 |
|
 |
|
|
||
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
Purpose of the Cranberry Coffeehouse - The purpose of the Cranberry Coffeehouse is to provide a location and an environment in the Southern Tier of NY where live, both old and new folk music can be appreciated by people of all ages. We strive to make this traditional music a continuing, living experience by fostering its performance and enjoyment.
Some History of the Cranberry Coffeehouse - The Cranberry Coffeehouse was organized in 1972 by John Kleske and Louise Ulrich of the Binghamton, New York, Unitarian-Universalist Congregation. Charlene Thomson has been the volunteer coordinator since 1983. The Cranberry is arguably the longest continuous performance venue for folk and traditional music in the Southern Tier of New York State.
Performance Format - The Cranberry Coffeehouse is held on the third Saturday of the month from September through June in the social room of the Unitarian-Universalist Congregation of Binghamton. The first and third sets are presented by the featured performer. The Middle Set is an open mike for musicians in the audience. Sign-ups for the Middle Set are at the door on the night of performance.
The Cranberry Dulcimer Gathering - Some years ago, John Kleske, the co-founder of the Cranberry Coffeehouse, along with Ben Stone and Bob Wey started the annual Cranberry Dulcimer Gathering in Binghamton, NY. The Gathering is held the fourth weekend of July on the Binghamton Unitarian-Universalist Congregation's building and grounds. The folk music presented at the Dulcimer Gathering is similar to that presented at the Cranberry Coffeehouse from which the Dulcimer Gathering got its name. Usually a three day event, the Cranberry Dulcimer Gathering features performance venues, as well as jams and multi-track workshops featuring hammered dulcimer, mountain dulcimer, and autoharp music.