Founded by a diverse group of music lovers in 1979, the Lethbridge Folk Club is a vibrant hub for folk music enthusiasts. The local group celebrates 45 years in 2024 with a stellar season lined up.
“We have a lot of things going on. Our first concert is Sept. 14 with the John Wort Hannam Trio at the Cave at Lethbridge Polytechnic and we’ve got SideNote from Crowsnest Pass coming to open,” says Treasurer Phil Rosenzweig. “That’s exciting.”
“It’s going to be a special season for us,” he adds.
On Nov. 23, there will be an official 45th anniversary celebration, adds Rosenzweig. “That’ll be at a new venue for us. We’re working with the Army, Navy and Airforce Club,” which is located downtown. “They’ll be our venue for the majority of our concerts this year.”
“We’ve got three local bands coming to do that,” he notes. “We’re also going to have folks from the National Music Centre coming because we’re celebrating our 45th year by partnering with the centre’s music therapy initiative.”
Rosenzweig says 10 per cent of the club’s season ticket sales will go to the initiative. “We’re hoping to raise money during every concert for them, so they can get some of their work going in Lethbridge.”
According to Rosenzweig, the centre is assisting and developing programs in Calgary, Regina, in other Alberta locales and in British Columbia. “They haven’t started their program in Lethbridge yet, so we want to give to that endeavour.”
Open Mics are also still a part of the club’s monthly activities every second Friday of the month starting in September. “It’s at McKillop United Church at 7 p.m. That’s becoming popular. Sometimes it’s hard to find a seat,” says Rosenzweig.
The club’s mission is to provide a platform for local, national and international folk music. Over the years, iconic Canadian folk acts like Valdy, Spirit of the West and The Rankin Family have graced its stage. The club also played a pivotal role in the formation of the South Country Fair in Fort Macleod.
For more information on memberships, future concerts or to purchase tickets visit online at lethbridgefolkclub.ca.
