A Family Affair

It was a family affair at The Buttonwood Tree last night and a real treat for all of us there. Georgianne and Rick Jackofsky and their two daughters, Erica and Annalee were truly delightful and quite talented. Rick candidly filled us in on the background of most of the original songs which often involved a humorous story. He told us how 18 years ago a near death accident changed their lives drastically. They got rid of their tv, began to read together and play music, getting back to the simpler way of living, and eventually joined a Quaker community. They are experienced knitters and the next time they come we may offer a knitting circle before the show.

Their sound was quite pleasing and was lyrically luminous. They were a fascinating group to watch - between the facial expressions of a family playing music together, Annalee on the jawharp, the wide variety of instruments and the homemade contraption that Rick invented so Georgianne could play 2 separate instruments with her feet, all while drumming! Mom and daughters danced a a clog-style Flatfoot dance on a small portable stage they brought with them that put some of us into a trance. Turns out daughter Erica is quite talented in many areas, with awards in fiddling, knitting and dancing.

They ended the night with their own rendition of "Good-night Irene" which caused the audience to participate in an organic sing-along. Foot-tapping and head-bopping all night was a good indication that the audience was happy. Here's a comment from a satisfied patron: "What an amazing experience this show was. The family of performers truly loves making music together and having fun on stage together. They not only sing but dance. And Rick gives a running commentary on American folk music throughout the show. Let's hope this All American Family is willing to do a return performance at Buttonwood Tree!"Bob

Here's their website if you'd like to hear them: http://www.homegrownstringband.com/

We have the Riverwood Poetry group in Saturday night - featuring John Jeffrey and David Leff.This is followed by an Open Mic for Poetry - so come out all you poets and share your stuff!We'll have another great show next Saturday (Feb 6) - as we continue our Saturday Night Jazz - with Landon Knoblock and his quartet. If you like improvised jazz, this will be a good show to catch.

The shows here at The Buttonwood Tree (at Liberty and Main St) are top notch and very reasonably priced. And you may get lucky and win something for free - tonight the band gave a way a basket of Fair-Trade coffee and some homemade goodies -all for free!

submitted by Anne-Marie Cannata