencies. Feather + Flask is Jack Quinn (rhythm guitar/vocals), Gabe Ford (percussion), Chad Januszewski (lead guitar/vocals), and Shelby Slomba (bass/vocals).

June 2026

The Black Feathers

Thursday, June 18, 8-10PM

“They are one of the finest harmony duos in the UK, writers of gloriously sad ear-worms, and heavenly harmonisers with a telepathic understanding” – Gavin McNamara (Bristol24/7)

The Black Feathers, Irish and English-born singer-songwriters Ray Hughes and Sian Chandler are currently residing in Wales, UK — married in life and to the stage since 2012. Over the last few years, they have been spreading their wings across the US and western Canada.

Americana, Folk, and Acoustic Indie Rock sensibilities coexist comfortably in their musical world, with Hughes’ guitar work buoying the kind of harmonies often only heard in family bands. Their music quickly draws the interest of listeners, but it is the stage chemistry that will keep them riveted.
WEBSITE